Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124, Alberta
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MD of Lesser Slave River
Municipal Development Plan
ii
Table of Contents
1.0
Introduction
1
1.1
Municipal Development Plan Purpose
1
1.2
Conformity with Plan
3
1.3
Legislative Requirements
3
1.4
Interpretation
4
1.5
Council Vision
5
1.6
Municipal Development Plan Goal
6
1.7
General Development Policies
6
1.8
General - Environmental Policies
14
1.9
General - Social Policies
16
1.10
General - Transportation Policies
17
1.11
General - Utility Policies
19
2.0
Community Areas
21
2.1
Community Areas - Land Use Policies
23
2.2
Community Areas - Environmental Policies
24
2.3
Community Areas - Transportation Policies
24
2.4
Community Areas - Utility Policies
25
2.5
Community Areas - Social Policies
27
3.0
Commercial Areas
29
3.1
Commercial Areas - Land Use Policies
30
3.2
Commercial Social Policies
30
4.0
Industrial Areas
31
4.1
Industrial Areas - Land Use Policies
32
5.0
Crown Lands
35
5.1
Crown Land - Land Use Policies
36
5.2
Crown Land - Environmental Policies
37
5.3
Crown Land - Transportation Policies
38
5.4
Crown Land - Social Policies
38
iii
6.0
Agriculture
39
6.1
Agriculture - Land Use Policies
40
6.2
Agriculture - Environmental Policies
42
6.3
Agriculture - Transportation Policies
43
6.4
Agriculture - Utility Policies
44
6.5
Agriculture - Social Policies
44
7.0
Recreation, Environment, & Trails
45
7.1
Recreation, Environment, & Trails - Land Use Policies
46
7.2
Recreation, Environment, & Trails - Environmental Policies
46
8.0
Intermunicipal Coordination & Economic Development
47
8.1
Intermunicipal and Economic Development Policies
48
9.0
Plan Implementation
51
9.1
Authority of the Plan
52
9.2
Land Use Bylaw
52
9.3
Amendments to the Plan
52
9.4
Plan Review
52
Maps
Map 1: Policy Area Map
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Map 2: Policy Area Map - Center
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Map 3: Policy Area Map - South
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Map 4: Policy Area Map - West
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Schedules
Schedule A: Redlined Municipal Development Plan
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BYLAW 2025-06
A BYLAW OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO. 124 IN THE PROVINCE OF
ALBERTA, FOR THE PURPOSE OF AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
WHEREAS, Section 632(1) of the Municipal Government Act, RSA 2000, and amendments thereto, requires that every
Council of a municipality must by Bylaw adopt a Municipal Development Plan;
AND WHEREAS Council of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 enacted Bylaw 2012-09;
AND WHEREAS Council of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 wishes to amend Bylaw 2012-09;
AND WHEREAS notice the amended Municipal Development Plan and Public Hearing was given in accordance with
the Municipal Government Act, RSA 2000, c M-26 and amendments thereto;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 in the Province of Alberta, duly
assembled, hereby enacts as follows:
1. THAT Bylaw 2012-09, the Municipal Development Plan, is hereby amended in accordance with the blackline
copy of the Municipal Development Plan, attached hereto as Schedule "A".
2. THAT all other provisions of Bylaw 2012-09, the Municipal Development Plan, shall remain unamended and
in full force and effect, with the exception of any section numbering which has been modified by this Amending
Bylaw.
3. Should any provision of this bylaw become invalid, void, illegal, or otherwise not enforceable, it shall be
considered separate and severable from the bylaw and the remainder shall remain in force and be binding as
though such provisions had not been invalid.
4. THAT this Bylaw come into effect upon the Third Reading thereto.
READ for a first time this 14th day of May 2025.
READ for a second time this 9th day of July 2025.
READ for a third and final time this 20th day of August 2025.
_"ORIGINAL SIGNED"___________________
Murray Kerik, Reeve
_"ORIGINAL SIGNED"___________________
Barry Kolenosky, Chief Administrative Officer
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1.0 Introduction
1.1
Municipal Development Plan Purpose
Municipal planning in Alberta is administered under the provisions of Part 17 of the Municipal Government Act,
RSA 2000 (hereafter referred to as the "Act"). The purpose of planning in Alberta is provided in Section 617 of the
Act as follows:
To achieve the orderly, economical and beneficial development, use of land and pattern of human settlement,
and to maintain and improve the quality of the physical environment within which patterns of human
settlement are situated in Alberta, without infringing on the rights of individuals for any public interest
except to the extent that is necessary for the overall greater public interest.
In Alberta municipalities, the primary land use planning policy document used to achieve this broader purpose
is the Municipal Development Plan ("MDP" or "Plan"). It provides a framework for the ongoing development of the
Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 (the "MD"). The MDP outlines a set of long-term goals and policies to
guide the planning and coordination of development and subdivision in the MD.
The Plan will assist Council in rationally addressing ongoing conflicts between resource-based industries and
residential or recreational land uses; hamlet growth and servicing options; the accommodation of industrial and
commercial development; future transportation networks; and the acquisition and use of reserve land for parks and
other municipal purposes.
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Regular reviews of the MDP ensure that policies
remain relevant over time and accurately reflect the
priorities of the community. A review of the 2012 MDP
was initiated in 2021 to address key strategic priorities
previously identified by Council; many of these
priorities remain relevant in 2025:
- Increasing flexibility respecting the allocation of
municipal reserve at subdivision;
- Establishing clearer criteria respecting the
allocation of environmental reserve at subdivision;
- Accommodating economic development
initiatives;
- Protecting and retaining agricultural lands;
- Developing recreational areas, trails and open
spaces; and
- Ensuring consistency with Council's Integrated
Community Sustainability Plan, Council's Strategic
Plan, and Council's Vision, Mission and Values
statement.
Other key topics examined include the extension
of rural road infrastructure, incentives for residential
growth, and the character and form of development
in new residential areas, along with application
of stronger zoning and other land use planning
tools to ensure that different land uses coexist and
complement each other. In addition, MDP policies
respecting the implementation of Forest Resource
Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA)
FireSmart principles and emergency response have
been significantly enhanced in response to major
forest fire events experienced in the Spring of 2011.
Further, the 2012 MDP was reviewed to ensure
that the requirements of the Act are met, and that
applicable provisions of the Alberta Land Stewardship
Act (ALSA) are addressed where warranted.
This review process was completed in conjunction
with several engagement opportunities including
the public and Council. Administration has utilized
the feedback provided during this review and
engagement process in order to achieve an
updated plan in 2025.
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The MDP, in its essence, will help to create complete
communities throughout the MD and provide a
basis for building consensus around change. It
will also provide the MD with a holistic approach
to integrate the MD's growth and development
with surrounding municipalities and jurisdictions.
However, this plan is a general guide and may
not cover all situations and circumstances. As a
result, more detailed policy documents such as
Area Structure Plans, master plans, and mitigation
plans are needed to support the Plan in its
implementation and meeting its community building
goals. Some areas of the MD are more likely to see
future growth and will need more detailed planning
and land use guidance than this MDP can provide.
In those cases, relevant Area Structure Plans may
be implemented to address the circumstances of
these specific areas.
1.2
Conformity with Plan
MDPs are prepared and adopted in accordance with
the requirements of Section 632 of the Act and are
mandatory for all municipalities. The Act provides
guidance for Plan content through the provision of
mandatory and optional requirements as follows:
Mandatory Requirements
- Future land use
- Proposals for future development
- Coordination with adjacent municipalities if no
intermunicipal development plan in place
- Transportation systems
- Municipal services
- Land adjacent to sour gas facilities
- Municipal, school, or municipal and school reserve
- Protection of agricultural operations
Optional Requirements
- Finance and programming of infrastructure
- Coordination of programs
- Environmental matters
- Financial resources
- Economic development
- Development constraints
- Any other matters relating to physical, social or
economic development
- Conservation reserve
Section 637 of the Act does not require a municipality
to undertake any projects that might be specified in
the Plan. Section 638 requires that all statutory plans
(Intermunicipal Development Plans, Area Structure
Plans, and Area Redevelopment Plans) be consistent
with each other. Any new land use or development
proposal that does not comply with this MDP cannot
be considered unless the Plan itself is amended to
accommodate that proposal. Land uses in existence
prior to adoption of the MDP which do not comply with
the Plan are allowed to continue, subject to the Act.
1.3
Legislative Requirements
1.3.1
This Plan has been prepared in
accordance with the requirements of
the Act, as well as the principles and
strategies contained in the Alberta Land-
Use Framework (ALUF) and the MD's
Intermunicipal Development Plan with
the Town of Slave Lake and Sawridge First
Nation.
1.3.2
The MD shall participate in the formulation
of the Upper Athabasca Regional Plan in
order to communicate the MD's vision,
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goals and policies contained in the MDP,
and will amend the MDP to be consistent
with the Upper Athabasca Regional Plan
once adopted, as required.
1.4
Interpretation
1.4.1
For the purpose of interpreting this MDP,
the following definitions shall apply:
Area Structure Plan
- Means a Statutory Plan adopted by Council,
prepared pursuant to Section 633 of the Act,
that provides a framework for subsequent
subdivision and development of an area of land
at a conceptual level of detail.
Environmentally Sensitive Area
- An area that is determined to be generally
unsuitable for development due to the presence
of excessive or unstable slopes, the potential
for erosion or flooding, or which contains
sensitive ecological habitat. This definition
applies to lakeshores, rivers and other water
courses, river valleys, forests and vegetation,
unique topographic features, environmentally
hazardous lands, and important wildlife habitat
and corridors.
Internal Subdivision Road
- A public road that provides access to lots within a
registered subdivision.
Outline Plan
- Means a non-statutory, detailed land use plan
for an area of land that is typically smaller than
the land area encompassed by an Area Structure
Plan and which conforms to all Statutory Plans.
An Outline Plan may be adopted by resolution of
Council pursuant to Part 17 of the Act.
Regulation
- Matters Related to Subdivision and Development
Regulation (AR 84/2022)
Rural Municipality
- Means Westlock, Northern Sunrise, Woodlands,
and Athabasca Counties, the MDs of Opportunity
No. 17 and Big Lakes Country, and the Sawridge
First Nation.
South Shore
- Means that area of the MD that consists of the
communities of Canyon Creek, Widewater, Wagner,
Nine Mile Point/Nine Mile Point East and Assineau.
Statutory Plan
- Means an Intermunicipal Development Plan,
Municipal Development Plan, Area Structure Plan,
or Area Redevelopment adopted by bylaw under
the authority of the Act.
All other words or expressions shall have the
meanings respectively assigned to them in the Act,
Subdivision and Development Regulation, and the
MD's Land Use Bylaw.
1.4.2
This Plan contains policies utilizing the terms
"shall", "should" and "may", which are to be
interpreted as follows:
- "Shall" means that a policy is mandatory
and must be complied with,
- "Should" means a policy where
compliance with the general principle
is required but the method and level of
compliance is subject to the discretion
of the applicable authority on a case-by-
case basis,
- "May" means a policy is discretionary with
the level of compliance determined on
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a case-by-case basis by the applicable
authority.
1.4.3
The policies set forth in this Plan apply to
all lands contained within the corporate
boundaries of the MD. In the event of an
inconsistency between the MDP and the
Intermunicipal Development Plan respecting
lands within the boundaries of the MD,
the Intermunicipal Development Plan shall
prevail.
1.4.4
The land use area boundaries identified
in this MDP are considered approximate
and not absolute. Any minor adjustments
or variances that may be necessary to
land use policy areas shall not require an
amendment to this MDP.
1.5
Council Vision
In order to optimize the MDP's effectiveness, it is
critical that it be consistent with the directions and
priorities established in Council's Strategic Plan and
visioning processes. In Council's Strategic Plan, the
following mission statement was adopted:
We manage and develop the infrastructure of our
MD to protect the inherent beauty of our landscape.
We provide stability and opportunities for growth,
for the MD and for the individuals who live here.
Key components of the Council vision include:
- Capitalizing on our geographic location to realize
our potential as a major route to the North and the
Pacific.
- Leveraging our renewable resources to provide
sustainable infrastructure with taxation generated
from the oil and gas industry.
- Pursuing opportunities for concentrated
processing of our resources at Mitsue Industrial
Park and elsewhere where infrastructure,
environment, and lifestyle warrant.
- Planning our communities with consideration for
environmental impact, design integrity, segregation
of use, the nature of neighbourhoods, the
placement and type of local improvements, and the
sense of privacy and space in rural settings.
- Supporting initiatives for community halls, common
green spaces and places for recreation, gathering
and communicating.
- Providing opportunities for youth and stability for
seniors.
- Sustaining the municipality as a place where
prosperity is the norm, and where people are
equipped to care for themselves, for the land, and
for one another.
- Community policing to ensure the safety of
residents and enforcement of MD Bylaws.
- Flood and drought management and mitigation.
All of these components have a connection to MDP
policy. The implications of these directions on the
MDP are as follows:
- Inclusion of policy language related to the
maintenance and improvement to rural roads and
infrastructure;
- Incorporation of environmental protection and
stewardship policies;
- Expansion of existing economic development
policies, with a focus on growth and affordability;
- Inclusion of strategies and policies respecting
emergency preparedness;
- Incorporation of more clear policy direction on
land use development and community planning;
and
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- Identification and preservation of historic
resources, cost sharing of recreational services
with adjacent municipalities, identification of
natural areas and connectivity, and open space
planning.
It is intended that the policies of this MDP help
achieve this vision.
1.6
Municipal Development
Plan Goal
The goal of the MDP is based upon an evaluation
of various land use issues and concerns facing the
MD. This goal becomes the guiding principle and
foundation of this MDP.
A significant amount of land in the MD is currently
used for natural resource development, including
agriculture. Council foresees these resource
industries will continue to be important to the
long term social and economic welfare of the MD.
However, it is necessary that the MDP protect
both the predominantly residential nature of the
communities within the MD and the diversification
of industry and the economic base. In this manner,
an environment will be provided which benefits
both industry and our communities. It is recognized
that there are sufficient areas of the MD which
can accommodate nonresidential land uses
without jeopardizing our communities. The MDP
goal, therefore, encourages opportunities for well
planned growth and development. This will promote
a diversification of the MD's economic base.
It is the goal of this MDP to protect and develop
communities within the MD in accordance with the
communities' vision while providing the necessary
opportunities for maximizing the economic use
of the MD's resource land base and providing for
industrial and economic diversification within the
overall context of well-planned growth, change and
development.
1.7
General Development
Policies
Legislative Conformity
1.7.1
The MD must conform to the policies of
the Province of Alberta, the Provincial
Land Use Framework, Intermunicipal
Development Plans, and any Regional
Plan when considering MDP updates,
MDP amendments, Land Use Bylaw
amendments, or other development
proposals.
Land Use Plan
1.7.2
Future development in the MD shall
generally conform to the Land Use Concept
Maps (Maps 1, 2, 3, and 4, see next section).
The maps are designed to provide the MD
with a broad framework for development
and are not intended to be applied on a
site-by-site basis.
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Land Use Maps
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Map 1: Policy Area Map
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Map 2: Policy Area Map - Center
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Map 3: Policy Area Map - South
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Map 4: Policy Area Map - West
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Area Structure Plan
1.7.3
In accordance with section 633 of the
Act, the MD may adopt an ASP as a
framework for subsequent subdivision and
development of an area of land. An ASP
must describe:
- The sequence of development
proposed for the area
- The land uses proposed for the area,
either generally or with respect to
specific parts of the area
- The density of population proposed for
the area, either generally or with respect
to specific parts of the area
- The general location of major
transportation routes and public utilities
- In accordance with the Act, an ASP may
contain any other matters, including
matters relating to reserves, as Council
considers necessary.
- The MD may require an Area Structure
Plan (ASP) to be created as part of an
application for subdivision, rezoning, or
development, in accordance with the
Act.
- The MD shall deem if an ASP is
necessary in accordance with the MD's
Area Structure Plan Policy.
- The MD may, at its discretion, initiate
the preparation of an ASP or initiate the
review of an existing ASP.
- In accordance with the hierarchy of
statutory plans established in the Act, all
ASPs in the MD must be consistent with
this MDP.
Outline Plan
1.7.4
The MD may require the preparation of an
Outline Plan where:
- No ASP exists and is in effect in the
proposed area for development;
- The proposed area of land for development
does not meet the requirements for an ASP
as outlined in the MD's Area Structure Plan
Policy; or
- When the Development Authority
requires greater detail to assess proposed
lot configuration, access, servicing, or
environmental considerations.
1.7.5
The MD shall deem if an Outline Plan is
necessary in accordance with the MD's
Outline Plan Policy.
Evaluation of Applications
1.7.6
All applications for Land Use Bylaw
amendments, subdivisions or development
permits shall be evaluated by the MD
according to criteria as specified in the LUB,
the MGA, and statutory plans.
Developer Responsibilities
1.7.7
Developers shall install all necessary
infrastructure required to service
development in accordance with MD
standards (refer to the MD's current Municipal
Servicing Standards). Failure to do so will result
in infrastructure not being accepted by the
MD upon completion.
Development Agreements
1.7.8
The MD may use Development Agreements,
as permitted of the Act, to manage and
ensure orderly land development, municipal
servicing, and infrastructure responsibilities.
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Through Development Agreements, the MD
may require developers to:
- Construct or upgrade municipal
infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks,
trails, street lighting, stormwater
management systems, and municipal
utilities;
- Complete off-site infrastructure
improvements necessary to support the
proposed development;
- Provide security deposits to guarantee the
timely and satisfactory completion and
maintenance of municipal infrastructure;
- Convey necessary lands, easements,
or rights-of-way to the MD for public
infrastructure, utility corridors, municipal
reserves, or environmental protection;
- Implement environmental mitigation, flood
protection, or emergency management
measures;
- Clearly define responsibilities for ongoing
maintenance, operation, and eventual
transfer of infrastructure and amenities to
the MD; or
- other obligations as permitted under
the Act and deemed to be in the public
interest by the MD.
Land Use Bylaw
1.7.9
The Land Use Bylaw establishes standards
for development in the MD, while conforming
to and implementing the policies of this Plan
Reports Required
1.7.10
Engineering Servicing Design Reports,
Geotechnical Reports, Hydrogeological
Reports, Historical Resource Impact
Assessments, Flood Risk Assessments, and
other reports deemed necessary may be
required at the discretion of the MD in support
of applications for rezoning, subdivisions, or
developments.
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Fuel Maps
1.7.11
The MD should assist the Province with
preparation of accurate fuel maps for FRIAA
planning.
Sour Gas Facilities
1.7.12
All subdivision and development shall abide
by any Provincial regulations respecting
separation from sour gas facilities. In this
respect, all subdivision and development
proposals shall be referred to the
appropriate Provincial regulatory body for
review and advice before an application is
considered.
Electric Utilities
1.7.13
- Electrical utility companies should
maintain a proactive hazard tree removal
program along power line corridors to
reduce wildfire risk and promote public
safety.
- Underground utility cables are
encouraged in new developments and
distribution power line projects where
feasible and appropriate.
Home Businesses
1.7.14
The MD encourages the development of
home based businesses that are compatible
with surrounding land uses and are
located in areas so as to minimize land
use conflict, traffic impacts, or nuisance at
an appropriate scale and intensity. Home
Business approvals shall be administered
through the standards established under the
MD's Land Use Bylaw, at the discretion of the
Development Authority.
1.8
General - Environmental
Policies
Flood Hazard
1.8.1
Parts of the MD are subject to potential
flooding, as identified by ongoing flood
mapping and studies.
No new subdivisions or permanent structures
shall be permitted within the 1:100 year flood
plain of any river, stream or lake shore unless
an assessment prepared by a qualified
professional determines that the flood plain
does not impact the development, or proper
flood proofing techniques are applied
which will mitigate the impact. A certificate
from a qualified, registered professional
engineer shall be required to confirm that
the development has been properly flood
proofed.
The MD should work with Provincial
authorities to continuously update flood
hazard mapping and maintain appropriate risk
management for areas that flood.
Municipal assets and infrastructure should be
upgraded to withstand flooding events within
the 1:100 year flood plain.
The MD should maintain ongoing dialogue
with Alberta Safety Codes authorities working
within the MD to ensure that they are only
issuing permits that meet the appropriate flood
proofing measures within areas identified in the
LUB as being at risk for flood hazards.
1.8.2
The floodplain is considered to be the area of
land adjacent to a river, stream, or lake that is
subject to flooding during a 1:100 year flood
event. The flood plain consists of both the flood
fringe and the floodway.
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A floodway is defined as the portion of the
floodplain where floodwaters are deepest
and fastest. No new development is
permitted in the floodway.
A flood fringe is defined as the outer portion
of the floodplain, where floodwaters are
shallower and slower-moving. Development
in the flood fringe may be allowed with
appropriate flood-proofing and mitigation,
as approved by the Development Authority.
1.8.3
As per Section 643 of the MGA, buildings or
uses lawfully in existence before new flood-
related regulations were introduced can be
considered as legal, non-conforming uses.
The MD will allow for existing buildings in
the floodway to remain. However, expansion
and intensification of use is prohibited.
Rebuilding after destruction or major
damage may be considered at the discretion
of the Development Authority, provided
that a Restrictive Covenant is entered into
and registered as a caveat on title that
indemnifies the MD of any liability.
1.8.4
Existing legally established buildings
entirely or partly within the flood fringe
may be maintained or repaired. Additions
or structural alterations may be permitted
where flood mitigation measures, including
but not limited to minimum finished
floor elevations, are incorporated to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority.
Environmental Reserve
1.8.5
In accordance with the Act, Environmental
Reserve (ER) may, at the time of subdivision,
be applied to lands that are subject to a
flood hazard, contain sensitive habitat, or are
subject to potential erosion due to steep or
unstable slopes, as well as lands adjacent to
lakes, rivers, streams, or other water bodies to
provide public access or to protect natural
drainage courses.
Reports for Environmental Reserve Confirmation
1.8.6
Where the need for ER requires
confirmation, or situations arise where the
amount of ER proposed to be dedicated
exceeds the allocations identified in the Act,
the MD shall require that a geotechnical
report, biophysical assessment, and/or
environmental assessment be prepared to
support the proposed dedication.
Riparian Area Protection
1.8.7
For subdivisions adjacent to water bodies,
ER should include sufficient shore lands
so as to provide adequate protection for
waterfowl and fish habitat, and public
shoreline access in accordance with
the Act. In these areas, the ER allocation
may be supplemented by Municipal
Reserve (MR) where the additional lands
are required to accommodate parks
or playground areas, trail corridors or
walkways, or parking areas.
- Section 664 of the MGA allows
municipalities to require up to 6 metres
of ER along water bodies (from top of
bank). The MD may require increased
Environmental Reserve dedication
beyond 6 metres in locations where site
conditions (e.g. steep slopes, erosion
hazards, sensitive habitat, or public
access needs) warrant. In such cases,
the MD may request an Environmental
Site Assessment or Biophysical Impact
Assessment to inform the appropriate
buffer width.
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- The MD promotes the retention of
natural vegetation and the minimum
alteration of land for development along
watercourses or lakeshores in order to
preserve natural habitat.
- The MD promotes the protection of
wetlands located within its boundaries
by recognizing their presence
as designated by the Province.
Development and subdivision within
these areas should be limited and
referred to the Province for approval
under the Water Act and associated
regulations, as applicable.
- The MD should have regard for any
existing local watershed management
plans when making decisions respecting
subdivisions and development.
Sand and Gravel Extraction
1.8.8
The MD shall coordinate the permitting
and licensing process for sand and gravel
operations with the appropriate Provincial
regulatory body responsible for regulating
aggregate extraction activities. This
coordination will ensure compliance with
provincial environmental standards and
minimize potential impacts on adjacent
lands and land uses.
1.9
General - Social Policies
Municipal Reserve Dedication Requirements
1.9.1
Pursuant to Section 666 of the Act, the MD
shall require that the 10% maximum allotment
of MR be dedicated for subdivisions in
accordance with the MGA and the following:
- Where buffers are required between
incompatible land uses; or
- To implement the open space
requirements of an approved Statutory
Plan, or
- To implement the land or capital
requirements identified in a Recreation
and Open Space Master Plan or other
recreational facility need identified by
the MD.
In all other situations, MR shall be
dedicated as money-in-lieu.
Money-in-Lieu Municipal Reserve
1.9.2
When MR is to be provided as money-in-
place pursuant to Section 667 of the Act,
the rate of payment shall be based on
the assessed value of the subject land as
determined by the MD assessor.
Deferment of Municipal Reserve
1.9.3
MR requirements may be deferred
regardless of the nature of the proposed
subdivision if required to assemble larger
school or recreation sites in accordance
with an approved Area Structure Plan, if
the subject land is located in an urban
expansion area as defined in a Statutory
Plan, or if the amount of MR owing is
relatively small and can be dedicated as a
larger amount in the future.
Transfer of Municipal Reserve
1.9.4
MR may be transferred between parcels
that have the same owner in accordance
with the Act. MR may not be transferred
between parcels with different owners
unless by way of deferment in accordance
with 1.9.3.
