What is Assisted Garbage Collection?

The Assisted Garbage Collection program for those with temporary or chronic mobility challenges who need assistance with setting out their waste. Rather than having to bring your bin to the curbside, bins can be collected from a visible area within your yard.

Who is eligible for this service?

• Those who are unable to move their bins to the curbside due to mobility or health challenges; and
• Those who have no one in the household who is physically able to do so.

What must I do to receive the service?

• Apply for the service;
• Ensure that your house address is visible from the street; and
• Ensure your garbage bin is easily seen from the driveway.

Where do I put my garbage to be collected?

Residents are still required to put garbage in their black bin, or other approved garbage bin. The bin must be visible from the driveway to be collected. The collector will retrieve your bin, collect the garbage, and return the bin to the property. Town staff will not enter a home, garage, structure, or any area of the yard that is not visible from the driveway.

Is there a charge for this service?

No; there are no additional charges for this service.

How do I apply?

Application forms can be obtained from the Town Office, or from this webpage below. Once a completed application form has been returned to the Town Office, it will be reviewed, and you will be notified of the outcome of your application. Under certain circumstances, a physician note may be required.

Anything else I need to know?

• Approved garbage bins must be used. Special waste, yard waste, large items such as appliances, and recyclable items will not be collected.

How to Apply

Businesses or individuals may apply for a Town of Watson Lake Buldk Water Card by filling out the form below. You may submit this form online, pick up a copy at the Town Office, or request one by emailing admin@watsonlake.ca.

Deposit Requirement

A $100.00 deposit is required. This deposit will be refunded when the card is returned and access to the Bulk Water Station is revoked.

Before You Submit

Before submitting your Business License Application, please ensure you’ve filled in all required fields, double-checked your contact and business information, and included any necessary supporting documents if applicable.

Incomplete applications may delay processing. For full details, please review the Business License Bylaw to understand your responsibilities as a business owner in Watson Lake.

Contact Information

You may connect with bylaw@watsonlake.ca or call the Town Office at (867) 536-8000.

Additional Opportunities

Depending on the nature of your business, you may be eligible for a Yukon Intermunicipal Business License.

About This Form

The Cemetery Interment Authorization Form is required for all interments at the Watson Lake Cemetery. It confirms authorization from the Rights Holder and provides details for casket or cremation burials under Cemetery Bylaw #2023-06.

Submission Information

• Forms must be submitted at least five (5) days prior to the scheduled interment date.
• Interments are performed Monday to Friday during regular working hours.
• Additional fees may apply for services outside regular hours.
• Authorization from the deceased’s representative or Rights Holder is required before interment.

Fees and Plot Options

• Single Plot (Casket): $600.00 (GST included)
• Family Plot (Casket): $600.00 per plot (GST included)
• Cremation Plot (Urn): $90.00 (GST included)
• Casket Interment Fee: $540.00 (includes receptacle and site preparation)
• Urn Interment Fee: $90.00 (may be waived if family prepares site)

Fees are set in accordance with the Town of Watson Lake Fees and Charges Bylaw 20-19.

Important Notes

All interments require coordination with the Town of Watson Lake. The Town reserves the right to limit interments based on weather, available space, or other conditions. Family plots must be reserved and purchased together.

About This Form

This form is used to apply for the Right of Interment and reserve a burial plot at the Watson Lake Cemetery. It establishes the Rights Holder and ensures that the selected plot complies with Cemetery Bylaw #2023-06.

Plot Options and Fees

• Single Plot (Casket): $600.00 (GST included)
• Family Plot (Casket): $600.00 per plot (GST included)
• Cremation Plot (Urn): $90.00 (GST included)

Fees are established under the Town of Watson Lake Fees and Charges Bylaw 20-19. Family plots consist of grouped single plots that must be reserved and purchased together.

