A cluster of Upper Beaches locals is enraged by the smoke emanating from a neighboring eatery, but it seems that local authorities have limited options to address the issue. The residents are distressed by the pervasive smoke and fumes originating from the Beach Hill Smokehouse, which started operating on Main Street at Gerrard Street E. eight years ago, making it challenging for them to enjoy their outdoor spaces.
Kevin Lacombe, a resident living behind the restaurant, expressed, “It’s impossible to be outside. The smoke gets in your eyes and throat.” Lacombe is among 78 residents who have signed a petition urging local and provincial authorities to intervene and halt the emissions.
However, city officials indicate that there might be little recourse for the complaints as the restaurant’s owner, Darien List, seems to be in compliance with Toronto Public Health regulations. A recent inspection by the City’s Municipal Licensing and Standards (MLS) division, conducted in conjunction with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, confirmed the business’s adherence to relevant bylaws.
Despite videos and images illustrating smoke enveloping the area behind the restaurant, List maintains that he has followed all regulations and inspections since establishing the business eight years ago. Responding to residents’ grievances, he stated, “We follow the city’s guidelines; I comply with all inspections. I’m unsure of the issues being raised.”
Guillermo Gabrielli, Lacombe’s neighbor who initiated the petition, requested List to install a filter on the smokestack to mitigate the smoke and potential harmful emissions. Despite the residents’ concerns, City Councillor Brad Bradford emphasized that the restaurant is abiding by regulations and that living in a bustling urban center may entail such challenges.
The chimney at the restaurant has been verified to meet environmental standards, and inspections have confirmed compliance with regulations. While some passersby, like Renan Lopes, find the smoke tolerable on most days, there are instances when it becomes denser, spreading about a block’s length and a meter above the ground.
In response to allegations from residents regarding potential air pollution, the provincial Ministry of the Environment redirected inquiries to the city, which asserted that no violations have been identified.