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Design Controls
1.9.5
The MD shall enforce design guidelines
and landscaping standards along highways
that serve to enhance the visual form and
character of development.
Communications
1.9.6
The MD shall advocate to communication
service providers for improved
communications facilities and services on
behalf of its residents.
Trails
1.9.7
The MD's Recreation and Open Spaces
Master Plan provides direction for trail
development on topics including, but not
limited to:
- Trail networks to accommodate both
pedestrian and off-road vehicle traffic;
- Establishing criteria for developer
responsibility for new trails in private
developments;
- New trails around communities and
industrial and commercial areas to act as
surface fuel breaks and provide access
for suppression crews;
- Integration with other regional trail
networks; and
- Community hubs and bench programs.
Historical Resources
1.9.8
The MD shall encourage and may support
the efforts of public or private agencies in
the acquisition, restoration, preservation,
conservation or interpretation of historic
resources in the MD
Historic Site Designation
1.9.9
The MD may consider designating valuable
historic sites and buildings within the MD as
Municipal Historic Sites or encourage the
Province to designate valuable historic sites
and buildings within the MD as Provincial
Historic Sites where it considers such
action to be in the public interest.
1.10 General - Transportation
Policies
Road Access Required
1.10.1
All subdivision and development proposals
shall have access to developed roads.
The provision of roads associated with a
proposed subdivision or development are
the sole responsibility of the developer,
and must adhere to the criteria as listed in
the LUB.
Compliance with Standards
1.10.2
All roads shall be developed in accordance
with the MD's Engineering Design
Standards. This includes the development
of service roads for Highways as shown on
the Policy Area Maps, internal subdivision
roads, and grid roads.
Proximity to Highways
1.10.3
The MD shall encourage traffic-generating
developments to be located near
provincial highways or major municipal
roads to ensure safe and efficient access.
Where a development or subdivision
proposal results in the need for upgrades
to the highway or local road system,
the developer shall be responsible
for the costs of such improvements.
Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
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Required upgrades may include access
improvements, turning lanes, acceleration/
deceleration lanes, or other traffic safety
measures as determined by the MD and/or
Alberta Transportation.
Provincial Referrals
1.10.4
The MD shall refer all Area Structure Plans
and subdivision applications involving land
located within 1.6 kilometres of a Provincial
highway to the appropriate Provincial
regulatory body responsible for highways
for comment.
1.10.5
The MD shall refer all rezoning and
development permit applications involving
land located within 300 metres of a
Provincial highway or within 800 metres
of a provincial highway and public road
intersection to the appropriate Provincial
regulatory body responsible for highways
for comment.
Road Use Agreements
1.10.6
As a condition of approval of a
development, the MD may require that
the developer/operator enter into a
Road Use Agreement with the MD to
address haul routes, maintenance and/or
upgrading if necessary, dust control, snow
removal, and any other matters relative to
the road use.
Road Naming and Addressing
1.10.7
The provision of municipal address
signage for individual lots shall be
provided at the cost of the developer.
All naming and addressing of roads shall
conform to the MD's Municipal Servicing
Standards.
Roadside Cleanup
1.10.8
The MD shall work with the Provincial
government and other jurisdictions on
the periodic cleaning of roadsides and
ensuring removal of potential fuel materials
from Highways and other roadsides.
Road Design
1.10.9
All internal subdivision roads shall be
designed and constructed in accordance
with FRIAA principles. This includes
providing roads in new developments
with multiple entrance and exit points
to facilitate evacuation and access for
emergency vehicles. In addition, all roads
requiring bulbing shall be designed to
accommodate turnaround dimensions
for fire fighting vehicles. The MD may
require input from emergency services
departments or qualified fire officials
to confirm that proposed road designs
support safe emergency access and
egress.
Transportation Master Plan
1.10.10
The MD shall develop and maintain a
Transportation Master Plan (TMP) to guide
the long-term planning, development,
and maintenance of the municipal
transportation network.
The TMP will serve as a strategic framework
for identifying road classifications,
future network expansion, connectivity
improvements, and integration with
regional transportation systems.
In support of the TMP, the MD shall also
establish a road improvement prioritization
system and road improvement program to
guide infrastructure investment decisions
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based on factors such as traffic volumes,
safety, road condition, and growth patterns.
Railway Protection
1.10.11
New development abutting a railway right-
of-way should provide a safety barrier or
proper setback distance to current or future
railway lines. It is recommended to consult the
local railway company for setback distances
for development in proximity to railway
operations. The MD shall also ensure the
entrances/exits to new subdivisions will not be
interfered by railway operations or setbacks.
1.11 General - Utility Policies
Underground Utilities
1.11.1
The MD shall promote the placement
of all utilities underground in a
manner consistent with the Provincial
Transportation Utility Guidance Manual.
Public Utilities
1.11.2
Public utilities such as utility lines,
telecommunication facilities, green-
energy systems or similar infrastructure
may be developed, provided they meet
the regulations of the applicable Federal
or Provincial legislation, the LUB, and are
compatible with adjacent development.
Proposed utility lines and facilities should
incorporate appropriate buffer zones and
setbacks to reduce land-use conflicts with
residential, agricultural, recreational, and
environmentally sensitive areas. Buffering
may include vegetative buffers, fencing,
berms, setbacks, or other mitigating
strategies determined through the
development approval process.
Compliance with Standards
1.11.3
All municipal infrastructure systems,
including sewage collection and water
distribution systems, and sanitary
waste disposal sites installed by private
developers shall meet or exceed all
appropriate MD, Provincial and Federal
standards.
Protection of Groundwater
1.11.4
Any future subdivision and development
which may jeopardize existing groundwater
supplies or quality or pose problems for
sewage disposal shall not be approved.
Further, all developments are required to
meet Provincial standards for water supply
and sewage disposal.
Water and Sewer Servicing
1.11.5
All developments located outside of
serviced hamlets or designated Community
Areas shall be required to provide private
water supply and private sewage disposal
systems, in accordance with applicable
Provincial legislation, codes, and standards.
Where municipal water and/or wastewater
infrastructure is available within or abutting
a proposed development area, the
development shall be required to connect
to that infrastructure, unless otherwise
approved by the MD.
In areas served by municipal water and
wastewater systems, subdivision and
development shall occur at densities, lot
sizes, and configurations that make efficient
and economical use of the servicing
infrastructure, and shall not exceed the
capacity of existing municipal systems.
Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
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The MD may require a servicing study,
capacity assessment, or infrastructure
review as a condition of subdivision or
development approval, where connection
to existing services is proposed.
Development Agreements
1.11.6
The developer is responsible for the
provision of all on-site and off-site
infrastructure required to service the site,
including the payment of offsite levies.
Development agreements may be required
as a condition of subdivision and may be
required as a condition of development
permit approval.
Proof of Water Supply
1.11.7
The MD shall require developers to
demonstrate proof of water supply if
accessing groundwater, or identify the
proposed method of water servicing, for
all multi-lot rural residential developments
in excess of five lots. Where lots are
proposed to be served by cisterns,
restrictive covenants shall be registered
as a condition of subdivision approval,
prohibiting the use of wells or other means
of groundwater collection.
In areas with poor water availability, the
MD may require the installation of hydrant
systems or water reservoirs.
Sewage System Information Requirements
1.11.8
As part of a development permit
application, the MD shall require that
developers submit information respecting
the proposed location and type of sewage
disposal system intended to serve the
proposed development. The MD may
require that soil tests be undertaken by the
developer to determine that the soils are
suitable to accommodate onsite sewage
disposal systems.
Stormwater Management
1.11.9
The MD shall require developers to provide
stormwater management plans for multi-
lot subdivisions, and site grading/drainage
plans for individual development sites shall
be in conformance with the stormwater
management plan.
Utilities Strategic Plan
1.11.10
The MD should implement and periodically
update a Utilities Strategic Plan to guide
the sustainable provision of water and
wastewater services throughout the
municipality.
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2.0 Community Areas
The Community Areas within the MD include hamlets, rural settlements, and rural residential development areas,
each serving distinct roles and functions:
- Smith functions as the primary service centre, offering a wide range of commercial, industrial, institutional, and
residential services and land uses.
- Flatbush and Chisholm provide a more limited ranges of services, supporting local needs, and are primarily
residential areas.
- The South Shore communities offer predominantly a residential lifestyle, with limited local services. However, in
some areas, they support substantial home-based business opportunities.
- Fawcett Lake is designated as a recreational resort community, focused on seasonal and leisure-oriented uses.
While the MD recognizes that growth in these Community Areas is desirable, it is also aware that adjacent
resource-based land uses (e.g., forestry, oil and gas, or gravel extraction) can negatively impact the quality of life,
character, and development potential of nearby communities. The intent of this MDP is to protect the viability,
character, and function of these communities by coordinating future development and growth in a way that aligns
with the goals of this Plan and balances growth with compatibility.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
Objectives
- Ensure each Community Area contains sufficient
land within its boundaries to support comprehensive
land use planning and the development of
appropriate water, sewer, and transportation
servicing schemes.
- Promote community growth and expansion in a cost-
effective, orderly, and affordable manner that avoids
the unnecessary extension of municipal services.
- Encourage targeted growth in appropriate
Community Areas while discouraging premature or
unnecessary removal of land from the agricultural or
natural resource base.
- Protect future community expansion areas from
premature or incompatible development that would
either preclude or significantly increase the cost of
future conversion to community use.
- Ensure rural residential growth does not negatively
impact municipal infrastructure, the MD's fiscal
capacity, or nearby resource-based industries.
- Discourage premature or scattered rural residential
development that could lead to increased municipal
servicing costs or undermine coordinated land use
planning.
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2.1
Community Areas - Land
Use Policies
Community Areas
2.1.1
The Community Areas are illustrated on the
Policy Area Maps, which include but may not
be limited to the following:
- Assineau,
- Bayer Road
- Broken Paddle
- Canyon Creek
- Chisholm
- East of Nine Mile Point
- Eben Ebenau
- Fawcett Lake
- Flatbush
- Gildwood/Summerland
- Lawrence Lake
- Marten Beach
- Nine Mile Point
- Old Town
- Old Smith Highway
- Poplar Lane
- Smith
- Wagner
- Widewater
Development in the Community Areas shall be
predominantly residential in nature, with commercial,
institutional, and light industrial uses permitted only
where they are compatible with surrounding residential
development and located in areas that minimize land
use conflict, traffic impacts, or nuisances.
Rural Residential Development
2.1.2
All multi-lot rural residential subdivision
development proposals shall be evaluated
according to the criteria listed in the LUB.
Fringe Area Development
2.1.3
Development proposals on lands adjacent to
or near the boundaries of Community Areas
shall be carefully reviewed and regulated
by the MD to ensure that the character,
natural features, and overall amenities of
the Community Area are preserved. The
MD shall not support development or LUB
amendments in fringe areas unless it can be
demonstrated through appropriate studies or
assessments that the proposed development
will not negatively impact the Community
Area's visual or environmental qualities (e.g.,
loss of vegetation, views), infrastructure or
service capacity, land use compatibility, or
community function and livability.
Hamlets
2.1.4
The MD shall encourage new development
within its existing hamlets where it can
be supported by existing infrastructure,
community services, and location
advantages.
Each hamlet shall be considered a
potential growth node capable of
accommodating an appropriate mix of
residential, commercial, recreational, and
institutional land uses, provided such
development is compatible with the scale
and character of the community.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
The MD also supports efforts to improve the
long-term viability and vibrancy of its hamlets,
including:
- Development of group homes, seniors
housing, and community programs (such
as youth initiatives),
- Enhancement of local recreation facilities,
and
- Policies and investments that attract and
retain residents and services.
2.2
Community Areas -
Environmental Policies
2.2.1
Protect Natural Features
The natural character and ecological integrity
of shorelines, ravines, and river corridors
shall be protected by ensuring that adjacent
development is designed and located in
a way that minimizes visual, physical, and
environmental impacts.
Development adjacent to these features--
including buildings, parking areas, and other
site improvements--shall be regulated in
terms of height, massing, and placement to
ensure they do not disrupt views or alter the
natural form and function of these areas.
2.2.2
Conservation Easement
- The MD shall support the voluntary
placement of Conservation Easements by
private landowners as a means of protecting
important wildlife habitat, riparian areas, and
ecologically sensitive lands.
- Where a Conservation Easement is
proposed, the MD should encourage the
landowner to partner with a qualified non-
profit conservation organization to act as
the easement holder (dominant tenement),
in accordance with the Alberta Land
Stewardship Act.
2.3
Community Areas -
Transportation Policies
Location of Transportation Facilities
2.3.1
The MD shall encourage the location of
transportation facilities in a manner which:
- Encourages the integration of
transportation routes and utility lines within
defined corridors and, as much as possible,
in government road allowances;
- Discourages the creation of fragmented
parcels of land between rights-of- way; and
- Minimizes the impacts on recreational,
historical or wildlife resource areas.
Buffering Requirements
2.3.2
Where a proposed transportation facility
may negatively impact adjacent lands or
land uses, the MD shall require appropriate
buffering measures to minimize adverse
effects such as noise, dust, light, or
visual intrusion. Buffering may include
landscaping, fencing, berms, or setback
distances, as determined by the MD based
on the scale and nature of the proposed
facility and the sensitivity of surrounding
uses.
New residential development shall
incorporate design elements that establish
a clear and functional transition between
developed areas and adjacent agricultural
or forest lands.
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This transition may include a combination
of setbacks, landscaped buffers, open
space corridors, local access roads, or other
interface treatments that reduce land use
conflict, maintain rural character, and protect
the long-term viability of adjacent resource
lands.
The appropriate buffering measures shall
be determined through the subdivision
or Area Structure Plan process, based
on site-specific conditions and land use
compatibility considerations.
Transportation Rights-of-Way
2.3.3
The MD shall encourage new transportation
rights-of-way--such as highways, collector
roads, or rail lines--to avoid alignment
through existing residential areas or lands
designated for future residential expansion.
Where proximity to residential areas cannot
be avoided, the design and alignment
of the right-of-way should incorporate
measures that support future community
growth, including appropriate setbacks,
noise attenuation, landscaping, and access
management.
2.4
Community Areas -
Utility Policies
Location of Utility Lines and Facilities
2.4.1
The MD shall encourage the location of utility
lines and facilities in a manner which:
- Encourages the integration of
transportation routes and utility lines
within defined corridors and, as much as
possible, in government road allowances;
- Discourages the creation of fragmented
parcels of land between rights-of- way; and
- Minimizes the impacts on recreational,
historical or wildlife resource areas.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
Buffering Requirements
2.4.2
Where proposed utility lines or facilities
may negatively impact adjacent lands or
land uses, the MD shall require appropriate
buffering measures to reduce visual,
noise, environmental, or land use conflicts.
Buffering may include landscaping, fencing,
berms, increased setbacks, or other design
features, and shall be determined by the
Development Authority based on the nature
of the utility, the sensitivity of adjacent land
uses, and site-specific conditions.
Utility Rights-of-Way
2.4.3
The MD shall encourage new utility rights-
of-way to avoid existing residential areas
or lands designated for future residential
expansion. Where proximity to residential
areas cannot be avoided, the design
and alignment of the right-of-way should
incorporate measures that support future
community growth, including appropriate
setbacks, noise attenuation, landscaping,
and access management.
Optimization of Municipal Services
2.4.4
Where municipal water and sewer services
are available, subdivision and development
shall be designed to optimize the use of
existing servicing infrastructure by locating
and sizing lots at densities that are efficient,
cost-effective, and within the capacity of the
system. Development proposals that would
exceed system capacity or require expansion
of infrastructure shall not be supported
unless accompanied by a servicing strategy
acceptable to the MD.
Compliance of Existing Systems
2.4.5
When a lot containing an existing house is
to be subdivided from a larger parcel, the
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MD shall determine if the setbacks for the
existing sewer system comply with Provincial
private sewage regulations. If it is determined
the system is not compliant as a result of
subdivision, relocation or upgrading of the
system, this shall be identified as a condition
of subdivision approval.
Servicing in Hamlets
2.4.6
Residential lots in hamlets shall be
serviced with municipal water and sewer
services where available.
Communal Servicing
2.4.7
The MD may permit the use of centralized
(communal) sewage collection systems to
service new developments, provided that:
- The system is designed, constructed, and
operated in accordance with all applicable
provincial environmental and health
regulations; and
- A legally recognized entity, such as the
developer, utility provider, or resident
association, is established and responsible
for the long-term operation, maintenance,
and financial management of the system,
to the satisfaction of the MD.
Energy Conservation
2.4.8
The MD may promote the promotion of
energy conservation practices through
educational programs or public awareness
campaigns.
Solid Waste and Recycling Management
2.4.9
The MD should continue to demonstrate
leadership in environmental stewardship by
providing accurate, efficient, and effective
waste and recycling services. Solid waste
and recycling collection or disposal sites
shall be located, designed, and operated
in a manner that minimizes impacts
on surrounding land uses, including
consideration of visual screening, odour
control, noise mitigation, and access
management.
2.5
Community Areas -
Social Policies
Municipal Reserve Dedication at Subdivision
2.5.1
Municipal Reserve (MR) shall be dedicated
in Community Areas as a condition of
subdivision approval.
Dedication Requirements
2.5.2
The MD shall require that the 10%
maximum allotment of MR be dedicated in
Community Areas in accordance with the
Act and the following:
- Where the subdivision results in the
creation of a multi-lot residential
development for which community park or
facility space is required; or
- Where buffers are required between
incompatible land uses; or
- To implement the open space
requirements of an approved statutory
plan, or
- To implement the land or capital
requirements identified in a Recreation
and Open Space Master Plan or other
recreational facility need identified by
the MD. In these situations, MR shall
be dedicated in parcel form or as a
combination of land and money-in-lieu.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
Municipal Reserve Not Required
2.5.3
Notwithstanding Policy 2.5.1, the MD shall
not require the dedication of MR in the
following circumstances in addition to the
exemptions contained in the Act:
- The re-subdivision of an existing lot
under 4 hectares in size, unless the
re-subdivision is intended for multi-lot
residential development and MR was not
previously dedicated for the lot being re-
subdivided;
- Subdivision that is required to facilitate
the settlement of an estate;
- The creation of a single lot regardless of
size. If in excess of 4 hectares, MR owing
would be deferred in the event that
future subdivision is contemplated in
accordance with an Area Structure Plan.
Concentration of Municipal Reserve
2.5.4
MR land dedication should prioritize the
creation of larger, consolidated parcels
located on sites suitable for active or
passive recreation, rather than scattering
small MR parcels throughout a subdivision.
Wherever possible, MR lands should
be designed to connect with adjacent
Municipal Reserve parcels, Environmental
Reserve areas, or other publicly accessible
lands to create integrated open space
networks and trail systems.
Disposal of Municipal Reserve
2.5.5
MR parcels that no longer serve, or are
not expected to serve, an open space,
recreational, or school-related purpose may
be disposed of in accordance with the Act.
Proceeds from the sale of such lands shall
be deposited into the MD's dedicated
Municipal Reserve fund and used solely for
the acquisition or enhancement of parks,
public recreation areas, natural areas, or
school-related lands and facilities.
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3.0 Commercial Areas
Commercial Areas within the MD include business and service activities that support the daily needs of residents,
accommodate highway-related services, and contribute to economic development and employment.
Objectives
- Support commercial subdivision and development in locations that are compatible with surrounding land uses
and supported by adequate infrastructure, including hamlets, highway corridors, and designated business park
areas.
- Promote a diverse mix of commercial uses that contribute to local employment, meet the needs of residents
and travelers, and support long-term economic growth in the MD.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
3.1
Commercial Areas - Land
Use Policies
Hamlet Commercial
3.1.1
The MD shall encourage a range of
commercial development in hamlets
which serve the day-to-day needs of the
community and shall ensure that hamlet
commercial uses are developed at a scale
appropriate to the community.
Highway Commercial
3.1.2
Highway commercial development--
including uses such as hotels, gas stations,
automotive services, and restaurants--may
be permitted along designated highways
shown on the Policy Area Maps, where
appropriate.
Such developments shall be evaluated based on:
- Compatibility with surrounding land uses,
- Protection of environmentally sensitive
features,
- Availability and capacity of municipal or
private servicing, and
- Safe and efficient site access.
Site accesses must be approved by both
the MD and the Provincial regulatory body
responsible for highways, in accordance
with applicable highway access standards
and development regulations.
Infill Encouragement
3.1.3
The MD shall encourage infill and
intensification of existing business parks to
make more efficient use of available land,
infrastructure, and municipal services.
Where necessary, this may be facilitated
through amendments to existing statutory
plans or land use districts to accommodate
expanded or diversified commercial and
industrial activity.
3.2
Commercial Social
Policies
Municipal Reserve Dedication Requirements
3.2.1
The MD shall require that the 10%
maximum allotment of MR be dedicated for
commercial subdivisions in accordance with
the MGA and the following:
- Where buffers are required between
incompatible land uses; or
- To implement the open space
requirements of an approved Statutory
Plan, or
- To implement the land or capital
requirements identified in a Recreation
and Open Space Master Plan or other
recreational facility need identified by the
MD. In all other situations, MR shall be
dedicated as money-in-lieu.
Design Controls
3.2.2
The MD shall enforce design guidelines
and landscaping standards along highways
that serve to enhance the visual form and
character of development.
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4.0 Industrial Areas
The MD's economy is driven primarily by industrial activities related to forestry, agriculture, oil and gas, and
aggregate resource extraction. Major industrial developments are concentrated within the Mitsue Industrial Park,
including pulp mills, lumber mills, oriented strand board (OSB) production facilities, gas processing plants, and an
oilfield waste disposal facility. Additionally, the MD supports a variety of smaller-scale industrial businesses related
to resource-based sectors across the region.
Objectives:
- Encourage new industrial development at appropriate locations.
- Ensure that new industrial development is carried out in an environmentally responsible manner.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
4.1
Industrial Areas - Land
Use Policies
Industrial Development
4.1.1
Unless otherwise indicated in this Plan,
all future industrial development shall be
concentrated in the Mitsue Industrial Area as
illustrated on the Policy Area Maps.
In locating industrial development, special
consideration shall be given to the impacts
on rural infrastructure, including local
roads, bridges, traffic flows, and other
considerations as determined by the MD.
Industrial development which requires
large lots and a minimum level of municipal
services should be located in an industrial
park.
Community Areas
4.1.2
Light industrial and service commercial
development that is compatible with
residential development may be supported
in Community Areas if allowed under an
approved Area Structure Plan.
Other Industrial
4.1.3
The MD shall encourage diversification
of its industrial base by encouraging
small-scale or emerging industries that
complement the existing resource-based
economy. Locations outside Mitsue
Industrial Park may be considered on a
site-specific basis if supported by clear
economic or community benefit.
Buffering Requirements
4.1.4
At the discretion of the Development
Authority, industrial developments should
incorporate appropriate buffer zones and
setbacks to reduce land-use conflicts with
residential, agricultural, recreational, and
environmentally sensitive areas. Buffering
may include vegetative buffers, fencing,
berms, setbacks, or other mitigating
strategies determined through the
development approval process.
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Emergency Response and Safety
4.1.5
Industrial development applications should
include an emergency response and safety
plan identifying potential hazards, including
environmental hazards, emergency
response procedures, and coordination with
local emergency services, to the satisfaction
of the MD.
Environmental Protection
4.1.6
Industrial developments should minimize
negative impacts on the environment
through implementation of site-specific
environmental management plans, erosion
and sediment control practices, spill control
measures, and appropriate stormwater
management facilities in compliance with
Provincial and Federal regulations, to the
satisfaction of the MD.
Heavy Traffic Management
4.1.7
Industrial developments generating
significant heavy vehicle traffic may be
required by the MD or the Provincial
regulatory body responsible for transportation
to prepare a Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA)
as part of their development application.
Recommendations from the TIA may then
be implemented to ensure local roads
and bridges can accommodate increased
volumes and loads.
Municipal Reserve Dedication Requirements
4.1.8
The MD shall require that the 10% maximum
allotment of MR be dedicated for commercial
subdivisions in accordance with the following:
- Where buffers are required between
incompatible land uses; or
- To implement the open space
requirements of an approved Statutory
Plan, or
- To implement the land or capital
requirements identified in a Recreation
- and Open Space Master Plan or other
recreational facility need identified by the
MD.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
In all other situations, MR shall be dedicated
as money-in-lieu.
Money-in-Lieu of Municipal Reserve
4.1.9
When MR is to be provided as money-in-
place pursuant to Section 667 of the Act,
the rate of payment shall be based on
the assessed value of the subject land as
determined by the MD assessor.
Deferment of Municipal Reserve
4.1.10
MR requirements may be deferred
regardless of the nature of the proposed
subdivision if required to assemble larger
school or recreation sites in accordance
with an approved Area Structure Plan, if
the subject land is located in an urban
expansion area as defined in a Statutory
Plan, or if the amount of MR owing is
relatively small and can be dedicated as a
larger amount in the future.
