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TOWN OF HANNA
PROVINCE OF ALBERTA
BY-LAW 1041-2025
A BYLAW OF THE TOWN OF HANNA, IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, TO
REGULATE AND CONTROL VEHICULAR, PEDESRIAN, AND OTHER TRAFFIC
WITHIN THE TOWN.
WHEREAS pursuant to the Municipal Government Act (RSA 2000, c. M-26) and
the Traffic Safety Act (RSA 2000, c. T-6) and regulations, the Council of the Town of
Hanna has the authority to pass bylaws respecting highways under its direction, control
and management, and the safety and welfare of people and the protection of people and
property;
AND WHEREAS the Council of the Town of Hanna deems it necessary to regulate
traffic, parking, the use of highways, and transportation within the Town in order to promote
the safe and efficient movement of vehicles and pedestrians, and to provide for the orderly
control of traffic.
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Town of Hanna, duly assembled, enacts as
follows:
PART l
TITLE
1.0 This bylaw shall be known as the TOWN OF HANNA TRAFFIC SAFETY BYLAW
PART lI
DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION
2.0
This bylaw, including this section and all subsequent sections, the following words
and phrases shall have the meanings set out below:
2.1 "Act" means the Traffic Safety Act, RSA 2000, c. T-6, and regulations made
thereunder as, amended or replaced from time to time.
2.2 "Boulevard" means that part of a Highway in an urban area that is not a
roadway and is situated between the roadway curb or edge and the adjacent
property line. (For clarity, Boulevard may include any landscaped or grassed strip
between the curb and sidewalk, or between the sidewalk and the property line, but
does not include the Sidewalk itself.)
2.3 "Chief Administrative Officer" or "CAO" means the person appointed by
Council as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Hanna, or their
designate, in accordance with Section 205 of the Municipal Government Act.
2.4 "Council" means the Municipal Council of the Town of Hanna.
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Bylaw 1041-2025
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2.5 "Crosswalk" means:
2.5.1 That part of a Highway at an intersection included within the
connections of the lateral lines of the sidewalks on opposite sides of the
Highway measured from the curbs or, in the absence of curbs, from the
edges of the roadway; or
2.5.2 Any part of a Highway at an intersection or elsewhere distinctly
indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or by other markings on the road
surface.
2.6 "Designated Officer" means a person authorized to enforce the laws in the
Town of Hanna, and includes a Peace Officer as defined in the Peace Officer
Act (Alberta), a provincially appointed Community Peace Officer, a Bylaw
Enforcement Officer appointed by the Town of Hanna, or a member of the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
2.7 "Director of Emergency Management" or "DEM" is a person employed by
the town who is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing responses
to emergencies and disasters to protect public safety, property, and infrastructure.
2.8 "Disabled Parking Stall" (also referred to as "Accessible Parking Stall")
means any parking space designated by the Town (on public property) or by a
property owner (on private property) for the exclusive use of vehicles displaying a
valid government-issued parking placard or license plate for persons with
disabilities. Such stalls shall be marked with appropriate signage indicating their
restricted use.
2.9 "Emergency Vehicle" means a motor vehicle used by:
2.9.1 a police service (including municipal Enforcement Officers and the
Royal Canadian Mounted Police);
2.9.2 a fire service or firefighting organization;
2.9.3 an ambulance service or medical first-response service; or
2.9.4 a public utility or municipal service provider responding to an
emergency, and which is designated by the registrar of motor vehicles as
an emergency vehicle pursuant to the Act.
2.10 "Heavy Vehicle" means:
2.10.1 a Vehicle or Vehicle-trailer combination with or without load that
exceeds 5,000 kilograms in gross vehicle weight, or that exceeds 12
metres in total length; and
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2.10.2 for the purposes of this Bylaw, Heavy Vehicle does not include
recreational vehicles or buses being used for personal or recreational
purposes, nor Town or emergency service vehicles.
2.11 "Highway" means the same as defined in the Act, and includes any
thoroughfare, street, road, trail, avenue, parkway, driveway, lane, alley, square,
bridge, causeway, trestle, or other place or any part of them, whether publicly or
privately owned, that the public is ordinarily entitled or permitted to use for passage
or
parking
of
Vehicles.
For
the
purposes
of
this
Bylaw,
a
Highway includes sidewalks and boulevards adjacent to the roadway, and any
parking lot or other public place designated for Vehicular use or Parking but does
not include a place declared by regulation not to be a highway.
2.12 "Mobility Aid" means a device used to facilitate the transport, in a normal
seated orientation, of a person with a physical disability. This includes wheelchairs,
powered wheelchairs or scooters, and other similar aids used by individuals with
mobility challenges.
2.13 "Motor Vehicle" means a Vehicle propelled by any power other than
muscular power, and includes an automobile, truck, motorcycle, power bicycle
(electric bicycle), moped or other Motor Vehicle as defined in the Act, but does not
include a bicycle propelled solely by human power, an aircraft, an implement of
husbandry, or a vehicle that runs only on rails.