Guidelines and Regulations

Each plot may contain one casket and up to three cremated remains, or two cremated remains in a designated cremation lot. Once a cremation urn is interred, no casket burial may occur in the same plot. Written consent is required from the Rights Holder or next of kin for additional interments.

Markers and Monuments

The Town of Watson Lake must approve all marker and monument designs prior to installation. Owners are responsible for the supply, installation, and maintenance of markers. The Town reserves the right to refuse or remove markers that do not meet cemetery safety or aesthetic standards.

General Guidelines

The Yukon Lottery Commission provides funding assistance for art, sport, and recreation in Yukon. The financial support provided through these programs is intended to:

• Sustain and contribute to the growth of art, sport and recreation;
• Increase access and participation of all Yukon people in art, sport & recreation;
• Improve/provide more community art, sport and recreation infrastructure; and,
• Increase organizational and community capacity in art, sport and recreation.

Program Objectives

The objective of the Town of Watson Lake Community Lottery Fund program is to provide funding to support programs/projects that sustain and contribute to the growth of art, sport and recreation within the community and strives to improve the quality of life for community members through participation or availability of art, sport, and recreation.

Eligible Costs

Costs directly related to providing art, sport and recreation opportunities either through participation or availability to members of the community.

Ineligible Expenses

Ineligible expenses include: operating and maintenance costs for general administration, wages, office equipment (computers, scanners, printers, projectors, telephones, software, etc.) rent, energy, supplies, telephone, internet, minor repairs and maintenance, accounting and audit services, printing services, insurance, professional services related to O&M, annual fees, gifts, awards, prizes (including cash).

Funding Applications

Community Lottery funding applications are reviewed two times per year, with an additional special intake if there are excess funds for the fiscal year. Deadlines are May 5th & September 5th (a special intake may be held in January if there are funds left over).

When Your Application is Approved

Applications are received and reviewed by the Watson Lake Recreation Advisory Committee and approval recommendations go before Mayor and Council for formal approval. Approved funding is advanced upon submission of receipts within three (3) months of the funding approval. Approved funds that are not spent within three (3) months will be revoked unless an extension is requested in writing with clear justification. Special intake approvals may have a shorter required period for funds to be spent. All grant expenditures must comply with the Town of Watson Lake Community Lottery Fund Program Policy. Applicants are required to recognize Lotteries Yukon as a funder in all publicity associated with the approved event, program, or project.

About This Form

The Handicapped Parking Permit Application allows residents with a permanent or temporary mobility impairment to apply for an accessible parking permit. The form must be completed by the applicant and certified by a licensed physician or medical practitioner.

Eligibility

• Loss of use or significant limitation of one or more lower extremities.
• A diagnosed condition that substantially limits mobility.
• Severe disability requiring the use of a mobility aid.
• Lung disease or other condition severely limiting movement.
• Visual impairment affecting safe mobility.
• Temporary disability or injury requiring short-term parking accommodation.

The physician must indicate whether the permit is temporary (for example, 3 months) or permanent.

Permit Use

1. Display the permit in clear view on your dashboard or rear-view mirror.
2. The permit must stay with the vehicle in which you are traveling.
3. Only the individual named on the permit may use it.
4. The permit allows parking in marked handicapped parking spaces while you are present.
5. If your permit is lost or stolen, contact the Town Office immediately at (867) 536-8000.

How to Apply

Complete the application form and have your physician certify the applicable disability criteria. Submit the completed form to the Town of Watson Lake for processing. Permits are issued once eligibility is confirmed.

About This Permit

This permit authorizes the disposal of solid waste at the Town of Watson Lake landfill site. It helps ensure all waste materials are handled safely and in line with the Town’s Waste Management Bylaw and related regulations.

General Terms

• All waste must be disposed of in accordance with the Waste Management Bylaw.
• The permit holder must follow all conditions listed on the permit and provide accurate information about the waste being disposed of.
• The Town may inspect solid waste at any time to confirm compliance.
• The permit does not remove responsibility for any civil or environmental liabilities related to the disposal activity.
• The permit holder must present a copy of the permit to the landfill attendant and pay all applicable fees at the time of disposal.

