A group of residents in the Upper Beaches neighborhood is upset about the smoke emanating from a nearby restaurant, but it seems that local authorities have limited options to address the issue.
According to the residents, the pervasive smoke and fumes from the Beach Hill Smokehouse, which has been operating on Main Street at Gerrard Street E. for approximately eight years, are so strong that they cannot enjoy their outdoor spaces.
Kevin Lacombe, a resident living behind the restaurant, described the situation as unbearable, with the smoke causing discomfort in their eyes and throat. A petition signed by 78 residents urges both local and provincial authorities to intervene and address the emissions problem.
Despite the complaints, city officials have indicated that there may be little immediate action that can be taken as the restaurant owner, Darien List, appears to be following the regulations set by Toronto Public Health.
Following inspections by Toronto Public Health and the City’s Municipal Licensing and Standards division in May 2023, which included an assessment of the property’s ventilation system discharge, the restaurant was found to be in compliance with all relevant bylaws.
Despite videos and photos showing smoke billowing behind the restaurant, List maintains that he has passed all inspections and adheres to regulations. He expressed confusion over the residents’ complaints, emphasizing that he operates within the guidelines set by the city.
One resident, Guillermo Gabrielli, who initiated the petition, is calling for List to install a filter on the smokestack to reduce the smoke and potential emission of harmful substances into the air.
City Councillor Brad Bradford acknowledged the concerns of the residents but noted that the restaurant appears to be operating within legal bounds. He suggested that such issues may be an inevitable consequence of living in a dense urban environment.
While some passersby report tolerable levels of smoke near the restaurant, others mention instances where the smoke is thick and spreads over a block area.
Residents have raised concerns about the potential health impacts of the smoke emissions, prompting inquiries to the provincial Ministry of the Environment. However, the ministry has deferred to the city, which has not found any violations in its assessments.
Residents continue to seek solutions to the smoke issue, hoping for a resolution that will allow them to enjoy their neighborhood without discomfort.