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COUNTY OF BARRHEAD NO. 11
PROVINCE OF ALBERTA
BY-LAW NO. 4-2010
Adoption of a New Municipal Development Plan
A By-Law of the County of Barrhead No. 11, in the Province of Alberta, punuant to
the provisions of the Municipal Government Act, for the purpose of adopting a new
Municipal Development Plan.
The Council of the County of Barrhead No. 11, in the Province of Alberta, duly
assembled, enads as follows:
1.
This By-Law may be cited as the "County of Barrhead No. 11 Municipal
Development Plan By-Law".
2.
The written text, maps and charts annexed hereto as Schedule "A" be adopted
as the Municipal Development Plan of the County of Barrhead No. 11.
3.
The invalidity of any section, clause, sentence, or provision of this bylaw shall
not affect the validity of any other part of this bylaw which can be given effect
with such invalid part or parts.
4.
By-Law No. 4-2004 and amendments thereto are repealed.
5.
This By-Law shall come into full force and upon third and final reading thereof.
Fint Reading Given the 3rd day of August, 2010.
Second Reading Given the 17'b day of August, 2010.
Third and Final Reading Given the 171b day of August, 2010.
Advertised in the Barrhead Leader on June 22, 2010, and June 29, 2010.
Public Hearing Held: July 6,2010.
MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
BYLAW NO. 4-2010
COUNTY OF BARRHEAD NO. 11
2010
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
2
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS .......................................................................................2
PART 1.0
INTRODUCTION.............................................................................4
Map 1 Regional Location Map................................................................................................................5
1.1
Legislative Requirements ..........................................................................................................6
1.2
The MDP Review Process ..........................................................................................................7
1.3
Plan Philosophy, Principles and Goals ..................................................................................7
1.4
Guide to the Plan........................................................................................................................12
1.5
Statutory and Regulatory Planning Documents.................................................................12
2.0
COMMUNITY PROFILE...........................................................................14
2.2
Population Characteristics ......................................................................................................15
2.3
Age.................................................................................................................................................15
2.4
Education .....................................................................................................................................16
2.5
Income...........................................................................................................................................17
2.6
Housing.........................................................................................................................................18
2.7
Economic Base...........................................................................................................................18
MAP 2 - Future Land Use Map...............................................................................................................21
PART 3.0
LAND USE AREA POLICIES .......................................................22
3.1
Agricultural ..................................................................................................................................22
3.2
Residential Development in the Agricultural Land Use Area .........................................26
MAP 3 - Land Use Patterns ....................................................................................................................34
3.3
Multi-lot Country Residential Development.........................................................................35
3.4
Lakeshore Country Residential Development....................................................................39
3.5
Industrial Policy..........................................................................................................................41
3.6
Commercial Policy.....................................................................................................................45
3.7
Natural Areas...............................................................................................................................48
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Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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MAP 4 - Environmental Constraints ....................................................................................................53
MAP 5 - Agricultural Capability.............................................................................................................54
MAP 6 - Forestry Capacity.....................................................................................................................55
MAP 7 - Slope ............................................................................................................................................56
MAP 8 - Elevation.....................................................................................................................................57
MAP 9 -Water Fowl Capacity.................................................................................................................58
MAP 10 - Ungulate Capacity .................................................................................................................59
PART 4.0
GENERAL LAND USE POLICIES................................................60
4.1
Reserves and Conservation Easements ..............................................................................60
4.2
Urban Areas & Intermunicipal Planning...............................................................................65
4.3
Tourism, Recreation & Historic Resources.........................................................................70
4.4
Resource Extraction..................................................................................................................73
4.5
Transportation and Utilities.....................................................................................................76
4.6
Development Near Hazard Sites.............................................................................................80
PART 5.0
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND AMENDMENT...........................82
PART 6.0
APPENDICES ...............................................................................84
Appendix A - SRD Environmental Reserve Setbacks ....................................................................84
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
4
Part 1.0
Introduction
The County of Barrhead is located approximately 122 km northwest of Edmonton in
north-central Alberta. The County contains a large amount of agricultural and
recreational land, the Hamlets of Campsie, Manola, Neerlandia, and Thunder Lake as
well as a number of small residential communities. The Town of Barrhead, located in the
middle of the County is the main service centre for the area.
The County of Barrhead is bounded by Woodlands County to the north and west, Lac Ste.
Anne County to the south, and Westlock and Sturgeon Counties to the east. Comprising
a total area of 2404 km2, County land generally consists of a flat to gently rolling
landscape on fair to good agricultural soils. Dominant natural features include Thunder
Lake, Lac La Nonne, Clear Lake and Nakamun Lake, as well as the Athabasca, Pembina
and Paddle Rivers. Map 1 on the following page portrays a location map of the County.
The County of Barrhead Municipal Development Plan provides policies which encourage
diversification of the local economy while encouraging sustainable agricultural,
commercial, industrial and residential growth. The Plan supports the preservation of
significant environmental, recreational and historic areas while also encouraging a
number of different land use and development alternatives in order to ensure that the
existing community and future generations have a desirable place to live, work and
recreate.
The County's Municipal Development Plan will provide leadership and direction in the
following policy areas:
(1)
Land use patterns that encourage the conservation of agricultural land and
the diversification of agriculture industries and agriculture service sectors.
(2)
Responsible, effective and efficient municipal infrastructure in appropriate
locations that support the community.
(3)
Environmental policies that support biodiversity and the County's rich
environmental heritage.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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1.1
Legislative Requirements
The Municipal Government Act (MGA) is the provincial enabling legislation that gives
extensive governing powers to municipalities. Pursuant to Section 2, the purpose of the
Municipal Government Act is to:
a) give broad authority to councils, including broad authority to pass by-laws, and to
respect their right to govern municipalities in whatever ways the councils consider
appropriate within the jurisdiction given to them;
b) enhance the ability of councils to respond to present and future issues in their
municipalities; and
c) recognize that the functions of the municipality are to
i) provide good government,
ii) provide services, facilities and other things that, in the opinion of the
council, are necessary or desirable for all or part of the municipality, and
iii) develop and maintain safe and viable communities. 1998, c. 18, s. 2.
The provincial Municipal Government Act (MGA) requires that municipalities over the
size of 3,500 adopt a Municipal Development Plan (MDP), which outlines a broad set of
goal statements about the type of long-term development that is desired by the
community. The main focus of the MDP is to provide a statutory plan to assist Council -
and the County's approving authorities - in achieving and maintaining orderly and
efficient land use and development.
An MDP takes into account both the past and present human and physical environments.
Considering where the community has been, where it is presently and where it wants to
go enables the County to set in place a "plan" for how to reach its desired destination.
Baseline environmental data, stakeholder interests and the socio-perceptual concerns of
the community are considered in order to ensure that the vision enshrined in the MDP
addresses the needs and objectives of all affected parties.
The County is aware that other provincial and federal statutes will have a role to play in
the future development of the County of Barrhead. In a spirit of cooperation,
consultation and communication, the County looks forward to working with government
agencies and community stakeholders in the implementation of this plan in order to
achieve a pattern of land use and development that is attractive, efficient and beneficial to
all residents of the municipality.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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1.2
The MDP Review Process
Beginning in January 2008 Municipal Planning Services (2009) Ltd. worked in
conjunction with County of Barrhead council, administration and community members to
complete the community profile and community input phases of the MDP. The County
actively solicited stakeholder comments and provided opportunities for meaningful
public input in the form of public meetings. As such, the MDP conforms as much as
possible to the vision of the County of Barrhead as set forth by the County's residents.
1.3
Plan Philosophy, Principles and Goals
Sound planning and development initiatives are necessary in order to achieve a balance
between supporting local, large and small scale agricultural pursuits within the County
while also providing a range of economic opportunities and residential housing options
that are desirable and appropriate for community members throughout all stages of life.
1.3.1 Philosophical Principles
The County of Barrhead's philosophy for managing growth and the land base is reflected
by this Municipal Development Plan. The philosophy comprises three principles:
Principle #1: Land uses and development activities must respect and maintain
the integrity of the County of Barrhead's land base, which varies
throughout the County.
Principle #2: Growth must be managed and directed in a compatible, equitable
manner that recognizes the diverse needs and aspirations of all
County residents.
Principle #3: Smart growth principles will be applied in maintaining the
integrity of the land base and to promote sustainable development
such that the needs of the present generation are met without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own
needs.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
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1.3.2 Planning Principles
The Municipal Development Plan policies also recognize three fundamental planning
principles that are embodied in the Municipal Government Act and the Provincial Land
Use Policies.
Principle #1: In carrying out their planning responsibilities, municipalities are
encouraged never to lose sight of the rights of individual citizens
and landowners. Municipalities must assess the impact of any
planning decision on individuals having regard to the purpose
statement of the planning legislation.
Principle #2: Municipalities should establish land use patterns which make
efficient use of land, infrastructure, public services and public
facilities and which contribute to the development of healthy, safe,
and viable communities by encouraging appropriate mixes of all
land use types and a wide range of economic opportunities.
Principle #3: Planning activities are carried out in a fair, open, consistent, and
equitable manner.
1.3.3 A New Way Forward
Traditionally, developments in rural Alberta have been characterized by the following
features: high consumption of land; low housing density; car dependent land use patterns
that are poorly suited for walking and/or cycling; neighbourhood designs that emphasize
privacy rather than community; less efficient use of infrastructure and higher costs for
new infrastructure; single-family detached houses for a limited range of incomes and
demographics; and/or fragmented working and natural lands.
The County of Barrhead recognizes that some of these features are necessary for ensuring
the continued success of both small-scale and large-scale agricultural activities within the
County. Concurrently, the County recognizes that these features, when applied to
traditional-style acreage, rural residential or recreation residential developments may not
be compatible with best planning practices because they can result in residential
developments that consume the forests, wetlands, and agricultural lands that are
necessary to biodiversity and ecosystem health as well as the long term agricultural
capability of the County.
Developments with these features also have the added disadvantage, which impacts all
County residents, of increasing infrastructure construction and maintenance costs,
creating conflicts between rural residents and acreage residents and discouraging
community capacity though patterns of disassociated and disconnected community
design.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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The County's land management philosophy requires that the Municipal Development
Plan consider new directions to guide the County of Barrhead into the future while still
preserving its past. In order to achieve this balance the County recognizes that this
Municipal Development Plan must provide policies which facilitate sustainable rural
community development and growth. Community development is multi-faceted,
encompassing not just economic imperatives, but also environmental, social and cultural
components. Each of these components is integral to the success of the others: just as
environmental stewardship can lead to innovative economic opportunities; economic
growth can lead to social and cultural development, thereby improving people's quality
of life and the overall desirability of the community as a place to live, work and to
recreate.
1.3.4 Rural Smart Growth
To facilitate sound planning and development within the County, the Municipal
Development Plan espouses principles of Smart Growth which have been modified
slightly to apply more specifically to a rural area. These principles emphasize the value
of enhancing quality of life for residents and preserving significant natural areas in order
to ensure that new growth and development within the County will be socially, fiscally
and environmentally responsible well into the future. The Smart Growth themes that are
evident in this Plan include:
- Fostering an identity which is unique, vibrant, diverse, and inclusive.
- Nurturing engaged citizens. Community members and volunteers will participate
in community life and decision-making.
- Nurturing the redevelopment of existing urban areas through the provision of
prescriptive land use policies.
- Providing a variety of transportation choices to ensure that urban areas are
attractive and have safe infrastructure for walking and cycling, in addition to
driving.
- Facilitating the provision of diverse housing opportunities. People in different
family types, life stages and income levels will be able to afford a home in the
County.
- Maximizing the use of existing infrastructure.
- Encouraging growth in existing urban areas, and using investments in
infrastructure (such as roads and utilities) efficiently.
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Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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- Preserving open spaces, natural beauty and environmentally sensitive areas.
Development will respect natural landscape features and thus have higher
aesthetic, environmental, and financial value.
- Encouraging the use of green buildings and other systems that can save both
money and the environment in the long run.
- Encouraging economic development through economic renewal by supporting
new and existing economic assets within the community and traditional regional
economic drivers.
1.4.5 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to serve as a road map, guiding the community to its
future destination for years to come. In order to provide comprehensive guidance the
Plan deals not just with future development and infrastructure needs, but seeks to provide
policies which will link the physical and social development of the community in a way
that is easy to read and understand.
Through the implementation of this Plan, the County of Barrhead seeks to harness the
optimism and creativity of the County Council and residents, and articulate these ideas as
goals and objectives for future development in order to provide economically, socially
and environmentally responsible lifestyle options for existing residents and the
community well into the future.
1.4.6 Goals
The Municipal Government Act, R.S.A. 2000 provides considerable municipal discretion
concerning the content of Municipal Development Plans. Beyond the specific
requirements of the Act, The County of Barrhead's Municipal Development Plan
develops, insofar as is possible, objectives and policies that will achieve the following
goal statements:
1.2.1 Facilitate sustainable growth and development in the County by balancing
economic growth, environmental protection and the preservation of
recognized historic resources.
1.2.2 Encourage economic development and renewal by supporting new and
existing economic assets within the community including traditional and
regional economic drivers.
1.2.3 Encourage growth of the County's economic development capacity by
providing opportunities for commercial and industrial development.
1.2.4 Maintain and enhance the County's Agricultural, resource-based and
forest-based economy.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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1.2.5 Encourage the development of a variety of transportation choices
including safe infrastructure for walking and cycling, in addition to
driving in Hamlets, established residential communities and multi-lot
residential areas.