2.14 "Off-Highway Vehicle" (or "OHV") means any motorized mode of
transportation built for cross-country travel on land, water, snow, ice, marsh or
swamp land or other natural terrain. Without limiting the generality of the
foregoing, Off-Highway Vehicle includes all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain
vehicles (UTVs), quads, dirt bikes and other off-road motorcycles, snowmobiles
(snow vehicles), dune buggies, amphibious vehicles, miniature motor vehicles, and
any other motorized vehicles designed for off-road travel. It does not include
motorboats, or any other vehicles exempted from the definition of off-highway
vehicle by the Act or its regulations.
2.15 "Park" or "Parking" means the standing of a Vehicle, whether occupied or
not, upon a Highway (excluding momentary halts or stops). A Vehicle is deemed
to be Parked when it is stopped and remains stationary in one location, except:
2.15.1 while actually engaged in loading or unloading persons or goods
(provided such stopping is otherwise lawful); or
2.15.2 when stopped as necessary to obey traffic signs, signals, or the
directions of a Peace Officer, or to avoid conflict with other traffic.
2.16 "Pedestrian Pathway" means a multi-purpose thoroughfare under the
control of the Town, set aside for use by pedestrians, cyclists, and persons using
wheeled conveyances, which is improved by asphalt, concrete, gravel, or other
surface, and includes and bridge or structure with which it is contiguous.
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2.17 "Recreational Vehicle" means a boat, motor vehicle, recreational vehicle
designed or used for travel with temporary living accommodation for vacations or
camping purposes.
2.18 "Sidewalk" means that part of a Highway primarily intended for use by
pedestrians, between the curb or edge of the roadway and the adjacent property
line, whether or not it is paved or improved.
2.19 "Town" means the Municipal Corporation of the Town of Hanna or the area
contained within the corporate boundaries of the Town of Hanna, as the context
requires.
2.20 "Traffic" means the movement of pedestrians, animals, or vehicles on a
Highway, used for the purposes of travel.
2.21 "Traffic Control Device" means any sign, signal, marking, or device placed,
marked or erected under the authority of the Act or this Bylaw for the purpose of
regulating, warning, or guiding traffic.
2.22 "Traffic Control Signal" means any Traffic Control Device, whether
manually, electrically, or mechanically operated, by which traffic is directed to stop
or to proceed.
2.23 "Vehicle" means a device in, on or by which a person or thing may be
transported or drawn on a Highway, regardless of the method of propulsion.
2.24 Any term not defined in this Bylaw that is defined in the Traffic Safety Act,
or its regulations shall have the meaning set out in the Act or regulations, unless
the context otherwise requires.
PART lII
INTERPRETATION
3.0
The headings, titles, and parts of this Bylaw are for ease of reference and
convenience only; they do not affect the interpretation of the provisions of this
Bylaw.
3.1 Where this Bylaw cites or refers to any Act, regulation, or other bylaw, it shall
be construed as citing the current version of that legislation, as amended or
replaced from time to time.
3.2 This Bylaw applies to all Highways, roads, roadways, alleys, sidewalks, and
other public places within the Town of Hanna, and to all persons and Vehicles
within the Town, unless otherwise specified.
PART IIIV
EXCEPTIONS & EXEMPTIONS
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4.0
The provisions of this Bylaw shall not apply to:
4.1 Emergency Vehicles or Designated Officers acting in the course of their lawful
duties, and any persons acting under the direct instructions of Designated Officers
or emergency responders, when compliance with this Bylaw would unduly hinder
the performance of those duties;
4.2 Vehicles and equipment of the Town (or its agents/contractors) while actually
engaged in road maintenance, snow removal, street sweeping, infrastructure
repair, or other necessary public services on or adjacent to a Highway, provided
that the work is being carried out in a safe and authorized manner; and
4.3 Persons participating in a parade, procession or special event that has been
authorized by the Town under this Bylaw, provided they are in compliance with any
conditions of that authorization.
PART V
AUTHORITY
5.0
Authority to Regulate Traffic: Council hereby delegates to the Chief
Administrative Officer (and any employees or agents the CAO may designate) the
authority to manage traffic control within the Town, as follows:
5.1 Traffic Control Devices: The CAO or DEM is authorized to order the
placement, erection, alteration or removal of Traffic Control Devices on any
Highway under the Town's jurisdiction, as may be necessary to indicate speed
limits, parking restrictions, load limits, crosswalks, school zones, playground
zones, construction zones, road closures, or to otherwise regulate, warn, or guide
Traffic for the safety and convenience of the public..
5.2 Traffic Control Orders: The CAO or DEM may issue temporary orders to
restrict or direct traffic and parking in specific areas or during specific times for
reasons of construction, street maintenance, snow removal, street cleaning, public
events, emergencies, or other situations where traffic movement or public safety
may be affected. This includes the power to temporarily close any roadway or
Municipal parking area, or any portion thereof, and to temporarily prohibit parking
or stopping as required. Proper Traffic Control Devices (such as signage or
barricades) shall be placed to give effect to such orders.
5.3 Designation of Zones and Areas: The CAO may designate portions of
Highways under Town control for specific uses or restrictions, including but not
limited to: loading zones, no-parking zones, school zones, playground zones, truck
routes, construction zones, accessible parking stalls, crosswalks, snow routes, and
areas reserved for special events or parades. All such designations shall be
marked by the posting of appropriate Traffic Control Devices or by written notice
or permit issued to affected parties.