Transfer of Municipal Reserve
4.1.11
MR may be transferred between parcels that
have the same owner in accordance with
the Act. MR may not be transferred between
parcels with different owners unless by way
of deferment in accordance with Policy 4.6.3.
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5.0 Crown Lands
Provincially controlled Crown lands represent approximately 85% of the Municipal District's total land base and
play a critical role in supporting major economic activities such as oil and gas, forestry, sand and gravel extraction,
and agriculture. These lands also contain important environmental features, including rivers, lakeshores, wetlands,
and wildlife habitats.
Although decisions regarding the use, disposition, and environmental protection of Crown lands are made by
the Province, the MD recognizes that these decisions significantly influence local land use planning, economic
development, and environmental sustainability. As such, the MD will continue to advocate and collaborate with
provincial agencies to encourage land management practices on Crown lands that align with local community
interests and municipal planning objectives.
Objectives
- Minimize conflicts between resource based and non-resource-based land uses.
- Minimize the negative impact of resource based industrial operations on the quality of the communities'
environments.
- Minimize the negative impact of resource-based operations on the quality of the natural environment.
- Minimize conflicts between resource based and non-resource-based land uses.
- Minimize the negative impact of resource-based operations on the quality of the natural environment.
- Cooperate with Provincial Government departments in the planning and development processes affecting
Crown lands.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
5.1
Crown Land - Land Use
Policies
Crown Land Area
5.1.1
Lands within the Crown Land area
are primarily reserved for resource
development, recreation, environmental
protection and associated activities.
Crown Land Conversion
5.1.2
The MD shall consider the following
factors when reviewing and commenting
on proposals to convert Crown Land to
titled land:
The impact on the existing road system
and the cost of constructing roads, if any,
into the new areas; and
The potential loss of alternative resource
development, recreational opportunities,
or environmentally sensitive lands.
Review of Development Proposals
5.1.3
When reviewing proposals for
development on Crown land,
consideration shall be given to the
following:
- Adjacent land uses;
37
- Provision of water, sewer, and emergency
and community services;
- Access; and
- Environmental impacts.
Crown Approvals
5.1.4
As a means of ensuring that the interests of
the MD are recognized and reflected in the
development of Crown Land, the MD shall
be involved and cooperate in Provincial
approval processes for proposed leases
and other dispositions, serving as a means
for conveying the concerns of residents
to the appropriate Provincial agencies,
and active participation in the review
processes.
Resource Extraction Industry Cooperation
5.1.5
The MD shall proactively encourage
resource extraction companies to
collaborate with municipal staff in
developing land use plans and to engage in
early public education and communication
efforts prior to exploration or extraction
activities. This collaboration should include
evaluating and addressing potential
impacts on existing land uses, future land
development, community infrastructure, and
environmental sustainability.
Responsible Energy Development
5.1.6
As part of the energy resource
development and exploration process,
the MD shall encourage the energy
industry to proactively consult with the MD,
landowners, and the public to identify and
address concerns, including:
- The potential threat to surface and
ground water and existing water wells;
- The impact of development on ability to
farm affected land;
- Dust, noise, and other consequences
with potential to affect domestic life;
- Road maintenance and the
establishment of traffic corridors; and
- Safety management coordination.
Work Camps
5.1.7
Support from the MD may be conditional
upon evidence that the work camp location
and design effectively mitigate impacts on
adjacent lands and existing land uses.
5.2
Crown Land -
Environmental Policies
Wildfire Risk Management
5.2.1
The MD shall coordinate with Provincial
agencies, industry partners, and local fire
protection services to proactively manage
wildfire risks on Crown Lands. Developers
should prepare wildfire management
plans and implement FRIAA practices as
appropriate.
Restoration and Reclamation
5.2.2
The MD should encourage timely and
effective reclamation and restoration of
disturbed Crown Lands by developers.
The MD may request reclamation plans,
include timelines, reclamation methods,
and monitoring procedures, and shall be
developed to Provincial standards and
best practices.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
5.3
Crown Land -
Transportation Policies
Compliance with Standards
5.3.1
Development on Crown Land is typically
accessed via private lease roads. However,
if such development requires upgrades
or improvements to MD roads, these
improvements shall be the responsibility of
the developer.
5.3.2
All required road upgrades shall be
completed in accordance with MD
engineering standards and specifications,
and at the developer's cost. The MD may
also request that an ASP be prepared to
provide long-term planning direction.
5.4
Crown Land - Social
Policies
Communications
5.4.1
The MD shall support the development
of communications towers and related
facilities in Crown Land areas.
Recreation and Access
5.4.2
The MD shall encourage the Province to
maintain and enhance public access to
Crown Lands for responsible recreation,
tourism, and cultural purposes, ensuring
such activities are managed sustainably
and in consultation with local communities.
39
6.0 Agriculture
Agriculture is a significant land use in the southerly portion of the MD. In this area, the protection of agricultural
operations and minimizing the conversion of agricultural lands to non-agricultural uses is a priority.
Objectives
- Protect and retain productive agricultural lands.
- Protect agricultural operations from incompatible non-agricultural uses. Agriculture - Land Use Policies
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
6.1
Agriculture - Land Use
Policies
Agriculture Areas
6.1.1
Within the Agriculture Areas identified on
the Policy Area Maps, farming shall be the
primary and preferred land use. Agricultural
operations will be prioritized above all other
land uses. The MD shall protect existing
agricultural activities from incompatible
developments or land uses that could
negatively impact agricultural productivity or
operations.
Notice of Agricultural Operations
6.1.2
The MD shall inform all applicants for
subdivision and development within
Agricultural areas that farming is the
predominant and priority land use. Applicants
should understand that agricultural
operations have precedence over other
land uses. Non-agricultural developments
shall be designed and operated to minimize
conflicts with agricultural practices, including
considerations related to hours of operation,
odours, noise, dust, and traffic generated by
farming activities.
Minimization of Fragmentation
6.1.3
Where agricultural land is dedicated for
roads, rail lines, pipelines, and transmission
lines, the MD should endorse only those
proposals which minimize the fragmentation
of agricultural land.
41
Subdivision of Agricultural Land and Fragmented
Parcels
6.1.4
The subdivision of land and fragmented
parcels in the Agriculture Area may be
approved in the circumstances as specified
in the LUB.
The maximum number of lots allowed to be
subdivided from a quarter section in the
Agricultural (A) designation (see MDP Policy
Area Maps) shall be four (4), including the
remnant. Approval of additional lots shall
require a Area Structure Plan in accordance
with the Act.
Location of Vacant Residential Parcel
6.1.5
The MD should only approve the creation
of a vacant residential parcel if its location
and intended residential use have been
designed to reasonably minimize potential
negative impacts on environmental features,
the ongoing agricultural use of the remaining
quarter section, and adjacent agricultural
operations. The MD may require adjustments
to parcel location, configuration, or other
conditions to achieve these objectives.
Confined Feeding Operations (CFOs)
6.1.6
In addition to provincial minimum distance
separation requirements determined by the
Natural Resources Conservation Board, the
MD shall not permit new Confined Feeding
Operations (CFOs) or manure storage
facilities requiring provincial approval or
registration within:
- 2.4 kilometres of any urban municipality's
corporate boundaries within the MD;
- 2.4 kilometres of any Community Area as
designated on Map 1 (these areas shall be
considered "urban fringe" for the purpose
of applying provincial regulations); or
- 2.4 kilometres from the shoreline of Lesser
Slave Lake.
CFO Variances
6.1.7
In addition to Policy 6.1.6, the MD shall
encourage the appropriate provincial
regulatory agency responsible for agricultural
operations (Natural Resources Conservation
Board) to avoid granting variances or
exemptions from provincial requirements
related to Confined Feeding Operations
(CFOs). The MD strongly supports full
compliance with all provincial agricultural
operation standards and regulations.
Road Use Agreements for CFOs
6.1.8
The MD shall encourage the appropriate
regulatory agency to require that a Road Use
Agreement be entered into with the MD to
address haul routes, maintenance and/or
upgrading if necessary, dust control, and any
other matters relative to the use of roads for
the CFO.
Manure Management
6.1.9
The MD shall encourage agricultural
operators and any agencies that approve
manure spreading to ensure that odours from
the manure spreading do not seriously impact
the use and enjoyment of nearby dwellings.
All manure-related operations shall abide by
the Provincial Manure Spreading Regulations.
Distance Setbacks
6.1.10
In reviewing subdivision or development
proposals near existing CFOs, the MD shall
ensure compliance with all applicable
provincial and federal regulations, including
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
Alberta's Agricultural Operation Practices
Act (AOPA) and relevant federal legislation
related to environmental protection, water
quality, and wildlife habitat.
Resource Extraction
6.1.11
The MD shall only support resource
extraction operations in Agricultural Areas
when operators demonstrate effective
measures to mitigate or minimize adverse
impacts on adjacent agricultural operations,
soils, water quality, biodiversity, ecosystems,
and other nearby land uses.
Resource Extraction Industry Cooperation
6.1.12
The MD shall proactively encourage
resource extraction industries to collaborate
with the municipality when preparing land
use plans. The MD shall also encourage
industry-led public education and
consultation before initiating exploration
or extraction activities, to ensure impacts
on current and future land uses are
appropriately considered and addressed.
Separation from Extraction Activities
6.1.13
New rural subdivision and development
should be directed away from active and
potential nonrenewable surface resource
extraction areas so as not to conflict, or
constrain, the extraction of the resource.
Responsible Energy Development
6.1.14
As part of the energy resource development
and exploration process, the MD shall
encourage the energy industry to engage
in forward thinking and constructive
consultation to address the following issues
when they propose development within the
MD:
- The potential threat to surface and ground water
and existing water wells;
- The impact of development on ability to farm
affected land;
- Dust, noise, and other consequences with
potential to affect domestic life;
- Road maintenance and the establishment of traffic
corridors; and
- Safety management coordination.
6.2
Agriculture -
Environmental Policies
Conservation Easement
6.2.1
The MD shall support the voluntary
placement of Conservation Easements
by private landowners as a means of
protecting important wildlife habitat,
riparian areas, and ecologically sensitive
lands.
Where a Conservation Easement is
proposed, the MD should encourage the
landowner to partner with a qualified non-
profit conservation organization to act as
the easement holder (dominant tenement),
in accordance with the Alberta Land
Stewardship Act.
Weed and Pest Control
6.2.2
The MD shall actively enforce weed and
pest control measures in Agricultural Areas,
in accordance with provincial legislation, to
prevent infestations and protect agricultural
productivity.
43
6.3
Agriculture -
Transportation Policies
Location of Transportation Facilities
6.3.1
The MD shall encourage the location of
transportation facilities in a manner which:
- Encourages the integration of
transportation routes and utility lines
within defined corridors and, as much as
possible, in government road allowances;
- Discourages the creation of fragmented
parcels of land between rights-of- way;
and
- Minimizes the impacts on recreational,
historical or wildlife resource areas.
Buffering Requirements
6.3.2
Transportation facilities should incorporate
appropriate buffer zones and setbacks
to reduce land-use conflicts with
residential, agricultural, recreational, and
environmentally sensitive areas. Buffering
may include vegetative buffers, fencing,
berms, setbacks, or other mitigating
strategies determined through the
development approval process.
Compliance with Standards
6.3.3
All roads shall be developed in accordance
with the MD's Engineering Design
Standards. This includes the development
of service roads for Highways as shown on
Map 1, internal subdivision roads, and grid
roads.
Alberta Transportation Referrals
6.3.4
The MD shall refer all Area Structure Plans,
rezoning, subdivision and development
applications involving land located within
0.8 kilometres of a highway to Alberta
Transportation for comment.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
6.4
Agriculture - Utility
Policies
Location of Utility Lines and Facilities
6.4.1
The MD shall encourage the location of utility
lines and facilities in a manner which:
- Encourages the integration of
transportation routes and utility lines within
defined corridors and, as much as possible,
in government road allowances;
- Discourages the creation of fragmented
parcels of land between rights-of- way; and
- Minimizes the impacts on recreational,
historical or wildlife resource areas.
Utility Rights-of-Way
6.4.2
The MD shall encourage new utility rights-of-
way to avoid existing residential areas or lands
designated for future residential expansion.
Where proximity to residential areas cannot
be avoided, the design and alignment
of the right-of-way should incorporate
measures that support future community
growth, including appropriate setbacks,
noise attenuation, landscaping, and access
management.
Compliance of Existing Systems
6.4.3
When a lot with an existing residence is
subdivided from a larger parcel, the MD shall
verify that the existing sewer system meets
provincial setback requirements. If the sewer
system does not comply due to the proposed
subdivision boundaries, the MD shall require
relocation or upgrading of the system as a
condition of subdivision approval.
6.5
Agriculture - Social
Policies
Municipal Reserve
6.5.1
Municipal Reserve (MR) should not be
required for subdivisions located in the
Agricultural Area, unless otherwise specified
within the LUB. MR dedicated under this
policy shall be dedicated as cash-in-lieu in
accordance with the Act.
45
7.0 Recreation, Environment, & Trails
The MD is characterized by an abundance of natural areas that are ideally suited for a variety of outdoor recreation
activities. With increasing demand expected on these areas, the intent of this MDP is to support recreational
development that aligns with the sustainable capacity of the landscape and respects the overall goals of this Plan.
Additionally, the MD shall acquire Municipal Reserve and Environmental Reserve lands as provided by the Act to
ensure long-term preservation and public access to key natural areas.
Objectives
- Provide diversity in public recreation opportunities.
- Provide public recreation development that is compatible with the capabilities and characteristics of the
natural environment and surrounding land uses.
- Ensure that high quality recreation resources are not jeopardized through premature or incompatible
development.
- Encourage quality development of public outdoor recreation resources as a means of promoting tourism in the
MD.
- Recognize that non-development and preservation of natural areas contribute significantly towards the
promotion of tourism in the MD.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
7.1
Recreation, Environment,
& Trails - Land Use Policies
Support for Recreation Development
7.1.1
Within the MD, recreational uses such as
campgrounds, day use areas, picnic sites,
hiking and ski trails, and other similar uses as
developed by either private or public interests
shall be allowed in all areas, provided that they
do not interfere with agricultural operations or
resource extraction and processing industries.
Design of Recreation Facilities
7.1.2
All public recreation development shall be
designed to fit into the surrounding natural
landscape, particularly in terms of siting, scale
and visual impact.
Recreation Master Plan
7.1.3
The MD has prepared a Recreation and Open
Space Master Plan, which shall be used as
the basis for future recreation, park and trail
planning and development. The plan seeks to:
- Identify and enhance the provision of a
sustainable land base to support tourism
development;
- Develop plans to create significant
recreation and tourism features, settings
and scenery on public lands;
- Identify the partners, resources, and need
for new investment in infrastructure that
supports the development of tourism;
- Identify and designate high intensity
motorized recreation areas;
- Identify other infrastructure and facilities
necessary to support trails based
recreation; and
- Coordinate with other municipalities and
governments to develop a regional trail
system.
Recreation Services
7.1.4
The MD shall, through regional and local
recreation boards, continue an active
program for the provision, upkeep and
improvement of recreational areas and
facilities to meet the recreational needs and
desires of MD residents.
7.2
Recreation, Environment,
& Trails - Environmental
Policies
Recreational Use in Environmental Areas
7.2.1
The MD supports the use of lake shores,
river corridors and other environmentally
sensitive areas for passive recreational
purposes that do not place undue stress or
harm on the resource.
Tourism Development
7.2.2
The MD should conduct tourism
opportunity assessments to identify
potential tourism experiences, which may
include guided tours, educational programs,
attractions, exhibits, and interpretive sites.
The MD should collaborate with the
Provincial government and other partners
to secure funding and technical support
to promote the MD's scenic routes,
trails, waterways, and attractions. These
collaborative efforts should aim to create
distinctive visitor experiences and
effectively showcase the region's unique
natural and scenic resources.
47
8.0 Intermunicipal Coordination & Economic
Development
The MD shares boundaries with six rural municipalities, surrounds the Town of Slave Lake, and also surrounds the
Sawridge First Nation. The MD shall collaborate closely with all neighbouring municipalities and the Sawridge
First Nation to effectively serve residents and industries. The intent of this MDP is to encourage coordinated
development, planning activities, and the efficient delivery of shared services between the MD and adjacent
jurisdictions.
Objectives
- Provide for coordination of development activity and infrastructure with neighbouring jurisdictions.
- Continue to implement intermunicipal agreements as a means of continuing to provide services to residents
on a cost-efficient basis.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
8.1
Intermunicipal and
Economic Development
Policies
Circulation of MDP Amendments
8.1.1
All proposals for amendments to this MDP
shall be circulated to Sawridge First Nation,
all Rural Municipalities, and the Town of
Slave Lake for comment and input before a
decision on the proposal is made.
Referrals
8.1.2
All proposals for a Statutory Plan, Statutory
Plan amendment, Land Use Bylaw
amendment, subdivision, or development
permit for lands located within 3.2 km of a
Rural Municipality or Sawridge First Nation
shall be circulated to that municipality for
comment and input before a decision on
the proposal is made. All referrals to the
Town of Slave Lake shall be in accordance
with the Intermunicipal Development Plan
(IDP).
Slave Lake Intermunicipal Development Plan
8.1.3
The MD shall continue to support its IDP
with the Town of Slave Lake. The MD shall
participate in the monitoring and review
of the IDP to ensure it remains current and
reflects the needs of the municipalities and
area residents.
49
Conformity with IDP
8.1.4
The MD shall not approve any development
proposal in contravention of an IDP. If such
development is proposed and deemed to
have merit, then an amendment to the IDP
shall be pursued in accordance with the
provisions of the IDP.
Intermunicipal Agreements
8.1.5
The MD shall continue the use of
intermunicipal agreements as a means of
delivering services, such as emergency
response, affordable housing, transportation,
and utility infrastructure, in a cooperative
manner and to maximize available resources.
Joint Economic Development Strategy
8.1.6
The MD, in cooperation with other strategic
partners including Sawridge First Nation,
should develop and maintain a long-term
economic development strategy that will
promote the MD and region as an attractive
place to locate new businesses and support
the retention and expansion of existing
businesses and industries.
Economic Development
8.1.7
Investments in projects that support
economic growth shall be prioritized to
enhance the MD's overall competitiveness
and prosperity. The following strategies
should guide future economic
development efforts:
- Protecting and enhancing industrial
and commercial areas to ensure suitable
spaces are available for new and
expanding businesses;
- Focusing growth in strategic locations
that provide sustainable, vibrant
communities offering a high quality live-
work environment;
- Encouraging investment in local
communities and neighbourhoods to
increase diverse and affordable housing
opportunities;
- Prioritizing efficient review and issuance
of permits for various types of businesses
to stimulate local economic activity and
investment; and
- Actively collaborating with government
partners, Indigenous communities, non-
governmental organizations, and non-
profit sectors to attract investment and
foster broader economic opportunities
throughout the MD."
Interagency Cooperation
8.1.8
The MD shall actively collaborate with
neighbouring municipalities, Indigenous
communities, and provincial authorities in
planning, developing, and operating shared
transportation networks, water distribution
systems, and sewage treatment facilities,
where cooperation can achieve mutual
benefits and cost efficiencies.
MD as Affected Party
8.1.9
The MD considers itself to be an affected
party for any application under review
by any regulatory agency that affects
Lesser Slave Lake. The MD shall work
with regulatory agencies to ensure it is
consulted during the review process as the
Lake is a significant source of drinking water
for the MD.
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Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
Emergency Services
8.1.10
The MD may provide assistance in response
to fires, rescues, or other emergencies that
occur outside its municipal boundaries,
when appropriate and feasible.
8.1.11
The MD may enter into mutual aid
agreements with neighbouring
municipalities, First Nations, fire protection
services, and relevant provincial or regional
agencies to both provide and receive
emergency assistance for fires, rescues, and
other incidents.
Tourism Development
8.1.12
The MD possesses significant historical,
natural, ecological, and wildlife resources,
making it an attractive destination for both
heritage tourism and ecotourism. The MD
shall actively support and promote tourism
initiatives that celebrate these resources,
while ensuring that all development and
activities are environmentally responsible
and culturally respectful.
Cooperative Recreation and Tourism Development
8.1.13
The MD shall promote cooperative private,
non-government and public sector
initiatives to develop local recreation and
tourism opportunities.
Support for Eco-Tourism and Agri-Tourism
8.1.14
The MD should support the development of
eco-tourism and agri-tourism as strategies
to diversify the local economy and generate
employment opportunities, provided such
initiatives align with land use compatibility
and environmental stewardship goals.
51
9.0 Plan Implementation
This section of the MDP relates to the mechanisms for the ongoing monitoring, implementation and administration
of the Municipal Development Plan.
52
Municipal District of Lesser Slave River | Municipal Development Plan
9.1
Authority of the Plan
Subdivision and Development Compliance
9.1.1
Subdivision and development of lands
within the MD must be in accordance
with the provisions of this MDP and other
Statutory Plans that may be applicable.
Government Regard for Plan
9.1.2
Council shall encourage the Provincial
and Federal governments to have regard
for the provisions of this MDP in the
development and redevelopment of Crown
lands, and in the formulation of Provincial
and Federal policies and programs within
the MD.
9.2
Land Use Bylaw
MD Not Compelled to Rezone Land
9.2.1
No provisions of this MDP shall compel the
MD to rezone lands in the Land Use Bylaw
for any use until such time as a subdivision
or development application is submitted to
the MD requiring such action.
9.3
Amendments to the Plan
Amendments in Accordance with Act
9.3.1
Any amendments to this Municipal
Development Plan (MDP) required due to
changing conditions shall be adopted by
Council through a bylaw, in accordance
with the Act.
Amendment Criteria
9.3.2
Requests to amend this MDP shall meet
the following criteria:
- Applicants shall submit a formal, written
request to Council, accompanied by the
required application fee; and,
- The request shall include a detailed
written explanation clearly outlining how
the proposed amendment relates to,
and impacts, the goals, objectives, and
policies of this MDP.
Agency Referrals
9.3.3
Council may circulate amendment
proposals to relevant external agencies
or stakeholders for review and comment,
and may request additional information as
necessary to adequately assess and make
an informed decision on the proposed
amendment. .
An amendment to this MDP may be
initiated by the MD if deemed to be in the
best interests of the MD to do so.
9.4
Plan Review
Review of MDP
9.4.1
As planning conditions continuously
evolve, this MDP shall be reviewed
regularly to ensure it remains relevant and
responsive to the MD's needs. Reviews of
this MDP shall occur as follows:
- A complete or partial review due
to economic, social, or technical
developments or environmental
considerations;
- A complete review at least once every
five years; or
- A complete or partial review as a result
of an MDP amendment request.
53
Schedule A:
Redlined Municipal
Development Plan
MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO.
124
BYLAW 2012-09
MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
February, 2013
BYLAW 2025-06
A BYLAW OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LESSER SLAVE RIVER NO. 124 IN THE PROVINCE OF
ALBERTA, FOR THE PURPOSE OF ADOPTING AAMENDING THE MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
WHEREAS, Section 632(1) of the Municipal Government Act, RSA 2000, and amendments thereto, requires that every
Council of a municipality must by Bylaw adopt a Municipal Development Plan;
AND WHEREAS Council of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 enacted Bylaw 2012-09;
AND WHEREAS Council of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 wishes to amend Bylaw 2012-09;a
Municipal Development Plan has been prepared in accordance with Section 632(3) of the Municipal Government Act,
RSA 2000, and amendments thereto;
AND WHEREAS, notice of the proposed Bylawthe amended Municipal Development Plan and Public Hearing was
given pursuant to Section 606(2) ofin accordance with the Municipal Government Act, RSA 2000, c M-26 and
amendments thereto;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 in the Province of Alberta, duly
assembled, hereby enacts as follows:
1.
THAT Bylaw 2012-09, the Municipal Development Plan, is hereby amended in accordance with the blackline
the Municipal District of Lesser
Slave River No. 124
.
1.2. THAT all other provisions of Bylaw 2012-09, the Municipal Development Plan, shall remain unamended and
in full force and effect, with the exception of any section numbering which has been modified by this Amending
Bylaw.
2.3. Should any provision of this bylaw become invalid, void, illegal, or otherwise not enforceable, it shall be
considered separate and severable from the bylaw and the remainder shall remain in force and be binding as
though such provisions had not been invalid.THAT Bylaw 2012-09 and amendments thereto is hereby
rescinded.