1.2.6 Maintain high quality and cost effective infrastructure within the County.
1.2.7 Encouraging the use of green buildings and other systems that can save
both money and the environment over the long run.
1.2.8 Develop land in a cost effective and orderly manner.
1.2.9 Maintain a physical separation between incompatible land uses.
1.2.10 Establish sustainable and equitable land use planning standards that will
minimize adverse impacts on working landscapes1 and significant natural
features for future generations without placing an unreasonable burden on
individual land owners.
1.2.11 Support Smart Growth principles for new development such as compact,
efficient, serviced subdivisions adjacent to existing serviced and
developed areas.
1.2.12 While recognizing that a demand for country residential lifestyles will
continue to exist and that this demand may continue to be accommodated
within a sound management strategy, direct residential development to
existing Hamlets, planned rural Hamlets and existing multi-lot country
residential areas that have the capacity to support additional development.
1.2.13 Recognize new agricultural initiatives such as value added agriculture
industries.
1.2.14 Facilitate the provision of diverse housing opportunities. In order to ensure
that people in different family types, life stages and income levels will be
able to afford a home in the County.
1.2.15 Enhance existing regional and community partnerships and seek new
collaborative opportunities.
1.2.16 Encourage recreation and tourism opportunities in suitable locations that
are appropriate to both the scale of the community and where possible the
larger region.
1 Working landscapes means lands that are used for agriculture, forestry or other resource industries.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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1.4
Guide to the Plan
This Municipal Development Plan is intended to be used as a land use planning
framework for all lands within the corporate boundaries of the County of Barrhead.
Development that does not conform to the MDP will not be approved. If a proposed
development does not comply with the MDP but is felt to be desirable, amendment to the
Plan may be considered by Council. The MDP will also complement the policies of any
Inter-municipal Plans, Area Structure Plans and Management Plans adopted by the
County of Barrhead.
Regional Plans
- Vision and desired future for the region
- Integrated economic, environmental and social outcomes
- Objectives/goals (quantitative , measurable targets, trade-offs and choices)
- Strategies/actions (both regulatory and non regulatory)
Municipal Development Plan
- Future land use
- Transportation and services
- Coordination with neighbours
Area Structure Plans
- Specific pattern of land use and servicing
Land-use Bylaws
- Divides the municipality into districts
- Permitted and discretionary uses in each district
- Sets standards for development/permitting/subdivision design
Subdivision Control
- Divides land into two or more parcels
- Municipality can take some land for municipal/school/environmental reserve
Private Lands
Provincial
Authority
Municipal
Authority
1.5
Statutory and Regulatory Planning Documents
For the purposes of land use planning and development, this Plan will serve as the senior
municipal land use planning document and will be implemented through the County of
Barrhead Land Use Bylaw.
Decision making on all subdivision and development permit applications will conform to
the spirit and intent of the goals, objectives, and policies of this Plan. Where a conflict
exists between this Plan and an Intermunicipal Development Plan, or Area Structure Plan,
the goals, objectives, and policies of the Intermunicipal Development Plan shall prevail.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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The boundaries of the land use classes described in this Plan's Future Land Use Map are
approximate only and may not follow legal surveyed boundaries. Minor adjustments or
variances that may be required to land use classes, the location of future roads, quantities
or figures shall not require an amendment to this Plan.
The word "should" which precedes the policies contained in this municipal development
plan means that the statement is an expression of desire by Council. If refers to what they
would like to achieve but does not necessarily mean that that the County will be
responsible for the action. The word "shall" means that the action is mandatory. The
word "may" means that the action is discretionary.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
14
2.0
Community Profile
2.1
Settlement History
Between 1896 and 1905 the government of Canada launched a campaign aimed at
attracting farmers from the United States, Britain and Central and Eastern Europe to
Western Canada. The campaign advertised free or cheap land in the Canadian West to
settlers. It did not take long for the government to reap the fruits of its labour, as the first
agriculturalists arrived in the Barrhead area in the early 1900s. In 1912 a group of
settlers led by an Anglican missionary formed the first Cooperative Association and
Store, and two years later the name of the Hamlet was selected by a local gentleman who
hailed, fittingly, from Barrhead, Scotland.2 In 1912 the Hamlet consisted of a post office,
two general stores and several private residences, and in 1927 the community was moved
3 miles south west to its current location, where it has grown steadily ever since. What
became the County of Barrhead in 1958 was first incorporated as the Municipal District
of Grosmont in 1914.
In the County's local history compilation The Golden Years, an early settler recounts
that:
If the old Paddle River Area had one factor in its favour, it was in the old north-
westerly first trail, or guide into the zone - a dim trail which was commonly known
as the "Old Klondike Trail"[...] this early pack trail was not only a route to the
Klondike, but was also part of the very first trail explored, mapped and traveled in
the entire north-west, out of Edmonton.3
In fact, as early as the late 19th century two main access roads out of Edmonton snaked
their way through the Barrhead region: the Athabasca trail, which headed northeast to a
fur trading area, and the Klondike Trail, the shortest route from Edmonton to the Yukon
during the Gold Rush. In conjunction with improvements to the Klondike Trail, ferries
were put in place on the Pembina and Athabasca Rivers to facilitate transit through the
Barrhead region, and the old Barrhead townsite became a frequent stopover for gold
prospectors who needed supplies on their rigorous journey north.4 Once established, this
northwesterly route became key to the early settlement of the Peace River region. Today,
Highway 33 - also known as the Grizzly Trail - follows the route of the old Klondike
Trail, and tourists can still visit the "Klondyke Ferry" which crosses the Athabasca River
near Fort Assiniboine. The history of the Gold Rush and settlement eras are preserved in
the Barrhead Museum, which is operated on a volunteer basis by the Barrhead & District
Historical Society.
2 Barrhead History Book Committee. (1978). The Golden Years. Retrieved from Our Roots database.
3 Barrhead History Book Committee. (1978). The Golden Years, pages 14-15.
4 Klondike Trail Society. (2006). The First 90 Miles. Retrieved January 14, 2008, from
http://www.klondiketrail.ca/miles.htm
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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2.2
Population Characteristics
The population of the County of Barrhead has remained fairly stable since the early
1990s, with an overall growth rate of 4.5% from 1991-2009.
Total Population
Year
Population
Percent Change
2009*
5,845
0%
2007*
5,845
1.3%
2001**
5,768
-1.7%
1996**
5,870
5.0%
1991**
5,591
n/a
*Source: Alberta Municipal Affairs and Housing
**Source: Statistics Canada
2.3
Age
The median age of the population of the County of Barrhead is 40.1, which is slightly
older than the median age of the population for Alberta as a whole, at 36.0. However, the
county is slightly younger than the provincial average, with 21.9% of the population
under the age of 15, as opposed to 19.2% for all of Alberta.
The population pyramid shows a smaller percentage of residents between the ages of 20
and 39, likely because individuals in this demographic have relocated to urban areas for
education and employment opportunities. It also demonstrates that the County's
population is aging: a significant proportion of the population is over the age of 50, and
the number of children in the 0 - 9 age cohort is getting smaller.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
16
Figure 2. Population Pyramid for the County of Barrhead
6
4
2
0
2
4
6
0-4
5-9
10-14
15-19
20-24
25-29
30-34
35-39
40-44
45-49
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70-74
75-79
80-84
85+
Age
Percent
% Female
% Male
Source: Statistics Canada 2006 Census
2.4
Education
The Pembina Hills Regional School Division #7 serves the County of Barrhead, with
schools located in Barrhead (K-12), Neerlandia (Public Christian School (K-9), and
Canadian Covenant Reformed School (K-12)) and in Dunstable (K-6).
The Neerlandia Public Christian School offers publicly-funded Christian education and is
administered by the public school division. In addition, the Canadian Covenant
Reformed School - a member of the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in
Alberta - is an independent school located near the Hamlet of Neerlandia.
Post-secondary and adult education opportunities exist at the Alberta Distance Learning
Centre and Learning Technologies Branch, as well as a satellite of Northern Lakes
College, which are located in the Town of Barrhead.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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Highest Level of Education for Population Aged 20+
N
%
Less than grade 9
380
9.9%
Less than grade 12
1,315
34.4%
High School Graduate
560
14.7%
Trades certificate or diploma
620
16.2%
Some College courses
255
6.7%
College certificate or diploma
385
10.1%
Some University courses
155
4.1%
University bachelor's degree or higher
140
3.7%
Total number of residents aged 20+
3,820*
100%
Source: Statistics Canada 2001 Census
*Numbers may not add up due to rounding by Statistics Canada
2.5
Income
The average household income for residents of the County of Barrhead is $51,790, which
is below the Alberta average of $64,199. The majority of residents in the County of
Barrhead (77.6%) derive their income from employment, as opposed to government
transfers such as pension plans, employment insurance, social assistance and worker's
compensation. Although the majority of households have an annual income of over
$40,000, Statistics Canada estimates that 12.3% of all private households are low income.
Income for All Private Households (Total = 1955)
< $19,999
18.5%
$20,000 - $39,999
30.9 %
$40,000 - $59,999
18.4 %
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
18
$60,000 - $79,999
17.4 %
$80,000 - $99,999
5.1 %
> $100,000
9.5 %
Source: Statistics Canada 2001 Census
2.6
Housing
The County of Barrhead contains a total of 2,090 dwellings, 92.1% of which are owner
occupied. The majority of the housing inventory is low density single detached houses.
Housing Inventory
Single-detached houses
87.6%
Semi-detached houses
1%
Apartments
0%
Row Houses
0%
Other*
11%
Source: Statistics Canada 2006 Census
* According to Statistics Canada "Other" includes single attached houses and movable dwellings such as
manufactured homes and other movable dwellings such as houseboats and railroad cars.
2.7
Economic Base
Throughout most of the 20th century agriculture was the economic underpinning of the
County of Barrhead, and this industry remains the County's economic backbone. Mixed
farming is the most common agricultural practice. Agricultural operations within the
County include cattle, grain and oilseed, miscellaneous specialty, field crops and hogs.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
19
Figure 1: Distribution of the Top Five Farm Types in the County of Barrhead in 2006
Source: Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, 2006. "Alberta Municipality Profile 2006: Census of
Agriculture
The past several decades have witnessed significant challenges for the agricultural sectors
as well as economic diversification into the manufacturing and oil and gas sectors. The
County's proximity to Swan Hills - a resource town built on oil and gas - has contributed
to this shift. Oil and gas exploration and pipeline development also occur within the
County of Barrhead municipal boundary. The recent development of coal bed methane
has also spurred resource development in the northern portion of the County.
The County is also home to several large manufacturing plants, North Plex Homes, a
manufactured home production facility. Can-Oat Milling, Sepallo Industries, Needlandia
Co-op, Vitara and many other small business, manufacturing and rural industrial
operations.
A strong provincial government presence enhances the employment opportunities for
residents of the County of Barrhead. The following departments have offices in the
Town of Barrhead and provide services to members of greater Barrhead region: AADAC;
Albertra Agriculture, Food and Rural Development; Alberta Distance Learning Centre;
Attorney General - Provincial Court; Family and Community Support Services; The
Employment Place; Aspen Regional Health Division; Family and Social Services;
Forestry, Lands and Wildlife; Mental Health Clinic; Medical Examiner-Coroner; Public
Works, Supply and Services; Transportation and Utilities and AFCS.
Established in 2002, the Grizzly Regional Economic Alliance Society (GROWTH
Alberta) is a Regional Economic Development Alliance spearheaded by 10 municipalities
in north-central Alberta, including the County and the Town of Barrhead. The mission
statement of the organization reads as follows: "The members of GROWTH Alberta will
work collectively, as a region, to achieve economic, social, and political environments in
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
20
which sustainable, diversified, and regional growth is realized."5 The group's focus areas
include communications and promotion, youth, partnership, agricultural diversification,
and tourism and hospitality.
Figure 3. Number of Individuals Employed per Industry, Age 15+
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
Agriculture & resource-based
Manufacturing & construction
Wholesale & retail trade
Finance & real estate
Health & education
Business services
Other services
Industry
Number of Individuals
Females
Males
Source: Statistics Canada 2001 Census
5 GROWTH ALBERTA. Core Business. Retrieved January 14, 2008, from
http://www.growthalberta.com/Core-Business.html
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
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Part 3.0
Land Use Area Policies
Map 2, located at the end of Section 2, is the Future Land Use Map and is included as
part of this Plan. The Future Land Use Map outlines the preferred location of future
development within the County of Barrhead. Part 3 is intended to describe the general
intended land uses of certain areas within the County and to provide direction in
interpreting the Future Land Use Map.
Future land use maps that are contained in adopted Area Structure Plans or approved
Development Concept Plans may provide additional direction regarding future land uses
in those areas.
3.1
Agricultural
The County of Barrhead's most significant natural resource is its agricultural land base.
These lands are integral to the social and economic fabric of the County and contribute to
the high quality of life enjoyed by County residents. As such, it is the intention of
Council to monitor and manage the County's agricultural land base so as to ensure its
value and integrity well into the future.
The County features a variety of agricultural soils that range from fair to very high
quality. The distribution of soils in the County is as shown on Map 2 of this document.
A range of soils is available throughout the municipality and makes the County ideally
suited for a variety of agricultural activities, from traditional grain activities and livestock
production to specialty crops, tree nurseries and berry farms.
Although the County has been involved in agriculture since it was settled by Europeans
in the early 20th century, the agricultural land base remains under constant redevelopment
and reinvention. It is recognized that regions of the County that may not support
traditional forms of crop production may instead be well-suited to other types of intensive
agricultural operations - including but not limited to livestock and confined feeding
operations.