5.4 Emergency Directions: Notwithstanding any provision of this Bylaw, a
Designated Officer or person authorized by the Town may direct traffic (including
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pedestrians) as required during emergencies, special events, or unforeseen
circumstances. All persons shall comply with any direction or signal given by a
Designated Officer, even if it contradicts a traffic sign or signal. (Such direction
takes precedence over Traffic Control Devices during that time.)
PART VI
TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES
6.0
OBEDIENCE TO TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES:
6.1 No person shall contravene any Traffic Control Device posted or erected
pursuant to this Bylaw or the Traffic Safety Act. All drivers of Vehicles and all
pedestrians shall obey the instructions of all applicable Traffic Control Devices
unless otherwise directed by a Designated Officer.
6.2 No person shall, without proper authority, alter, remove, deface, damage, or
tamper with any Traffic Control Device, barricade, sign or signal that has been
placed on a Highway. It is an offence to intentionally knock down, cover, change,
or in any way interfere with a Traffic Control Device.
6.3 No person shall erect or place any sign, signal, marking or device on any
Highway that purports to be or resembles a Traffic Control Device, unless
authorized by the Town. (This includes unauthorized signs or markings on
roadways, curbs, or sidewalks.)
6.4 A Traffic Control Device placed under this Bylaw shall be presumed valid and
in accordance with this Bylaw and the Act. Any evidence purporting to establish
that a Traffic Control Device was not placed in accordance with this Bylaw or the
Act must be proven by the person alleging that fact.
PART VII
SPEED LIMITS
7.0
Speed Limits
7.1 General Speed Limit: Unless otherwise posted by a Traffic Control Device,
the maximum lawful speed limit on all Highways within the Town of Hanna is 50
kilometres per hour.
7.2 Speed in Alleys/Lanes: No person shall drive a Vehicle in any alley or lane
within the Town at a speed greater than 20 kilometres per hour, unless otherwise
posted.
7.3 School Zones: Wherever signage indicates a school zone, no person shall
drive a Vehicle within that zone in excess of 30 kilometres per hour during the
times when the school zone is in effect. Unless otherwise posted by the Town, a
school zone is in effect on school days (Mondays through Fridays during the school
year) from 8:30am to 4:30pm.
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7.4 Playground Zones: Wherever signage indicates a playground zone, no
person shall drive a Vehicle within that zone in excess of 30 kilometres per
hour during the times when the playground zone is in effect. Unless otherwise
posted by the Town, a playground zone is in effect every day from 8:30 a.m. until
one hour after sunset.
7.5 Speed Zones Posted: If a Traffic Control Device prescribes a speed limit
different from those stated in 7.1 through 7.4 (for example, in construction zones
or other areas), that posted speed limit shall prevail at the times and locations
indicated. All speed limits established by this Bylaw or by posted signs shall be
deemed to be established in accordance with Section 108 of the Act (Speed limits
on highways under municipal authority).
7.6 Passing in School/Playground Zones: No driver of a vehicle shall overtake
or pass another moving vehicle traveling in the same direction within a school zone
or playground zone during the times that such zone is in effect.
PART VIII
OTHER GENERAL RULES OF THE ROAD
8.0
Other General Rules of the road
8.1 Driving Care and Attention: Every person shall operate a Vehicle on a
Highway with due care and attention and with reasonable consideration for other
persons using the Highway. (All relevant rules of the road as established by the
Traffic Safety Act and regulations shall apply within the Town.)
8.2 Coasting or Sliding: No person shall coast or slide with any sled, toboggan,
skis, skates, skateboard, or similar device on or across any Highway open to
vehicular traffic, except at a properly marked crossing or with the authorization of
the Town. (This is to prevent collisions between persons and Vehicles on streets.)
8.3 Splashing Pedestrians: No driver of a Vehicle shall drive through water, mud,
or slush on a roadway in a manner so as to splash or spray any pedestrian using
a sidewalk or crosswalk.
8.4 Funeral and Other Processions: No driver of a vehicle shall interrupt or
interfere with a funeral procession or any other authorized parade or procession
by cutting through or crossing its path. All drivers shall yield the right-of-way until
such procession has passed, unless directed otherwise by a Designated Officer.
Vehicles in a funeral procession may display headlights or hazard lights to identify
themselves.
8.5
Operation of Mobility Aids
8.5.1 Within the municipal boundaries of the Town of Hanna, a person operating
a Mobility Aid, including a mobility scooter, may travel on a sidewalk, pedestrian
pathway, or, where no such sidewalk or pathway is reasonably available or
passable, upon the roadway, taking the most practical route to their destination.
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8.5.2 When travelling upon a Roadway, a Person operating a Mobility Aid shall:
a) travel as near as practicable to the far left-hand edge of the Roadway,
facing oncoming traffic;
b) stop at all Intersections, Stop Signs, and pedestrian signals before
entering or crossing the Roadway;
c) obey all Traffic Control Devices and pedestrian signals; and
d) yield the right-of-way to all Motor Vehicles while travelling upon the
Roadway.