3.4. THAT this Bylaw come into effect upon the Third Reading thereto.
READ for a first time this 14___th day of May, 2025Month, YYYY
READ for a second time this ___th day of Month, YYYY
READ for a third and final time this ___th day of Month, YYYY
______________________________________
Murray Kerik, Reeve
______________________________________
Barry Kolenosky, Chief Administrative Officer
Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124
Municipal Development Plan - Bylaw 2012-09
February, 2013
Table
of
Contents
Table of Contents
1.0
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 1
1.1
Municipal Development Plan Purpose ........................................................................................ 1
1.2
Conformity with Plan ................................................................................................................. 2
1.3
Legislative Requirements........................................................................................................... 2
1.4
Interpretation ............................................................................................................................ 3
1.5
Council Vision ........................................................................................................................... 4
1.6
Municipal Development Plan Goal ............................................................................................. 5
1.7
General Development Policies ............................................................................................. 5
2.0
COMMUNITY AREAS ................................................................................................................ 8
Objectives ............................................................................................................................................ 8
2.1
Land Use Policies ...................................................................................................................... 8
2.2
Environmental Policies ............................................................................................................ 10
2.3
FireSmart Policies ................................................................................................................... 11
2.4
Transportation Policies ............................................................................................................ 12
2.5
Utility Policies ......................................................................................................................... 14
2.6
Social Policies ........................................................................................................................ 16
3.0
COMMERCIAL AREAS ............................................................................................................ 19
Objectives .......................................................................................................................................... 19
3.1
Land Use Policies .................................................................................................................... 19
3.2
Environmental Policies ............................................................................................................ 19
3.3
FireSmart Policies ................................................................................................................... 19
3.4
Transportation Policies ............................................................................................................ 20
3.5
Utility Policies ......................................................................................................................... 21
3.6
Social Policies ........................................................................................................................ 22
4.0
INDUSTRIAL AREAS ............................................................................................................... 24
Objectives .......................................................................................................................................... 24
4.1
Land Use Policies .................................................................................................................... 24
4.2
Environmental Policies ............................................................................................................ 24
4.3
FireSmart Policies ................................................................................................................... 25
4.4
Transportation Policies ............................................................................................................ 25
4.5
Utility Policies ......................................................................................................................... 27
4.6
Social Policies ........................................................................................................................ 28
5.0
CROWN LANDS ..................................................................................................................... 29
Objectives .......................................................................................................................................... 29
5.1
Land Use Policies .................................................................................................................... 29
5.2
FireSmart Policies ................................................................................................................... 30
5.3
Transportation Policies ............................................................................................................ 31
5.4
Social Policies ........................................................................................................................ 31
6.0
AGRICULTURE ....................................................................................................................... 33
Objectives .......................................................................................................................................... 33
6.1
Land Use Policies .................................................................................................................... 33
6.2
Environmental Policies ............................................................................................................ 36
6.3
FireSmart Policies ................................................................................................................... 37
6.4
Transportation Policies ............................................................................................................ 37
6.5
Utility Policies ......................................................................................................................... 38
6.6
Social Policies ........................................................................................................................ 39
Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124
Municipal Development Plan - Bylaw 2012-09
February, 2013
Table
of
Contents
7.0
RECREATION, ENVIRONMENT AND TRAILS ............................................................................. 41
Objectives .......................................................................................................................................... 41
7.1
Land Use Policies .................................................................................................................... 41
7.2
Environmental Policies ............................................................................................................ 42
7.3
FireSmart Policies ................................................................................................................... 42
8.0
INTERMUNICIPAL COORDINATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ....................................... 44
Objectives .......................................................................................................................................... 44
8.1
Intermunicipal and Economic Development Policies ................................................................. 44
9.0
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION ........................................................................................................ 46
9.1
Authority of the Plan ................................................................................................................ 46
9.2
Land Use Bylaw ....................................................................................................................... 46
9.3
Amendments to the Plan ......................................................................................................... 46
9.4
Plan Review ............................................................................................................................ 46
Maps
Map 1
Land Use Concept - North
Following Page 5
Map 2
Land Use Concept - South
Following Page 5
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1.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Municipal Development Plan Purpose
Municipal planning in Alberta is administered under the provisions of Part 17 of the Municipal Government
Act, RSA 2000 (hereafter referred to as "the "Act"). The purpose of planning in Alberta is provided in
Section 617 of the Act as follows:
to achieve the orderly, economical and beneficial development, use of land and pattern of human
settlement, and to maintain and improve the quality of the physical environment within which
patterns of human settlement are situated in Alberta, without infringing on the rights of individuals
for any public interest except to the extent that is necessary for the overall greater public interest.
In Alberta municipalities, the primary land use planning policy document used to achieve this broader
purpose is the Municipal Development Plan ("MDP" or "Plan"). It provides a framework for the ongoing
development of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 ("(the "MD"). The MDP outlines a set
of long -term goals and policies to guide the planning and coordination of development and subdivision in
the MD.
The Plan will assist Council in rationally addressing ongoing conflicts between resource-based industries
and residential or recreational land uses; hamlet growth and servicing options; the accommodation of
industrial/ and commercial development; future transportation structurenetworks; and the acquisition and
use of reserve land for parks and other municipal purposes.
Regular reviewreviews of the MDP is desirable to ensure that the policies remain relevant over time and
are an accurate reflection ofaccurately reflect the priorities of the community. This update toA review
of the MD's 20042012 MDP was undertakeninitiated in 2021 to address some key strategic issues that
have beenpriorities previously identified by Council; many of these priorities remain relevant in 2025:
-
IncreasedIncreasing flexibility respecting the allocation of municipal reserve at subdivision;
-
ClearerEstablishing clearer criteria respecting the allocation of environmental reserve at
subdivision;
-
The accommodation ofAccommodating economic development initiatives;
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The protectionProtecting and retention ofretaining agricultural lands;
-
Development ofDeveloping recreational areas, trails and open spaces; and
-
ConsistencyEnsuring consistency with Council'sCouncil's Integrated Community Sustainability
Plan (2010-2014), Council's, Council's Strategic Plan, and Council'sCouncil's Vision, Mission
and Values statement.
Other key topics examined in 2021 include the extension of rural road infrastructure, incentives for
residential growth, and the character and form of development in new residential areas, along with
application of stronger zoning and other land use planning tools to ensure that different land uses coexist
and complement each other. In addition, MDP policies respecting the implementation of Forest Resource
Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) FireSmart principles and emergency response have been
significantly enhanced in response to major forest fire events experienced in the Spring of 2011.
Further, the 20042012 MDP was reviewed to ensure that the requirements of the Act are met, and that
applicable provisions of the Alberta Land Stewardship Act (ALSA) are addressed where warranted.
This review process, as conducted in 2021, was completed in conjunction with several engagement
opportunities including the public, members of the Municipal Planning Commission (MPC), and Council.
Administration has utilized the feedback provided during this review and engagement process in order to
achieve an updated plan in 2025.
The planMDP, in its essence, will help in creatingto create complete communities throughout the MD
and provide a basis for building a consensus around change. It will also provide the MD with a holistic
approach to integrate the MD'sMD's growth and development with surrounding municipalities and
jurisdictions. However, this plan is a general guide and may not cover all situations and circumstances.
As a result, more detailed policy documents such as Area Structure Plans, master plans, and mitigation
plans will beare needed to support the Plan in its implementation and meeting its community building
goals. Some areas of the MD having been identified for orare more likely to see future growth and will
also need more detailed planning and land use guidance than this MDP can provide. In this case,
thethose cases, relevant Area Structure Plans and other studies will be neededimplemented to firm
upaddress the land use planning decisionscircumstances of these specific areas.
1.2 1.2
Conformity with Plan
MDPs are prepared and adopted in accordance with the requirements of Section 632 of the Act, and are
mandatory for all municipalities with a population in excess of 3,500. A municipality that does not
meet this population threshold is not required to adopt an MDP, but if the municipality proceeds to
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adopt an MDP this will ensure that land use decisions are based on sound policy. and are
mandatory for all municipalities. The Act provides guidance for Plan content through the provision of
mandatory and optional requirements as follows:
Mandatory Policy Requirements
-
Future land use
-
Proposals for future development
-
Coordination with adjacent
municipalities if no intermunicipal
development plan in place
-
Transportation systems
-
Municipal services
-
Proximity to sour gas facilities
-
Municipal reserve
-
Protection of agricultural operations
Optional Policy Requirements
-
Finance and programming of
infrastructure
-
Coordination of programs
-
Environmental matters
-
Financial resources
-
Economic development
-
Development constraints
-
Any other matters relating to physical,
social or economic development
Further, Mandatory Requirements
-
Future land use
-
Proposals for future development
-
Coordination with adjacent municipalities if no intermunicipal development plan in place
-
Transportation systems
-
Municipal services
-
Land adjacent to sour gas facilities
-
Municipal, school, or municipal and school reserve
-
Protection of agricultural operations
Optional Requirements
-
Finance and programming of infrastructure
-
Coordination of programs
-
Environmental matters
-
Financial resources
-
Economic development
-
Development constraints
-
Any other matters relating to physical, social or economic development
-
Conservation reserve
Section 637 of the Act does not require a municipality to undertake any projects that might be specified in
the Plan. Section 638 requires that all statutory plans (Intermunicipal Development Plans, Area Structure
Plans, and Area Redevelopment Plans) be consistent with each other.
Any new land use or development proposal that does not comply with this MDP cannot be considered
unless the Plan itself is amended to accommodate that proposal. Land uses in existence prior to adoption
of the MDP which do not comply with the Plan are allowed to continue. , subject to the Act.
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1.3 1.3
Legislative Requirements
1.3.1
1.3.1
This Plan has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Act, as well as
the principles and strategies contained in the Alberta Land-use Framework (ALUF).Use
Framework (ALUF) and the MD's Intermunicipal Development Plan with the Town of Slave Lake
and Sawridge First Nation.
1.3.2
1.3.2
During the preparation of the proposed regional plan for the Upper Athabasca
Region pursuant to the ALUF, theThe MD shall participate as often as possible in the
formulation of this regional planthe Upper Athabasca Regional Plan in order to communicate the
MD'sMD's vision, goals and policies contained in the MDP, and will amend the MDP to be
consistent with the Upper Athabasca Regional Plan once adopted, if necessaryas required.
1.4 1.4
Interpretation
1.4.1
1.4.1
For the purpose of interpreting this MDP, the following definitions shall apply:
Environmentally Sensitive
Area
An area that is determined to be generally unsuitable for
development due to the presence of excessive or
unstable slopes, the potential for erosion or flooding, or
contain sensitive ecological habitat. This definition
applies to lakeshores, rivers and other water courses,
river valleys, forests and vegetation, unique topographic
features, environmentally hazardous lands, and important
wildlife habitat and corridors.
Internal Subdivision Road
A public road that provides access to lots within a
registered subdivision.
Regulation
The Subdivision and Development Regulation (AR
43/2002).
Rural Municipality
Means Westlock, Northern Sunrise, Woodlands, and
Athabasca Counties, the MDs of Opportunity No. 17 and
Big Lakes, and the Sawridge First Nation.
South Shore
Means that area of the MD that consists of the
communities of Canyon Creek, Widewater, Wagner, Nine
Mile Point/Nine Mile Point East and Assineau.
Statutory Plan
Means an Intermunicipal Development Plan, Municipal
Development Plan, Area Structure Plan, or Area
Redevelopment Plan prepared and adopted in
accordance with the Act.
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Area Structure Plan
Means a Statutory Plan adopted by Council, prepared pursuant to Section 633 of the Act, that
provides a framework for subsequent subdivision and development of an area of land at a
conceptual level of detail.
Environmentally Sensitive Area
An area that is determined to be generally unsuitable for development due to the presence of
excessive or unstable slopes, the potential for erosion or flooding, or which contains sensitive
ecological habitat. This definition applies to lakeshores, rivers and other water courses, river
valleys, forests and vegetation, unique topographic features, environmentally hazardous lands,
and important wildlife habitat and corridors.
Internal Subdivision Road
A public road that provides access to lots within a registered subdivision.
Outline Plan
Means a non-statutory, detailed land use plan for an area of land that is typically smaller than the
land area encompassed by an Area Structure Plan and which conforms to all Statutory Plans. An
Outline Plan may be adopted by resolution of Council pursuant to Part 17 of the Act.
Regulation
The Subdivision and Development Regulation (AR 43/2002).
Rural Municipality
Means Westlock, Northern Sunrise, Woodlands, and Athabasca Counties, the MDs of
Opportunity No. 17 and Big Lakes, and the Sawridge First Nation.
South Shore
Means that area of the MD that consists of the communities of Canyon Creek, Widewater,
Wagner, Nine Mile Point/Nine Mile Point East and Assineau.
Statutory Plan
Means an Intermunicipal Development Plan, Municipal Development Plan, Area Structure Plan,
or Area Redevelopment adopted by bylaw under the authority of the Act.
All other words or expressions shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the Municipal
Government Act, Subdivision and Development Regulation, and the MD'sMD's Land Use Bylaw.
1.4.2
1.4.2
This Plan contains policies utilizing the terms "shall", "should" and "may", which are to be
interpreted as follows:
-
"Shall" means that a policy is mandatory and must be complied with,
-
"Should" means a policy where compliance towith the general principle is required but the
method and level of compliance is subject to the discretion of the applicable authority on a case -
by -case basis,
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-
"May" means a policy is discretionary with the level of compliance determined on a case -by -case
basis by the applicable authority.
1.4.3
1.4.3 With the exception of those lands contained within an Intermunicipal Development
Plan theThe policies set forth in this Plan apply to all lands contained within the corporate
boundaries of the MD. If a situation arises thatIn the applicableevent of an inconsistency
between the MDP and the Intermunicipal Development Plan does not address, the relevant
policies contained in thisrespecting lands within the boundaries of the MD, the Intermunicipal
Development Plan shall apply.prevail.
1.4.4
1.4.4 The land use area boundaries identified in this MDP are considered approximate and not
absolute. Any minor adjustments or variances that may be necessary to land use policy areas
shall not require an amendment to this MDP.
1.5 1.5
Council Vision
In order to optimize the MDP'sMDP's effectiveness, it is critical that it be consistent with the directions
and priorities established in Council's strategic planningCouncil's Strategic Plan and visioning
processes. In Council's Strategic Plan, the following mission statement was adopted:
Council approved a Mission, Vision and Values Statement in 2010. In that document, the following
mission statement was adopted:
We manage and develop the infrastructure of our MD to protect the inherent beauty of our
landscape. We provide stability and opportunities for growth, for the MD and for the individuals who
live here.
Key components of the Council vision include:
-
Capitalizing on our geographic location to realize our potential as a major route to the North and
the Pacific.
-
Leveraging our renewable resources to provide sustainable infrastructure with taxation generated
from the oil and gas industry.
-
Pursuing opportunities for concentrated processing of our resources at Mitsue Industrial Park and
elsewhere where infrastructure, environment, and lifestyle warrant.
-
Planning our communities with consideration for environmental impact, design integrity,
segregation of use, the nature of neighbourhoods, the placement and type of local improvements,
and the sense of privacy and space in rural settings.
-
Supporting initiatives for community halls, common green spaces and places for recreation,
gathering and communicating.
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-
Providing opportunities for youth and stability for seniors.
-
Sustaining the municipality as a place where prosperity is the norm, and where people are
equipped to care for themselves, for the land, and for one another.
-
Community policing to ensure the safety of residents and enforcement of MD Bylaws.
-
Flood and drought management and mitigation.
All of these components have a connection to MDP policy. The implications of these directions on the
MDP are as follows:
-
The inclusionInclusion of policy language related to the maintenance and improvement to rural
roads and infrastructure;
-
The incorporationIncorporation of environmental protection and stewardship policies;
-
Expansion of existing economic development policies, with a focus on growth and affordability;
-
Inclusion of strategies and policies respecting emergency preparedness;
-
Incorporation of more clear policy direction on land use development and community planning;
and
-
Identification and preservation of historic resources, cost sharing of recreational services with
adjacent municipalities, identification of natural areas and connectivity, and open space planning.
It is intended that the policies of this MDP help achieve this vision.
1.6 1.6
Municipal Development Plan Goal
The goal of the MDP is based upon an evaluation of various land use issues and concerns facing the MD.
This goal becomes the guiding principle and foundation of this MDP.
A significant amount of land in the MD is currently used for natural resource development, including
agriculture. Council foresees these resource industries as beingwill continue to be important to the long
term social and economic welfare of the MD. However, it is necessary that the MDP both protect both
the predominantly residential nature of the communities within the MD, and to promote the diversification
of industry and the economic base. In this manner, an environment will be provided which benefits both
industry and theour communities. It is recognized that there are sufficient areas of the MD which can
accommodate non-residentialnonresidential land uses without jeopardizing theour communities. The
MDP goal, therefore, encourages opportunities for well planned growth and development. This will
promote a diversification of the MD's economic base.
It is the goal of this MDP to protect and develop communities within the MD in accordance with the
communities'communities' vision while providing the necessary opportunities for maximizing the
economic use of the MD's resource land base, and providing for industrial and economic
diversification within the overall context of well-planned growth, change and development.
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1.7 1.7
General Development Policies
Legislative
Conformity
1.7.1
The MD shall conform to the policies of the Province of Alberta, the
Provincial Land Use Framework and any subsequent Regional Plan
when considering MDP updates, MDP amendments, Land Use Bylaw
amendments, or other development proposals.
Land Use Plan
1.7.2
Future development in the MD shall generally conform to the Land Use
Concept (Maps 1 and 2). The map is designed to provide the MD with a
broad framework for development and is not intended to be interpreted
on a site-by-site basis.
Area Structure
Plan
1.7.3
As a prerequisite to the approval of any major industrial, commercial or
residential subdivision or development proposal, the MD may require
at its discretion the preparation of an Area Structure Plan (ASP), to be
prepared by the developer in accordance with Act. Such plans should
address the following issues as deemed appropriate by the MD:
(a) Conformity with this Plan, other Statutory Plans and the Land Use
Bylaw;
(b) Impacts on adjacent uses and mitigation methods, such as the
provision of any suitable buffers or setbacks;
(c) Impacts on adjacent uses, environmentally sensitive areas, and
recreational uses, including provision for buffers;
(d) Proposed land uses and population projections;
(e) Proposed methods of water supply, stormwater management and
sewage disposal;
(f) Access and internal circulation and impacts on the transportation
network;
(g) Allocation of municipal and environmental reserve;
(h) Suitability of the development site in terms of soil stability,
groundwater level, and drainage;
(i) A method by which developers pay for off-site costs;
(j) Confirm the location and geographic extent of any
environmentally sensitive areas, hazard lands, and historic or
archaeological sites. A detailed analysis shall be undertaken by a
qualified consultant with all costs borne to the developer;
(k) Integrate natural areas into the design of developments to form
part of the linked and integrated parks and open space system,
including the retention of forests, wildlife corridors, muskeg areas,
and the provision of stormwater ponds and parks to form
continuous open spaces;
(l) Architectural and/or design controls; and
(m) Any other matters identified by the MD.
In addition the MD may, at its discretion, initiate the preparation of an
ASP or initiate the review of an existing ASP.
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Evaluation of
Applications
1.7.4
All applications for Land Use Bylaw amendments, subdivisions or
development permits shall be evaluated by the MD according to the
following criteria, where applicable:
(a) Compliance with the Act, Regulation, Land Use Bylaw, and any
other Statutory Plans that are in effect;
(b) Adequacy of road access;
(c) Provision of water supply and sewage disposal in accordance with
Provincial standards;
(d) Compatibility with adjacent land uses;
(e) Site suitability in terms of soils, topography, and size, supported
by hydro-geological and geotechnical testing as required by the
MD;
(f) Environmental factors, including the potential for erosion,
flooding, loss of fish and wildlife habitat, or watercourse
contamination;
(g) FireSmart guidelines; and
(h) Traffic impact assessment.
Developer
Responsibilities
1.7.5
(a) Developers shall install all necessary infrastructure required to
service development in accordance with MD standards. Failure to
do so will result in infrastructure not being accepted by the MD
upon completion.
(b) When land is developed or redeveloped, the MD may require
developers to enter into a development agreement as a condition
of approval as provided elsewhere in this Plan.
Land Use Bylaw
1.7.6
The Land Use Bylaw shall establish standards for development in the
MD and implement the policies of this Plan.
Reports Required
1.7.7
Engineering Servicing Design Reports, Geotechnical Reports,
Hydrogeological Reports Historical Resource Impact Assessments and
Flood Risk Assessments may be required at the discretion of the MD in
support of applications for rezoning and subdivision for country
residential development, hamlet developments, and commercial and
industrial developments.
Wildfire Risk
Assessment
1.7.8
Notwithstanding Policy 1.7.7, Wildfire Risk Assessments shall be
required in support of applications for rezoning and subdivision for
country residential development, hamlet developments, and
commercial and industrial developments in all areas identified as
Moderate, High or Extreme wildfire risk. Wildfire Risk Assessments
shall be prepared by a qualified professional and evaluated by the MD
prior to approval. All recommendations provided in the Wildfire Risk
Assessment shall be completed to the satisfaction of the MD prior to
subdivision development.
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Fuel Maps
1.7.9
The MD will assist the Province to prepare accurate fuel maps for
FireSmart planning.
Sour Gas Facilities
1.7.10
All development shall abide by any Provincial regulations respecting
separation from sour gas. In this respect, all subdivision and
development proposals shall be referred to the Energy Resources
Conservation Board (ERCB) for review and advice before any
consideration of any approval is given.
Electric Utilities
1.7.11
(a) Electrical utility companies shall be encouraged to continue with
an aggressive power line hazard tree-removal program.
(b) The MD shall encourage the installation of underground utility
cables in new developments and distribution power line projects.
Roadside Cleanup
1.7.12
The MD will work with the Provincial government and other
jurisdictions on the periodic cleaning of roadsides and ensuring
removal of potential fuel materials from Highways and other roadsides.
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2.0
COMMUNITY AREAS
Legislative Conformity
1.7.1
The MD must conform to the policies of the Province of Alberta, the Provincial Land Use
Framework, Intermunicipal Development Plans, and any Regional Plan when considering MDP
updates, MDP amendments, Land Use Bylaw amendments, or other development proposals.
Land Use Plan
1.7.2
Future development in the MD shall generally conform to the Land Use Concept Maps (Maps 1
and 2). The maps are designed to provide the MD with a broad framework for development and
are not intended to be applied on a site-by-site basis.
Area Structure Plan
1.7.3
a. In accordance with section 633 of the Act, the MD may adopt an ASP as a framework for
subsequent subdivision and development of an area of land. An ASP must describe:
a. the sequence of development proposed for the area
b. the land uses proposed for the area, either generally or with respect to specific parts of
the area
c. the density of population proposed for the area, either generally or with respect to specific
parts of the area
d. the general location of major transportation routes and public utilities
b. In accordance with the Act, an ASP may contain any other matters, including matters relating to
reserves, as Council considers necessary.
c. The MD may require an Area Structure Plan (ASP) to be created as part of an application for
subdivision, rezoning, or development, in accordance with the Act.
d. The MD shall deem if an ASP is necessary in accordance with the MD's Area Structure Plan
Policy.
e. The MD may, at its discretion, initiate the preparation of an ASP or initiate the review of an
existing ASP.
f.
In accordance with the hierarchy of statutory plans established in the Act, all ASPs in the MD
must be consistent with this MDP.
Outline Plan
1.7.4
The MD may require the preparation of an Outline Plan where:
a) No ASP exists and is in effect in the proposed area for development;
b) The proposed area of land for development does not meet the requirements for an ASP as
outlined in the MD's Area Structure Plan Policy; or
c) When the Development Authority requires greater detail to assess proposed lot configuration,
access, servicing, or environmental considerations.
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1.7.5
The MD shall deem if an Outline Plan is necessary in accordance with the MD's Outline Plan
Policy.
Evaluation of Applications
1.7.6
All applications for Land Use Bylaw amendments, subdivisions or development permits shall be
evaluated by the MD according to criteria as specified in the LUB.
Developer Responsibilities
1.7.7
a) Developers shall install all necessary infrastructure required to service development in
accordance with MD standards (refer to the MD's current Municipal Servicing Standards).
Failure to do so will result in infrastructure not being accepted by the MD upon completion.
Development Agreements
1.7.8
The MD may use Development Agreements, as permitted under Sections 650 and 655 of the Act,
to manage and ensure orderly land development, municipal servicing, and infrastructure
responsibilities. Through Development Agreements, as per Sections 650 and 655 of the Act, the
MD may require developers to:
a) Construct or upgrade municipal infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks, trails, street
lighting, stormwater management systems, and municipal utilities;
b) Complete off-site infrastructure improvements necessary to support the proposed
development;
c) Provide security deposits to guarantee the timely and satisfactory completion and
maintenance of municipal infrastructure;
d) Convey necessary lands, easements, or rights-of-way to the MD for public infrastructure,
utility corridors, municipal reserves, or environmental protection;
e) Implement environmental mitigation, flood protection, or emergency management measures;
f)
Clearly define responsibilities for ongoing maintenance, operation, and eventual transfer of
infrastructure and amenities to the MD; or
g) other obligations as permitted under the Act and deemed to be in the public interest by the
MD.
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Land Use Bylaw
1.7.9
The Land Use Bylaw establishes standards for development in the MD, while conforming to and
implementing the policies of this Plan.
Reports Required
1.7.10 Engineering Servicing Design Reports, Geotechnical Reports, Hydrogeological Reports,
Historical Resource Impact Assessments, Flood Risk Assessments, and other reports deemed
necessary may be required at the discretion of the MD in support of applications forrezoning,
subdivisions, or developments.
