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archived snapshot ·
unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.
#### Land Use Bylaw
Every municipality in Alberta is **required to adopt a Land Use Bylaw** under the **Municipal Government Act**. This bylaw sets out the **rules and regulations for land development** and outlines how **development permit applications** are reviewed and approved in **Cardston County**.
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## What is the Land Use Bylaw?
The **Land Use Bylaw** defines:
* **Land Use Districts (Zones)**- These establish different categories of land, such as:
+ **Agriculture (AG)**
+ **Grouped Country Residential (GCR)**
+ **Rural Recreational (RR)**
* **Allowed Uses** - Each district lists:
✅ **Permitted Uses** - Automatically allowed, subject to meeting basic standards.
❓ **Discretionary Uses** - May be approved by the **Municipal Planning Commission (MPC)** after a review process.
❌ **Prohibited Uses** - Not allowed within that district.
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## Why is the Land Use Bylaw Important?
The **Land Use Bylaw** helps manage growth and development by ensuring that:
* Residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural uses are properly **separated**.
* Development happens in a way that supports **Cardston County's long-term vision**.
* Neighbourhoods and agricultural lands are **protected** from incompatible uses.
* Clear **guidelines and processes** are in place for developers, landowners, and businesses.
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## What Does the Land Use Bylaw Include?
The **Land Use Bylaw** contains both:
* **Text Regulations** - Rules for building sizes, setbacks, permitted/discretionary uses, and development standards.
* **Land Use Maps** - Showing which **land use district** (zone) applies to each parcel in the County.
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## Current Land Use Bylaw
Cardston County's **1998 Land Use Bylaw No. 443/98** was replaced in **May 2021** by:
🔗 **Bylaw 762.2021**
The **current Land Use Bylaw** is available on the **Oldman River Regional Services Commission (ORRSC)** website.
🔗 **View the Current Land Use Bylaw**
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## Questions?
For assistance interpreting the bylaw, determining the zoning of your property, or applying for a development permit, contact:
**Cardston County Development Officer**
📞 403-653-4977
📧 [email protected]