Waste Disposal Information

• A permit is required to dispose of waste on behalf of another person or business.
• Applicants must provide details about the waste’s origin, type, and quantity.
• Only waste originating from within the Watson Lake service area may be disposed of under this permit — this area includes Yukon (west to Swift River, south and east to the BC border, and north to Frances Lake Campground).

Certification and Compliance

Permit applications must be signed by an authorized representative confirming that all submitted information is true and accurate. Compliance with the Waste Management Bylaw and related regulations must be maintained at all times.

About the Station

The Septage Receiving Station (SRS) provides a controlled facility for the safe disposal of organic wastewater. The system helps ensure wastewater is treated properly and handled in an environmentally responsible way.

Using the SRS

• The station accepts organic wastewater only.
• Effluent should have a pH between 6 and 9 and a hydrocarbon level below 5ppm.
• If these levels go outside the safe range, the system will automatically pause until a Town Operator can assist.
• If there’s a blockage or automatic shut-off, please wait for the Operator, do not try to restart the system.

Safety and Responsibility

To keep the station running safely, users are asked to follow the posted guidelines. Any misuse or accidental damage may result in cleanup costs or service interruptions. The site is monitored by video to ensure safe and proper use at all times.

Need Assistance?

If you experience a problem or need help while using the SRS, please contact Water Utilities at (867) 536-4766. Our staff will be happy to assist.

How Registration Works

• Sign up at the Recreation Centre. One section can be assigned at a time.
• Program opens to non-profit groups first (first-come, first-served). It opens to individuals after one week.

Timeline & Hours

• Each section must be completed within 7 days of registration.
• Clean-ups take place during Parks & Recreation business hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00am–4:00pm.

Bag Placement & Pickup

• Leave filled garbage bags neatly on the roadside for collection during business hours.
• To arrange inspection and pickup, call 867-536-8020.
• Bags left after hours may be scattered/tampered with and payment will not be issued.

Supplies & Safety

• Garbage bags and safety vests are provided by the Recreation Centre.
• Safety vests must be worn at all times and returned after your clean-up.

Payment

• Processing may take up to two weeks.
• Payment is made to the name indicated on the Registration Form.
• The form must be completed in full and signed by a Parks & Recreation staff member.

About the UVS Program

The Urban Visitor Sign (UVS) Program gives local businesses the opportunity to promote their services on Town-managed sign structures within Watson Lake. Each UVS is a standardized 8 ft. x 4 ft. sign designed by the business and installed by the Town or its contractor. This program helps visitors easily find local attractions, accommodations, dining, fuel, and services.

How to Apply

• Complete and sign the UVS Application Form.
• Include a copy of your proposed sign design showing size, colours, text, logos, and layout.
• Provide a valid business license or proof of registration under the Societies Act.
• Submit your completed package by email to cdo@watsonlake.ca or drop it off at the Town Office, 710 Adela Trail, Watson Lake.

Applications may take up to 15 business days to process. You will be notified of the decision by email once your application has been reviewed.

Program Fees

• Installation Fee: $200.00 per sign (one-time fee, billed upon approval).
• Annual Maintenance Fee: $100.00 per sign, billed by March 31 each year.
• Fees may be prorated for applications approved mid-year.

Payment of the annual fee confirms your continued participation in the program and maintains your sign space for the following year.

Sign Guidelines

• Signs must be 244 cm x 122 cm (8 ft. x 4 ft.) and made from ¾” (18.5 mm) plywood.
• Lettering must be at least 15 cm (6”) high, clear, and easy to read.
• Signs should be smooth, durable, and weather-resistant with all edges sealed and painted.
• No flashing lights, moving parts, or banner-style signs are permitted.
• All designs must comply with the Urban Visitor Sign Program Policy #2024-02.