Fuel Maps
1.7.11 The MD should assist the Province with preparation of accurate fuel maps for FRIAA planning.
Sour Gas Facilities
1.7.12 All subdivision and development shall abide by any Provincial regulations respecting separation
from sour gas facilities. In this respect, all subdivision and development proposals shall be
referred to the appropriate Provincial regulatory body for review and advice before an application
is considered.
Electric Utilities
1.7.13
a) Electrical utility companies should maintain a proactive hazard tree removal program along power
line corridors to reduce wildfire risk and promote public safety.
b) Underground utility cables should be installed in new developments and distribution power line
projects where feasible and appropriate.
Home Businesses
1.7.14 The MD encourages the development of home based businesses that are compatible with
surrounding land uses and are located in areas so as to minimize land use conflict, traffic
impacts, or nuisance at an appropriate scale and intensity. Home Business approvals shall be
administered through the standards established under the MD's Land Use Bylaw, at the
discretion of the Development Authority.
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1.8 General - Environmental Policies
Flood Hazard
1.8.1
Parts of the MD are subject to potential flooding, as identified by ongoing flood mapping and
studies.
No new subdivisions or permanent structures shall be permitted within the 1:100 year flood plain
of any river, stream or lake shore unless an assessment prepared by a qualified professional
determines that the flood plain does not impact the development, or proper flood proofing
techniques are applied which will mitigate the impact. A certificate from a qualified, registered
professional engineer shall be required to confirm that the development has been properly flood
proofed.
The MD should work with Provincial authorities to continuously update flood hazard mapping and
maintain appropriate risk management for areas that flood.
Municipal assets and infrastructure should be upgraded to withstand flooding events within the
1:100 year flood plain.
The MD should maintain ongoing dialogue with Alberta Safety Codes authorities working within
the MD to ensure that they are only issuing permits that meet the appropriate flood proofing
measures within areas identified in the LUB as being at risk for flood hazards.
1.8.2
The floodplain is considered to be the area of land adjacent to a river, stream, or lake that is
subject to flooding during a 1:100 year flood event. The flood plain consists of both the flood
fringe and the floodway.
A floodway is defined as the portion of the floodplain where floodwaters are deepest and fastest.
No new development is permitted in the floodway.
A flood fringe is defined as the outer portion of the floodplain, where floodwaters are shallower
and slower-moving. Development in the flood fringe may be allowed with appropriate flood-
proofing and mitigation, as approved by the Development Authority.
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1.8.3
As per Section 643 of the MGA, buildings or uses lawfully in existence before new flood-related
regulations were introduced can be considered as legal, non-conforming uses. The MD will allow
for existing buildings in the floodway to remain. However, expansion and intensification of use is
prohibited. Rebuilding after destruction or major damage may be considered at the discretion of
the Development Authority, provided that a Development Agreement is entered into and
registered as a caveat on title that indemnifies the MD of any liability.
1.8.4
Existing legally established buildings entirely or partly within the flood fringe may be maintained or
repaired. Additions or structural alterations may be permitted where flood mitigation measures,
including but not limited to minimum finished floor elevations, are incorporated to the satisfaction
of the Development Authority.
Environmental Reserve
1.8.5
In accordance with the Act, Environmental Reserve (ER) may, at the time of subdivision, be
applied to lands that are subject to a flood hazard, contain sensitive habitat, or are subject to
potential erosion due to steep or unstable slopes.
Reports for Environmental Reserve Confirmation
1.8.6
Where the need for ER requires confirmation, or situations arise where the amount of ER
proposed to be dedicated exceeds the allocations identified in the Act, the MD shall require that a
geotechnical report, biophysical assessment, and/or environmental assessment be prepared to
support the proposed dedication.
Riparian Area Protection
1.8.7
a) For subdivisions adjacent to water bodies, ER should include sufficient shore lands so as to
provide adequate protection for waterfowl and fish habitat, and public shoreline access in
accordance with the Act. In these areas, the ER allocation may be supplemented by Municipal
Reserve (MR) where the additional lands are required to accommodate parks or playground
areas, trail corridors or walkways, or parking areas.
b) Section 664 of the MGA allows municipalities to require up to 6 metres of ER along water bodies
(from top of bank). The MD may require increased Environmental Reserve dedication beyond 6
metres in locations where site conditions (e.g. steep slopes, erosion hazards, sensitive habitat, or
public access needs) warrant. In such cases, the MD may request an Environmental Site
Assessment or Biophysical Impact Assessment to inform the appropriate buffer width.
c) The MD promotes the retention of natural vegetation and the minimum alteration of land for
development along watercourses or lakeshores in order to preserve natural habitat.
d) The MD promotes the protection of wetlands located within its boundaries by recognizing their
presence as designated by the Province. Development and subdivision within these areas should
be limited and referred to the Province for approval under the Water Act and associated
regulations, as applicable.
e) The MD should have regard for any existing local watershed management plans when making
decisions respecting subdivisions and development.
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Sand and Gravel Extraction
1.8.8
The MD shall coordinate the permitting and licensing process for sand and gravel operations with
the appropriate Provincial regulatory body responsible for regulating aggregate extraction
activities. This coordination will ensure compliance with provincial environmental standards and
minimize potential impacts on adjacent lands and land uses.
1.9 General - Social Policies
Municipal Reserve Dedication Requirements
1.9.1
Pursuant to Section 666 of the Act, the MD shall require that the 10% maximum allotment of MR
be dedicated for subdivisions in accordance with the MGA and the following:
a) Where buffers are required between incompatible land uses; or
b) To implement the open space requirements of an approved Statutory Plan, or
c) To implement the land or capital requirements identified in a Recreation and Open Space Master
Plan or other recreational facility need identified by the MD.
In all other situations, MR shall be dedicated as money-in-lieu.
Money-in-Lieu of Municipal Reserve
1.9.2
When MR is to be provided as money-in-place pursuant to Section 667 of the Act, the rate of
payment shall be based on the assessed value of the subject land as determined by the MD
assessor.
Deferment of Municipal Reserve
1.9.3
MR requirements may be deferred regardless of the nature of the proposed subdivision if
required to assemble larger school or recreation sites in accordance with an approved Area
Structure Plan, if the subject land is located in an urban expansion area as defined in a Statutory
Plan, or if the amount of MR owing is relatively small and can be dedicated as a larger amount in
the future.
Transfer of Municipal Reserve
1.9.4
MR may be transferred between parcels that have the same owner in accordance with the Act.
MR may not be transferred between parcels with different owners unless by way of deferment in
accordance with MD policy.
Design Controls
1.9.5
The MD shall enforce design guidelines and landscaping standards along highways that serve to
enhance the visual form and character of development.
Communications
1.9.6
The MD shall advocate to communication service providers for improved communications
facilities and services on behalf of its residents.
Trails
1.9.7
The MD may prepare a Trails and Open Spaces Master Plan to include, but not be limited to:
a) Trail networks to accommodate both pedestrian and off-road vehicle traffic;
b) Establishing criteria for developer responsibility for new trails in private developments;
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c) New trails around communities and industrial and commercial areas to act as surface fuel breaks
and provide access for suppression crews;
d) Integration with other regional trail networks; and
e) Community hubs and bench programs.
Historical Resources
1.9.8
The MD shall encourage and may support the efforts of public or private agencies in the
acquisition, restoration, preservation, conservation or interpretation of historic resources in the
MD.
Historic Site Designation
1.9.9
The MD may consider designating valuable historic sites and buildings within the MD as
Municipal Historic Sites or encourage the Province to designate valuable historic sites and
buildings within the MD as Provincial Historic Sites where it considers such action to be in the
public interest.
1.10 General - Transportation Policies
Road Access Required
1.10.1 All subdivision and development proposals shall have access to developed roads. The provision
of roads associated with a proposed subdivision or development are the sole responsibility of the
developer, and must adhere to the criteria as listed in the LUB.
Compliance with Standards
1.10.2 All roads shall be developed in accordance with the MD's Engineering Design Standards. This
includes the development of service roads for Highways as shown on the Policy Area Maps,
internal subdivision roads, and grid roads.
Proximity to Highways
1.10.3 The MD shall encourage traffic-generating developments to be located near provincial highways
or major municipal roads to ensure safe and efficient access. Where a development or
subdivision proposal results in the need for upgrades to the highway or local road system, the
developer shall be responsible for the costs of such improvements. Required upgrades may
include access improvements, turning lanes, acceleration/deceleration lanes, or other traffic
safety measures as determined by the MD and/or Alberta Transportation.
Provincial Referrals
1.10.4 The MD shall refer all Area Structure Plans and subdivision applications involving land located
within 1.6 kilometres of a Provincial highway to the appropriate Provincial regulatory body
responsible for highways for comment.
1.10.5 The MD shall refer all rezoning and development permit applications involving land located within
300 metres of a Provincial highway or within 800 metres of a provincial highway and public road
intersection to the appropriate Provincial regulatory body responsible for highways for comment.
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Road Use Agreements
1.10.6 As a condition of approval of a development, the MD may require that the developer/operator
enter into a Road Use Agreement with the MD to address haul routes, maintenance and/or
upgrading if necessary, dust control, snow removal, and any other matters relative to the road
use.
Road Naming and Addressing
1.10.7 The provision of municipal address signage for individual lots shall be provided at the cost of the
developer. All naming and addressing of roads shall conform to the MD's Municipal Servicing
Standards.
Roadside Cleanup
1.10.8 The MD shall work with the Provincial government and other jurisdictions on the periodic cleaning
of roadsides and ensuring removal of potential fuel materials from Highways and other roadsides.
Road Design
1.10.9 All internal subdivision roads shall be designed and constructed in accordance with FRIAA
principles. This includes providing roads in new developments with multiple entrance and exit
points to facilitate evacuation and access for emergency vehicles. In addition, all roads requiring
bulbing shall be designed to accommodate turnaround dimensions for fire fighting vehicles. The
MD may require input from emergency services departments or qualified fire officials to confirm
that proposed road designs support safe emergency access and egress.
Transportation Master Plan
1.10.10 The MD shall develop and maintain a Transportation Master Plan (TMP) to guide the long-term
planning, development, and maintenance of the municipal transportation network.
The TMP will serve as a strategic framework for identifying road classifications, future network
expansion, connectivity improvements, and integration with regional transportation systems.
In support of the TMP, the MD shall also establish a road improvement prioritization system and
road improvement program to guide infrastructure investment decisions based on factors such as
traffic volumes, safety, road condition, and growth patterns.
Railway Protection
1.10.11 New development abutting a railway right-of-way should provide a safety barrier or proper
setback distance to current or future railway lines. It is recommended to consult the local railway
company for setback distances for development in proximity to railway operations. The MD shall
also ensure the entrances/exits to new subdivisions will not be interfered by railway operations or
setbacks.
1.11 General - Utility Policies
Underground Utilities
1.11.1 The MD shall promote the placement of all utilities underground in a manner consistent with the
Provincial Transportation Utility Guidance Manual.
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Public Utilities
1.11.2 Public utilities such as utility lines, telecommunication facilities, green-energy systems or similar
infrastructure may be developed, provided they meet the regulations of the applicable Federal or
Provincial legislation, the LUB, and are compatible with adjacent development.
Proposed utility lines and facilities should incorporate appropriate buffer zones and setbacks to
reduce land-use conflicts with residential, agricultural, recreational, and environmentally sensitive
areas. Buffering may include vegetative buffers, fencing, berms, setbacks, or other mitigating
strategies determined through the development approval process.
Compliance with Standards
1.11.3 All municipal infrastructure systems, including sewage collection and water distribution systems,
and sanitary waste disposal sites installed by private developers shall meet or exceed all
appropriate MD, Provincial and Federal standards.
Protection of Groundwater
1.11.4 Any future subdivision and development which may jeopardize existing groundwater supplies or
quality or pose problems for sewage disposal shall not be approved. Further, all developments
are required to meet Provincial standards for water supply and sewage disposal.
Water and Sewer Servicing
1.11.5 All developments located outside of serviced hamlets or designated Community Areas shall be
required to provide private water supply and private sewage disposal systems, in accordance with
applicable Provincial legislation, codes, and standards.
Where municipal water and/or wastewater infrastructure is available within or adjacent to a
proposed development area, the development shall be required to connect to that infrastructure,
unless otherwise approved by the MD.
In areas served by municipal water and wastewater systems, subdivision and development shall
occur at densities, lot sizes, and configurations that make efficient and economical use of the
servicing infrastructure, and shall not exceed the capacity of existing municipal systems.
The MD may require a servicing study, capacity assessment, or infrastructure review as a
condition of subdivision or development approval, where connection to existing services is
proposed.
Development Agreements
1.11.6 The developer is responsible for the provision of all on-site and off-site infrastructure required to
service the site, including the payment of offsite levies. Development agreements may be
required as a condition of subdivision and may be required as a condition of development permit
approval.
Proof of Water Supply
1.11.7
a) The MD shall require developers to demonstrate proof of water supply if accessing groundwater,
or identify the proposed method of water servicing, for all multi-lot rural residential developments
in excess of five lots. Where lots are proposed to be served by cisterns, restrictive covenants
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shall be registered as a condition of subdivision approval, prohibiting the use of wells or other
means of groundwater collection.
b) In areas with poor water availability, the MD may require the installation of hydrant systems or
water reservoirs.
Sewage System Information Requirements
1.11.8 As part of a development permit application, the MD shall require that developers submit
information respecting the proposed location and type of sewage disposal system intended to
serve the proposed development. The MD may require that soil tests be undertaken by the
developer to determine that the soils are suitable to accommodate onsite sewage disposal
systems.
Stormwater Management
1.11.9 The MD shall require developers to provide stormwater management plans for multi-lot
subdivisions, and site grading/drainage plans for individual development sites shall be in
conformance with the stormwater management plan.
Utilities Strategic Plan
1.11.10 The MD should implement and periodically update a Utilities Strategic Plan to guide the
sustainable provision of water and wastewater services throughout the municipality.
Wildfire Recovery Plan and Wildfire Mitigation
1.11.11 The MD, in cooperation with other applicable authorities, will work towards the implementation of
the measures contained in the 2011 Regional Wildfire Recovery Plan and the Lesser Slave Lake
Regional Wildfire Mitigation Strategy. Such measures include but are not limited to:
a) The expansion and construction of fire halls;
b) The construction of new water lines between the South Shore communities, the Town of Slave
Lake, the Sawridge First Nation and Mitsue; and
c) Requiring the installation of dry hydrants at strategic locations throughout the MD.
[Land use maps]
2 Community Areaswithin the MD consist of hamlets and other
The Community Areas within the MD include hamlets, rural settlements, and countryrural residential
development areas. These , each serving distinctCommunity Areas serve different roles and functions.
With regard to hamlets and other settlements, :
-
Smith providesfunctions as the primary service centre, offering a wide range of commercial,
industrial, institutional, and residential services; and land uses.
-
Flatbush and Chisholm provide a lesser rangemore limited ranges of such services; the,
supporting local needs, and are primarily residential areas.
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-
The South Shore communities provideoffer predominantly a residential lifestyle augmented by
the convenience of very, with limited local services, but. However, in some areas, they can
provide for support substantial home -based business opportunities.
-
Fawcett Lake is designated as a recreational resort community. , focused on seasonal and
leisure-oriented uses.
While recognizingthe MD recognizes that growth of many ofin these Community Areas is desirable, it is
also evident that settlements can be negatively impacted by aware that adjacent resource-based land
uses. (e.g., forestry, oil and gas, or gravel extraction) can negatively impact the quality of life, character,
and development potential of nearby communities. The intent of this MDP is to maintainprotect the
viability, character, and function and role of existingthese communities by coordinating future
development and expansiongrowth in accordancea way that aligns with the spiritgoals of the MDP
goal. this Plan and balances growth with compatibility.
Objectives
-
To ensure, where possible, thatEnsure each Community Areas have enoughArea contains
sufficient land within their respectiveits boundaries to undertakesupport comprehensive land
use planning and the development of appropriate water, sewer, and transportation servicing
schemes.
-
To ensure that Promote community growth and expansion occurs in an a cost-effective and,
orderly, and affordable manner that does not substantially extend currentavoids the
unnecessary extension of municipal services.
-
To encourageEncourage targeted growth and expansion of some of the existingin appropriate
Community Areas while discouraging the premature andor unnecessary withdrawalremoval of
land from the agricultural or natural resource base.
-
To ensure that lands needed for Protect future community expansion are not used
prematurelyareas from premature or indiscriminately in a mannerincompatible development
that would either preclude or significantly increase costs for the cost of future conversion to
community uses. use.
-
To ensure that countryEnsure rural residential growth and expansion does not negatively
impact either municipal resourcesinfrastructure, the MD's fiscal capacity, or nearby resource-
based industry on surrounding lands. industries.
-
To ensure that country residential growth is notDiscourage premature or indiscriminate such
that it would increasescattered rural residential development that could lead to increased
municipal servicing costs. or undermine coordinated land use planning.
2.1 2.1
Community Areas - Land Use Policies
Community Areas
2.1.1
The Community Areas are illustrated on the Policy Area Maps, which include but may not be
limited to the following:
a) Assineau,
b) Bayer Road
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c) Broken Paddle
d) Canyon Creek
e) Chisholm
f)
East of Nine Mile Point
g) Eben Ebenau
h) Fawcett Lake
i)
Flatbush
j)
Gildwood/Summerland
k) Lawrence Lake
l)
Marten Beach
m) Nine Mile Point
Old TownCommunity
Areas
2.1.1
The Community Areas are illustrated on Map 1 and include:
(a) Assineau,
(b) South Shore,
(c) Old Town,
(d) Gilwood/Summerwood,
(e) Eben Ebenau,
(f) Bayer Road,
(g) Marten Beach,
(h) Poplar Lane,
(i) Old Smith Highway,
(j) Broken Paddle Estates,
(k) Lawrence Lake,
(l) Fawcett Lake,
(m) Smith
(n) Chisholm, and
(o) Flatbush.
Development in the Community Areas shall be predominantly
residential in nature, with commercial, institutional and light
industrial development in appropriate locations which do not
interfere with or conflict with the predominant residential land use.
Country Residential
Development
2.1.2
All multi-lot country residential subdivision development proposals
shall be evaluated according to the following:
(a) The applicant shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the MD
that the land in question is safe from flooding, erosion,
subsidence, groundwater inundation, or other hazards utilizing
guidelines prepared by Alberta Environment. Applications
proposed in these situations shall be supported by hydro-
geological and/or geotechnical testing at the discretion of the
MD;
(b) The development is compatible with adjacent land uses and
environmentally sensitive areas;
(c) Its proximity to other multi-lot country residential
subdivisions;
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(d) The availability of groundwater supply. For any proposal that
results in an overall density in excess of five lots per quarter
not including the balance, that proposes to utilize wells or
groundwater-fed dugouts for water supply, the applicant shall
submit an assessment prepared by a qualified professional
engineer in accordance with Alberta Environment guidelines.
Where lots are proposed to be served by cisterns, restrictive
covenants shall be registered as a condition of subdivision
approval, prohibiting the use of wells or other means of
groundwater collection;
(e) Proposed sewage disposal. The MD requires that applicants
make provision for sewage disposal in accordance with
provincial requirements. For all multi-lot country residential
development proposals in excess of five lots per quarter
section, not including the balance, the applicant shall submit
a geotechnical assessment prepared by a qualified
professional engineer that indicates the suitability of the
subject lands to accommodate sewage disposal systems, and
provides an assessment of water table conditions; and
(f) Has access to existing roads or includes internal roads to
service the development, which shall be constructed by the
developer to municipal standards.
Subdivision proposals that do not meet the requirements of this
policy to the satisfaction of the MD should be refused.
Fringe Area
Development
2.1.3
Developments on the fringes of the Community Areas shall be
carefully regulated by the MD so that the natural amenities of the
Community Area are not negatively affected. To that end, the MD
shall not normally approve of discretionary developments and
Council shall not normally approve of Land Use Bylaw
amendments in the areas close to Community Areas unless it can
be demonstrated that the proposed developments or subdivisions
will not have a negative impact on the Community Area.
Hamlets
2.1.4
The MD's existing hamlets shall be encouraged to accommodate
new development based on existing infrastructure, community
services and location. Each hamlet shall be considered as a
potential node for accommodating an appropriate mix of
residential, commercial, recreational and/or institutional land
uses. Further, the MD supports all efforts to improve the long term
viability of its hamlets, including allowing for the development of
group homes, seniors housing, youth programs, and improved
recreation facilities.
Manufactured Home
Communities
2.1.5
Manufactured home community development may be allowed
within a Community Area. When such a community is proposed,
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appropriate development regulations shall be developed and
incorporated into the Land Use Bylaw as they are not in place at
present.
Home Based Business
2.1.6
Home businesses shall be encouraged and permitted in residential
areas provided that the following principles are met:
(a) That the proposed business is appropriate to the character of
the neighbourhood;
(b) That the intensity of the business is compatible with the uses
in the area where it is located;
(c) It has minimal impact on the environment, water, municipal
infrastructure and neighbouring properties; and
(d) The business is clearly secondary in nature to the residential
use of the property.
The criteria for home business shall be administered through the
standards established under the MD's Land Use Bylaw.
Home Based Business
Size
2.1.7
If the operation of a home business is found to have exceeded the
capacity of the site and/or is determined to have a significant
negative impact on the neighbourhood or adjoining properties, the
MD shall require the business to relocate to appropriate
commercial or industrial zoned lands, or other residential lands
zoned pursuant to Policy 2.1.8.
Country Residential
Home Business District
2.1.8
The MD shall facilitate the development of a new country
residential land use district in the Land Use Bylaw that allows for
the integration of pre-planned, large-scale home businesses or
small industrial operations. The intent of this district is to provide
an opportunity for small businesses that are too large to be defined
as a conventional home business, yet are not ready or large enough
to operate in a standard industrial or commercial district. It is a
priority of the MD to identify a site for such development to occur,
whether on land owned by the MD, or working in partnership with a
private developer or landowner to facilitate the development.
n) 2.2
o) Old Smith Highway
p) Poplar Lane
q) Smith
r)
Wagner
s) Widewater
Development in the Community Areas shall be predominantly residential in nature, with
commercial, institutional, and light industrial uses permitted only where they are compatible with
surrounding residential development and located in areas that minimize land use conflict, traffic
impacts, or nuisances.
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Rural Residential Development
2.1.2
All multi-lot rural residential subdivision development proposals shall be evaluated according to
the criteria listed in the LUB.
Fringe Area Development
2.1.3
Development proposals on lands adjacent to or near the boundaries of Community Areas shall be
carefully reviewed and regulated by the MD to ensure that the character, natural features, and
overall amenities of the Community Area are preserved. The MD shall not support development
or LUB amendments in fringe areas unless it can be demonstrated through appropriate studies or
assessments that the proposed development will not negatively impact the Community Area's
visual or environmental qualities (e.g., loss of vegetation, views), infrastructure or service
capacity, land use compatibility, or community function and livability.
Hamlets
2.1.4
The MD shall encourage new development within its existing hamlets where it can be supported
by existing infrastructure, community services, and location advantages.
Each hamlet shall be considered a potential growth node capable of accommodating an
appropriate mix of residential, commercial, recreational, and institutional land uses, provided such
development is compatible with the scale and character of the community.
The MD also supports efforts to improve the long-term viability and vibrancy of its hamlets,
including:
-
Development of group homes, seniors housing, and community programs (such as youth
initiatives),
-
Enhancement of local recreation facilities, and
-
Policies and investments that attract and retain residents and services.
2.2 Community Areas - Environmental Policies
Flood Hazard
2.2.1
Parts of some of the Community Areas are subject to a
potential flood hazard. No permanent structures shall be
permitted within the flood plain of any river, stream or lake
shore unless an assessment prepared by a qualified
professional determines that the flood plain does not impact
the development, or if proper flood proofing techniques are
applied. A certificate from a qualified, registered
professional engineer shall be required to confirm that the
development has been properly flood proofed.
Environmental Reserve
2.2.2
Lands that are subject to a flood hazard, contain sensitive
habitat, or are subject to potential erosion due to steep or
unstable slopes, shall be dedicated as Environmental
Reserve (ER) at the time of subdivision in accordance with
the Act. ER may be dedicated as a lot or in the form of an
easement.
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Reports for
Environmental Reserve
Confirmation
2.2.3
Where the need for ER requires confirmation, or situations
arise where the amount of ER proposed to be dedicated
exceeds the allocations identified in the Act, the MD may
require that a geotechnical report, biophysical assessment,
and/or environmental assessment be prepared to support
the proposed dedication.
Riparian Area
Protection
2.2.4
(a) For subdivisions adjacent to water bodies, ER shall
include sufficient shore lands so as to provide adequate
protection for waterfowl and fish habitat, and public
shoreline access in accordance with the Act. In these
areas, the ER allocation may be supplemented by
municipal reserve where the additional lands are required
to accommodate parks or playground areas, trail
corridors or walkways, or parking areas.
