Each municipality in Alberta is required to adopt a Land Use Bylaw under section 640 of the Municipal Government Act. In many jurisdictions outside Alberta, this type of bylaw is called a Zoning Bylaw.
A Land Use Bylaw regulates the use and development of land and buildings in a municipality. It implements the policies set out in the Municipal Development Plan and any applicable Area Structure Plan.
The Land Use Bylaw divides the City into districts (commonly called “zones”) and identifies what activities and uses can take place in each zone, as well as how they can be developed. Common land uses include a single-detached dwelling, a day care, or a retail store. Common development regulations include building height, building setbacks from property lines, and parking requirements. If you would like to confirm whether your property meets the requirements of the Land Use Bylaw, you may apply for a compliance certificate.
The City requires a development permit for most new development (including new construction, grading and excavation, and changes to the use of a property) to confirm that the development meets the requirements of the Land Use Bylaw. If the proposed use of a property is not allowed under the Land Use Bylaw, you will need to apply for a Land Use Bylaw amendment before you can apply for a development permit. Land Use Bylaw Amendments can take three to four months from application to Council approval, depending on the type and complexity of the requested amendment.
If there is a significant change to the use of the property, you may also require a Municipal Development Plan amendment or a new Area Structure Plan or amendment. If you are unsure about these requirements, please contact planning@wetaskiwin.ca or 780.361.4405 for guidance.