8.5.3 A Person operating a Mobility Aid shall not operate the device at a speed
greater than:
a) six (6) kilometres per hour when on a Sidewalk, Pedestrian Area, or
Pathway; or
b) fifteen (15) kilometres per hour when on a multi-use trail or on a
Roadway where no Sidewalk or Pathway is reasonably available.
PART IX
PARKING AND STOPPING REGULATIONS
9.0
General Parking Prohibitions: No person shall park a Vehicle in any of the following
places or circumstances on any Highway:
(Note: Distances shall be measured from that part of the Vehicle nearest the object or
point of reference stated above. For example, the 5 m distance from a fire hydrant is
measured from the closest point of the Vehicle to the hydrant.)
o
Sidewalk or Boulevard: On any sidewalk or boulevard, or any part of a
sidewalk crossing (driveway ramp). Vehicles shall not block or impede the
use of a sidewalk.
o
Crosswalk or Intersection: On a crosswalk, or within 5 metres of the
nearest side of a marked crosswalk. Additionally, no parking within 5
metres of the intersection of two roadways, unless otherwise indicated by
signs or pavement markings.
o
Fire Hydrant: Within 5 metres of any fire hydrant, or, if the hydrant is not
located at the curb, within 5 metres of the point on the curb nearest the
hydrant.
o
Stop/Yield Sign or Signal: Within 5 metres of a stop sign or yield sign, or
any traffic control signal at an intersection.
o
Driveway or Lane Access: In front of or within 1.5 metres of the entrance
to a garage, private road or driveway, or a back lane (alley) access to a
property, or in any manner that prevents or obstructs access by vehicles to
such garage, road, driveway or alley.
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o
Double Parking: On the roadway side of any Vehicle parked at the curb
or edge of a roadway (this practice commonly known as "double parking").
No Vehicle shall be parked parallel to and beside another parked Vehicle
such that it is not close to the curb.
o
No Parking/Stopping Zones: At any location where a Traffic Control
Device (sign or painted curb) prohibits parking or stopping, or where the
curb is painted yellow indicating no stopping. This includes zones
designated for specific Vehicles or users for which the Vehicle is not eligible
(e.g., loading zones, taxi stands, etc., when not actively loading or
unloading as permitted).
o
Side of Obstruction: On the roadway alongside or opposite any street
excavation or obstruction when stopping or parking would obstruct traffic.
o
Pedestrian Corridor: On any portion of a Highway in such a manner as to
obstruct or block access to a pedestrian crosswalk, wheelchair ramp, or
curb depression designed for access.
o
Fire Lane: In any area designated as a fire lane, typically marked by signs
or pavement markings. A fire lane means an access route for fire
department vehicles (often on private property such as parking lots, near
building entrances) identified by signage as a fire lane.
o
Wrong Side of Road: On the left side of the roadway in the direction of
travel (against the traffic flow). All vehicles must be parked on the right-
hand side of two-way roadways, except on one-way streets where parking
on either side may be allowed.
o
Alley - Obstructing Traffic: In any alley or lane, except for the purpose of
actively loading or unloading goods or passengers, and only if the Vehicle
does not block through traffic in the alley. In no case shall a Vehicle be
Parked in an alley for longer than is necessary for loading/unloading, and
never longer than 30 minutes.
o
Overhanging Sidewalk: So that any part of the Vehicle (or any load
thereon) extends over or obstructs any sidewalk, curb, or Boulevard.
9.1 Angle Parking: Where permitted by a traffic control device or sign, a person
may park a vehicle at an angle to the curb or edge of the roadway.
9.1.1 Where angle parking is not marked but a driver wishes to park at
an angle, such parking shall be permitted only if:
9.1.2 The vehicle does not project into the traveled portion of the
roadway so as to obstruct or impede the free flow of traffic; and
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9.1.3 There remains sufficient roadway width, in the opinion of a
Designated Officer or other designated authority, to allow for the
safe and unobstructed passage of other vehicles, including
emergency vehicles.
9.2 The CAO, or Designated Officer, may designate locations where angle
parking is permitted or prohibited based on traffic conditions, roadway
design, or public safety considerations.
9.3 No person shall park a vehicle at an angle in any location where angle
parking is not specifically permitted, and where such parking results in
obstruction of traffic, interference with access to public or private property,
or endangerment to pedestrians or other road users.
9.4 A vehicle parked in contravention of this section may be subject to
enforcement action, including ticketing and removal under the provisions of
this Bylaw and the Municipal Government Act.
9.5 Parking in Accessible (Disabled) Stalls: No person shall park a Vehicle in
a Disabled Parking Stall (Accessible Parking Stall) unless:
9.5.1 The Vehicle prominently displays a valid disabled parking placard or
license plate issued by the authority (Service Alberta or equivalent) for a
person with a disability; and
9.5.2 The person to whom the disabled placard or plate was issued is either
the driver of the Vehicle or a passenger being picked up or dropped off at
that location.
Any Vehicle parked in a designated Accessible Parking Stall without meeting the above
requirements may be ticketed and/or towed at the owner's expense. The Town of Hanna
may enforce disabled parking on both public property and on private property that is open
to public use (e.g., shopping areas), provided the stall is properly marked with signage
indicating it is reserved for persons with disabilities.