The objectives and policies contained in this section outline the desire of the County to
maintain the natural capital within the County of Barrhead while at the same time
allowing for other forms of development where appropriate.
3.1.1 Goal
To protect and allow for the enhancement of the valuable agricultural land
resource, the agri-based economy and the rural lifestyle.
3.1.2 Objectives
(1)
To conserve higher capability agricultural land.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
23
(2)
To minimize the fragmentation of agricultural land.
(3)
To promote the continuation of agricultural and rural industries within the
County and to ensure that agriculture, forestry and resource extraction
remain the primary land uses in all rural areas within the municipality.
(4)
To minimize conflicts between farm and non-farm land uses.
(5)
To allow non-agricultural uses that will not detract from the rural nature of
the County's agricultural community.
3.1.3
Agricultural Development Policies
Right to Farm
(1)
The County recognizes agriculture as the priority land use
in rural areas:
(a)
agricultural diversification shall be supported and
promoted;
(b)
agricultural industries and related services shall be
located in appropriate areas to best serve the
agricultural community;
(c)
whenever possible, non-agricultural land uses shall
not be located in areas of intensive agricultural
activity.
Vacant Agricultural
Use Parcels
(2)
The primary use of land within the Agricultural Use Area
is for agriculture. As such, there is no requirement for a
house or farmstead to be constructed on an agricultural
parcel. The residential use of an agricultural parcel is
considered a permitted, secondary use of lands within the
Agricultural Use Area.
Non-Agricultural Use
Of Agricultural Land
(3)
While the primary use of the Agricultural Use Area is for
extensive agriculture and confined feeding operations
involving the production of feed grains, cereal grains,
forage crops, specialty crops, livestock and other animals
on a commercial basis, other uses which, in the opinion
of Council, do not adversely affect present or future
agricultural pursuits may also be permitted on a
discretionary basis provided that the development will not
adversely affect the agricultural community.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
24
(4)
Proposed development that is deemed better suited to an
urban setting will be discouraged from locating in the
agricultural area.
(5)
Within the Agricultural Use Area, a wide range of
resource utilization uses may also occur provided that
such uses do not negatively impact other surrounding
uses.
Subdivision
(6)
Normally, subdivision of a quarter section for a country
residential use will be allowed without requiring an
amendment to the Land Use Bylaw on the basis of the
following:
(a)
subdivision of the quarter section based on an equal
split of the quarter section (commonly called an 80-
ac. split); or
(b)
subdivision of the quarter section on the basis of a
natural or man-made fragmentation by a river,
railroad, or road.
(7)
The subdivision of agricultural land is discouraged,
where not otherwise permitted in a statutory plan or the
Land Use Bylaw.
Review of
Subdivision &
Redistricting
Proposals
(8)
When reviewing subdivision or redistricting proposals for
non-agricultural land uses in an agricultural area, the
approving authority should consider:
(a)
the potential for incompatibility with agricultural
uses;
(b)
the type and scale of the proposed land use;
(c)
risks related to hazardous features;
(d)
anticipated traffic volumes;
(e)
impact on the natural environment;
(f)
proximity to similar land uses and/or developments
and;
(g)
the capability of the site for agricultural use.
Requirements for
Subdivisions in the
Agriculture District
(9)
The County of Barrhead will not approve a subdivision or
development proposal unless:
(a)
it meets the spirit and intent of this Municipal
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
25
Development Plan;
(b)
it conforms to all other applicable statutory plans
(Area Structure Plans, Intermunicipal Development
Plans, etc.) and the County of Barrhead Land Use
Bylaw;
(c)
servicing requirements can be met and/or the
developer provides municipal services to the
satisfaction of the Subdivision and/or Development
Authority;
(d)
each lot or parcel resulting from the subdivision,
including any residual or parent parcel, has access
to a public roadway as prescribed by the
Subdivision and Development Regulation, and
reasonable vehicular access to a public roadway at a
location prescribed by the municipality;
(e)
each lot or parcel resulting from the subdivision
contains a suitable development area.
Confined Feeding
Operations
(10) Input shall be provided to the NRCB in responding to
application for new or expanded CFOs based on the
technical and locational merits of each application.
(11) Minimum distance separations for CFOs shall conform
to standards set out in the Agricultural Operations
Practices Act.
Minimum
Agricultural
Parcel Size
(12) Normally the minimum agricultural parcel size shall be
32.4 ha (80.0 ac), less any allowed subdivisions pursuant
to this plan unless otherwise specified in an applicable
Statutory Plan. OR
Maximum Number
of Agricultural
Parcels per
Quarter Section
(13)
The maximum number of agricultural parcels that may
be allowed per quarter section in the Agricultural Land
Use District shall be two (2) unless otherwise specified
in an applicable Statutory Plan.
Fragmentation as a
Result of Utility and
Resource
Developments
(14)
Where agricultural land is taken for roads, pipelines or
other transmission lines, the County shall endorse only
those proposals which minimize the fragmentation of
agricultural land.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
26
3.2
Residential Development in the Agricultural Land Use Area
Country residential development is the most common form of subdivision requested in
the County of Barrhead. Demand for country residential lots exists throughout the
County and is primarily for single parcel developments. Multi-parcel developments occur
as cluster developments, primarily in the southern portion of the County in areas with
high scenic and recreational value such as Lac La Nonne and Thunder Lake.
Map 3, at the end of Section 3, depicts existing land use patterns within the County.
The County recognizes that country residential development in the Agricultural Use area
can provide a desirable lifestyle for people wishing to reside in a rural area and an
economic boon to members of the agricultural community wishing to subdivide their
land. This Plan strives to achieve a balance between providing additional opportunities
for country residential development while still supporting the livelihood and quality of
life of the existing and future agricultural community. As such, country residential living
shall be supported in the agricultural area in a limited way by regulating the location and
number of developments allowed per quarter section in the agricultural area.
Restricting country residential development within agricultural areas in the County will
discourage inflation of the price of agricultural land and minimize the potential for
conflicts between the agricultural community and acreage and/or recreation property
owners.
3.2.1 Goal
To allow for a limited amount of residential development within the agricultural
area in appropriate locations while discouraging the inflation of the price of farm
land and the fragmentation of good agricultural land.
3.2.2 Objectives
(1)
To minimize the amount of contiguous higher capability agricultural land
used for country residential development.
(2)
To minimize municipal servicing costs associated with residential
development in the agricultural use area.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
27
(3)
To ensure that residential development in the agricultural use area is
compatible with surrounding land uses and has a minimal impact on the
environment.
(4)
To ensure that the development of residences in the agricultural use area
occurs at a rate that does not exceed the County's capacity to serve the
residents.
(5)
To provide opportunities for low-impact multi-lot country residential
development in appropriate locations.
(6)
To ensure that multi-lot country residential development provides a high
quality living environment through appropriate design, density and
location.
3.2.3 Policies
Residential Uses
Within the
Agricultural Use
Area
(1)
Residential development will be allowed within the
Agricultural Use Area shown on Map 2, subject to the
policies noted below.
Proximity to Utilities
(2)
Residential subdivisions should be located in proximity
to gas, electrical, and telephone lines which have
existing capacity to sustain the additional usage.
Subdivisions shall have direct access to existing
maintained roads.
Preservation of
Resource Extraction,
Recreation,
Historical and
Archaeological
Features
(3)
Residential development in the Agricultural Use Area
will be discouraged in areas where it may negatively
impact exiting resource extraction industries, recreation,
significant historical, and/or significant archaeological
features of the County. It is the County's policy that the
impact of new residential developments in the
Agricultural Use Area is an important consideration in
evaluating residential development proposals within the
Agricultural Use Area.
Agricultural
Interference
(4)
Within the Agricultural Use Area, agricultural
operations may, from time to time, be considered by
residential landowners to interfere with their residential
lifestyle. Bearing in mind the County's predominant
policy to preserve and protect the agricultural
community within the County, the County shall develop
and implement a public information strategy to identify
those factors which may lead to conflict between
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
28
agricultural and residential uses, mitigate those factors
where possible, and indicate to residential landowners
that the agricultural operations which follow normal
farming practices shall have precedence within the
County.
Buffers
(5)
Spatial buffers or setbacks shall be maintained between
country residential uses and adjacent uses which may be
incompatible for any reason.
Siting of Residential
Parcels
(6)
Residential parcels should not be allowed on land
situated within:
(a)
100 m of the boundary of land containing an
extractive industry, potentially noxious industry
and other developments or uses which could be
considered as creating a land use conflict or safety
risk by the County's Subdivision Authority;
(b)
the setback distance of a sewage treatment plant or
lagoon or solid waste disposal site as specified by
the Subdivision and Development Regulation as
well as all applicable Provincial legislation;
(c)
in the case of sour gas, the minimum setback
distance as established by the Energy Resources
Conservation Board.
(7)
For the purpose of calculating parcel density, residential
uses include: all rural development where a residence is
the principal use on a parcel. Residential parcels
generally include: farmstead separations, abandoned
farmsteads, acreages and country residential parcels.
(8)
If the quarter section has previously been split into two
(2) agricultural parcels then a maximum of one (1)
country residential parcel will be permitted from each
agricultural parcel without a Land Use Bylaw
amendment.
Boundary
Adjustments
(9)
The enlargement, reduction or realignment of an
existing separate parcel or parcels may be approved,
provided that:
(a)
the additional lands required are to accommodate
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
29
existing or related improvements; and/or
(b)
the proposal is to rectify or rationalize existing
titles, occupancy, cultivation or settlement
patterns; and
(c)
no additional parcels are created over and above
those presently in existence; and
(d)
the proposed new lot and the proposed residual lot
shall continue to have direct legal and physical
access to a public roadway, adequate development
setbacks, and a suitable building site.
(10) The Development Authority may approve boundary
adjustments that will increase the size of a subdivided
parcel where the proposal maintains or improves the
agricultural potential of an on-going agricultural
operation on the subdivided parcel, without negatively
impacting the agricultural potential of the remnant parcel.
Private Sewage
Disposal
(11) The assessment of the suitability of a proposed residential
subdivision will not take into consideration required
setbacks for private sewage disposal systems. Rather, if a
subdivision results in the reduction of setbacks between an
existing or proposed private sewage disposal system and a
property line then the developer will be required to ensure
that the existing or proposed private sewage disposal
system conforms to all relevant provincial regulations
effecting private sewage disposal systems.
Subdivision and
Development Near a
Lake
(12) Residential development in the Agricultural Use Area
within 1.6 km (1 mile) of a lake shall be subject to any
controls the County deems necessary to provide that the
development will be compatible with the lake
environment.
Maximum Area for
Residential
Subdivisions Per
Quarter Section
(13) Normally, a maximum of 15 ac. (6.06 ha.) shall be
allowed for residential subdivisions per quarter section.
Maximum Number
of Parcels per
Quarter Section
(14) The maximum number of parcels for agricultural and
residential use per quarter section in the agricultural use
area shall be four (4). This includes: agricultural use
parcels, residential use parcels, farmstead separations and
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
30
fragmented parcels. Additional parcels will not be
permitted without a land use bylaw amendment.
Maximum Number
of Parcels per
Quarter Section by
Use
(15) The maximum number of residential parcels permitted per
quarter section shall be dependent on the number of
agricultural parcels and fragmented parcels on the subject
quarter section. Conversely, the number of allowable
agricultural and fragmented parcels shall be dependent on
the number of residential parcels on the subject quarter
section. The following chart presents possible scenarios
for achieving the maximum number of allowable
agricultural or residential parcels per quarter section.
Table 1: Maximum Residential and Agricultural Subdivision Scenarios within the Agricultural Use
Area
MAXIMUM # OF
FRAGMENTED PARCELS
MAXIMUM # OF PARCELS
FOR AGRICULTURAL USE
MAXIMUM # OF PARCELS
FOR RESIDENTIAL USE
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF
PARCELS PER QUARTER
SECTION
0 parcels
1 parcel
3 parcels
4 parcels
0 parcels
2 parcels
2 parcels
4 parcels
1 parcel
0 parcels
3 parcels
4 parcels
1 parcel
1 parcel
2 parcels
4 parcels
1 parcel
2 parcels
1 parcels
4 parcels
2 parcels
0 parcel
2 parcels
4 parcels
2 parcels
1 parcel
1parcel
4 parcels
2 parcels
2 parcels
0 parcels
4 parcels
3 parcels
0 parcels
1 parcel
4 parcels
3 parcels
1 parcel
0 parcels
4 parcels
4 parcels
0 parcels
0 parcels
4 parcels
0 parcels
4 parcels (4 x 40 ac.)*
0 parcels
4 parcels
* A maximum of four (4), 40 ac (16 ha) parcels will only permitted in Statutory Plan Areas which
specifically allow for 40 ac. (16 ha) agricultural parcels.
Maximum Number
of Parcels Per
Quarter Section For
Agricultural Use
(16) A maximum of two (2) parcels, excluding fragments, may
be subdivided from a quarter section for agricultural use.
Unless otherwise specified in an applicable Statutory Plan.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
31
Maximum Number
of Parcels Per
Quarter Section For
Residential Use
(17) A maximum of three (3) parcels may be subdivided from a
quarter section for residential use, being either three (3)
farmsteads, or two (2) farmsteads and one (1) vacant
parcel. If, at time of application, there are two (2)
agricultural parcels on the subject quarter section then
only two (2) residential use parcels may be permitted.
Maximum Number
of Parcels Per
Quarter Section For
Commercial or
Industrial Use
(18) At the discretion of the Development Authority, density
calculations for commercial and industrial uses in the
Agriculture Area shall be determined on a site specific
basis.
