News

New sod care and maintenance notice

July 30, 2026

The sod at your property is now your responsibility

As part of the road reconstruction of Ann Street (Frederick Street to Ephraim Street), Fife Avenue (Phase 3) and Becker Street (Phase 4), new sod was installed on City property near your home or business. This letter confirms that responsibility for caring for the sod has now been transferred to you.

This notice follows the previous Sod Placement Notice and marks the start of resident maintenance responsibilities.

Sod handover date: July 25, 2026

About this project

This project is part of the City of Kitchener's capital improvement program to replace and upgrade aging infrastructure, including roads, watermains, sanitary sewers, storm sewers, and sidewalks to support the community's current and future needs.

Contract: Q24-007

General Contractor: Sierra Infrastructure Ltd.

Maps of sod acceptance areas

What happens next?

The City and contractor have completed the sod restoration associated with this project. From the handover date listed above, residents and property owners are responsible for the care and maintenance of the newly placed sod.

Proper care will help the grass establish strong roots and remain healthy for years to come.


Caring for your new sod

Watering

Please continue watering the sod as needed, while following any Region of Waterloo water-use restrictions or by-laws.

Watering is especially important during hot and dry weather. Although the grass may appear established, it can take several years for the root system to fully mature.

For additional lawn care guidance, visit the Nursery Sod Growers Association of Ontario.

Mowing

Once the sod is established enough to mow, please:

  • Keep the grass at least 75 mm (3 inches) tall.
  • Avoid cutting it shorter than 75 mm.
  • Set your mower to the highest practical setting.

Longer grass retains moisture better, develops deeper roots, and is more resilient during periods of heat and drought.

Fertilizing, aeration and overseeding

As part of the project's restoration warranty, the contractor will return in the spring following sod installation to:

  • Fertilize newly sodded areas
  • Aerate the soil
  • Overseed where needed

Tree planting

Tree planting is typically one of the final stages of a road reconstruction project.

If trees are planned as part of this project, the City's Forestry division will provide a separate notice with information about planting locations and timing.

Need more information?

If you have questions about the sod restoration or the project, please contact:

Consultant Project Manager

Aaron Bruce
519-572-5935
Email

City Project Manager

519-783-8139
Email

Engineering General Inquiries

519-741-2426

Thank you for your patience and cooperation throughout this project.