(b) The clearing of natural vegetation or altering of land for
development along watercourses or lakeshores shall be
discouraged in order to preserve natural habitat.
Protect Natural
Features
2.2.5
The natural features of the shoreline, ravines and the river will
be protected by ensuring that adjacent development, e.g.
building heights, massing, and parking and other uses do not
negatively impact the natural character of these areas.
Conservation
Easement
2.2.6
The MD supports the voluntary placement of Conservation
Easements by private landowners as a means of protecting
important wildlife habitat or ecosystems on private land. It is
preferred that the donor select a non-profit organization to be
the dominant tenement of the easement agreement.
2.3
FireSmart Policies
FireSmart Design
Principles
2.3.1
The MD shall encourage developers to be aware of "FireSmart:
Protecting Your Community from Wildfire" design principles when
preparing Area Structure Plans and designing subdivisions, and
minimize the potential for wildfire damage through the:
(a) Provision of recreational facilities along the outer perimeter of
the development so that the developed portions may be
separated from environmentally sensitive areas;
(b) Provision of a fire guard which shall serve as a buffer between
development and the surrounding environmentally sensitive
areas;
(c) Development of trails between developments and surrounding
forested lands which may be used in an emergency for fire
prevention purposes; and
(d) Installation of fire resistant building and roofing materials.
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Wildfire Recovery Plan
and Wildfire Mitigation
Strategy
2.3.2
The MD, in cooperation with other applicable authorities, shall
implement the measures contained in the 2011 Regional Wildfire
Recovery Plan and the Lesser Slave Lake Regional Wildfire
Mitigation Strategy. Such measures include but are not limited to:
(a) The expansion and construction of fire halls;
(b) The construction of new water lines between the South Shore
communities, the Town of Slave Lake, the Sawridge First Nation
and Mitsue; and
(c) Requiring the installation of dry hydrants at strategic locations
throughout the MD.
FireSmart Assessment
2.3.3
The Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service FireSmart crew shall provide
assistance to property owners with FireSmart assessments and the
reduction of wildfire risks.
2.4
Protect Natural Features
2.2.1
The natural character and ecological integrity of shorelines, ravines, and river corridors shall be
protected by ensuring that adjacent development is designed and located in a way that minimizes
visual, physical, and environmental impacts.
Development adjacent to these features--including buildings, parking areas, and other site
improvements--shall be regulated in terms of height, massing, and placement to ensure they do
not disrupt views or alter the natural form and function of these areas.
Conservation Easement
2.2.2
The MD shall support the voluntary placement of Conservation Easements by private landowners
as a means of protecting important wildlife habitat, riparian areas, and ecologically sensitive
lands.
Where a Conservation Easement is proposed, the MD should encourage the landowner to
partner with a qualified non-profit conservation organization to act as the easement holder
(dominant tenement), in accordance with the Alberta Land Stewardship Act.
2.3 Community Areas - Transportation Policies
Location of
Transportation
Facilities
2.4.1
The MD shall encourage the location of transportation
facilities in a manner which:
(a) Encourages the integration of transportation routes and
utility lines within defined corridors and, as much as
possible, in government road allowances;
(b) Discourages the creation of fragmented parcels of land
between rights-of-way; and
(c) Minimizes the impacts on recreational, historical or
wildlife resource areas.
Buffering
Requirements
2.4.2
(a) Where proposed transportation facilities may adversely
affect adjacent lands or land uses, the MD shall
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recommend or require as a condition of development
buffering of the facility as deemed appropriate to
minimize any negative impacts.
(b) New residential areas shall be designed and developed
with perimeter ring roads to act as buffers between the
community and the agricultural and forest lands.
Transportation Rights-
of-Way
2.4.3
The MD shall encourage new transportation rights-of-way to
avoid existing residential areas and areas designated for
residential expansion. Where such facilities lines must
locate in close proximity to residential areas, they should be
designed to be compatible with future growth.
Road Access Required
2.4.4
All subdivision and development proposals shall have
access to developed roads. The provision of roads
associated with a proposed subdivision or development are
the sole responsibility of the developer. This includes:
(a) The construction of internal subdivision roads;
(b) The upgrading of intersections or adjacent municipal
roads if deemed necessary through a traffic impact
assessment or if required by Alberta Transportation;
(c) The provision of approaches to individual lots or
development sites; and
(d) The dedication of land to accommodate future road
widening.
Compliance with
Standards
2.4.5
All roads shall be developed in accordance with the MD's
engineering design standards. This includes the
development of service roads for Highways as shown on Map
1, internal subdivision roads, and grid roads.
Road Design
2.4.6
All internal subdivision roads shall be developed to recognize
FireSmart standards. This includes providing roads in new
development with multiple entrance and exit points to
facilitate evacuation and access for emergency vehicles. In
addition, all roads requiring bulbing shall be designed to
accommodate turnaround dimensions for fire fighting
vehicles.
Proximity to Highways
2.4.7
Developments that are expected to generate relatively large
traffic volumes will be encouraged to locate near highways.
Any improvements to the highway system that are required
as a result of a development or subdivision proposal shall be
carried out at the developer's expense.
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Alberta Transportation
Referrals
2.4.8
The MD shall refer all Area Structure Plans, rezoning,
subdivision and development applications involving land
located within 0.8 kilometres of a highway to Alberta
Transportation for comment.
Road Use Agreements
2.4.9
As a condition of approval of a development, the MD may
require that the developer/operator enter into a Road Use
Agreement with the MD to address haul routes, maintenance
and/or upgrading if necessary, dust control, and any other
matters relative to the road use.
Transportation Master
Plan
2.4.10 The MD shall prepare a Transportation Master Plan to be
used as the basis for future transportation network planning
and funding. In addition, the MD shall prepare a road
improvement priority system and road improvement
program.
Road Naming and
Addressing
2.4.11 The provision of municipal address signage for individual lots
shall be provided at the cost of the developer. The naming of
internal subdivision roads may be at the discretion of the
developer.
Roadside Cleanup
2.4.12
The MD will work with the Provincial government and other
jurisdictions on the periodic cleaning of roadsides and
ensuring removal of potential fuel materials from Highways
and other roadsides.
2.5
Location of Transportation Facilities
2.3.1
The MD shall encourage the location of transportation facilities in a manner which:
a) Encourages the integration of transportation routes and utility lines within defined corridors
and, as much as possible, in government road allowances;
b) Discourages the creation of fragmented parcels of land between rights-of- way; and
c) Minimizes the impacts on recreational, historical or wildlife resource areas.
Buffering Requirements
2.3.2
Where a proposed transportation facility may negatively impact adjacent lands or land uses, the
MD shall require appropriate buffering measures to minimize adverse effects such as noise, dust,
light, or visual intrusion. Buffering may include landscaping, fencing, berms, or setback distances,
as determined by the MD based on the scale and nature of the proposed facility and the
sensitivity of surrounding uses.
New residential development shall incorporate design elements that establish a clear and
functional transition between developed areas and adjacent agricultural or forest lands.
This transition may include a combination of setbacks, landscaped buffers, open space corridors,
local access roads, or other interface treatments that reduce land use conflict, maintain rural
character, and protect the long-term viability of adjacent resource lands.
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The appropriate buffering measures shall be determined through the subdivision or Area
Structure Plan process, based on site-specific conditions and land use compatibility
considerations.
Transportation Rights-of-Way
2.3.3
The MD shall encourage new transportation rights-of-way--such as highways, collector roads, or
rail lines--to avoid alignment through existing residential areas or lands designated for future
residential expansion.
Where proximity to residential areas cannot be avoided, the design and alignment of the right-of-
way should incorporate measures that support future community growth, including appropriate
setbacks, noise attenuation, landscaping, and access management.
2.4 Community Areas - Utility Policies
Location of Utility Lines
and Facilities
2.5.1
The MD shall encourage the location of utility lines and facilities in
a manner which:
(a) Encourages the integration of transportation routes and utility
lines within defined corridors and, as much as possible, in
government road allowances;
(b) Discourages the creation of fragmented parcels of land
between rights-of-way; and
(c) Minimizes the impacts on recreational, historical or wildlife
resource areas.
Buffering Requirements
2.5.2
Where proposed utility lines and facilities may adversely affect
adjacent lands or land uses, the MD shall recommend or require as
a condition of development buffering of the line or facility as
deemed appropriate to minimize any negative impacts.
Utility Rights-of-Way
2.5.3
The MD shall encourage new utility rights-of-way to avoid existing
residential areas and areas designated for residential expansion.
Where such lines must locate in close proximity to residential
areas, they should be designed to be compatible with future
growth.
Underground Utilities
2.5.4
The MD shall encourage the placement of all utilities underground
in order to give better assurance of service in difficult weather
conditions.
Compliance with
Standards
2.5.5
All municipal infrastructure systems, including sewage collection
and water distribution systems, and sanitary waste disposal sites
installed by private developers are required to meet or exceed all
appropriate MD, Provincial and Federal standards.
Protection of
Groundwater
2.5.6
Any future subdivision and development which may jeopardize
existing groundwater supplies or quality or pose problems for
sewage disposal shall not be approved. Further, all developments
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are required to meet Provincial standards for water supply and
sewage disposal.
Water and Sewer
Servicing
2.5.7
With the exception of development located within the serviced area
of a hamlet or other Community Area, all developments in the MD
are required to provide private water and sewer services in
accordance with provincial standards.
Optimization of
Municipal Services
2.5.8
Where there are municipal water and sewer services, subdivision
and development shall be at densities, locations, and lot totals
which make most efficient and economical use of the servicing
systems without exceeding the capacities of those systems.
Compliance of Existing
Systems
2.5.9
When a lot containing an existing house is to be subdivided from a
larger parcel, the MD shall determine if the setbacks for the existing
sewer system comply with the Alberta Private Sewage Systems
Standard of Practice. If it is determined the system is not
compliant as a result of subdivision, relocation or upgrading of the
system shall be identified as a condition of subdivision approval.
Servicing in Hamlets
2.5.10 Residential lot sizes in hamlets should be urban in nature and
should be serviced with municipal water and sewer services where
available.
Development
Agreement
2.5.11 The developer is responsible for the provision of all on-site and off-
site infrastructure required to service the site, including the
payment of offsite levies. Development agreements may be
required as a condition of subdivision and/or development permit
approval.
Utilities Master Plan
2.5.12 The MD may prepare a Utilities Master Plan to upgrade and expand
its hamlet water supply and sewage treatment systems as needed,
and/or to explore regional servicing strategies.
Proof of Water Supply
2.5.13
(a) The MD shall require developers to demonstrate proof of water
supply if accessing groundwater, or identify the proposed
method of water servicing, for all multi-lot country residential
developments in excess of five lots. Where lots are proposed to
be served by cisterns, restrictive covenants shall be registered
as a condition of subdivision approval, prohibiting the use of
wells or other means of groundwater collection.
(b) In areas with poor water availability, the MD may require the
installation of hydrant systems or water reservoirs.
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Sewage System
Information
Requirements
2.5.14 As part of a development permit application, the MD shall require
that developers submit information respecting the proposed
location and type of sewage disposal system intended to serve the
proposed development. The MD may require that soil tests be
undertaken by the developer to determine that the soils are
suitable to accommodate on-site sewage disposal systems.
Communal Servicing
2.5.15 The MD may allow developments to be serviced with central
(communal) sewage collection, provided that such systems are
constructed in accordance with Alberta Environment requirements
and maintained by the developer or resident association.
Stormwater
Management
2.5.16 The MD shall require developers to provide stormwater management
plans for multi-lot subdivision proposals, and site grading/drainage
plans for individual development sites shall be in conformance with the
stormwater management plan.
Public Utilities
2.5.17 Public utilities such as telecommunication facilities, wind energy
systems or similar infrastructure may be developed, provided they
meet the regulations of the applicable Federal or Provincial
legislation, the Land Use Bylaw, and are compatible with adjacent
development.
Energy Conservation
2.5.18 The MD may encourage the promotion of energy conservation
practices through educational programs or public awareness
campaigns.
Solid Waste Disposal
2.5.19 The MD intends to maintain its commitment to the disposal of solid
waste through the sanitary landfill system, and should ensure that
solid waste disposal sites are located and developed in a manner
that shall minimize any impacts on surrounding land uses.
2.6
Location of Utility Lines and Facilities
2.4.1
The MD shall encourage the location of utility lines and facilities in a manner which:
a) Encourages the integration of transportation routes and utility lines within defined corridors
and, as much as possible, in government road allowances;
b) Discourages the creation of fragmented parcels of land between rights-of- way; and
c) Minimizes the impacts on recreational, historical or wildlife resource areas.
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Buffering Requirements
2.4.2
Where proposed utility lines or facilities may negatively impact adjacent lands or land uses, the
MD shall require appropriate buffering measures to reduce visual, noise, environmental, or land
use conflicts. Buffering may include landscaping, fencing, berms, increased setbacks, or other
design features, and shall be determined by the Development Authority based on the nature of
the utility, the sensitivity of adjacent land uses, and site-specific conditions.
Utility Rights-of-Way
2.4.3
The MD shall encourage new utility rights-of-way to avoid existing residential areas or lands
designated for future residential expansion. Where proximity to residential areas cannot be
avoided, the design and alignment of the right-of-way should incorporate measures that support
future community growth, including appropriate setbacks, noise attenuation, landscaping, and
access management.
Optimization of Municipal Services
2.4.4
Where municipal water and sewer services are available, subdivision and development shall be
designed to optimize the use of existing servicing infrastructure by locating and sizing lots at
densities that are efficient, cost-effective, and within the capacity of the system. Development
proposals that would exceed system capacity or require expansion of infrastructure shall not be
supported unless accompanied by a servicing strategy acceptable to the MD.
Compliance of Existing Systems
2.4.5
When a lot containing an existing house is to be subdivided from a larger parcel, the MD shall
determine if the setbacks for the existing sewer system comply with Provincial regulations. If it is
determined the system is not compliant as a result of subdivision, relocation or upgrading of the
system, this shall be identified as a condition of subdivision approval.
Servicing in Hamlets
2.4.6
Residential lots in hamlets shall be serviced with municipal water and sewer services where
available.
Communal Servicing
2.4.7
The MD may permit the use of centralized (communal) sewage collection systems to service new
developments, provided that:
-
The system is designed, constructed, and operated in accordance with all applicable
provincial environmental and health regulations; and
-
A legally recognized entity, such as the developer, utility provider, or resident association, is
established and responsible for the long-term operation, maintenance, and financial
management of the system, to the satisfaction of the MD.
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Energy Conservation
2.4.8
The MD may promote the promotion of energy conservation practices through educational
programs or public awareness campaigns.
Solid Waste and Recycling Management
2.4.9
The MD should continue to demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship by providing
accurate, efficient, and effective waste and recycling services. Solid waste and recycling
collection or disposal sites shall be located, designed, and operated in a manner that minimizes
impacts on surrounding land uses, including consideration of visual screening, odour control,
noise mitigation, and access management.
2.5 Community Areas - Social Policies
Municipal Reserve
Dedication at
Subdivision
2.6.1
Municipal Reserve (MR) shall be dedicated in Community
Areas as a condition of subdivision approval.
Municipal Reserve
Dedication
Requirements
2.6.2
The MD shall require that the 10% maximum allotment of MR
be dedicated in Community Areas in accordance with the
following:
(a) Where the subdivision results in the creation of a multi-
lot residential development for which community park
or facility space is required; or
(b) Where buffers are required between incompatible land
uses; or
(c) To implement the open space requirements of an
approved statutory plan, or
(d) To implement the land or capital requirements identified
in a Recreation and Open Space Master Plan or other
recreational facility need identified by the MD.
In these situations, MR shall be dedicated in parcel form or
as a combination of land and money-in-lieu.
Money-in-Lieu of
Municipal Reserve
2.6.3
When MR is to be provided as money-in-place pursuant to
Section 667 of the Act, the rate of payment shall be based on
the assessed value of the subject land as determined by the
MD assessor.
Municipal Reserve Not
Required
2.6.4
Notwithstanding Policy 2.6.1, the MD shall not require the
dedication of MR in the following circumstances in addition
to the exemptions contained in the Act:
(a) The resubdivision of an existing lot under 4 hectares in
size, unless the resubdivision is intended for multi-lot
country residential development and MR was not
previously dedicated for the lot being resubdivided;
(b) Subdivision that is required to facilitate the settlement
of an estate;
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(c) The creation of a single lot regardless of size. If in
excess of 4 hectares, MR owing would be deferred in the
event that future subdivision is contemplated in
accordance with an Area Structure Plan.
Deferment of
Municipal Reserve
2.6.5
MR requirements may be deferred regardless of the nature
of the proposed subdivision if required to assemble larger
school or recreation sites in accordance with an approved
Area Structure Plan, if the subject land is located in an urban
expansion area as defined in a Statutory Plan, or if the
amount of MR owing is relatively small and can be dedicated
as a larger amount in the future.
Concentration of
Municipal Reserve
2.6.6
Land dedicated as MR should be concentrated in a few large
parcels on suitable sites, rather than scattered throughout
an area of subdivision. Where possible, park areas should
be designed to connect with nearby public land or with MR
lands in adjacent subdivisions.
Disposal of Municipal
Reserve
2.6.7
MR parcels which serve no existing or potential open space
or school purpose may be disposed and sold in accordance
with the Act. Moneys obtained from the sale of such lands
shall be allocated to the MD's dedicated MR fund to
purchase or enhance parks, natural areas or school lands.
Transfer of Municipal
Reserve
2.6.8
MR may be transferred between parcels that have the same
owner in accordance with the Act. MR may not be
transferred between parcels with different owners unless by
way of deferment in accordance with Policy 2.6.5.
Historical Resources
2.6.9
The MD shall encourage and may support the efforts of
public or private agencies in the acquisition, restoration,
preservation, conservation or interpretation of historic
resources in the MD.
Historic Site
Designation
2.6.10 The MD may consider designating valuable historic sites and
buildings within the MD as Municipal Historic Sites, or
encourage the Province to designate valuable historic sites
and buildings within the MD as Provincial Historic Sites
where it considers such action to be in the public interest.
Trails
2.6.11 The MD may prepare a Trails Master Plan to include, but not
be limited to:
(a) Trail networks to accommodate both pedestrian and off-
road vehicle traffic;
(b) Establishing criteria for developer responsibility for new
trails in private developments;
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(c) New trails around communities and industrial and
commercial areas to act as surface fuel breaks and
provide access for suppression crews;
(d) Integration with other regional trail networks; and
(e) Community hubs and bench programs.
Communications
2.6.12 The MD shall advocate to communication service providers
for improved communications facilities and services on
behalf of its residents.
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3.0
COMMERCIAL AREAS
Commercial development in the MD is currently limited to its hamlets and the Old Town area of Slave
Lake. There is no highway commercial activity in the MD at present.
Objectives
To encourage new commercialMunicipal Reserve Dedication at Subdivision
2.5.1
Municipal Reserve (MR) shall be dedicated in Community Areas as a condition of subdivision
approval.
Dedication Requirements
2.5.2
The MD shall require that the 10% maximum allotment of MR be dedicated in Community Areas
in accordance with the Act and the following:
-a) Where the subdivision results in the creation of a multi-lot residential development
opportunities at appropriate locations.for which community park or facility space is required;
or
b) To provide a diverse range ofWhere buffers are required between incompatible land uses; or
c) To implement the open space requirements of an approved statutory plan, or
d) To implement the land or capital requirements identified in a Recreation and Open Space
Master Plan or other recreational facility need identified by the MD. In these situations, MR
shall be dedicated in parcel form or as a combination of land and money-in-lieu.
Municipal Reserve Not Required
2.5.3
Notwithstanding Policy 2.5.1, the MD shall not require the dedication of MR in the following
circumstances in addition to the exemptions contained in the Act:
a) The re-subdivision of an existing lot under 4 hectares in size, unless the re-subdivision is
intended for multi-lot residential development and MR was not previously dedicated for the lot
being re-subdivided;
b) Subdivision that is required to facilitate the settlement of an estate;
c) The creation of a single lot regardless of size. If in excess of 4 hectares, MR owing would be
deferred in the event that future subdivision is contemplated in accordance with an Area
Structure Plan.
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Concentration of Municipal Reserve
2.5.4
MR land dedication should prioritize the creation of larger, consolidated parcels located on sites
suitable for active or passive recreation, rather than scattering small MR parcels throughout a
subdivision.
Wherever possible, MR lands should be designed to connect with adjacent Municipal Reserve
parcels, Environmental Reserve areas, or other publicly accessible lands to create integrated
open space networks and trail systems.
Disposal of Municipal Reserve
2.5.5
MR parcels that no longer serve, or are not expected to serve, an open space, recreational, or
school-related purpose may be disposed of in accordance with the Act.
Proceeds from the sale of such lands shall be deposited into the MD's dedicated Municipal
Reserve fund and used solely for the acquisition or enhancement of parks, public recreation
areas, natural areas, or school-related lands and facilities.
3 Commercial Areas
-
Commercial Areas within the MD include business and service activities that support the daily
needs of residents, accommodate highway-related services, and contribute to economic development
and employment opportunities..
Objectives
-
3.1
Support commercial subdivision and development in locations that are compatible with
surrounding land uses and supported by adequate infrastructure, including hamlets, highway
corridors, and designated business park areas.
-
Promote a diverse mix of commercial uses that contribute to local employment, meet the needs of
residents and travelers, and support long-term economic growth in the MD.
3.1 Commercial Areas - Land Use Policies
Hamlet Commercial
3.1.1
The MD shall encourage a range of commercial development
in Hamlets which serve the day to day needs of the
community, and shall ensure that hamlet commercial uses
are developed at a scale appropriate to the community.
Highway Commercial
3.1.2
Highway commercial developments serving the traveling
public, such as hotels, automobile service establishments,
and restaurants, may be allowed along the Highways
identified on Map 1. Such development shall be subject to
the resolution of appropriate development considerations
respecting the potential for land use conflict,
environmentally-sensitive land management, and municipal
servicing, and access. In this regard, access shall be provided
to the satisfaction of both Alberta Transportation and the MD.
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Infill Encouraged
3.1.3
Infill and intensification of existing business parks shall be
encouraged through amendments to existing plans as a means of
promoting the efficient use of land and infrastructure.
3.2
Environmental Policies
Riparian Area
Protection
3.2.1
(a) For subdivisions adjacent to water bodies, ER shall
include sufficient shore lands so as to provide adequate
protection for waterfowl and fish habitat, and public
shoreline access in accordance with the Act. In these
areas, the ER allocation may be supplemented by
municipal reserve where the additional lands are required
to accommodate parks or playground areas, trail
corridors or walkways, or parking areas.
(b) The clearing of natural vegetation or altering of land for
development along watercourses or lakeshores shall be
discouraged in order to preserve natural habitat.
3.3
FireSmart Policies
FireSmart Design
Principles
3.3.1
The MD shall encourage developers to be aware of
"FireSmart: Protecting Your Community from Wildfire" design
principles when preparing Area Structure Plans and designing
subdivisions, and minimize the potential for wildfire damage
through the:
(a) Provision of recreational facilities along the outer
perimeter of the development so that the developed
portions may be separated from environmentally
sensitive areas;
(b) Provision of a fire guard which shall serve as a buffer
between development and the surrounding
environmentally sensitive areas;
(c) Implementation of building design measures including
non-combustible building materials and sprinkler
systems;
(d) Development of trails between developments and
surrounding forested lands which may be used in an
emergency for fire prevention purposes; and
(e) Installation of fire resistant building and roofing materials.
Wildfire Recovery Plan
and Wildfire Mitigation
Strategy
3.3.2
The MD, in cooperation with other applicable authorities,
shall implement the measures contained in the 2011 Regional
Wildfire Recovery Plan and the Lesser Slave Lake Regional
Wildfire Mitigation Strategy. Such measures include but are
not limited to:
(a) The expansion and construction of fire halls;
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(b) The construction of new water lines between the South
Shore communities, the Town of Slave Lake, the Sawridge
First Nation and Mitsue; and
(c) Requiring the installation of dry hydrants at strategic
locations throughout the MD.
3.4
Transportation Policies
Road Access Required
3.4.1
All commercial subdivision and development proposals shall
have access to developed roads. The provision of roads
associated with a proposed subdivision or development are
the sole responsibility of the developer. This includes the:
(a) Construction of internal subdivision roads;
(b) Upgrading of intersections or adjacent municipal roads if
deemed necessary through a traffic impact assessment
or if required by Alberta Transportation;
(c) Provision of approaches to individual lots or
development sites; and
(d) Dedication of land to accommodate future road
widening.
Compliance with
Standards
3.4.2
All roads shall be developed in accordance with the MD's
engineering design standards. This includes the
development of service roads for Highways as shown on Map
1, internal subdivision roads, and grid roads.
Proximity to Highways
3.4.3
Developments that are expected to generate relatively large
traffic volumes will be encouraged to locate near highways.