9.6 Parking on Private Property: No owner or operator of a Vehicle shall park or
permit the Parking of the Vehicle on private property without the consent of the
property owner or person in possession of that property. This prohibition applies to
any property clearly marked by a sign or signs stating, "No Parking," "Private Parking,"
"Residents Only," or similar, or where general public parking has been prohibited by
the owner. If a property owner or agent has posted signs forbidding unauthorized
parking, any unauthorized Vehicle may be subject to enforcement under this Bylaw
(including removal).
9.7 Recreational Vehicles and Trailers (Parking Restrictions):
9.7.1 Unattached Trailers: No person shall park a trailer, whether designed for
occupancy or for carrying goods/vehicles, on any Highway unless it is attached to
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a Motor Vehicle by which it may be drawn. A trailer alone is not considered a
Vehicle for the purpose of parking on a Highway and may be removed at the
owner's expense.
9.7.2 Use of RVs as Dwellings: No person shall occupy or permit the occupancy
of a parked Recreational Vehicle on any Highway as a dwelling or living
accommodation.
9.7.3 Time Limit - RVs and Trailers: No person shall park any Recreational
Vehicle or any trailer on any Highway in the Town for longer than 48 consecutive
hours. After the allowed 48 hours of parking, the owner/driver must remove the
Recreational Vehicle or trailer from the Highway and not park it again on any
Highway in the Town for at least the next 48 consecutive hours.
9.7.4 Location Adjacent to Owner's Property: A Recreational Vehicle or trailer
parked under section 9.7.3 (for loading, unloading or short-term parking) must be
parked directly adjacent to the property of the owner or operator (or a property for
which the owner/operator has the permission of the owner to park there). It is not
permitted to park an RV or trailer in front of property where the owner has no
permission, except incidental brief stops while driving.
9.7.5 Extensions and Slides: Any Recreational Vehicle parked on a Highway
must not have slide-outs or extensions that impede the passage of other vehicles
or pedestrians. All RVs and trailers parked on a street must be kept roadworthy
and hitched if required so they can be moved on short notice.
9.7.6 Temporary Parking Permit: Notwithstanding the time limit in subsection
9.7.3, the CAO (or designate) may issue a Temporary Parking Permit to allow a
resident to park a Recreational Vehicle or trailer on a Highway adjoining their
property for an extended period for a specific purpose. A Temporary Parking
Permit may extend the 48-hour limit up to a maximum of 7 consecutive days. The
permit must be displayed in a visible location on the vehicle or otherwise as
instructed, and the vehicle must comply with any conditions stated in the permit
(such as location and dates). The issuance of such permit is at the discretion of
the CAO and may be refused or revoked if the vehicle poses a hazard or undue
inconvenience.
9.7.7 Commercial Loading/Unloading: Nothing in this section prohibits the brief
stopping or parking of a trailer for the purpose of actively loading or unloading
goods, equipment, or livestock, provided it is actively attended and does not
obstruct traffic for an unreasonable time. Once loading or unloading is complete,
the trailer must be promptly removed.
9.8 Heavy Vehicles and Truck Routes:
9.8.1 Heavy Vehicle Road Use: No person shall operate or park a Heavy
Vehicle on any Highway within the Town except on a designated truck
route, or for the purpose of local pickup or delivery via the most direct route
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to/from the nearest truck route. The Town may by resolution or by posted
signs designate certain roadways as permissible truck routes for Heavy
Vehicles. In the absence of designated truck routes, Heavy Vehicles should
remain on Provincial highways or major thoroughfares and refrain from
entering residential or restricted areas unless necessary for local business.
9.8.2 Use for Deliveries: If a Heavy Vehicle must be driven on a non-truck-
route street to reach a destination for loading or unloading (delivery or
collection of goods at a residence or business), the operator shall take the
shortest route possible from the nearest allowed route to the destination
and back. Upon completing the delivery or collection, the Heavy Vehicle
shall immediately leave the restricted area by the shortest route.
9.8.3 No Parking in Residential Areas: No Heavy Vehicle shall be parked
on any Highway in a residential zone or area except while actively engaged
in loading or unloading as described in 9.7.2, or as otherwise authorized by
permit or signage. In particular, it is prohibited to park semitrailers, tractor
units, construction equipment, or other Heavy Vehicles on residential
streets overnight.
9.8.4 Engine Retarder Brakes: No person operating a Heavy Vehicle
shall use engine retarder brakes (Jake brakes) within the Town limits,
except in an emergency to avoid an accident. Appropriate signage may be
erected at Town entrances indicating this restriction.
9.8.5 Exception - Town/Service Vehicles: This section does not apply to
Town-owned or contracted service vehicles such as snowplows, sanding
trucks, waste collection trucks, or utility repair vehicles, nor to emergency
vehicles or school buses, when engaged in their duties on Town roads.
9.9 Abandoned Vehicles:
9.9.1 No person shall leave a Vehicle parked on a Highway in the same
location for more than 72 consecutive hours such that it appears to be
abandoned. Any Vehicle left standing on a highway for over 72
hours without moving may be considered an "abandoned vehicle" and
may be tagged for removal by the Town under Section 76 of the Traffic
Safety Act (removal of abandoned vehicles).