Maximum Number
of Parcels Per
Quarter Section For
Public or
Institutional Use
(19) At the discretion of the Development Authority, density
calculations for institutional uses in the Agriculture Area
shall be determined on a site specific basis.
Fragmented Parcels
(20) The subdivision of a fragmented parcel shall not be
approved for residential or any other use, unless the
fragmented parcel is fragmented by reason of one or more
public roadways, railways, rivers, or creeks.
(21) The subdivision of a fragmented parcel shall only be
allowed if:
(a) both the balance and the fragment have physical
access to an improved road;
(b) both the balance and fragment contain an area of at
least 0.4 ha. (1.0 ac.) and have, in the sole opinion
of the Subdivision Authority, a suitable building
site.
(c) the total lot density within the subject quarter
section will not exceed four (4) parcels.
(22) The Subdivision Authority may refuse an application to
subdivide a fragmented area if the proposed parcel is
located in a remote location that only has legal access to a
undeveloped or sub-standard public roadway if in the
opinion of the Subdivision Authority, the construction
and maintenance of the roadway would serve no greater
or long-term public interest.
(23) In the case where another policy of this plan would allow
for a subdivision to occur and the parcel also has a
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
32
potential fragmented parcel as described in Subsection (6)
above, the fragmented parcel should be considered first,
then the other parcel would apply.
Farmstead
Separations
(24) Farmstead separations from a quarter section in the
Agricultural Use area shall normally be a minimum of 1.2
ha. (3 ac) in size and a maximum of 4.04 ha. (10 ac.) in
size.
(25) Notwithstanding subsection (9) above, a farmstead
separation of up to 6.06 ha (15 ac.) may be permitted at
the discretion of the Subdivision Authority.
(26) If a farmstead separation of larger than 10 ac. is applied
for, the applicant will be required to submit with their
application the following additional information:
(a)
a building site certificate or real property report
indicating the exact location of all farmstead
structures including: buildings, out building, wells
private sewage disposal system and surface
discharge location, corrals, dugouts and if
applicable, lagoons.
(b)
a site drawing indicating any low lying areas or
areas unsuitable for development on the proposed
parcel.
(27) Notwithstanding Subsection (23) the Subdivision
Authority may vary the maximum parcel size, of a parcel
for Country residential use, to allow for a maximum 17
ac. parcel if the building site certificate or real property
report submitted by the applicant with the subdivision
application demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the
Subdivision Authority, that that the additional area is
required to ensure the integrity of the farm site.
Subdivision of
Vacant Residential
Use Parcels
(28) Subdivisions of vacant land for residential purposes shall
normally be a minimum of 0.40 ha (1.0 ac.) and a
maximum of 2.02 ha (5.0 ac.) in size. In order to ensure
the least amount of potential disruption to existing or
future agricultural uses in the area, vacant residential use
parcels shall be:
(a) encouraged to locate on the lower capability
agricultural lands on the quarter section; and/or
(b)
encouraged to locate adjacent to an existing
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
33
farmstead separation; and/or
(c)
encouraged to locate in one of the four (4) corners
of the original quarter section.
(29)
A maximum of one (1) vacant parcel for residential use
will be allowed per quarter section within the
Agricultural Use Area at any time. A parcel shall be
considered developed when a development permit has
been issued by the Development Authority for a
dwelling on the parcel and the proponent has
demonstrated, to that satisfaction of the Development
Authority, that the dwelling is constructed to lockup.
Access to County
Roads
(30)
A maximum of five (5) accesses to a single County road
will be permitted per quarter section in locations that are
to the satisfaction of the Subdivision and/or
Development Authority.
(31)
If a farmstead parcel or other developed residential use
parcel is further subdivided to create two (2) parcels, the
proposed parcel and the remainder will be encouraged to
share a single access.
(32)
Subdivision for residential purposes in the Agricultural
Use area shall not be allowed where access to graded and
graveled or paved roads in good condition does not exist,
or where construction of a roadway and access,
developed to then-current County standards to the site is
not undertaken by the landowner/developer.
Development
Agreements
(33)
Where a subdivision for residential purposes is allowed
in the Agricultural Use Area, the developer may be
required to enter into a development agreement with the
County within which the developer agrees to be
responsible for all the costs associated with the
development of the subdivision.
Vega
Dapp
Manola
Jarvie
Campsie
Freedom
Arvilla
Lisburn
Sangudo
BARRHEAD
Cherhill
Highridge
Lone Pine
Pembridge
Dunstable
Neerlandia
Tiger Lily
Bloomsbury
Green Court
Shoal Creek
Rich Valley
Mayerthorpe
Thunder Lake
Lac la Nonne
Rochfort Bridge
Fort Assiniboine
Legend
County
^_
Populated Places
Multi-Lane Highway
Major Two Lane Highway
Minor Two Lane Highway
Improved Road
Land Use
Cropland
Built-up areas
Mines, quarries, sand, gravel pits
Rough grazing and rangeland
Rock and other unvegetated surfaces
Swamp, marsh, or bog
Outdoor recreation
Improved pasture and forage crops
Productive woodland
Non-productive woodland
Water area
County of Barrhead:
Land Use
Digital geographic information obtained from: Government of
Canada National Topographical Survey
(Geogratis), Canada Land Inventory (Geogratis), and the County of Barrhead.
Geographic coordinate system and projection: UTM, NAD 83 Datum. Zone 12N
All Boundaries are approximate.
Municipal Planning Services ( 2009 ) Ltd.
#208 17511 107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5S 1E5
Phone: (780) 486-1991
Fax: (780) 483-7326.
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5
10
15
Kilometers
±
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À
763
²³
33
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À
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À
654
¿
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769
MAP 3
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
35
3.3
Multi-lot Country Residential Development
Multi-lot country residential development shall be allowed in the Agricultural Use
Area and applicable Statutory Plan Areas, subject to the policies below.
3.3.1 Policies
Location
(1)
The County will encourage multi-lot country residential
development to be located on lower capability
agricultural land rather than on higher capability
agricultural land.
Amendment to Land
Use Bylaw
(2)
Multi-lot country residential development shall be
allowed only after amendment to the Land Use Bylaw,
placing the lands where such development may occur
into an appropriate Country Residential District.
Preparation of Area
Structure Plan
(3)
The County shall require an Area Structure Plan be
prepared and approved prior to the approval of any
amendment to the Land Use Bylaw to allow for a multi-
lot country residential subdivision where the land being
proposed for development is 8.1 ha (20 ac.) or greater in
size, except that the County may require the preparation
of a conceptual plan or outline plan if:
(a)
the preparation of an Area Structure Plan is
considered by the County to be impractical or
inappropriate given the small scale of the lands
proposed for development or the fragmentation of
the quarter section in which the development is
located, and/or
(b)
the development area is within an existing Area
Structure Plan, and/or
(c)
the subject lands are less than 8.1 ha (20 ac.) in size.
Consideration of
Development
Applications &
Designs
(4)
The County shall abide by the following policies in
dealing with multi-lot country residential development
applications and designs:
(a)
Internal road access shall be provided to each lot.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
36
(b)
No more than 50 lots shall be allowed per quarter
section.
(c)
No further subdivision of existing lots shall be
allowed for parcels that are smaller than the
smallest existing parcel within an approved country
residential subdivision in order to ensure that the
established character of the development is
maintained.
(d)
A detailed, site specific, biophysical assessment of
the site, prepared by qualified professionals on
behalf of the proponent, may be required with every
multi-lot country residential Area Structure Plan
proposal in order to allow the County to assess the
proposed development. The assessment shall
indicate:
(i)
an inventory of the biophysical assets of the
subject site,
(ii) how Environmental Reserves, Environmental
Reserve Easements, Municipal Reserves, and
other land management tools may be used to
protect significant biophysical sites,
(iii) how development is to be directed and
contained within previously cleared or
disturbed areas or areas of low biophysical
significance,
(iv) how habitat linkages are to be
maintained, and
(v)
how all Provincial and Federal legislation and
regulations are to be adhered to respecting
wetlands, habitat, and environmentally
sensitive lands.
(e)
Subdivision proposals may be required to indicate
the location of development areas within lots as
well as the natural areas on the lots.
(f)
Multi-lot residential subdivisions should have
regard for available school and school bus
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
37
capacities.
Access to County
Roads
(5)
Multi-lot country residential development should be
located within 1.6 km (1) mile of paved roads.
Conservation Design
(6)
The County shall ensure that new multi-lot country
residential developments adhere to the following
conservation design-based principles:
(a)
The ecology of the subject site must be considered.
Environmentally sensitive lands should be left
undisturbed wherever possible, but incorporated
into the overall development. Wildlife corridors or
connections between habitat areas should be
maintained wherever possible.
(b)
Development will be directed to lands that are
deemed by the County to be of lesser environmental
significance.
(c)
The natural landscape and topography should be
considered and incorporated into the overall design
of the development.
Mitigation of
Potential Conflicts
(7)
The County shall ensure that multi-lot country residential
Area Structure Plans, Development Concept Plans,
redistricting, and subdivision proposals address potential
conflicts with existing agricultural operations and how
they will be resolved or mitigated.
Service Costs to be
Borne by Developer
(8)
The County shall require the proponent of a multi-lot
country residential development to identify all municipal
servicing costs associated with the development. The
assignment of these costs between the County and the
developer will be the basis of an agreement to be entered
into prior to a subdivision approval or upon the issuance
of a development permit. Normally, however, all
development servicing costs associated with the
development, including the provision of internal
roadway systems to a high standard and the upgrading
of other County roads leading to the site in order to
provide good access to the residential site will be carried
by the proponent.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
38
Housing Types
(9)
The County shall provide opportunities for the
development of a wide range of housing types in country
residential subdivisions.
Bareland
Condominium
(10) Where developed, bare land condominiums shall be
surveyed and developed in a manner that will allow for
the future creation of a separate parcel for each lease
area (lot), if and when desired by the Condominium
Association.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
39
3.4
Lakeshore Country Residential Development
The County of Barrhead has a number of lakes which are used for both residential and
recreational purposes. These lakes include: Thunder Lake, Nakumun Lake, Clear Lake
and Lac La Nonne. In addition, the County contains lakes which are virtually
undeveloped such as George Lake, Baird Lake and Shoal Lake.
The County also features unique lake area habitats such as the Blue Heron and Bald
Eagle habitats at Thunder Lake. The purpose of this section of the County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan is to provide goals, objectives and policies which will assist
in maintaining and developing area lakes in a sustainable manner for future generations.
Drainage Basins and flood prone areas within the County are as identified on Map 4.0:
Environmental Constraints located at the end of Section 3 of this document.
3.4.1 Policies
Conversion of
Seasonal
Recreational
Residential
Communities
(1)
The conversion of existing seasonal recreational
residential developments to permanent year round
communities may be considered at the discretion of
Council.
Conservation Design
Requirements
(2)
The County shall ensure that recreational residential
developments adhere to the following conservation
design-based principles:
a.
The ecology of the subject
site must be considered. Environmentally sensitive
lands should be left undisturbed wherever possible,
but incorporated into the overall development.
Wildlife corridors or connections between habitat
areas should be maintained wherever possible.
b.
Development will be directed to lands that are
deemed by the County to be of lesser environmental
significance.
c.
The natural landscape and topography should be
considered and incorporated into the overall design
of the development.
Lake Water Quality
(3)
Development which will have an adverse impact on lake
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
40
water quality shall be discouraged.
On-site Sewage
Systems
(4)
On-site sewage disposal systems other than holding tanks
are not recommended on building sites where other forms
of sewage disposal may impact lake water quality.
Impact on Lake
Water Levels
(5)
Developments that may result in an impact on lake water
levels through excessive use of surface and lake fed
groundwater aquifers shall be prohibited.
Area Structure Plans
(6)
The County shall consider the preparation of Area
Structure Plans or other Statutory Plans for lake areas
which have been identified for future intensive
development.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
41
3.5
Industrial Policy
For the purpose of this Municipal Development Plan the term "industry" refers to
manufacturing or warehousing and storage; and includes both light and heavy industry.
Industries that may have high levels of noxious emissions or noise are referred to as
heavy industry. Light industry is not considered noxious and is generally compatible
with other uses. Natural resource extraction industries, such as gravel pits and oil and gas
wells, are addressed in this Section. Industrial uses within the County can be classified as
rural industrial or industrial.
Most of the County's economic base focuses on the agriculture and resource sectors.
Historically, the continuation and expansion of the County's industrial base has been
limited due to a finite land base and the non-renewable nature of the mining and
petroleum resource sector. The County recognizes that industrial developments can be of
benefit to the County by providing employment, tax dollars and services to County
residents. If planned effectively, the negative impacts an industry may have on the
surrounding area can be mitigated or minimized.
This Plan encourages the diversification of the County's economic base by identifying
land and policies to supporting the development of a diverse range of industrial
developments within the County.
3.5.1 Objectives
(1)
To encourage appropriate industrial development in environmentally and
socially appropriate locations and at no cost to the County.
(2)
To ensure that industrial development requiring municipal services is
located near serviced areas.
(3)
To minimize the impact of industrial development on non-industrial land
uses on surrounding lands.
3.5.2 Industrial Policies
Location of
Industry
(1)
Industries shall be encouraged to avoid locating in areas of
critical wildlife habitat wherever possible.
(2)
Industrial development shall be encouraged to locate within
industrial parks unless an alternate location is required for
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
42
site-specific reasons.
(3)
Internal roads to industrial areas shall allow for an adequate
truck turning radius.