Installation and Maintenance

Approved signs are installed between May 15 and September 15 (weather permitting). Installation and removal are handled by the Town or its designated contractor. If repairs or repainting are needed, the Town will notify the owner to coordinate maintenance or removal. Signs left unmaintained after notice may be removed and stored for 60 days before disposal.

Additional Information

The Town reserves the right to refuse or remove any sign that violates legislation, contains offensive material, or does not comply with program guidelines. Full program details are available in the Urban Visitor Sign Program Policy, available at the Town Office or on www.watsonlake.ca.

About the Home Owners Grant

The Home Owners Grant helps reduce property taxes for Yukon homeowners on their main residence. It’s available to those who pay property taxes either to their municipality or to the Government of Yukon if they live in a rural area.

Only the portion of a property used as the main residence is eligible. Mixed-use or agricultural properties may receive the grant only on the residential portion.

Grant Amounts

• Eligible homeowners can receive up to 50% off property taxes, to a maximum of $450, with a $100 minimum tax.
• Homeowners aged 65 and older can receive up to 75% off, to a maximum of $500.

Eligibility

• You are a Yukon homeowner.
• Your property taxes have been paid in full.
• You lived in your home for at least 184 days (6 months) of the tax year.

You can apply for one grant each year.

How to Apply

Your Home Owners Grant form is attached to your property tax notice. If you’ve misplaced it, you can download a new one from the link above.

Deadline: Applications must be received by February 15 of the following year (for example, the 2025 tax year grant is due by February 15, 2026).

• If paying in person, bring your property tax notice and signed grant form — the grant will be deducted before payment.
• If paying through a mortgage company, submit your signed form by June 10 to ensure your lender applies the deduction.

Contact Information

For questions about the Home Owners Grant, email assessment.taxation@yukon.ca or call (867) 667-5268 or toll-free in Yukon at 1-800-661-0408 ext. 5268.

About The Grant

The Town of Watson Lake Community Services Grant provides financial assistance to eligible non-profit, charitable, religious, or recreational organizations that serve the Watson Lake community. Through this program, Council may cover a portion or all of an organization’s municipal property taxes based on its financial capacity, with smaller organizations eligible for up to 100% tax relief. Applicants must be registered and in good standing under the Societies Act and submit required financial documentation by June 1 each year. The policy ensures fair and transparent allocation of funds, supporting local groups that contribute to the community’s social, cultural, and recreational well-being.

Before You Submit

Before submitting your Community Services Grant Application, please ensure your organization meets the eligibility criteria outlined in the Town’s Community Services Grant Policy.

Eligibility

Only non-profit, recreational, religious, or charitable organizations based in Watson Lake and registered under the Societies Act are eligible to apply.

Required Documents

To avoid delays, double-check that your application includes:

• A completed application form submitted before the June 1st deadline
• Your most recent financial statements signed by the organization’s Directors or Officers
• Proof of good standing under the Societies Act

Applications received after the deadline or without all necessary documentation will not be considered.

About the Grant

The Town of Watson Lake’s Economic Development Grant is designed to help offset property tax increases for local businesses operating on commercial and industrial properties. To qualify, eligible business owners must meet the conditions outlined in the bylaw and submit a complete application before August 30th of each year.

Eligibility Requirements

• You are the registered property owner of a commercial or industrial property in Watson Lake.
• You’ve reviewed the bylaw to confirm your eligibility.
• All required information and documentation is attached to your application.

Payments to eligible applicants will be processed within 30 days after the Town verifies that all bylaw conditions are met.

Why Licensing is Important

Licensing helps us:

• Reunite lost pets with their families
• Confirm that animals are properly cared for
• Reduce stray-animal-related risks and calls
• Support responsible pet ownership

As outlined in the Animal Control Bylaw, service animals are required to be licensed but are exempt from license fees.

When to License

Annual Pet Licenses expire on December 31st each year and must be renewed annually. Neutered or spayed pets are eligible for lifetime licenses if proof of spay or neuter is presented upon registering.