9.9.2 A Vehicle left on private property (that is not the owner's property)
without consent for over 72 hours may also be considered abandoned by
the owner of that property. The Town or a Designated Officer may, upon
complaint, investigate and cause such vehicle to be removed as per the
Act.
9.9.3 If a Vehicle is identified as abandoned, a Designated Officer may
attach a notice to the Vehicle indicating that it will be removed by the Town
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if not moved within a specified timeframe. If the vehicle remains or if it lacks
valid registration plates, the Town may tow and impound the Vehicle.
9.9.4 All costs of towing and storage of an abandoned Vehicle shall be
charged to the owner of the Vehicle. The Vehicle shall not be released until
all removal and storage charges are paid. Unclaimed vehicles may be dealt
with in accordance with the Unclaimed Personal Property and Vested
Property Act or applicable regulations.
PART X
OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLES AND SNOWMOBIES
10.0
Operation of Off-Highway Vehicles Prohibited: No person shall operate
an Off-Highway Vehicle (including a snowmobile, all-terrain vehicle, dirt bike, or
any Off-Highway Vehicle as defined in this Bylaw) on any Highway, street, lane,
sidewalk, park, playground, public reserve, or other public property within the Town
of Hanna except as permitted in this Part or as expressly authorized in writing by
the Town.
10.1 Exceptions - Authorized Use of OHVs:
10.1.1 A Designated Officer or member of the Town administration may
operate an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) on a Highway or public property
within the Town when necessary for the performance of their duties (e.g.,
search
and
rescue
operations,
emergency
response,
municipal
enforcement, or maintenance). Operation must be conducted with due
regard for safety.
10.1.2 Council may, by resolution, designate specific routes, trails, or times
where Off-Highway Vehicles (including snowmobiles) are permitted to
operate within Town limits -- for example, during sanctioned events or to
access surrounding rural OHV trails. These designations must be
communicated via posted signage or public notice and may include
conditions (e.g., maximum speed of 20 km/h, operation limited to daylight
hours, mandatory safety equipment, etc.).
10.1.3 Residents and visitors may operate an OHV on the most direct and
practical route between their residence (or point of accommodation) and
the nearest Town boundary or designated trail access point for the purpose
of entering or exiting Town. Such use:
-
Must not include cruising, touring, or any form of recreational operation
within Town boundaries;
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Must adhere to all posted speed limits and traffic laws;
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Must occur only during permitted hours as designated by the Council;
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Requires that the OHV be operated with due regard for safety, including
the use of appropriate lights and safety equipment.
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10.2 Offences on Off-Highway Vehicles: Any person who operates an Off-
Highway Vehicle in contravention of Section 10 -- including failing to
comply with direct route restrictions in Section 10.1.3 or the conditions of
any Council-approved designation -- is guilty of an offence under this
Bylaw.
Additionally:
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If the operator of the OHV cannot be identified, the registered owner
may be charged.
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It is not a defence for an owner to claim ignorance or lack of permission
regarding the operator's actions.
Designated Officers are empowered to:
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Stop and inspect OHVs;
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Issue fines, tickets, or summonses;
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Direct that the OHV be immediately removed from Town.
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Seize or impound the vehicle for repeated or serious offences, in
accordance with applicable laws.
PART XI
PARADES PROCESSIONSS AND ROAD USE EVENTS
11.0
Parades and Processions (Permit Required): No person shall hold or organize
any parade, procession, sports event, or other special event on any Highway
(including walks, runs, bicycle races, or marches) that may interfere with normal
traffic flow, unless a Parade/Special Event Permit has been obtained from the
Town. This includes any group of people or vehicles (including floats or marching
bands) proceeding together in an organized fashion on public roads, except those
exempt in section 11.2.
11.1 Application for Parade/Special Event Permit: Any person or organization
wishing to organize a parade, procession, or special roadway event shall apply to
the CAO (or designate) in the form prescribed by the Town. The application should
be submitted a reasonable time (preferably at least 2 weeks) before the event and
include details such as: date, time, route, number of participants/vehicles, purpose
of event, and any requested road closures or traffic control. The CAO may approve
the permit with conditions to ensure public safety and minimize disruption,
including but not limited to: specific route or time, escort by Designated Officers,
signage or barricades, provision of marshals, or cleanup requirements. The permit
holder must abide by all conditions set by the Town.
11.2 Funeral and Military Processions Exempt: A funeral procession or a
military procession (under command of military authorities) does not require a
permit. However, any funeral or military procession shall be conducted in an
orderly manner with regard for other traffic, and if it is likely to significantly obstruct
traffic, advance notice to the Town or police is encouraged so that assistance can
be given to manage traffic signals or provide escort if necessary. Drivers in a
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funeral procession shall turn on headlights or hazard lights to indicate they are part
of the procession.
11.3 Temporary Road Closures for Events: The Town may temporarily close or
restrict the use of a Highway or portion thereof to accommodate a permitted
parade, procession or special event. During such closure, the Town or event
organizers shall ensure adequate signage or traffic control persons are in place to
direct traffic. No person shall drive on or enter a closed roadway that is barricaded
or marked as closed for an event, except authorized event participants, emergency
vehicles, or local residents as allowed by the permit conditions. Driving through or
around a barricade or ignoring directions of a peace officer or event official in such
cases is an offence.