(4)
Industrial uses shall be directed, where practical, to locate
along roads which are constructed to a suitable standard to
service the proposed use. Where necessary, industrial
developments may be asked to construct or upgrade roads
necessary to serve the development.
(5)
Industrial development shall be performed in a manner that
will minimize impacts on the natural environment and
surrounding land uses.
(6)
Council shall encourage industrial development that requires
access to municipal services to locate within or near existing
urban areas.
(7)
Council shall only consider proposals for the development of
lands for industrial uses in a Hamlet if the proposal is for an
industrial use that is compatible with surrounding land uses.
Application
Requirements for
Industrial Uses
(8)
Before approving any development proposal for an industrial
use, the County may require the provision of environmental
impact information and a risk assessment (such as that
provided for by the Major Industrial Accidents Council of
Canada (MIACC) to assist the County in assessing the impact
of the proposed development in relation to the natural and
human environments, and indicate if and how any negative
matters can be mitigated. The County may require the
implementation of any mitigating actions indicated in the
information and assessment as a condition of any
development approval.
(9)
All proposals for heavy industry and or multi-lot industrial
developments (including industrial parks) shall:
(a)
in the opinion of the Development Authority, NOT
conflict with or jeopardize surrounding land uses;
(b)
be considered only in accordance with an Area
Structure Plan or, at the discretion of Council, a
Development Concept Plan that has been developed
and approved in accordance with the Municipal
Government Act. A Development Concept Plan or
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
43
Area Structure Plan will address:
(i)
the impact on adjacent land uses;
(ii) transportation;
(iii) provision of water and sewer services;
(iv) storm drainage;
(v)
the provision for municipal reserves;
(vi) the impact on community services, such as fire
protection;
(vii) the municipal servicing costs associated with the
development;
(viii) landscaping and buffering;
(ix) risk assessment; and
(x)
any other matters identified by the County.
(c)
not be allowed to locate in close proximity, as
determined by the County, to a multi-lot residential
subdivision;
(d)
be accompanied by an identification of all municipal
costs associated with the proposal;
(e)
meet all provincial requirements and obtain a
development permit from the County prior to
construction; and
(f)
be encouraged to locate near or adjacent to provincial
highways.
Development
Costs
(10) No industrial development (including industrial parks) shall
result in any additional costs to the County, unless the
County agrees to share the costs.
Aesthetics
(11) Industrial storage developments shall be maintained in a
manner that will not detract from the aesthetics or the quality
of life of the surrounding area.
Land
Re-districting
(12) A subdivision application which proposes to subdivide one
(1) or more lots proposed for industrial/commercial use may
be approved in the Agricultural Area, but such an application
shall not be approved unless the land which is the subject of
the subdivision application is districted for
industrial/commercial development in the Land Use Bylaw.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
44
Industrial
Subdivisions
(13) Subdivision provisions in the Land Use Bylaw for the
Industrial Area shall ensure that:
(a)
the subdivision of vacant single lots for industrial
development shall be avoided as far as possible; and
(b)
the lot is as small as possible (between 1.0 acre and
10.0 acres) while still being large enough to encompass
the improvements.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
45
3.6
Commercial Policy
The intent of the Plan is to accommodate commercial facilities, primarily adjacent to
highways, secondary road systems, within established Hamlets, and in appropriate
locations within multi-lot recreation residential developments. Commercial
developments provide a service to the agricultural community, local residents, the
traveling public, and tourists to the region. The County will not support commercial
developments that adversely affect the standard of safety or convenience, or the
functional integrity of any highway or road. The Plan also recognizes that specific
commercial uses may require unique site locations in order to serve the rural community.
3.6.1 Goal
To encourage and facilitate commercial, industrial and resource growth within the
County in order to broaden the County's economic base.
3.6.2 Objectives
(1)
To minimize the impacts of commercial activities on un-fragmented agricultural
and resource lands.
(2)
To minimize conflicts with adjacent land uses.
(3)
To minimize municipal servicing costs associated with commercial development.
(4)
To promote and accommodate commercial, industrial and resource extraction-
based development in appropriate locations in the County of Barrhead.
(5)
To enhance the economy of the County of Barrhead.
(6)
To support an adequate level of commercial services to area residents.
3.6.3 Commercial Policies
Location of
Commercial
Development
(1)
The County shall consider proposals for commercial
development:
(a)
that will not unnecessarily fragment the un-fragmented
agricultural and resource lands; and
(b)
that does not conflict with adjacent land uses.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
46
(2)
Commercial uses shall be encouraged to avoid locating in
areas of critical wildlife habitat wherever possible.
(3)
Commercial uses operated as secondary uses to agricultural
operations may be allowed.
(4)
Commercial development may be allowed to locate near
urban areas in consultation with the affected urban area, as
determined by the Development Authority.
Buffering
(5)
Highway commercial uses shall be developed in a manner
that will not detract from the scenic and aesthetic qualities of
the receiving neighbourhood.
(6)
The Development Authority shall require the developer to
construct and/or maintain an appropriate buffer, as
determined by the Development Authority, between the
development and nearby land uses.
(7)
Hamlet commercial uses shall be developed in a manner that
will have minimal impact on adjacent residential properties.
Servicing
(8)
Council shall encourage commercial development in Hamlets
if the resultant servicing requirements do not exceed the
servicing capabilities of the Hamlet or negatively impact the
character of the Hamlet.
(9)
Commercial uses which are more appropriate in an alternate
location (i.e. urban setting or rural commercial park) shall be
redirected to those alternate locations.
(10) The Development Authority shall require the developer of a
commercial development to identify all municipal servicing
costs associated with the development. The assignment of
these costs between the County and the developer will be the
basis of an agreement to be entered into prior to a subdivision
approval or upon the issuance of a development permit.
Normally, however, all development servicing costs
associated with the development will be carried by the
developer.
Consultation with
Alberta
Transportation
(11) The County shall consult Alberta Transportation to determine
locations where highway commercial development may be
allowed along the Provincial highway network. When
identifying suitable locations for highway commercial
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
47
development, consideration shall be given to:
(a)
impacts on the transportation system,
(b)
servicing requirements,
(c)
impacts on adjacent land uses, and
alternative locations for the proposed development.
Subdivision
Considerations
(12) A subdivision application which proposes to subdivide one or
more lots proposed for commercial use may be approved in
the Commercial Area or Agricultural Area, but such an
application shall not be approved unless the land which is the
subject of the subdivision application is designated for
commercial development in the Land Use Bylaw.
Farm Subsidiary
Operations
(13) Uses such as farm subsidiary occupations, home based
businesses, and public/institutional uses directly associated
with agriculture should be permitted. Non-agricultural
related businesses may be permitted.
(14) Commercial businesses such as home based businesses and
farm subsidiary businesses should be encouraged to operate
on a wholesale basis and to use urban locations such as
Hamlets for retail operations.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
48
3.7
Natural Areas
The County of Barrhead is part of the Boreal Forest Natural Region and straddles two
Natural Subregions: the Dry Mixedwood Natural Subregion in the southern portion of
the County and the Central Mixedwood Natural Subregion in the north.
Comprising approximately 58% of the province, the Boreal Forest Natural Region is
Alberta's largest Natural Area. It is typified by short summers, long winters, and
sweeping expanses of deciduous, mixedwood and coniferous forests intermixed with fens
and wetlands. About 50% of the Dry Mixedwood Natural Sub-region is suitable for
cultivation, including much of the County of Barrhead. Maps 4-10 which are not
adopted as part of this Plan, are included for informational purposes only. These maps
illustrate environmental constraints, agricultural capacity, forestry capacity, slope,
elevation, water fowl capacity, and ungulate capacity within the County.
Wildlife diversity in the Boreal Forest Natural Region is highest in the south-central and
eastern portions of the region, in which the County of Barrhead is located. Common
avian species in this area include the Yellow Tail, Sedge Wren, Great-crested Flycatcher,
Chestnut-sided and Blackburnian Warblers, as well as additional species that flourish in
deciduous, coniferous and/or mixed forests. Common mammal species include the red
squirrel, snowshoe hare, southern red-backed vole, cinerous shrew, least chipmunk, deer
mouse, black bear, moose, ermine and American beaver. Further, lakes and ponds
provide habitat for the arctic grayling, northern redbelly dace, Iowa darter, lake whitefish,
burbot, walleye, goldeye, lake chub, longnose and white suckers, emerald and spottail
shiners, slimy sculpin, ninespine stickleback, walleye, yellow perch and northern pike.6
The County of Barrhead has several areas that are designated Environmentally
Significant Areas of provincial or national significance: the Athabasca River from
Whitecourt to Vega, George Lake and the Holmes Crossing Sand Hills.7 The Athabasca
River is recognized as a critical wildlife zone, George Lake as a significant breeding
habitat for many varieties of birds, and the Holmes Crossing Sand Hills is recognized for
supporting a diverse array of plant and animal species. In the cases of all three
environmentally significant areas, maintaining natural shorelines and habitat will help
keep the area attractive for a variety of plant and animal species.8
6 Natural Regions Committee. (2006). Natural Regions and Subregions of Alberta. Compiled by D.J.
Downing and W. W. Pettapiece. Government of Alberta Publication No. T/852.
7 Sweetgrass Consultants Ltd. (1997). Environmentally Significant Areas of Alberta Volume 2. Edmonton:
Alberta Environmental Protection.
8 Ibid.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
49
A number of the County's lakes are used for both residential and recreational purposes,
including Thunder Lake, Nakumun Lake, and Lac La Nonne. Drainage Basins and Flood
prone areas within the County are as identified on Map 4. The County recognizes that
developing Natural Areas for human use can put stress on native plant and animal species
and damage sensitive environmental areas. The objectives and policies contained in this
section outline the County's strategy to mitigate these potential problems and maintain its
natural areas for future generations.
Natural Areas are identified on the Future Land Use Plan Map. These lands were
identified by mapping environmental constraints to development (shown on Map 4)
including: environmentally significant areas, flood susceptible areas, and steep slope
areas within the County. Maps 5 and 6 show slope and elevation within the County.
3.7.1 Goal
The County supports the stewardship of environmentally sensitive areas, and, in
particular, the integrity of the County's rivers, streams and lakes.
3.7.2 Objectives
(1)
To protect environmentally sensitive areas from inappropriate forms of
development.
(2)
Where appropriate, to apply environmental reserve provisions in order to
preserve environmentally sensitive areas.
(3)
To require environmental reviews as part of the development process.
(4)
To ensure that suitable public access is granted to lakeshore areas.
(5)
To protect surface and subsurface water quality and quantity.
(6)
To reduce the risk of damage from wildfires.
(7)
To work in conjunction with grass-roots conservation agencies and any
Watershed Planning and Advisory Council (WPAC) within municipal
limits in order to promote environmental stewardship within the County.
3.7.3 Natural Area Policies
Subdivision of Land
within the Natural
Area
(1)
The maximum number of parcels for all use within the
Natural Area is two (2) parcels per quarter section.
(2)
The minimum parcel size for agricultural use is 80 ac. (32
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
50
ha).
(3)
A maximum of one (1), 10 ac. parcel may be subdivided
for Country Residential use.
Development on
Lands on or Near
Flood Plains
(4)
No permanent structures will be allowed within the 1:100
year flood plain of any river, stream or lake shore, unless
proper flood proofing techniques are applied. A
certificate from a qualified, registered professional
engineer or architect will be required by the County to
confirm that the development has been properly flood
proofed.
(5)
The County shall encourage flood plain and flood prone
areas to be kept in their natural state or be used for
extensive agricultural use, where applicable.
(6)
Where development is allowed within a flood prone or
flood plain area, the County shall take measures as
required to ensure that the potential liability to the County
through flooding is reduced.
(7)
On municipal lands within flood areas, new development
should be limited to recreational uses.
Wetlands, Swamps,
Muskeg and
Saturated Soils
(8)
Development shall not be allowed in areas characterized
by wetlands, swamps, muskeg, or saturated soils.
Development shall also be prohibited in valleys, ravines,
or seasonal draws
Steep Slopes
(9)
Development shall be prohibited on slopes in excess of
15% or on slopes which are subject to slippage or mass
movement.
Important Wildlife
Habitat Areas
(10) Development shall be discouraged in or adjacent to
important wildlife habitat areas.
Soil Percolation
Rates
(11) Development shall be discouraged on soils which have
extremely fast percolation rates and/or which might result
in the possibility of groundwater contamination.
Alberta Environment
Land Conservation
Guidelines
(12) Unless unique site requirements determine otherwise,
development proposals should conform to the Alberta
Environment Land Conservation Guidelines so far as they
pertain to setback requirements from valley breaks,
ravines and watercourses.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
51
Environmental
Assessment
(13) The County may require an environmental assessment or
evaluation related to a proposed development which may
have an impact on an identified natural or
environmentally sensitive feature.
Setbacks
(14) Unless unique site requirements determine otherwise,
development proposals should conform to the Alberta
Environment Land Conservation Guidelines so far as they
pertain to setback requirements from valley breaks,
ravines and watercourses.
Wildlife Habitat on
Private Lands
(15) The County shall attempt to facilitate a cooperative
relationship between affected stakeholders to identify
critical wildlife habitat areas on privately owned lands
within the municipality.
Emergency Access
(16) The County should encourage the provision of an
emergency access to multi-parcel developments in
forested areas.
Fire Protection
(17) The County shall encourage the use of effective wildfire
prevention techniques and the development of on-site fire
fighting measures to reduce the risk of wildfires resulting
from development.