Any improvements to the highway system that are required as
a result of a development or subdivision proposal shall be
carried out at the developer's expense.
Alberta Transportation
Referrals
3.4.4
The MD shall refer all Area Structure Plans, rezoning,
subdivision and development applications involving land
located within 0.8 kilometres of a highway to Alberta
Transportation for comment.
Road Use Agreements
3.4.5
As a condition of approval of a development, the MD may
require that the developer/operator enter into a Road Use
Agreement with the MD to address haul routes, maintenance
and/or upgrading if necessary, dust control, and any other
matters relative to the road use.
Road Naming and
Addressing
3.4.6
The provision of municipal address signage for individual lots
shall be provided at the cost of the developer. The naming of
internal subdivision roads may be at the discretion of the
developer.
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Road Design
3.4.7
All internal subdivision roads shall be developed to recognize
FireSmart standards. This includes providing roads in new
development with multiple entrance and exit points to
facilitate evacuation and access for emergency vehicles. In
addition, all roads requiring bulbing shall be designed to
accommodate turnaround dimensions for fire fighting
vehicles.
Roadside Cleanup
3.4.8
The MD will work with the Provincial government and other
jurisdictions on the periodic cleaning of roadsides and
ensuring removal of potential fuel materials from Highways
and other roadsides.
3.5
Utility Policies
Underground Utilities
3.5.1
The MD shall encourage the placement of all utilities
underground in order to give better assurance of service in
difficult weather conditions.
Compliance with
Standards
3.5.2
All municipal infrastructure systems, including sewage
collection and water distribution systems, and sanitary waste
disposal sites installed by private developers are required to
meet or exceed all appropriate MD, Provincial and Federal
standards.
Protection of
Groundwater
3.5.3
Any future subdivision and development which may
jeopardize existing groundwater supplies or quality or pose
problems for sewage disposal shall not be approved.
Further, all developments are required to meet Provincial
standards for water supply and sewage disposal.
Water and Sewer
Servicing
3.5.4
With the exception of development located within the
serviced area of a hamlet or other Community Area, all
developments in the MD are required to provide private water
and sewer services in accordance with provincial standards.
Development
Agreement
3.5.5
The developer is responsible for the provision of all on-site
and off-site infrastructure required to service the site,
including the payment of offsite levies. Development
agreements may be required as a condition of subdivision
and/or development permit approval.
Proof of Water Supply
3.5.6
(a) The MD shall require developers to demonstrate proof of
water supply if accessing groundwater, or identify the
proposed method of water servicing, for all multi-lot
country residential developments in excess of five lots.
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Where lots are proposed to be served by cisterns,
restrictive covenants shall be registered as a condition of
subdivision approval, prohibiting the use of wells or other
means of groundwater collection.
(b) In areas with poor water availability, the MD may require
the installation of hydrant systems or water reservoirs.
Sewage System
Information
Requirements
3.5.7
As part of a development permit application, the MD shall
require that developers submit information respecting the
proposed location and type of sewage disposal system
intended to serve the proposed development. The MD may
require that soil tests be undertaken by the developer to
determine that the soils are suitable to accommodate on-site
sewage disposal systems.
Stormwater
Management
3.5.8
The MD shall require developers to provide stormwater
management plans, and site grading/drainage plans for
individual development sites shall be in conformance with the
stormwater management plan.
3.6
Hamlet Commercial
3.1.1
The MD shall encourage a range of commercial development in hamlets which serve the day-to-
day needs of the community and shall ensure that hamlet commercial uses are developed at a
scale appropriate to the community.
Highway Commercial
3.1.2
Highway commercial development--including uses such as hotels, gas stations, automotive
services, and restaurants--may be permitted along designated highways shown on the Policy
Area Maps, where appropriate.
Such developments shall be evaluated based on:
- Compatibility with surrounding land uses,
- Protection of environmentally sensitive features,
- Availability and capacity of municipal or private servicing, and
- Safe and efficient site access.
Site accesses must be approved by both the MD and the Provincial regulatory body responsible
for highways, in accordance with applicable highway access standards and development
regulations.
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Infill Encouragement
3.1.3
The MD shall encourage infill and intensification of existing business parks to make more efficient
use of available land, infrastructure, and municipal services. Where necessary, this may be
facilitated through amendments to existing statutory plans or land use districts to accommodate
expanded or diversified commercial and industrial activity.
3.2 Commercial Social Policies
Municipal Reserve
Dedication
Requirements
3.6.1
The MD shall require that the 10% maximum allotment of MR
be dedicated for commercial subdivisions in accordance
with the following:
(a) Where buffers are required between incompatible land
uses; or
(b) To implement the open space requirements of an
approved Statutory Plan, or
(c) To implement the land or capital requirements identified
in a Recreation and Open Space Master Plan or other
recreational facility need identified by the MD.
In all other situations, MR shall be dedicated as money-in-
lieu.
Money-in-Lieu of
Municipal Reserve
3.6.2
When MR is to be provided as money-in-place pursuant to
Section 667 of the Act, the rate of payment shall be based on
the assessed value of the subject land as determined by the
MD assessor.
Deferment of
Municipal Reserve
3.6.3
MR requirements may be deferred regardless of the nature of
the proposed subdivision if required to assemble larger
school or recreation sites in accordance with an approved
Area Structure Plan, if the subject land is located in an urban
expansion area as defined in a Statutory Plan, or if the
amount of MR owing is relatively small and can be dedicated
as a larger amount in the future.
Transfer of Municipal
Reserve
3.6.4
MR may be transferred between parcels that have the same
owner in accordance with the Act. MR may not be
transferred between parcels with different owners unless by
way of deferment in accordance with Policy 3.6.3.
Design Controls
3.6.5
The MD shall enforce design guidelines and landscaping
standards along highways that serve to enhance the visual
form and character of development.
Trails
3.6.6
The MD may prepare a Trails Master Plan to include, but not
be limited to:
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(a) Trail networks to accommodate both pedestrian and off-
road vehicle traffic;
(b) Establishing criteria for developer responsibility for new
trails in private developments;
(c) New trails around communities and industrial and
commercial areas to act as surface fuel breaks and
provide access for suppression crews;
(d) Integration with other regional trail networks; and
(e) Community hubs and bench programs.
Communications
3.6.7
The MD shall advocate to communication service providers
for improved communications facilities and services on
behalf of its residents.
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4.0
INDUSTRIAL AREAS
Municipal Reserve Dedication Requirements
3.2.1
The MD shall require that the 10% maximum allotment of MR be dedicated for commercial
subdivisions in accordance with the MGA and the following:
-
Where buffers are required between incompatible land uses; or
-
To implement the open space requirements of an approved Statutory Plan, or
-
To implement the land or capital requirements identified in a Recreation and Open Space
Master Plan or other recreational facility need identified by the MD. In all other situations, MR
shall be dedicated as money-in-lieu.
Design Controls
3.2.2
The MD shall enforce design guidelines and landscaping standards along highways that serve to
enhance the visual form and character of development.
4 Industrial Areas
The MD's economy is based ondriven primarily by industrial enterprises which serve theactivities
related to forestry, agriculture, oil and gas, and aggregate resource extraction sectors. The MD's major.
Major industrial developments are concentrated inwithin the Mitsue Industrial Park, and includeincluding
pulp mills, lumber and mills, oriented strand board (OSB mills) production facilities, gas processing
plants, and andan oilfield waste disposal facility, as well as a number. Additionally, the MD supports a
variety of smaller-scale industrial businesses related to resource-based industrial ventures.sectors
across the region.
Objectives
-
To encourageEncourage new industrial development at appropriate locations.
-
To ensureEnsure that new industrial development is carried out in an environmentally responsible
manner.
4.1 4.1
Industrial Areas - Land Use Policies
Industrial Development
4.1.1
(a) Unless otherwise indicated in this Plan, all future industrial
development shall be concentrated in the Mitsue Industrial
Area as illustrated on Map 1.
(b) In locating industrial development, special consideration shall
be given to the impacts on rural infrastructure, including local
roads, bridges, traffic flows, and other considerations as
determined by the MD.
(c) Industrial development which requires large lots and a
minimum level of municipal services should be encouraged to
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locate in an industrial park.
Mitsue Industrial Park
4.1.2
Development in Mitsue shall be resource-based industrial in
nature.
Other Industrial
4.1.3
Industrial service uses and developments which serve resource-
based industries may be allowed to develop outside of Mitsue on a
site-specific basis.
Community Areas
4.1.4
Light industrial and service commercial development that is
compatible with residential development may be supported in
Community Areas if allowed under an approved Area Structure
Plan.
4.2
Industrial Development
4.1.1
a) Unless otherwise indicated in this Plan, all future industrial development shall be concentrated in
the Mitsue Industrial Area as illustrated on the Policy Area Maps.
b) In locating industrial development, special consideration shall be given to the impacts on rural
infrastructure, including local roads, bridges, traffic flows, and other considerations as determined
by the MD.
c) Industrial development which requires large lots and a minimum level of municipal services
should be located in an industrial park.
Other Industrial
4.1.2
The MD shall encourage diversification of its industrial base by encouraging small-scale or
emerging industries that complement the existing resource-based economy. Locations outside
Mitsue Industrial Park may be considered on a site-specific basis if supported by clear economic
or community benefit.
Buffering Requirements
4.1.3
At the discretion of the Development Authority, industrial developments should incorporate
appropriate buffer zones and setbacks to reduce land-use conflicts with residential, agricultural,
recreational, and environmentally sensitive areas. Buffering may include vegetative buffers,
fencing, berms, setbacks, or other mitigating strategies determined through the development
approval process.
Emergency Response and Safety
4.1.4
Industrial development applications should include an emergency response and safety plan
identifying potential hazards, including environmental hazards, emergency response procedures,
and coordination with local emergency services, to the satisfaction of the MD.
Environmental PoliciesProtection
Riparian Area
Protection
4.2.1
(a) For subdivisions adjacent to water bodies, ER shall
include sufficient shore lands so as to provide adequate
protection for waterfowl and fish habitat, and public
shoreline access in accordance with the Act. In these
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areas, the ER allocation may be supplemented by
municipal reserve where the additional lands are required
to accommodate parks or playground areas, trail
corridors or walkways, or parking areas.
(b) The clearing of natural vegetation or altering of land for
development along watercourses or lakeshores shall be
discouraged in order to preserve natural habitat.
4.3
FireSmart Policies
FireSmart Design
Principles
4.3.1
The MD shall encourage developers to be aware of
"FireSmart: Protecting Your Community from Wildfire" design
principles when preparing Area Structure Plans and designing
subdivisions, and minimize the potential for wildfire damage
through the:
(a) Provision of recreational facilities along the outer
perimeter of the development so that the developed
portions may be separated from environmentally
sensitive areas;
(b) Provision of a fire guard which shall serve as a buffer
between development and the surrounding
environmentally sensitive areas;
(c) Implementation of building design measures including
non-combustible building materials and sprinkler
systems; Development of trails between developments
and surrounding forested lands which may be used in an
emergency for fire prevention purposes; and
(d) Installation of fire resistant building and roofing materials.
Wildfire Recovery Plan
and Wildfire Mitigation
Strategy
4.3.2
The MD, in cooperation with other applicable authorities,
shall implement the measures contained in the 2011 Regional
Wildfire Recovery Plan and the Lesser Slave Lake Regional
Wildfire Mitigation Strategy. Such measures include but are
not limited to:
(a) The expansion and construction of fire halls;
(b) The construction of new water lines between the South
Shore communities, the Town of Slave Lake, the Sawridge
First Nation and Mitsue; and
(c) Requiring the installation of dry hydrants at strategic
locations throughout the MD.
Roadside and Right-of-
Way Cleanup
4.3.3
(a) The MD will work with the Provincial government and other
jurisdictions on the periodic cleaning of roadsides and
ensuring removal of potential fuel materials from
Highways and other roadsides.
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(b) The MD shall maintain Mitsue Industrial Road and the
linear clearing north of Aspen Road, and develop a fuel
break on the north side of Eating Creek east of the Mitsue
Road.
(c) The MD and Alberta Transportation shall mow the Mitsue
Industrial Road, power line right of ways and the Highway 2
right-of-way respectively to their full extent at least once a
year bordering in areas bordering country residential
subdivisions and other settled areas within the MD.
4.4
Transportation Policies
Road Access Required
4.4.1
All industrial subdivision and development proposals shall
have access to developed roads. The provision of roads
associated with a proposed subdivision or development are
the sole responsibility of the developer. This includes the:
(a) Construction of internal subdivision roads;
(b) Upgrading of intersections or adjacent municipal roads if
deemed necessary through a traffic impact assessment
or if required by Alberta Transportation;
(c) Provision of approaches to individual lots or
development sites; and
(d) Dedication of land to accommodate future road
widening.
Compliance with
Standards
4.4.2
All roads shall be developed in accordance with the MD's
engineering design standards. This includes the
development of service roads for Highways as shown on Map
1, internal subdivision roads, and grid roads.
Proximity to Highways
4.4.3
Developments that are expected to generate relatively large
traffic volumes will be encouraged to locate near highways.
Any improvements to the highway system that are required as
a result of a development or subdivision proposal shall be
carried out at the developer's expense.
Alberta Transportation
Referrals
4.4.4
The MD shall refer all Area Structure Plans, rezoning,
subdivision and development applications involving land
located within 0.8 kilometres of a highway to Alberta
Transportation for comment.
Road Use Agreements
4.4.5
As a condition of approval of a development, the MD may
require that the developer/operator enter into a Road Use
Agreement with the MD to address haul routes, maintenance
and/or upgrading if necessary, dust control, and any other
matters relative to the road use.
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Road Naming and
Addressing
4.4.6
The provision of municipal address signage for individual lots
shall be provided at the cost of the developer. The naming of
internal subdivision roads may be at the discretion of the
developer.
Road Design
4.4.7
All internal subdivision roads shall be developed to recognize
FireSmart standards. This includes providing roads in new
development with multiple entrance and exit points to
facilitate evacuation and access for emergency vehicles. In
addition, all roads requiring bulbing shall be designed to
accommodate turnaround dimensions for fire fighting
vehicles.
4.5
Utility Policies
Underground Utilities
4.5.1
The MD shall encourage the placement of all utilities
underground in order to give better assurance of service in
difficult weather conditions.
Compliance with
Standards
4.5.2
All municipal infrastructure systems, including sewage
collection and water distribution systems, and sanitary waste
disposal sites installed by private developers are required to
meet or exceed all appropriate MD, Provincial and Federal
standards.
Protection of
Groundwater
4.5.3
Any future subdivision and development which may
jeopardize existing groundwater supplies or quality or pose
problems for sewage disposal shall not be approved.
Further, all developments are required to meet Provincial
standards for water supply and sewage disposal.
Water and Sewer
Servicing
4.5.4
With the exception of development located within the
serviced area of a hamlet or other Community Area, all
developments in the MD are required to provide private water
and sewer services in accordance with provincial standards.
Development
Agreement
4.5.5
The developer is responsible for the provision of all on-site
and off-site infrastructure required to service the site,
including the payment of offsite levies. Development
agreements shall be required as a condition of subdivision
and/or development permit approval.
Proof of Water Supply
4.5.5
(a) The MD shall require developers to demonstrate proof of
water supply if accessing groundwater, or identify the
proposed method of water servicing, for all multi-lot
country residential developments in excess of five lots.
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Where lots are proposed to be served by cisterns,
restrictive covenants shall be registered as a condition of
subdivision approval, prohibiting the use of wells or other
means of groundwater collection.
(b) In areas with poor water availability, the MD may require
the installation of hydrant systems or water reservoirs.
Sewage System
Information
Requirements
4.5.6
As part of a development permit application, the MD shall
require that developers submit information respecting the
proposed location and type of sewage disposal system
intended to serve the proposed development. The MD may
require that soil tests be undertaken by the developer to
determine that the soils are suitable to accommodate on-site
sewage disposal systems.
Stormwater
Management
4.5.7
The MD shall require developers of industrial sites to provide
stormwater management plans, and site grading/drainage plans
for individual development sites shall be in conformance with
the stormwater management plan.
4.6
Social Policies
Municipal Reserve
Dedication
Requirements
4.6.1
The MD shall require that the 10% maximum allotment of MR
be dedicated for industrial subdivisions in accordance with
the following:
(a) Where buffers are required between incompatible land
uses; or
(b) To implement the open space requirements of an
approved Statutory Plan, or
(c) To implement the land or capital requirements identified
in a Recreation and Open Space Master Plan or other
recreational facility need identified by the MD.
In all other situations, MR shall be dedicated as money-in-
lieu.
Money-in-Lieu of
Municipal Reserve
4.6.2
When MR is to be provided as money-in-place pursuant to
Section 667 of the Act, the rate of payment shall be based on
the assessed value of the subject land as determined by the
MD assessor.
Deferment of
Municipal Reserve
4.6.3
MR requirements may be deferred regardless of the nature of
the proposed subdivision if required to assemble larger
school or recreation sites in accordance with an approved
Area Structure Plan, if the subject land is located in an urban
expansion area as defined in a Statutory Plan, or if the
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amount of MR owing is relatively small and can be dedicated
as a larger amount in the future.
Transfer of Municipal
Reserve
4.6.4
MR may be transferred between parcels that have the same
owner in accordance with the Act. MR may not be
transferred between parcels with different owners unless by
way of deferment in accordance with Policy 4.6.3.
Design Controls
4.6.5
The MD shall enforce design guidelines and landscaping
standards for all industrial developments that serve to
enhance the visual form and character of development.
Communications
4.6.6
The MD shall advocate to communication service providers
for improved communications facilities and services on
behalf of its residents.
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5.0
CROWN LANDS
4.1.5
The use, disposition and protection of Industrial developments should minimize negative
impacts on the environment through implementation of site-specific environmental management
plans, erosion and sediment control practices, spill control measures, and appropriate stormwater
management facilities in compliance with Provincial and Federal regulations, to the satisfaction of
the MD.
Heavy Traffic Management
4.1.6
Industrial developments generating significant heavy vehicle traffic may be required by the MD or
the Provincial regulatory body responsible for transportation to prepare a Traffic Impact
Assessment (TIA) as part of their development application. Recommendations from the TIA may
then be implemented to ensure local roads and bridges can accommodate increased volumes
and loads.
5 Crown Lands
Provincially controlled Crown lands is a significant issue in the Municipal District, as these areas
constituterepresent approximately 85 percent of its% of the Municipal District's total land base. These
lands are also significant as they accommodate and play a diversity ofcritical role in supporting major
economic activities, including such as oil and gas, forestry, sand and gravel extraction, and agriculture.
TheyThese lands also contain the Municipal District's major important environmental features,
including rivers, lakeshores, wetlands, and lake shores. As a result, the developmentwildlife habitats.
Although decisions regarding the use, disposition, and environmental protection of Crown lands is an
important are made by the Province, the MD recognizes that these decisions significantly influence local
land use issue, but the Municipal District's role is limited due to Provincial control of these
landsplanning, economic development, and environmental sustainability. As such, the MD will continue to
advocate and collaborate with provincial agencies to encourage land management practices on Crown
lands that align with local community interests and municipal planning objectives.
Objectives
-
To minimizeMinimize conflicts between resource based and non-resource -based land uses.
-
To minimizeMinimize the negative impact of resource based industrial operations on the quality
of the communities' environments.
-
To minimizeMinimize the negative impact of resource -based operations on the quality of the
natural environment.
-
To minimizeMinimize conflicts between resource based and non-resource -based land uses.
-
To minimizeMinimize the negative impact of resource -based operations on the quality of the
natural environment.
-
To cooperateCooperate with Provincial Government departments in the planning and
development processes
-
affecting Crown lands.
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5.1 5.1
Crown Land - Land Use Policies
Crown Land Area
5.1.1
Lands within the Crown Land area are primarily reserved for
resource management, recreation, environmental protection
and associated activities.
New Agricultural
Lands
5.1.2
The MD shall consider the following factors when reviewing
and commenting on proposals to open up new agricultural
lands:
(a) The impact on the existing road system and the cost of
constructing roads, if any, into the new areas; and
(b) The potential loss of alternative resource development,
recreational opportunities, or environmentally sensitive
lands.
Review of
Development
Proposals
5.1.3
When reviewing proposals for development on Crown land,
consideration shall be given to the following:
(a) Adjacent land uses;
(b) Provision of water, sewer, and emergency and
community services;
(c) Access; and
(d) Environmental impacts;
Crown Approvals
5.1.4
As a means of ensuring that the interests of the MD are
recognized and reflected in the development of Crown Land,
the MD shall be involved and cooperate in Provincial approval
processes for proposed leases and other dispositions,
serving as a means for conveying the concerns of residents to
the appropriate Provincial agencies, and active participation
in the review processes utilized by the Energy Resources
Conservation Board and the Natural Resources Conservation
Board.
Gravel Extraction
5.1.5
The permitting and licensing process for sand and gravel
operations will be coordinated between the MD and Alberta
Environment.
Resource Extraction
Industry Cooperation
5.1.6
A proactive approach shall be applied in encouraging the
resource extraction industry to work with the MD in preparing
land use plans and in educating the public and the industry in
advance of exploration and extraction activities to consider the
impact of such activities on existing and future land uses.
Responsible Energy
Development
5.1.7
As part of the energy resource development and exploration
process, the MD shall encourage the energy industry to engage
in forward looking and constructive consultation to address the
following issues when they propose development within the MD:
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(a) The potential threat to surface and ground water and
existing water wells;
(b) The impact of development on ability to farm affected land;
(c) Dust, noise, and other consequences with potential to affect
domestic life;
(d) Road maintenance and the establishment of traffic
corridors; and
(e) Safety management coordination.
Work Camps
5.1.8
The MD shall support the provincial approval of work camps
in Crown Land areas provided are situated at appropriate
locations, and such developments do not interfere with
agricultural operations.
5.2
FireSmartCrown Land Area
5.1.1
Lands within the Crown Land area are primarily reserved for resource development, recreation,
environmental protection and associated activities.
Crown Land Conversion
5.1.2
The MD shall consider the following factors when reviewing and commenting on proposals to
convert Crown Land to titled land:
a) The impact on the existing road system and the cost of constructing roads, if any, into the
new areas; and
b) The potential loss of alternative resource development, recreational opportunities, or
environmentally sensitive lands.
Review of Development Proposals
5.1.3
When reviewing proposals for development on Crown land, consideration shall be given to the
following:
a) Adjacent land uses;
b) Provision of water, sewer, and emergency and community services;
c) Access; and
d) Environmental impacts.
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Crown Approvals
5.1.4
As a means of ensuring that the interests of the MD are recognized and reflected in the
development of Crown Land, the MD shall be involved and cooperate in Provincial approval
processes for proposed leases and other dispositions, serving as a means for conveying the
concerns of residents to the appropriate Provincial agencies, and active participation in the review
processes.
Resource Extraction Industry Cooperation
5.1.5
The MD shall proactively encourage resource extraction companies to collaborate with municipal
staff in developing land use plans and to engage in early public education and communication
efforts prior to exploration or extraction activities. This collaboration should include evaluating and
addressing potential impacts on existing land uses, future land development, community
infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.
Responsible Energy Development
5.1.6
As part of the energy resource development and exploration process, the MD shall encourage the
energy industry to proactively consult with the MD, landowners, and the public to identify and
address concerns, including:
a) The potential threat to surface and ground water and existing water wells;
b) The impact of development on ability to farm affected land;
c) Dust, noise, and other consequences with potential to affect domestic life;
d) Road maintenance and the establishment of traffic corridors; and
e) Safety management coordination.
Work Camps
5.1.7
Support from the MD may be conditional upon evidence that the work camp location and design
effectively mitigate impacts on adjacent lands and existing land uses.
5.2 Crown Land - Environmental Policies
FireSmart Design
Principles
5.2.1
The MD shall encourage developers to be aware of
"FireSmart: Protecting Your Community from Wildfire" design
principles when preparing Area Structure Plans and designing
subdivisions, and minimize the potential for wildfire damage
through the:
(a) Provision of recreational facilities along the outer
perimeter of the development so that the developed
portions may be separated from environmentally
sensitive areas;
(b) Provision of a fire guard which shall serve as a buffer
between development and the surrounding
environmentally sensitive areas;
(c) Implementation of building design measures including
non-combustible building materials and sprinkler
systems;
(d) Development of trails between developments and
surrounding forested lands which may be used in an
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emergency for fire prevention purposes; and
(e) Installation of fire resistant building and roofing materials.
Wildfire Recovery Plan
and Wildfire Mitigation
Strategy
5.2.2
The MD, in cooperation with other applicable authorities,
shall implement the measures contained in the 2011 Regional
Wildfire Recovery Plan and the Lesser Slave Lake Regional
Wildfire Mitigation Strategy. Such measures include but are
not limited to:
(a) The expansion and construction of fire halls;
(b) The construction of new water lines between the South
Shore communities, the Town of Slave Lake, the Sawridge
First Nation and Mitsue; and
(c) Requiring the installation of dry hydrants at strategic
locations throughout the MD.