11.4 Costs and Indemnity: The permit holder for a parade or special event may
be responsible for the costs of additional policing, traffic control, or cleanup if
deemed necessary by the Town. The permit holder and organizers assume
responsibility for any loss or damage caused to Town property as a result of the
event and shall indemnify the Town for any claims arising from the event. The
Town may require proof of liability insurance coverage for certain events as a
condition of approval.
PART XII
ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES
12.0
Authority of Designated Officers: A Designated Officer is hereby authorized to
enforce the provisions of this Bylaw. In addition to any other powers, a Designated
Officer may:
12.0.1 Issue a verbal or written warning for any contravention of this Bylaw,
or direct a person to cease or remedy a contravention.
12.0.2 Issue a Municipal Tag or Notice of Offence (ticket) alleging an
offence of this Bylaw, which may provide a person with the opportunity to
voluntarily pay the specified penalty for the offence to avoid prosecution.
12.0.3 Issue a violation ticket under the Provincial Offences Procedure
Act (Alberta) for an offence of this Bylaw, which may require the person to
appear in Provincial Court or optionally pay a specified fine amount in
advance of the court date. (This may be done with or without a prior
Municipal Tag.)
12.0.4 Stop and inspect any Vehicle that is being operated, parked or
stored in contravention of this Bylaw (for example, a suspected abandoned
vehicle, or a vehicle being driven off-road unlawfully). The Designated
Officer may require the driver to produce their driver's license, registration,
or insurance, and may inspect the condition of the vehicle if relevant to the
offence.
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12.0.5 Direct the moving or removal (towing) of any Vehicle or trailer found
parked in contravention of this Bylaw. If a vehicle is unattended and is
parked illegally or in a manner that obstructs traffic, interferes with snow
removal or other public works, or poses a safety hazard, the Designated
Officer may have the vehicle removed by a towing service without notice to
the owner.
12.0.5(1) Snow Routes - Notwithstanding the above, if a vehicle or trailer
is parked on a roadway designed as a Snow Route, and the Town as
posted Snow Route signs at least twelve (12) hours in advance of snow
removal operations, any vehicle remaining on the route after that twelve
(12) hour notice period may be towed at the direction of a Designated
Officer. All towing and storage costs shall be the responsibility of the owner
of the vehicle.
12.0.6 Impound any Vehicle or Off-Highway Vehicle that is being operated
in contravention of this Bylaw or other legislation, if such seizure is
authorized by law.
12.0.7 Enter on land (including entering yards or driveways but not dwelling
houses) to inspect and determine if any provisions of this Bylaw are being
contravened, in accordance with Section 542 of the Municipal Government
Act.
12.1 Removal of Vehicles and Obstructions:
12.1.1 Where a vehicle is towed or moved pursuant to section 12.0.5, it
shall be taken to a place of safe storage designated by the Town or the
towing contractor. The owner of the vehicle may recover it upon payment
of all towing and storage charges. If the vehicle remains unclaimed, it may
be dealt with according to the law (which may include sale or disposal to
recover costs). The Town shall not be responsible for any damage to a
vehicle resulting from reasonable towing, removal, or storage operations.
12.1.2 In addition to vehicles, if any structure, object, or thing is placed on
a Highway contrary to this Bylaw (such as an unauthorized sign,
obstruction, or debris), the Town may remove and impound such object.
The owner may reclaim the object upon paying the removal costs, and if
not claimed in a reasonable time, the Town may dispose of it. The Town is
not responsible for damage or loss of any unauthorized objects removed
from roadways.
12.2 Owner Liability (Vehicles): In any prosecution or enforcement action for an
offence involving a Vehicle under this Bylaw (such as a parking offence or an
unauthorized vehicle on a road), the registered owner of the Vehicle may be named
as the defendant. The Act provides that the owner of a vehicle is liable for offences
under municipal traffic bylaws as if the owner had personally committed the
offence, unless the owner proves to the Court's satisfaction that, at the time of the
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offence, the vehicle was not being used or parked by the owner or by any other
person with the owner's consent (i.e., it was stolen or used without consent).
12.3 Interference with Enforcement: No person shall obstruct or hinder any
Designated Officer or person assisting a Designated Officer in the performance of
their duties under this Bylaw. This includes providing false information, removing
or defacing any ticket or notice left on a vehicle by an Officer (other than by the
vehicle owner), or attempting to prevent an Officer from towing or impounding a
vehicle or object under this Bylaw. Any such obstruction is an offence. Additionally,
it is an offence to impersonate a Town official or Designated Officer for any reason.
12.4 Offences and Penalties:
12.4.1 General Offence: Any person who contravenes any provision of
this Bylaw is guilty of an offence and is liable upon summary conviction to
the penalties set out in this Part. Each instance of contravention, and in the
case of continuing contraventions each day that an offence continues,
constitutes a separate offence.