(18) The County may refer applications for subdivision and
development to Alberta Environment: Land and Forest
Service or the local fire department for comment in
evaluating the suitability of a site in forested land for
development.
(19) The County shall consider the following as conditions of
development approval for development on lands which is
too remote to be adequately serviced by existing fire
fighting services.
(a)
the provision of a suitable on-site water supply for
fire fighting purposes.
(b)
the use of fire resistant building methods and
materials.
(c)
the installation of spark arrestors on chimneys.
(d)
the removal of trees, shrubs, and fuels.
(20) The County shall discourage the development of forested
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
52
lands in significant wildfire hazard areas.
(21) The County may ask developers to provide for
appropriate fire protection measures in an application for
subdivision or Area Structure Plan.
Building Orientation
(22) The County should encourage houses to be oriented to
maximize passive solar energy, natural shade and
windbreaks, and to orient rooms such as kitchens and
bedrooms based on light and heat requirements. The use
of energy-efficient appliances and materials will be
encouraged.
Alternative Energy
(23) The County should encourage the use of alternative
energy systems as a green alternative to traditional forms
of electrical generation.
Vega
Dapp
Manola
Jarvie
Campsie
Freedom
Arvilla
Lisburn
Sangudo
BARRHEAD
Cherhill
Highridge
Lone Pine
Pembridge
Dunstable
Neerlandia
Tiger Lily
Bloomsbury
Green Court
Shoal Creek
Rich Valley
Mayerthorpe
Thunder Lake
Lac la Nonne
Rochfort Bridge
Fort Assiniboine
Legend
County
^_
Populated Places
Multi-Lane Highway
Major Two Lane Highway
Minor Two Lane Highway
Improved Road
Streams
Water Bodies
Agriculture
Class 1
Class 2
Class 3
Class 4
Class 5
Class 6
Class 7
Class 8
Organic
Water
County of Barrhead:
Agriculture Capability
Digital geographic information obtained from: Government of
Canada National Topographical Survey
(Geogratis), Canada Land Inventory (Geogratis), and the County of Barrhead.
Geographic coordinate system and projection: UTM, NAD 83 Datum. Zone 12N
All Boundaries are approximate.
Map work by: Jordan Widmer
Municipal Planning Services (Alberta) Ltd.
#208 17511 107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5S 1E5
Phone: (780) 486-1991
Fax: (780) 483-7326.
0
5
10
15
Kilometers
±
¿
À
763
²³
33
¿
À
655
¿
À
763
¿
À
654
¿
À
769
(2009) Ltd.
MAP 5
Capacity
Vega
Dapp
Manola
Jarvie
Campsie
Freedom
Arvilla
Lisburn
Sangudo
BARRHEAD
Cherhill
Highridge
Lone Pine
Pembridge
Dunstable
Neerlandia
Tiger Lily
Bloomsbury
Green Court
Shoal Creek
Rich Valley
Mayerthorpe
Thunder Lake
Lac la Nonne
Rochfort Bridge
Fort Assiniboine
Legend
County
^_
Populated Places
Multi-Lane Highway
Major Two Lane Highway
Minor Two Lane Highway
Improved Road
Streams
Water Bodies
Forestry
Class 1
Class 2
Class 3
Class 4
Class 5
Class 6
Class 7
Class 8
Water
County of Barrhead:
Forestry Capability
Digital geographic information obtained from: Government of
Canada National Topographical Survey
(Geogratis), Canada Land Inventory (Geogratis), and the County of Barrhead.
Geographic coordinate system and projection: UTM, NAD 83 Datum. Zone 12N
All Boundaries are approximate.
Map work by: Jordan Widmer
Municipal Planning Services (Alberta) Ltd.
#208 17511 107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5S 1E5
Phone: (780) 486-1991
Fax: (780) 483-7326.
0
5
10
15
Kilometers
±
¿
À
763
²³
33
¿
À
655
¿
À
763
¿
À
654
¿
À
769
(2009) Ltd.
Capacity
Map 6
Vega
Dapp
Manola
Jarvie
Campsie
Freedom
Arvilla
Lisburn
Sangudo
BARRHEAD
Cherhill
Highridge
Lone Pine
Pembridge
Dunstable
Neerlandia
Tiger Lily
Bloomsbury
Green Court
Shoal Creek
Rich Valley
Mayerthorpe
Thunder Lake
Lac la Nonne
Rochfort Bridge
Fort Assiniboine
Legend
County
^_
Populated Places
Multi-Lane Highway
Major Two Lane Highway
Minor Two Lane Highway
Improved Road
Streams
Water Bodies
Slope (Degrees)
0 - 2
2 - 5
> 5
County of Barrhead:
Slope
Digital geographic information obtained from: Government of
Canada National Topographical Survey
(Geogratis), Canada Land Inventory (Geogratis), and the County of Barrhead.
Geographic coordinate system and projection: UTM, NAD 83 Datum. Zone 12N
All Boundaries are approximate.
Map work by: Jordan Widmer
Municipal Planning Services (Alberta) Ltd.
#208 17511 107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5S 1E5
Phone: (780) 486-1991
Fax: (780) 483-7326.
0
5
10
15
Kilometers
±
¿
À
763
²³
33
¿
À
655
¿
À
763
¿
À
654
¿
À
769
Map 7
(2009) Ltd.
Vega
Dapp
Manola
Jarvie
Campsie
Freedom
Arvilla
Lisburn
Sangudo
BARRHEAD
Cherhill
Highridge
Lone Pine
Pembridge
Dunstable
Neerlandia
Tiger Lily
Bloomsbury
Green Court
Shoal Creek
Rich Valley
Mayerthorpe
Thunder Lake
Lac la Nonne
Rochfort Bridge
Fort Assiniboine
Legend
County
^_
Populated Places
Multi-Lane Highway
Major Two Lane Highway
Minor Two Lane Highway
Improved Road
Streams
Water Bodies
Elevation (m)
< 600
600 - 650
650 - 700
700 - 750
750 - 800
800 - 850
> 850
County of Barrhead:
Elevation
Digital geographic information obtained from: Government of
Canada National Topographical Survey
(Geogratis), Canada Land Inventory (Geogratis), and the County of Barrhead.
Geographic coordinate system and projection: UTM, NAD 83 Datum. Zone 12N
All Boundaries are approximate.
Map work by: Jordan Widmer
Municipal Planning Services (Alberta) Ltd.
#208 17511 107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5S 1E5
Phone: (780) 486-1991
Fax: (780) 483-7326.
0
5
10
15
Kilometers
±
¿
À
763
²³
33
¿
À
655
¿
À
763
¿
À
654
¿
À
769
Map 8
(2009) Ltd.
Vega
Dapp
Manola
Jarvie
Campsie
Freedom
Arvilla
Lisburn
Sangudo
BARRHEAD
Cherhill
Highridge
Lone Pine
Pembridge
Dunstable
Neerlandia
Tiger Lily
Bloomsbury
Green Court
Shoal Creek
Rich Valley
Mayerthorpe
Thunder Lake
Lac la Nonne
Rochfort Bridge
Fort Assiniboine
Legend
County
^_
Populated Places
Multi-Lane Highway
Major Two Lane Highway
Minor Two Lane Highway
Improved Road
Streams
Water Bodies
Slope (Degrees)
0 - 2
2 - 5
> 5
County of Barrhead:
Waterfowl Capability
Digital geographic information obtained from: Government of
Canada National Topographical Survey
(Geogratis), Canada Land Inventory (Geogratis), and the County of Barrhead.
Geographic coordinate system and projection: UTM, NAD 83 Datum. Zone 12N
All Boundaries are approximate.
Map work by: Jordan Widmer
Municipal Planning Services (Alberta) Ltd.
#208 17511 107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5S 1E5
Phone: (780) 486-1991
Fax: (780) 483-7326.
0
5
10
15
Kilometers
±
¿
À
763
²³
33
¿
À
655
¿
À
763
¿
À
654
¿
À
769
Map 9
Capacity
(2009) Ltd.
Vega
Dapp
Manola
Jarvie
Campsie
Freedom
Arvilla
Lisburn
Sangudo
BARRHEAD
Cherhill
Highridge
Lone Pine
Pembridge
Dunstable
Neerlandia
Tiger Lily
Bloomsbury
Green Court
Shoal Creek
Rich Valley
Mayerthorpe
Thunder Lake
Lac la Nonne
Rochfort Bridge
Fort Assiniboine
Legend
County
^_
Populated Places
Multi-Lane Highway
Major Two Lane Highway
Minor Two Lane Highway
Improved Road
Streams
Water Bodies
Ungulates
Class 1
Class 2
Class 3
Class 4
Class 5
Class 6
Class 7
Class 8
Water
County of Barrhead:
Ungulate Capability
Digital geographic information obtained from: Government of
Canada National Topographical Survey
(Geogratis), Canada Land Inventory (Geogratis), and the County of Barrhead.
Geographic coordinate system and projection: UTM, NAD 83 Datum. Zone 12N
All Boundaries are approximate.
Map work by: Jordan Widmer
Municipal Planning Services (Alberta) Ltd.
#208 17511 107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5S 1E5
Phone: (780) 486-1991
Fax: (780) 483-7326.
0
5
10
15
Kilometers
±
¿
À
763
²³
33
¿
À
655
¿
À
763
¿
À
654
¿
À
769
Map 10
Capacity
(2009) Ltd.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
60
Part 4.0
General Land Use Policies
4.1
Reserves and Conservation Easements
In certain instances - as outlined in the Municipal Government Act - the subdivision
process can involve the dedication of Reserve lands to the County. Currently the
Municipal Government Act identifies three (3) types of reserves which may be taken
during subdivision by a municipality. They are: Municipal Reserves, Environmental
Reserves and Environmental Reserve Easements. Conservation Easements cannot be
taken by a municipality at time of subdivision but can be utilized by a private land owner
or a Municipality to protect significant environmental areas.
Municipal Reserves can be used by a municipality as public parks, public recreation
areas, for school authority purposes or as buffers between parcels of land which are used
for different purposes: Depending on the circumstances, money may be taken by the
County in lieu of Municipal Reserve dedication.
Environmental reserves, environmental reserve easements and conservation easements
are three tools municipalities can use to ensure that:
a) development does not occur on hazard lands;
b) significant environmental areas are protected; and
c) public access to Significant Cultural Landscapes.
Environmentally sensitive ecological features require special attention when being
considered for development. Such areas include lands subject to a flooding hazard,
ravines, steep slopes, and areas subject to erosion. Council intends to have regard for
these sensitive areas when making development decisions.
4.1.2 Objective
To conserve and protect significant cultural landscapes and environmentally sensitive
ecological features for future generations.
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4.1.3 Policies
Taking of
Reserves
(1)
At the time of subdivision, as provided for in the Municipal
Government Act, the County shall request land as Reserve
or money in lieu of Reserve. In certain cases, the County
may defer reserves if a specific site is identified for a park
area but that specific area is not located within a particular
subdivision. Money-in-lieu of land for reserves shall be
required where land is not provided.
Full Amount
Required
(2)
The County shall generally take the full amount (10%) of
Municipal Reserves owing as a result of subdivision, in
accordance with Provincial legislation.
Location of
Municipal
Reserve Parcels
(3)
Municipal Reserve parcels in the County shall be:
(a)
concentrated in a few large parcels on suitable sites
rather than scattered through subdivisions; and
(b)
evaluated and inventoried with the aim of making
more efficient use of the Reserves through
consolidation and/or sales.
Setbacks from
Water bodies and
Watercourses
(4)
The County may require subdivision and development
applications adjacent to water bodies and watercourses to
prepare an engineering and/or geotechnical study to
determine an adequate setback based on soil conditions and
slope stability.
(5)
Development on sandy or unstable soil may only be allowed
if measures to control erosion are implemented.
Development on flood susceptible areas or on unstable or
steep slopes shall not be allowed.
Environmental
Reserves
(6)
Environmental Reserves shall be taken in accordance with
Section 664(1) of the Municipal Government Act where the
Subdivision Approving Authority is of the opinion that land
is required to maintain the integrity of a slope, shoreline,
watercourse, or other natural feature that is considered
environmentally sensitive.
(7)
Environmental Reserve shall be allocated prior to the
determination of other forms of reserve.
(8)
The following are the recommended Environmental
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Reserve allocations to be used in the County:
(a)
Shoreline areas surrounding permanent and
naturally occurring bodies of water;
(b)
Floodplain, as identified by the Province of Alberta
and/or the County of Barrhead;
(c)
River, creek, and watercourse slopes;
(d)
Land from the top of a river, creek, or other
watercourse bank where there is a potential for
slope subsidence;
Other land as identified by the subdivision approving
authority.
Environmental
Reserve
Minimum
Requirements
(9)
An Environmental Reserve of not less than 30 m (98 ft) in
width from the high water mark of water bodies and/or the
top of bank of lakes and rivers shall be required as a
condition of subdivision approval. As a condition of
development approval where there is no subdivision, a
comparable setback of 30 m (98 ft) shall be required from
the high water mark of a significant water body or water
course and/or the top of bank of the significant water body
or water course to the wall of the nearest building. Figure 2
illustrates the recommended water buffer adjacent to a
significant water body or water course.
Figure 2: Recommended Environmental Setback
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Additional
Reserve
Requirements
(10)
Additional reserve and/or setback may be required by the
County based on the recommendations of any engineering
and/or geotechnical study requested by the County. In these
cases, the amount of reserves required will be determined
using the guidelines for ER width developed by Sustainable
Resource Development (See Appendix A).
