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Understanding Encampments

​​​​​​​​​​​​​The COVID-19 pandemic combined with the rising costs of living and prolonged housing crisis continues to contribute to an increase of homeless encampments across Canada. As one of Canada's largest cities, the City of Brampton has also seen an increase of encampments across the city.

Encampments are temporary accommodations generally made up of outdoor tents and makeshift shelters.

Key points to consider when it comes to better understanding encampments in Brampton:

  • People experiencing homelessness are not a homogenous group. They have different needs and different experiences that led them to being unhoused​.
  • To address e​ncampments effectively, a multi-sectoral approach is needed with support from all levels of government.
  • While the City of Brampton is responsible for maintaining its city-owned parklands and spaces as well as enforcing its by-laws, housing and social supports are under the jurisdiction of the Region of Peel, provincial, and federal government.

See the Emergency Supports and Resources section below for more information.

Brampton's Housing Plan

Brampton's Municipal Housing Pledge provides details on the range of ongoing and planned City initiatives that will support strategic growth and accelerate new housing supply in Brampton.

​Learn more about Housing Brampton.

Our Brampton Parklands

The City of Brampton has over 850 parks. Some are designated for active uses, with soccer fields and baseball diamonds; others are designated for passive recreation, with sitting areas and playground facilities for young children.

Park users have a shared responsibility to help keep open spaces clean and safe for everyone. All parks are governed by the Park Lands By-law, which is based on common courtesy, cleanliness, and consideration for others. The Park Lands By-law detail all of rules and regulations for Brampton parks.​

Encampments in Parks

Encampments are temporary accommodations consisting of tents in parks, parklands or greenbelts. Encampments are in violation of the Park Lands By-law which outlines that overnight camping and loitering between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. is prohibited.

Once an encampment is located and investigated, Peel Outreach​ is contacted. The responding team experienced with various backgrounds, works in partnership with local community agencies to offer support to people according to their individual needs.

Emergency Supports and Resources