12.4.2 Specified Penalties (Ticket Fines): For the purposes of
enforcement by Municipal Tags or violation tickets, the specified fine
amounts for offences under this Bylaw are set out in Schedule "A" attached
to and forming part of this Bylaw. The specified penalty is the voluntary
payment amount that may be paid to avoid a court appearance. (Where an
offence is not listed in Schedule A, the Peace Officer may assign a fine
amount consistent with comparable offences, or the default penalty in
subsection 12.4.5 may apply upon conviction.)
12.4.3 Second or Subsequent Offences: Where any person is convicted
twice or more within a one-year period for the same offence under this
Bylaw, the minimum penalty for the second and each subsequent offence
shall be double the specified penalty for that offence. A second or
subsequent offence means an offence committed after a previous
conviction (or voluntary fine payment) for the same provision of the Bylaw
within the past twelve (12) months.
12.4.4 Minimum and Maximum (MGA): Notwithstanding the specified
penalties in Schedule A, any person who is convicted of an offence under
this Bylaw in a court of law is liable to pay a fine not less than $100.00 and
not more than $10,000.00 for each such offence, plus applicable costs and
surcharges, or to imprisonment for not more than six (6) months for non-
payment of fine, or to both fine and imprisonment, as authorized by the
Municipal Government Act.
12.4.5 Default Penalty: If a specified penalty is not established for a
particular offence, the fine amount shall be determined by the Court upon
conviction, within the limits established in 12.4.4. In determining an
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appropriate fine, the Court may consider the nature of the offence, its
potential for harm, and fines imposed for similar municipal offences.
12.4.6 Municipal Tag: A person who has been issued a Municipal Tag
(Notice of Offence) by the Town for an alleged contravention of this Bylaw
may avoid prosecution by paying the specified penalty on the tag within the
time period indicated. If the person fails to pay within the time specified, a
violation ticket may be issued.
12.4.7 Violation Ticket: If a violation ticket is issued under the Provincial
Offences Procedure Act, the violation ticket may: (a) specify the fine
amount and allow the person to pay the fine voluntarily to avoid a court
appearance (this is a "specified penalty ticket"); or (b) require a person to
appear in court without the option of prepaying (if the offence is serious or
if it's a repeat offence and higher penalties are sought).
12.4.8 Payment of Voluntary Fines: If a person pays a specified penalty
(either via Municipal Tag or violation ticket) within the time allowed, the
person shall not be prosecuted for the offence. Acceptance of payment by
the Town or the Province constitutes a guilty plea to the offence charged.
12.4.9 Continuing Offences: In the case of an offence that continues
beyond a single day (such as a vehicle continuously parked in one place in
violation of this Bylaw), a Designated Officer may issue a separate offence
ticket for each day the offence continues. However, the Officer should
make reasonable efforts to inform the offender of the violation and give the
opportunity to correct it before issuing multiple tickets.
12.5 Liability of Town: The Town of Hanna is not liable for any damage to
vehicles or other property resulting from enforcement actions taken in good faith
pursuant to this Bylaw, including the placement of signs, the alteration of traffic
flow, or the towing of vehicles. Persons affected by such actions are deemed to
have voluntarily assumed the risk of any damages by acting in violation of this
Bylaw. Furthermore, nothing in this Bylaw shall be interpreted as imposing any
duty or obligation on the Town to provide traffic control or enforcement, and the
Town shall not be liable for any failure to enforce any provision of this Bylaw.
PART XIII
SCHEDULES AND REPEAL
13.0
Schedules: The following Schedules are attached to and form part of this Bylaw:
-
Schedule "A" - Specified Penalties for Offences. (This schedule lists common
offences under this Bylaw with corresponding fine amounts for a first offence. It
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may categorize penalties by section or type of offence, e.g., parking offences,
moving offences, etc.)
13.1 Bylaw 936-2007 Repeal: Bylaw No. 936-2007 of the Town of Hanna, and all
amendments thereto (including Bylaw 973-2014), are hereby repealed in their
entirety. All other bylaws or parts of bylaws inconsistent with this Bylaw are hereby
repealed to the extent of that inconsistency. This Bylaw is intended to replace and
supersede Bylaw 936-2007 as the Traffic Safety Bylaw for the Town of Hanna.
13.2 Severability: Should any provision of this Bylaw be declared invalid or
unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, then that provision shall be
deemed severed from this Bylaw and shall not affect the validity of the remainder,
which shall remain in full force and effect.
PART XIV
USE OF SIDEWALKS
14.0
Within the municipal boundaries of the Town of Hanna, a person operating a
Mobility Aid, including a mobility scooter, may travel on a sidewalk, pedestrian pathway,
or where no such sidewalk or pathway is reasonably available or passable, upon the
roadway, taking the most practical route to their destination.
EFFECTIVE DATE
This Bylaw shall come into effect upon the day of third and final reading:
READ A FIRST TIME THIS 10TH DAY OF JUNE 2025.
Mayor Danny Povaschuk
Chief Administrative Officer
Matthew Norburn
Town of Hanna
Bylaw 1041-2025
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READ A SECOND TIME THIS 9th DAY OF DECEMBER 2025.
READ A THIRD TIME AND FINALLY PASSED THIS 9TH DAY OF DECEMBER 2025.
Mayor Danny Povaschuk
Chief Administrative Officer
Matthew Norburn