Reduction of
Reserve
Allocation
(11)
The above allocation may be reduced where it can be shown
to the satisfaction of the County that a reduced allocation
will not adversely impact the natural feature that is the
subject of the reserve or as identified in an approved
statutory plan.
Environmental
Reserve
Easements
(12)
Where Environmental Reserve Lands are not necessary to
provide public access to the feature, the County shall, at the
time of subdivision, consider the option of an
Environmental Reserve Easement as provided for in the
Municipal Government Act.
Buffers
(13)
Municipal Reserves may be required as an open space
buffer of sufficient size and composition to act as a noise
and visual barrier shall be required between disparate land
uses.
Disposing of
Municipal
Reserves
(14)
Prior to disposing of any Municipal Reserve, Council shall
review the applicability and effect of such disposition on
surrounding land uses and the area's recreational potential.
School Reserves
(15)
School Reserves shall be provided when required by the
School Board. The amount of reserves provided shall be
decided on a case by case basis unless and until an
agreement is reached between the School Board and the
County.
Conservation
Easements
(16)
The County may consider proposals to designate future
Conservation Areas.
(17)
At the discretion of the subdivision approving authority, the
use of Conservation Easements may be considered as an
alternative to traditional Environmental Reserves during the
subdivision process. The use and control of these features
and areas shall be clearly stated in the easement agreement.
Conservation Easements are provided for under the
Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, RSA
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2000.
(18)
A Conservation Easement may be considered to preserve
significant natural features and areas that do not qualify as
Environmental Reserve under the Municipal Government
Act. The use and control of these features and areas shall be
clearly stated in the easement agreement.
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4.2
Urban Areas & Intermunicipal Planning
The only incorporated municipality located within the County of Barrhead is the Town of
Barrhead, which - although it is not part of the County - provides many services and
amenities to County residents. Development adjacent to urban municipalities can result
in problems when these municipalities expand. As such, Council intends to consider the
Town's comments when reviewing development or subdivision applications of mutual
interest.
The County of Barrhead has a number of unincorporated urban communities located
throughout the agricultural area of the County. These communities are classified as
settlements or localities (a clustering of houses and minimal other services) and Hamlets
(higher density housing along with commercial, industrial and public/institutional uses).
Hamlets
Localities
Manola
Bloomsbury
Neelandi
Vega
Campsie
Thunder Lake
These communities provide a valuable alternative living environment for country
residential or urban lifestyles. Council wishes to encourage development in the Hamlets
and localities where development capacity exists.
Further, the County of Barrhead shares a common boundary with four Counties: Sturgeon
County, Westlock County, Woodlands County, and Lac Ste. Anne County. Additionally,
the Summer Villages of Birch Cove and Nakumun Park are located within the referral
distance specified under the Municipal Government Act for subdivision approval.
The County of Barrhead works together with adjacent rural municipalities on matters of
mutual interest and is a partner in an Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP) between the
County and the Town of Barrhead. The County is also a partner in the Lac La Nonne IDP
with Lac Ste. Anne County and the Summer Village of Birch Cove.
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4.2.1 Goal
The County wishes to support the development of sustainable communities by
encouraging SmartGrowth principles and Intermunicipal Co-operation.
4.2.2 Objectives
(1)
To encourage infill development and the preservation of historic buildings
as a means to maximize existing infrastructure and beautify the built
environment.
(2)
To ensure that urban centre expansion and growth occurs in an efficient
and orderly manner.
(3)
To ensure that urban centres have sufficient lands within their boundaries
to undertake comprehensive land use and servicing planning and a
diversity of residential and related commercial and public land uses.
(4)
To minimize the amount of un-fragmented agricultural land used for the
expansion of urban communities.
(5)
To ensure that land which may be required for urban centre expansion is
not developed prematurely or developed in such a manner that would
preclude or significantly increase the cost of conversion to urban uses.
(6)
To facilitate cooperation, consultation, and communication on land use
issues affecting neighbouring jurisdictions.
(7)
To ensure that SmartGrowth principles are utilized in the design and
development of urban communities and multi-lot recreation residential and
country residential developments.
4.2.3 Policies
Intermunicipal
Cooperation
(1)
Council shall encourage intermunicipal cooperation
between the County and Town of Barrhead on land use
matters which may be of mutual importance or interest.
(2)
Prior to approving any subdivision or discretionary
development within 1.6 km (1 mile) of the Town of
Barrhead, the County shall request comments from the
Town for discretionary land uses or uses that are not
related to an existing land uses and shall give due
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consideration to those comments that are received within
60 days.
(3)
The County will refer other subdivision, development,
and districting matters to respective rural municipalities
when it is deemed by the approving authority that the
proposal may have an impact upon the respective
municipality.
(4)
The County will work cooperatively with adjacent
municipalities with respect to the development of
roadways and/or the designation of industrial haul roads.
Intermunicipal
Development Plans
(5)
The County will work together with the Town of
Barrhead to ensure that the Barrhead Intermunicipal
Development Plan remains a current, effective and useful
document.
(6)
The County will work together with Lac Ste. Anne
County and the Summer Village of Birch Cove to ensure
that the Lac La Nonne Intermunicipal Development Plan
remains a current, effective and useful document.
Annexation
(7)
Council shall support only those annexation proposals
that they feel are required and justified. Informing their
position on an annexation proposal, Council shall
consider:
(a)
Whether the annexation proposal encompasses
lower capability agricultural land and, if not, if
the expansion onto high capability agricultural
land is justified in light of existing growth
options.
(b)
Whether or not the Town planned its future land
use and development through a municipal
development plan, intermunicipal development
plan or similar planning document.
(c)
Whether or not sufficient land exists within the
Town's boundaries to accommodate anticipated
growth and development.
(d)
The impact of the annexation on the County.
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Fringe Development
(8)
Council shall discourage development within 1.6 km (1
mile) of a Hamlet that would adversely affect the quality
of life or municipal services within the community
Services &
Infrastructure
(9)
The County may only allow development in Hamlets
which will be compatible with the current capabilities
and capacities for water supply and sewage disposal
systems.
(10) On-site water and/sewer services shall be prohibited in
Hamlets which are already serviced through a
corresponding municipal service.
(11) Where on-site services are allowed in Hamlets, water
supply shall be limited to a water well or cistern. On-site
sewage disposal systems shall be recommended in
Hamlet areas.
Future Development
(12) Where deemed necessary by Council, the County shall
establish appropriate land use districts and/or Area
Structure Plans or Development Concept Plans to guide
future development within designated Hamlets.
Design Principles
(13) The County will promote the development of one
compact central business district in each Hamlet to foster
a vibrant main street or downtown commercial area.
(14) Hamlet community entrance developments are to be
attractive and provide a positive image of the
community.
(15)
The County shall encourage new development in
Hamlets to be compatible in type and appearance to the
cultural and heritage characteristics of the community.
(16)
Where no alternative exists, landscaped buffers should
be used to separate incompatible uses and transportation
corridors.
(17) The County shall encourage new development in Hamlets
to be consistent with that of other development in the
community.
Community Facilities (18) Community facilities in Hamlets shall be located and
designed to allow for easy access for residents of the
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community and surrounding area.
Development of
Vacant lots
(19)
Council shall also encourage the development of vacant
lots within Hamlet boundaries provided that Policy 4.2.3
(9) above is satisfied.
Diversity of
Development
(20) Council shall encourage development occurring in
Hamlets to include light industrial, commercial and
residential uses.
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4.3
Tourism, Recreation & Historic Resources
The County of Barrhead has many tourism and recreation resources. This is especially
true in terms of outdoor resources such as the various recreational lakes within the
County.
The County of Barrhead has a number of locations and features that are historically
significant, not the least of which is the Klondyke Ferry. The preservation of these
resources where deemed valuable by the County's residents is important to the County.
The following policies are intended to provide land use guidance to the maintenance and
future development of recreational land tourist related facilities within the County of
Barrhead.
4.3.1 Goal
To recognize the importance of recreational areas and historic resources in
promoting the County to visitors and residents as a viable place to live, work and
play.
4.3.2 Objectives
(1)
To encourage the use of lower capability agricultural land for recreational
development.
(2)
To encourage recreational and tourism development that is compatible
with the capabilities and characteristics of the natural environment and
surrounding land uses.
(3)
To ensure that high quality recreation resources are conserved.
(4)
To minimize conflicts between recreational activities and other land uses.
(5)
To minimize municipal costs associated with recreational development.
(6)
To support and promote cultural tourism.
(7)
To support and encourage bed and breakfast and guest ranch
establishments.
(8)
To co-operate with the Alberta Tourism Partnership to encourage local
and regional tourism.
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4.3.3 Tourism Policies
Guest Ranches
(1)
The County will promote guest ranches by creating a
separate use category in the Land Use Bylaw to allow
such uses, on a discretionary basis, in the Agricultural
District.
Promoting Tourism
(2)
The County shall work with private sector developers to
encourage and facilitate tourism development, and may
assist in accessing any government funding programs to
develop new, or upgrade existing, tourism attractions.
(3)
The County will co-operate with area tourism groups,
municipal neighbours, and tourism zones in promoting
local tourism linkages with neighbouring communities.
Conversion to Work
Camps
(4)
The County will not allow the conversion of recreation
facilities to work camps without specific County
permission.
Development
Adjacent to Historic
Sites
(5)
The County shall encourage development adjacent to
historical sites that is compatible with the historical site.
County Assistance
(6)
The County shall support actions by community groups
and organizations that assist with the preservation of
historic resources for the benefit of area residents through
the provision of technical assistance.
(7)
The County shall encourage, where necessary, the
preparation of management plans to ensure the long term
viability of future recreational developments.
(8)
Where approved by Council, the County shall work with
stakeholders to help ensure that identified historic
resources are protected from adverse impacts associated
with on-site development and adjacent land uses.
Incompatible Land
Use
(9)
The County shall discourage the development of land uses
which will have an adverse impact on identified historical
and/or recreational areas.
(10) The County shall work with stakeholders to identify sites
with particular historical and/or recreational significance.
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(11) The County shall discourage the development of land uses
which will have an adverse impact on identified historical
and/or recreational areas.
(12) The County shall attempt to coordinate the development
of new recreational facilities with adjacent municipalities
and affected stakeholders.
4.3.4 Recreation
Recreation Facilities
(1)
Council shall encourage the development of public
serving recreational facilities/uses within the Agricultural
Use Area and within Hamlets:
(a)
if they are compatible with the capabilities of a site
or surrounding areas:
(b)
on lower capability agricultural lands, unless
Council decides that the benefits to the community
justify the use of higher capability agricultural
lands;
(c)
near or adjacent to a lake or river if the proponent
can demonstrate, to Council's satisfaction, that the
proposal is compatible with the lake/river
environment.
Recreation
Development
Criteria
(2)
Recreational development shall, in the County's opinion,
not exceed the social and physical carrying capacity of
the site to support such use.
(3)
The County shall require the proponent of a recreational
activity to identify all municipal costs associated with the
development. The assignment of these costs shall be the
basis for an agreement to be entered into as a condition of
subdivision approval or the issuance of a development
permit. Normally, however, all development servicing
costs associated with the development will be carried by
the proponent.
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4.4
Resource Extraction
Sand and gravel, coal, oil and gas are important non-renewable resources in the County
of Barrhead. In order to benefit the County's and the region's economy, these resources
must be protected and extracted efficiently, but not at the risk of irreparably damaging
agricultural or cultural landscapes within the County. Therefore, it is the intent of this
Plan to encourage the utilization of extractive resources in areas of least detrimental
impact and to reclaim the land for other productive uses.
The following objectives and polices have been adopted by the County relating to
resource extraction in the County:
4.4.1 Goal
To encourage and facilitate resource growth within the County in order to broaden
the County's economic base.
4.4.2 Objectives
(1)
To ensure that land disturbed by resource extraction activity is reclaimed
to an acceptable standard.
(2)
To minimize municipal costs associated with resource extraction
development.
(3)
To ensure that resource extraction and resource processing developments
generate a low impact on agricultural lands and the County's physical and
heritage assets.
4.4.3 Policies
Resource Extraction
Criteria
(1)
The Development Authority shall require development
agreements in connection with sand, gravel and other
mineral extraction operations and shall make provisions
for the:
(a)
reclamation of land that was disturbed to its former
agricultural capability or to a post-extractive use
whichever Council feels is more beneficial;
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(b)
control of on-site noise, dust and weeds;
(c)
storage of topsoil;
(d)
separation of the resource extractive operation from
any multi-lot residential subdivision, Hamlet, or
urban municipality with a suitable open space
buffer;
(e)
designation of all aggregate haul roads to reduce
noise, excessive maintenance costs, and dust
problems; and
(f)
if required by the County, the provision of security
such as an irrevocable letter of credit to ensure
reclamation will be completed.
(2)
The Development Authority will not approve a
development permit application for resource extraction
until the developer enters into a haul road agreement with
the County.
(3)
The Development Authority will not approve a
development permit application for a resource extraction
until the developer satisfies the County's Community
Aggregate Payment Bylaw.
Protection of
Environmental and
Historic Resources
(4)
The Development Authority shall not support resource
extraction development proposals in areas that are known
to possess unique historical and/or scientific or
environmental features, which would be disturbed or
destroyed by resource extraction.
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(5)
Developers will be required to contact the Heritage
Branch of the Alberta Government in order to determine
if a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) is required.
(6)
If a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) is required and
the HIA identifies the presence of heritage resources then
the developer will be required to take appropriate
mitigating measures, to the satisfaction of the appropriate
provincial agency and the County, prior to development
approval.
(7)
The County shall not support resource extraction
development proposals in areas that are known to possess
unique historical and/or scientific or environmental
features that would be disturbed or destroyed by resource
extraction.