What You'll Need

• Your name and contact information
• Your pet's name, breed, and description (such as primary color)
• Proof of spay/neuter (if applying for a lifetime license)

After Registration

Once your pet is registered, you will receive a Town-issued tag with the pet's license number and year. This tag must be worn by the pet at all times as it is one of the quickest ways to help lost pets find their way home.

When a Development Permit is needed

You need a Development Permit for most development projects on your property in the Town of Watson Lake. Common exemptions include small accessory buildings under 12 m², fences within height limits, minor repairs that don’t change use/footprint, basic landscaping/driveways that don’t alter drainage or sightlines, temporary election/census uses, small antennas/satellite dishes, demolition under 12 m², certain utility work, on‑going permitted construction, and temporary structures related to a permitted project. When in doubt, call to ask if a development permit is needed.

What to submit

• Completed application form (owner or authorized agent)
• Legal description & civic address
• Current & proposed use, building occupancy
• Project size (gross floor area, site coverage, height, parking/loading)
• Fees (per Fees & Charges Bylaw)
• Site plan & drawings (see form checklist for details like access, setbacks, services, drainage)

Permit Timelines and conditions

• Permitted/Accessory uses: decision within 30 business days.
• Conditional uses: 45 business days (includes notification).
• Permits lapse if work doesn’t start within 12 months (extensions may be requested before expiry).
• During construction, it is a requirement to post your approved permits on-site.
  
  

Public notification

The Conditional Use Permit process gives property owners the opportunity to request approval for land uses that are conditionally permitted within their zoning district. This process ensures that proposed developments are reviewed for compatibility with surrounding areas and community goals, with input from both the public and Council before any final decision is made.

Public notification

When a complete Conditional Use Permit application is received, the Town notifies assessed owners within 100 m of the site (at least 14 days before Council’s public input session) and publishes/circulates a Notice of Proposed Development

Decision

Council considers public input and the Development Officer’s recommendations and may approve, approve with conditions, or refuse.

When a variance is possible

Apply to the Board of Variance if strict bylaw requirements create practical difficulties or unnecessary hardship because of unusual property conditions. A public hearing is required.
Town of Watson Lake Zoning Bylaw

Process & limits

• Written notice of hearing goes to the applicant and adjacent owners within 100 m (minimum 14 days before the hearing).
• Board hears the applicant, the Development Officer, and notified parties; relevant documents are available for public inspection.
• Decision issued in writing after the hearing (within 30 days of a complete application).
• The Board cannot approve a variance that stems from the applicant’s own actions, grants special privilege, injures neighbors or conflicts with the OCP/Zoning Bylaw, or changes the land use.

The Zoning Amendment Application

The Zoning Amendment Application process allows property owners or their authorized representatives to request changes to a property’s zoning designation or propose text amendments to the zoning bylaw. Applicants must submit ownership documentation, a written rationale, a context map, required fees, right-of-entry permission, and a detailed site plan; additional technical studies may also be required depending on the proposal. The Town reviews each application for alignment with the Official Community Plan and local policies, considering impacts on infrastructure, neighboring properties, and community character. A public hearing is held to gather input from residents before Council makes a final decision. If an application is refused, a similar proposal cannot be resubmitted for 12 months unless Council grants an exception.

Who can apply & what to include

• Owner or authorized representative/agent may apply.
• Provide ownership documentation, a written rationale, a context map, required fees, right‑of‑entry permission, and a site plan. Additional technical studies may be required (e.g., drawings, geotechnical, landscaping, impact assessment, traffic/septic info).

Review & public hearing

The Town analyzes the proposal (consistency with the OCP/policies, compatibility, servicing impacts, rights‑of‑way, effects on existing uses, and public concerns). A public hearing is held after public notice (published/circulated twice, and letters to properties within 100 m). If refused, a substantially similar application can’t be resubmitted for 12 months unless Council directs otherwise.