Reclamation and
Recreation
(8)
Reclaimed resource extraction sites shall be encouraged
to include recreation opportunities and water re-charge
areas.
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4.5
Transportation and Utilities
To encourage future development in the County, it is important that municipal services be
provided in an effective and efficient manner. The County has an extensive rural road
network (Map 4) which provides access to the majority of the privately owned land
within the municipality.
The Barrhead (Johnson) Airport provides air service to the Barrhead Area. The airport
features a paved air strip and is able to accommodate a wide range of aircraft. The airport
also includes a Wide Angle Augmentation System (WAAS) which is suitable for medi-
vacs.
The County shall ensure that all development within the municipality has the capacity to
be supplied with all required services. Though many utility services are provided by the
private sector, the County has a particular interest in the provision of suitable water,
sewer, and storm water services.
4.5.1 Goal
To encourage and facilitate effective provision of utilities and transportation
services.
4.5.2 Objectives
(1)
To work cooperatively with the Town of Barrhead, neighbouring
municipalities and Alberta Transportation on transportation issues of
mutual interest.
(2)
To maintain a safe, efficient and effective transportation network in the
County.
(3)
To minimize the impacts of the transportation system on adjacent lands.
(4)
To protect the integrity of the Barrhead (Johnson) Municipal Airport.
(5)
To ensure that on-site utility systems do not have an adverse impact on the
natural environment.
(6)
To consider the ability of existing municipal water, sewer, and storm
sewer infrastructure to adequately service proposed developments.
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4.5.3 General Policies
Barrhead (Johnson)
Municipal Airport
Management
Regulation
(1)
The County shall prohibit any development which does
not conform to the development standards contained in
the Barrhead (Johnson) Municipal Airport Management
Regulation.
Development
Agreements
(2)
Development agreements shall be a key method of
ensuring that private developers construct public
infrastructure to acceptable standards.
Off-site Levies
(3)
The County may establish and impose off-site levies
either generally or with respect to individual
developments.
Linear
Transportation
(4)
Council shall encourage linear transportation and utility
facilities to locate so that they:
(a)
minimize the loss of higher capability
agricultural land;
(b)
minimize the fragmentation of land, particularly
higher capability agricultural land;
(c)
follow road allowances wherever feasible;
(d)
use corridors to integrate a number of utilities;
(e)
minimize disruption of recreation, wildlife, and
historic resources; and
(f)
avoid disruption of existing or future urban
centres.
(5)
Council shall encourage high voltage power lines and
high pressure pipelines to locate away from residential
areas.
4.5.4 Utilities Policies
Public Facilities
(1)
Public facilities shall be discouraged from locating
adjacent to highways with speed limits in excess of 70
km/h where a more suitable location is available.
On-site Water and
Sewer Systems
(2)
All on-site water and sewer disposal systems shall be
constructed in conformance with applicable provincial
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regulations.
(3)
On-site water and/or sewer services shall not be used
where the service can be effectively provided through
municipal services.
(4)
At the point of subdivision, lot area will not be adjusted to
accommodate required setbacks from an existing private
sewage disposal system to a proposed property line.
(5)
Developers shall be responsible for the construction of
on-site water and sewer disposal systems in areas that
cannot be supplied with municipal services.
Hydrological Testing
(6)
The County shall require a hydrological test of the
additional carrying capacity of the groundwater aquifer at
the time of application for subdivision for any application
which would have the effect of creating a 6th parcel (or
more) in any quarter section.9
Percolation Test
(7)
The County may require a percolation or soils test upon
application for subdivision to ensure that sewage disposal
systems will not adversely impact surrounding drainage
basins or groundwater aquifers.
Landscaping
(8)
All development should be landscaped appropriately to
ensure that surface run-off is contained to the subject
property and directed off the lot in a manner that will not
result in soil erosion or adversely impact surrounding
lands.
4.5.5 Transportation Policies
Road-widening
(1)
Land required for road widening purposes shall be
negotiated with the landowner at the point of subdivision.
These acquisitions may be deferred by way of a caveat
where appropriate.
Road Standards
(2)
All roadways and accesses shall be constructed by the
developer to the standards of the local road authority.
(3)
All roads created as a result of private development,
which may include dedication to the County through the
9 See Section 9, AR 205/98 (Water Regulation) and related portions of the Water Act.
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subdivision process, shall only be assumed by the
municipality if the roads have been constructed or
upgraded to a standard which is acceptable to the County
and which meets or exceeds all appropriate provincial and
federal standards.
Service Roads
(4)
The County may require, through subdivision, a service
road dedication to reduce the number of accesses to a
major road.
(5)
The County shall require that land use adjacent to
Provincial Highways and their associated accesses
conform with the Access Management Guidelines as
outlined by Alberta Transportation. As well, the County's
system of major local roads shall be afforded a similar
level of protection from encroachment and proliferation of
direct access.
Road Use
Agreements
(6)
The County may require road use agreements for
developments which may impact County infrastructure.
Access onto
Provincial Highways
(7)
Direct access from private property onto Provincial
Highways shall be discouraged and limited wherever
possible, especially where access onto local roads is
available. Application for subdivision in the Agricultural
Use Area will be specifically designed to minimize
accesses onto Provincial Highways and local arterial
roads through the use of service roads or redesigning the
subdivision boundaries to redirect accesses onto local
roads. The cost of consolidation or service roads and the
costs of resolving all of Alberta Transportation's concerns
with respect to access to the Provincial Highway will be
the responsibility of the developer.
(8)
The County shall require that land use adjacent to
Provincial Highways and their associated accesses
conform with the Access Management Guidelines as
outlined by Alberta Transportation. As well, the County's
system of major local roads shall be afforded a similar
level of protection from encroachment and proliferation of
direct access.
Dangerous Goods
Route
(9)
Council may consider the establishment of a Dangerous
Goods Route when Council feels that dangerous goods
are being transported on County roads in sufficient
quantity to be a significant hazard to the travelling public.
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4.6
Development Near Hazard Sites
Petroleum installations, sewage lagoons, agricultural chemical storage facilities, landfills,
and other developments can pose a health risk to residents within the County. The
following policies reflect the intent of the County to reduce the potential for exposure to
sour gas facilities and other potentially hazardous sites.
4.6.1 Goals
(1) To minimize the risk of exposure to sour gas and other potentially hazardous
developments.
4.6.2 Objectives
(1) To ensure that development in proximity to sour gas facilities takes place in a safe
manner.
4.6.3 Development Near Hazard Sites Policies
Sour Gas
(1) The County shall not permit the development of any land
use in close proximity to existing sour gas facilities unless
it conforms to the setback standards established by the
Alberta Energy, Resources Conservation Board (ERCB).
ERCB
(2) The County shall refer, where required or deemed
necessary, all subdivision and development proposals on
sites near existing or potential sour gas facilities to the
ERCB for their review and comment.
Required Setbacks
(3) The County shall not permit the development of a
residence within the minimum distance setback prescribed
for an oil or gas well, wastewater treatment plant, landfill
or transfer station in the Municipal Government Act and
Subdivision and Development Regulation.
(4) Where warranted, the County may increase the minimum
setback required by the Act, based upon relevant land use
planning and safety considerations.
(5) The County may not permit the location of bulk liquid
fertilizer sales and storage facilities in areas where an
evacuation of an urban area or public facility such as a
public school may be required.
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(6)
The County may require as part of any planning approval
process, the submission of an emergency response plan in
a form acceptable to the County.
(7)
Development Constraints regarding oil and gas activities
are as identified on Map 4 of this document.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
82
Part 5.0
Plan Implementation and Amendment
The successful implementation of the goals, objectives and policies contained in this
County of Barrhead Municipal Development Plan are dependent on the coordination of
municipal resources and a commitment from Council, staff and residents to the policies
contained in this Plan.
5.1
Implementation and Amendment Policies
Authority of the Plan
(1)
Pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, this Plan
shall be adopted by the County of Barrhead as their
Municipal Development Plan. Subdivision and
development of lands within the County of Barrhead by
the municipality and the general public shall be in
accordance with the provisions of this Plan. Council
shall encourage the provincial and federal governments to
have regard to the provisions of this Plan in the
subdivision and development of Crown lands, and the
formulation of provincial and federal policies and
programs within the County of Barrhead.
Intermunicipal Co-
operation
(2)
The planning process must include and involve
neighbouring municipalities. To that end, the County of
Barrhead will actively consult with any adjacent or nearby
municipality during the consideration of amendments to
this Plan, amendments to the Land Use Bylaw, proposed
subdivisions, or significant discretionary development
permits when the proposal is in close proximity to the
adjacent municipality or when, in the opinion of the
County of Barrhead, the proposal may impact the adjacent
municipality, in order to obtain the adjacent
municipality's views on the proposal. The approving
authority will give careful consideration to any matters
raised during this consultation; however, the County of
Barrhead will not be bound by the recommendations of
the adjacent municipality.
Land Use Bylaw
(3)
A new Land Use Bylaw was prepared concurrently with
this Plan. Both this Plan and the Land Use Bylaw are to
be used when decisions on the subdivision, use and
development of land are made.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
83
Amendment
(4)
The Municipal Government Act outlines the procedure for
an amendment to the Municipal Development Plan.
When reviewing proposals for amendment, Council shall
ensure that the change is in agreement with the plan goal
and objectives. Council should require that a request for
an amendment be made in writing. The submission
should also address the reasons for the amendment and
conformity with the Plan's goals and intent. When
reviewing an amendment, Council should consult with
any agencies it feels may be of assistance.
Review
(5)
Planning is a continuous process and it is important that
the Municipal Development Plan be monitored, reviewed
and updated in order to ensure that the planning needs of
the County are being met. A review may be appropriate
when:
(a)
changes in economic, social or technical
developments occur,
(b)
a new Council is elected,
(c)
an amendment to the plan is made.
A major review should be undertaken at least once every
five (5) years.
Interpretation
(6)
Land use designation boundaries in this Plan may be
considered to be approximate except where such
boundaries coincide with roads, quarter section lines,
valleys, rivers or other clearly recognizable features.
Otherwise, minor boundary deviations may be permitted
without an amendment providing that the intent of the
Plan is not altered.
County of Barrhead
Municipal Development Plan
August 2010
84
Part 6.0
Appendices
Appendix A - SRD Environmental Reserve Setbacks
September 2007
3
Sustainable Resource Development Recommended Guidelines for Minimum Environmental Reserve/Easement Widths
In reference to Section 664 of the Municipal Government Act, the following are recommended where a boundary to a proposed subdivision is a water body or watercourse.
Table 1. Standard recommended minimum widths for Environmental Reserves or Environmental Reserve Easements based on type of water feature.
Water Feature
Minimum ER Width2
Notes
Reservoirs & Regulated Lakes
30 m from right of way or
easement boundary
A regulated lake is a lake where water levels are established to a predetermined
elevation and actively managed through use of a licensing requirement (e.g. to
pump water into the water body).
Lake (natural & controlled)
30 m from natural boundary
On controlled lakes, 30 m from sill elevation of licensed control structure.
Swamp/wetland1
Variable, include wet meadow
zone
Wet meadow zone can be extensive in some situations, and in these instances
the ER should be wide enough to preserve ecological function.
Large River (≥ 15m width)
30+ m
See additional requirements for hazardous lands.
Small River/Large Steam (6-15 m)
15 m
See additional requirements for hazardous lands.
Medium Stream (3 - 6 m)
10 m
See additional requirements for hazardous lands.
Small Stream (≤ 3 m)
6 m
See additional requirements for hazardous lands.
Ephemeral watercourse (no defined channel)
0 m
Use bylaw to regulate tree cutting within a defined distance from feature to
maintain riparian vegetation and drainage.
Braided Stream
10 m from outside boundary of
active floodway
1 Sustainable Resource Development views the term "swamp" to mean any area with hydrological conditions of sufficient duration to have developed saturated soils and hydrophytic
vegetation (i.e. wetlands or peatlands).
2 In addition to the recommended ER width for the water feature itself, associated landscape features may require the ER width to be modified to factor in additional inherent hazards to
development.
For lands described in section 664(1)(b) of the Municipal Government Act (unsuitable for development because they are subject to flooding, have high risk of erosion, or
have existing topographical or geo-technical constraints) the following are recommended.
Table 2. Additional factors that may necessitate an increase in the width of an Environmental Reserve or Environmental Reserve Easement.
Hazardous Lands
ER Modifier
Notes
Floodplain
- The width of the 1:100 year flood line or 30m from the
natural boundary of a watercourse or lake, whichever is
less.
- The width of meander belt for watercourses that tend to
meander or entire floodplain if it is highly constrained
within a confined valley.
- Residential development within a floodplain is discouraged.
- Development within flood fringe area should only be considered if
flood proofing undertaken to reduce risk of flood damage. Flood
risk mapping or delineation of the 1:100 year flood line generally
defines the extent of expected flood occurrence (see Alberta
Environment policy and guidelines).
- The width of a meander belt is determined by multiplying bankfull
width by 20 for each reach, and is split equally on either side of
creek along axis of meander belt.
Erosion prone areas
Provide for a toe erosion allowance.
Consider highly erosive soils and annual recession rates.
Gully, ravine, coulee, or
valley escarpments
Provide for a stable slope allowance. Apply construction
and building setbacks from this line.
Boundary of stable slope allowance measured from top of crest of
plateau (terrace), valley slope or tableland.
Steep Slopes (>15%)
3X escarpment height or as recommended by a
geotechnical report on slope stability, rate of erosion, etc.