Roadside Cleanup
5.2.3
The MD will work with the Provincial government and other
jurisdictions on the periodic cleaning of roadsides and
ensuring removal of potential fuel materials from Highways
and other roadsides.
5.3
Wildfire Risk Management
5.2.1
The MD shall coordinate with Provincial agencies, industry partners, and local fire protection
services to proactively manage wildfire risks on Crown Lands. Developers should prepare wildfire
management plans and implement FRIAA practices as appropriate.
Restoration and Reclamation
5.2.2
The MD should encourage timely and effective reclamation and restoration of disturbed Crown
Lands by developers. The MD may request reclamation plans, include timelines, reclamation
methods, and monitoring procedures, and shall be developed to Provincial standards and best
practices.
5.3 Crown Land - Transportation Policies
Road Access Required
5.3.1
All development proposals in the Crown Land area shall have
access to developed roads. The provision of roads associated with
a proposed subdivision or development are the sole responsibility
of the developer. This includes the:
(a) Construction of internal subdivision roads;
(b) Upgrading of intersections or adjacent municipal roads if
deemed necessary through a traffic impact assessment or if
required by Alberta Transportation;
(c) Provision of approaches to individual lots or development sites;
and
(d) Dedication of land to accommodate future road widening.
Compliance with
Standards
5.3.2
Although development on Crown Land is generally served by private
lease roads, any upgrades to MD roads that are triggered by
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development on Crown Lands shall be the responsibility of the
developer and be undertaken in accordance with MD standards.
Road Use Agreements
5.3.3
As a condition of approval of a development, the MD may require
that the developer/operator enter into a Road Use Agreement with
the MD to address haul routes, maintenance and/or upgrading if
necessary, dust control, and any other matters relative to the road
use.
5.4
Compliance with Standards
5.3.1
Development on Crown Land is typically accessed via private lease roads. However, if such
development requires upgrades or improvements to MD roads, these improvements shall be the
responsibility of the developer.
5.3.2
All required road upgrades shall be completed in accordance with MD engineering standards and
specifications, and at the developer's cost. The MD may also request that an ASP be prepared to
provide long-term planning direction.
5.4 Crown Land - Social Policies
Trails
5.4.1
The MD may prepare a Trails Master Plan to include, but not
be limited to:
(a) Trail networks to accommodate both pedestrian and off-
road vehicle traffic;
(b) Establishing criteria for developer responsibility for new
trails in private developments;
(c) New trails around communities and industrial and
commercial areas to act as surface fuel breaks and
provide access for suppression crews;
(d) Integration with other regional trail networks; and
(e) Community hubs and bench programs.
Communications
5.4.2
The MD shall support the development of communications
towers and related facilities in Crown Land areas.
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6.0
AGRICULTURE
Communications
5.4.1
The MD shall support the development of communications towers and related facilities in Crown
Land areas.
Recreation and Access
5.4.2
The MD shall encourage the Province to maintain and enhance public access to Crown Lands for
responsible recreation, tourism, and cultural purposes, ensuring such activities are managed
sustainably and in consultation with local communities.
6 Agriculture
Agriculture is a significant land use in the southerly portion of the MD. In this area, the protection of
agricultural operations and minimizing the conversion of agricultural lands to non-agricultural uses is a
priority.
Objectives
-
To protectProtect and retain productive agricultural lands.
-
To protectProtect agricultural operations from incompatible non-agricultural uses.
6.1 6.1
Agriculture - Land Use Policies
Agriculture Areas
6.1.1
Within the Agriculture Areas as illustrated in Map 1, farming shall be
the predominant land use. As such, farming will have priority over all
other land uses. The MD shall protect existing agricultural operations
from incompatible non-agricultural land uses.
Notice of Agricultural
Operations
6.1.2
Notice shall be provided to applicants for subdivision and
development within an Agricultural area that the predominant land
use in the area is agriculture, and that agricultural operations have
precedence over any other form of land use. All non-agricultural uses
shall respect the existing agricultural operations, including hours of
operation, odour and noise emanating from an agricultural operation,
and traffic movements.
Minimization of
Fragmentation
6.1.3
Where agricultural land is dedicated for roads, rail lines, pipelines,
and transmission lines, the MD should endorse only those proposals
which minimize the fragmentation of agricultural land.
Subdivision of
Agricultural Land
6.1.4
The subdivision of land in the Agriculture Area may be approved in the
following circumstances, as illustrated in Figure 6.1:
(a) The splitting of a quarter section into two parcels, roughly of
equal size, for extensive or intensive agricultural use;
(b) The creation of a fragmented parcel; or
(c) The subdivision of a maximum of two lots from the original
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unsubdivided quarter section for residential, recreational, or rural
industrial purposes, including fragmented parcels.
Figure 6.1
Agriculture Areas
6.1.1
Within the Agriculture Areas identified on the Policy Area Maps, farming shall be the primary and
preferred land use. Agricultural operations will be prioritized above all other land uses. The MD
shall protect existing agricultural activities from incompatible developments or land uses that
could negatively impact agricultural productivity or operations.
Notice of Agricultural Operations
6.1.2
The MD shall inform all applicants for subdivision and development within Agricultural areas that
farming is the predominant and priority land use. Applicants should understand that agricultural
operations have precedence over other land uses. Non-agricultural developments shall be
designed and operated to minimize conflicts with agricultural practices, including considerations
related to hours of operation, odours, noise, dust, and traffic generated by farming activities.
Minimization of Fragmentation
6.1.3
Where agricultural land is dedicated for roads, rail lines, pipelines, and transmission lines, the MD
should endorse only those proposals which minimize the fragmentation of agricultural land.
Subdivision of Agricultural Subdivision ExamplesLand and Fragmented Parcels
Fragmented Parcels
6.1.5
The MD may approve the subdivision of a fragmented parcel under
Policy 6.1.4 if the proposed parcel:
(a) Is inaccessible from the balance of the lot or, in the opinion of
the MD, is inconvenient to farm;
(b) Has legal and physical access; and
(c) Is not subject to erosion, flooding or subsidence.
Residential Parcel Size
6.1.6
The maximum size of a subdivided parcel described in Policy 6.1.4
should generally be 2.0 hectares. However, the size may be
increased to include dwellings or other improvements, such as
power supply, well, sewage disposal system, access, shelter belts,
and accessory buildings.
Non-Residential Parcel
Size
6.1.7
Notwithstanding Policy 6.1.6, the size of a parcel for non-residential
purposes shall be at the discretion of the MD based on the site
development requirements of the proposed use.
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Location of Vacant
Residential Parcel
6.1.8
The MD shall only approve a vacant residential parcel where the
location of the parcel and its residential land use will minimize
impacts on environmental features, and the agricultural use of the
balance of the quarter section and on adjoining lands.
Confined Feeding
Operations (CFOs)
6.1.9
In addition to the minimum distance separation requirements
provided through regulations adopted under the Agricultural
Operation Practices Act, the MD's policy is that Confined Feeding
Operations (CFOs) requiring registration or approval and manure
storage facilities requiring authorization under that Act shall not be
allowed within:
(a) 2.4 km of the corporate boundaries of any urban municipality
within the MD, or
(b) The Community Areas designated on Map 1, which areas shall
be considered an urban fringe when calculating the regulations
approved under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act, or
(c) 2.4 km of the shore of Lesser Slave Lake.
CFO Variances
6.1.1
0
Without limiting the generality of Policy 6.1.9, the MD shall
encourage the Natural Resource Conservation Board (NRCB) to not
grant a variance to any of the requirements and regulations adopted
under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act, and to require that
all the requirements and regulations adopted under that Act be fully
satisfied.
Road Use Agreements
for CFOs
6.1.1
1
The MD shall encourage the NRCB to require that a Road Use
Agreement be entered into with the MD to address haul routes,
maintenance and/or upgrading if necessary, dust control, and any
other matters relative to the use of roads in the CFO.
Manure Management
6.1.1
2
The MD shall encourage agricultural operators and any agencies
that approve manure spreading to ensure that odours from the
manure spreading do not seriously impact the use and enjoyment of
nearby dwellings.
Distance Setbacks
6.1.1
3
The MD shall use the formulae in the Standards and Administration
Regulation adopted pursuant to the Agricultural Operations
Practices Act, and any successor or complementary documents
issued by the Provincial government, in the review of any
development or subdivision proposal near existing CFOs.
Resource Extraction
6.1.1
4
Support for resource extraction operations in the Agricultural Area shall
be contingent on the mitigation or minimization of the adverse impacts
upon adjacent land uses, soil, water, and farming operations.
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Resource Extraction
Industry Cooperation
6.1.1
5
A proactive approach shall be applied in encouraging the resource
extraction industry to work with the MD in preparing land use plans and
in educating the public and the industry in advance of exploration and
extraction activities to consider the impact of such activities on existing
and future land uses.
Separation from
Extraction Activities
6.1.1
6
New rural subdivision and development may be directed away from
active and potential nonrenewable surface resource extraction areas so
as not to conflict, or constrain, the extraction of the resource.
Gravel Extraction
6.1.1
7
The permitting and licensing process for sand and gravel operations will
be coordinated between the MD and Alberta Environment.
Responsible Energy
Development
6.1.1
8
As part of the energy resource development and exploration process,
the MD shall encourage the energy industry to engage in forward
looking and constructive consultation to address the following issues
when they propose development within the MD:
(a) The potential threat to surface and ground water and existing
water wells;
(b) The impact of development on ability to farm affected land;
(c) Dust, noise, and other consequences with potential to affect
domestic life;
(d) Road maintenance and the establishment of traffic corridors; and
(e) Safety management coordination.
Home Based Business
6.1.1
9
Home businesses shall be encouraged and permitted in Agriculture
Areas provided that the following principles are met:
(a) That the intensity of the business is compatible with the uses in
the area where it is located;
(b) It has minimal impact on the environment, water, municipal
infrastructure and neighbouring properties; and
(c) The business is clearly secondary in nature to the residential
use of the property.
The criteria for home business shall be administered through the
standards established under the MD's Land Use Bylaw.
Home Based Business
Size
6.1.2
0
If the operation of a home business is found to have exceeded the
capacity of the site and/or is determined to have a significant
negative impact on the neighbourhood or adjoining properties, the
MD shall require the business to relocate to appropriate
commercial or industrial zoned lands.
Work Camps
6.1.2
1
The MD shall support the development of work camps in
Agricultural areas provided are situated at appropriate locations,
and such developments do not interfere with agricultural
operations.
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6.1.4
6.2
The subdivision of land and fragmented parcels in the Agriculture Area may be approved
in the circumstances as specified in the LUB.
The maximum number of lots allowed to be subdivided from a quarter section in the Agricultural
(A) designation (see MDP Policy Area Maps) shall be four (4), including the remnant. Approval of
additional lots shall require a Area Structure Plan in accordance with the Act.
Location of Vacant Residential Parcel
6.1.5
The MD should only approve the creation of a vacant residential parcel if its location and intended
residential use have been designed to reasonably minimize potential negative impacts on
environmental features, the ongoing agricultural use of the remaining quarter section, and
adjacent agricultural operations. The MD may require adjustments to parcel location,
configuration, or other conditions to achieve these objectives.
Confined Feeding Operations (CFOs)
6.1.6
In addition to provincial minimum distance separation requirements determined by the Natural
Resources Conservation Board, the MD shall not permit new Confined Feeding Operations
(CFOs) or manure storage facilities requiring provincial approval or registration within:
-
2.4 kilometres of any urban municipality's corporate boundaries within the MD;
-
2.4 kilometres of any Community Area as designated on Map 1 (these areas shall be
considered "urban fringe" for the purpose of applying provincial regulations); or
-
2.4 kilometres from the shoreline of Lesser Slave Lake.
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CFO Variances
6.1.7
In addition to Policy 6.1.6, the MD shall encourage the appropriate provincial regulatory agency
responsible for agricultural operations (Natural Resources Conservation Board) to avoid granting
variances or exemptions from provincial requirements related to Confined Feeding Operations
(CFOs). The MD strongly supports full compliance with all provincial agricultural operation
standards and regulations.
Road Use Agreements for CFOs
6.1.8
The MD shall encourage the appropriate regulatory agency to require that a Road Use
Agreement be entered into with the MD to address haul routes, maintenance and/or upgrading if
necessary, dust control, and any other matters relative to the use of roads for the CFO.
Manure Management
6.1.9
The MD shall encourage agricultural operators and any agencies that approve manure spreading
to ensure that odours from the manure spreading do not seriously impact the use and enjoyment
of nearby dwellings. All manure-related operations shall abide by the Provincial Manure
Spreading Regulations.
Distance Setbacks
6.1.10 In reviewing subdivision or development proposals near existing CFOs, the MD shall ensure
compliance with all applicable provincial and federal regulations, including Alberta's Agricultural
Operation Practices Act (AOPA) and relevant federal legislation related to environmental
protection, water quality, and wildlife habitat.
Resource Extraction
6.1.11 The MD shall only support resource extraction operations in Agricultural Areas when operators
demonstrate effective measures to mitigate or minimize adverse impacts on adjacent agricultural
operations, soils, water quality, biodiversity, ecosystems, and other nearby land uses.
Resource Extraction Industry Cooperation
6.1.12 The MD shall proactively encourage resource extraction industries to collaborate with the
municipality when preparing land use plans. The MD shall also encourage industry-led public
education and consultation before initiating exploration or extraction activities, to ensure impacts
on current and future land uses are appropriately considered and addressed.
Separation from Extraction Activities
6.1.13 New rural subdivision and development should be directed away from active and potential
nonrenewable surface resource extraction areas so as not to conflict, or constrain, the extraction
of the resource.
Responsible Energy Development
6.1.14 As part of the energy resource development and exploration process, the MD shall encourage the
energy industry to engage in forward thinking and constructive consultation to address the
following issues when they propose development within the MD:
a) The potential threat to surface and ground water and existing water wells;
b) The impact of development on ability to farm affected land;
c) Dust, noise, and other consequences with potential to affect domestic life;
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d) Road maintenance and the establishment of traffic corridors; and
e) Safety management coordination.
Work Camps
6.1.15 The MD shall support the establishment of work camps in Agricultural Areas, provided they are
located on sites with minimal existing agricultural activity and designed to avoid interference or
conflict with surrounding agricultural operations.
6.2 Agriculture - Environmental Policies
Flood Hazard
6.2.1
Parts of some of the Agricultural Areas are subject to a
potential flood hazard. No development shall take place
which may be subject to a flood hazard unless the hazard has
been specifically identified and unless the development
occurs in such a manner as to protect the development from
the flood hazard.
Environmental Reserve
6.2.2
Lands that are subject to a flood hazard, contain sensitive
habitat, or are subject to potential erosion due to steep or
unstable slopes, shall be dedicated as Environmental
Reserve (ER) at the time of subdivision in accordance with
the Act. ER may be dedicated as a lot or in the form of an
easement.
Reports for
Environmental Reserve
Confirmation
6.2.3
Where the need for ER requires confirmation, or situations
arise where the amount of ER proposed to be dedicated
exceeds the allocations identified in the Act, the MD may
require that a geotechnical report, biophysical assessment,
and/or environmental assessment be prepared to support
the proposed dedication.
Shoreline Protection
6.2.4
(a) For subdivisions adjacent to water bodies, ER shall
include sufficient shore lands so as to provide adequate
protection for waterfowl and fish habitat, and public
shoreline access in accordance with the Act. In these
areas, the ER allocation may be supplemented by
municipal reserve where the additional lands are
required to accommodate parks or playground areas,
trail corridors or walkways, or parking areas.
(b) The clearing of natural vegetation or altering of land for
development along watercourses or lakeshores shall be
discouraged in order to preserve natural habitat.
Conservation
Easement
6.2.5
The MD supports the voluntary placement of Conservation
Easements by private landowners as a means of protecting
important wildlife habitat or ecosystems on private land. It is
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preferred that the donor select a non-profit organization to be
the dominant tenement of the easement agreement.
Weed and Pest Control
6.2.6
The MD shall vigorously enforce weed and pest controls in
order to prevent infestations in Agricultural areas.
6.3
FireSmart Policies
FireSmart Design
Principles
6.3.1
The MD shall encourage developers that subdivide
agricultural land for residential purposes or construct
residence in Agricultural areas to be aware of "FireSmart:
Protecting Your Community from Wildfire" design principles,
and minimize the potential for wildfire damage through the:
(a) Construction of buildings with fire resistant building and
roofing materials;
(b) Provision of fire guards which shall serve as a buffer
between development and the surrounding
environmentally sensitive areas; and
(c) Removal of deadfall from building sites and surrounding
forested lands.
Wildfire Recovery Plan
and Wildfire Mitigation
Strategy
6.3.2
The MD, in cooperation with other applicable authorities,
shall implement the measures contained in the 2011 Regional
Wildfire Recovery Plan and the Lesser Slave Lake Regional
Wildfire Mitigation Strategy. Such measures include but are
not limited to:
(a) The expansion and construction of fire halls;
(b) The construction of new water lines between the South
Shore communities, the Town of Slave Lake, the Sawridge
First Nation and Mitsue; and
(c) Requiring the installation of dry hydrants at strategic
locations throughout the MD.
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6.4
Conservation Easement
6.2.1
The MD shall support the voluntary placement of Conservation Easements by private landowners
as a means of protecting important wildlife habitat, riparian areas, and ecologically sensitive
lands.
Where a Conservation Easement is proposed, the MD should encourage the landowner to
partner with a qualified non-profit conservation organization to act as the easement holder
(dominant tenement), in accordance with the Alberta Land Stewardship Act.
Weed and Pest Control
6.2.2
The MD shall actively enforce weed and pest control measures in Agricultural Areas, in
accordance with provincial legislation, to prevent infestations and protect agricultural productivity.
6.3 Agriculture - Transportation Policies
Transportation Master
Plan
6.4.1
The MD shall prepare a Transportation Master Plan as a
means of budgeting and prioritizing future road construction
projects.
Location of
Transportation
Facilities
6.4.2
The MD shall encourage the location of transportation
facilities in a manner which:
(a) Encourages the integration of transportation routes and
utility lines within defined corridors and, as much as
possible, in government road allowances;
(b) Discourages the creation of fragmented parcels of land
between rights-of-way; and
(c) Minimizes the impacts on recreational, historical or
wildlife resource areas.
Buffering
Requirements
6.4.3
Where proposed transportation facilities may adversely
affect adjacent lands or land uses, the MD shall recommend
or require as a condition of development buffering of the
facility as deemed appropriate to minimize any negative
impacts.
Road Access Required
6.4.4
All subdivision and development proposals shall have access
to developed roads. The provision of roads associated with a
proposed subdivision or development are the sole
responsibility of the developer. This includes the:
(a) Construction of internal subdivision roads;
(b) Upgrading of intersections or adjacent municipal roads if
deemed necessary through a traffic impact assessment
or if required by Alberta Transportation;
(c) Provision of approaches to individual lots or
development sites; and
(d) Dedication of land to accommodate future road
widening.
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Compliance with
Standards
6.4.5
All roads shall be developed in accordance with the MD's
engineering design standards. This includes the
development of service roads for Highways as shown on Map
1, internal subdivision roads, and grid roads.
Alberta Transportation
Referrals
6.4.6
The MD shall refer all Area Structure Plans, rezoning,
subdivision and development applications involving land
located within 0.8 kilometres of a highway to Alberta
Transportation for comment.
Road Naming and
Addressing
6.4.7
The provision of municipal address signage for individual lots
shall be provided at the cost of the developer. The naming of
internal subdivision roads may be at the discretion of the
developer.
Roadside Cleanup
6.4.8
The MD will work with the Provincial government and other
jurisdictions on the periodic cleaning of roadsides and
ensuring removal of potential fuel materials from Highways
and other roadsides.
6.5
Location of Transportation Facilities
6.3.1
The MD shall encourage the location of transportation facilities in a manner which:
a) Encourages the integration of transportation routes and utility lines within defined corridors
and, as much as possible, in government road allowances;
b) Discourages the creation of fragmented parcels of land between rights-of- way; and
c) Minimizes the impacts on recreational, historical or wildlife resource areas.
Buffering Requirements
6.3.2
Transportation facilities should incorporate appropriate buffer zones and setbacks to reduce land-
use conflicts with residential, agricultural, recreational, and environmentally sensitive areas.
Buffering may include vegetative buffers, fencing, berms, setbacks, or other mitigating strategies
determined through the development approval process.
Compliance with Standards
6.3.3
All roads shall be developed in accordance with the MD's Engineering Design Standards. This
includes the development of service roads for Highways as shown on Map 1, internal subdivision
roads, and grid roads.
Alberta Transportation Referrals
6.3.4
The MD shall refer all Area Structure Plans, rezoning, subdivision and development applications
involving land located within 0.8 kilometres of a highway to Alberta Transportation for comment.
6.4 Agriculture - Utility Policies
Location of Utility Lines
and Facilities
6.5.1
The MD shall encourage the location of utility lines and facilities in a
manner which:
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(a) Encourages the integration of transportation routes and utility
lines within defined corridors and, as much as possible, in
government road allowances;
(b) Discourages the creation of fragmented parcels of land
between rights-of-way; and
(c) Minimizes the impacts on recreational, historical or wildlife
resource areas.
Buffering Requirements
6.5.2
Where proposed utility lines and facilities may adversely affect
adjacent lands or land uses, the MD shall recommend or require as
a condition of development buffering of the line or facility as
deemed appropriate to minimize any negative impacts.
Utility Rights-of-Way
6.5.3
The MD shall encourage new utility rights-of-way to avoid existing
residential areas and areas designated for residential expansion.
Where such lines must locate in close proximity to residential
areas, they should be designed to be compatible with future
growth.
Protection of
Groundwater
6.5.4
Any future subdivision and development which may jeopardize
existing groundwater supplies or quality or pose problems for
sewage disposal shall not be approved. Further, all developments
are required to meet Provincial standards for water supply and
sewage disposal.
Water and Sewer
Servicing
6.5.5
All developments in the Agriculture Area are required to provide
private water and sewer services in accordance with provincial
standards.
Development
Agreement
6.5.6
The developer is responsible for the provision of all on-site roads
and off-site road improvements required to access the site,
including the payment of offsite levies. Development agreements
may be required as a condition of subdivision and/or development
permit approval.
Compliance of Existing
Systems
6.5.7
When a lot containing an existing house is to be subdivided from a
larger parcel, the MD shall determine if the setbacks for the existing
sewer system comply with the Alberta Private Sewage Systems
Standard of Practice. If it is determined the system is not compliant
as a result of subdivision, relocation or upgrading of the system
shall be identified as a condition of subdivision approval.
Proof of Water Supply
6.5.8
(a) The MD shall require developers to demonstrate proof of water
supply if accessing groundwater, or identify the proposed
method of water servicing, for all multi-lot country residential
developments in excess of five lots. Where lots are proposed to
be served by cisterns, restrictive covenants shall be registered
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as a condition of subdivision approval, prohibiting the use of
wells or other means of groundwater collection.
(b) In areas with poor water availability, the MD may require the
installation of hydrant systems or water reservoirs.
Sewage System
Information
Requirements
6.5.9
As part of a development permit application, the MD shall require
that developers submit information respecting the proposed
location and type of sewage disposal system intended to serve the
proposed development. The MD may require that soil tests be
undertaken by the developer to determine that the soils are suitable
to accommodate on-site sewage disposal systems.
6.6
Location of Utility Lines and Facilities
6.4.1
The MD shall encourage the location of utility lines and facilities in a manner which:
a) Encourages the integration of transportation routes and utility lines within defined corridors
and, as much as possible, in government road allowances;
b) Discourages the creation of fragmented parcels of land between rights-of- way; and
c) Minimizes the impacts on recreational, historical or wildlife resource areas.
Utility Rights-of-Way
6.4.2
The MD shall encourage new utility rights-of-way to avoid existing residential areas or lands
designated for future residential expansion.
Where proximity to residential areas cannot be avoided, the design and alignment of the right-of-
way should incorporate measures that support future community growth, including appropriate
setbacks, noise attenuation, landscaping, and access management.
Compliance of Existing Systems
6.4.3
When a lot with an existing residence is subdivided from a larger parcel, the MD shall verify that
the existing sewer system meets provincial setback requirements. If the sewer system does not
comply due to the proposed subdivision boundaries, the MD shall require relocation or upgrading
of the system as a condition of subdivision approval.
6.5 Agriculture - Social Policies
Municipal Reserve
6.6.1
With the exception of second parcels out created under
Policy 6.1.4(c), Municipal Reserve (MR) shall not be required
for subdivisions located in the Agricultural Area. Municipal
Reserve dedicated under this policy shall be dedicated as
cash-in-lieu in accordance with the Act.
Historical Resources
6.6.2
The MD shall encourage and may support the efforts of
public or private agencies in the acquisition, restoration,
preservation, conservation or interpretation of historic
resources in the MD.
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Historic Site
Designation
6.6.3
The MD may consider designating valuable historic sites and
buildings within the MD as Municipal Historic Sites, or
encourage the Province to designate valuable historic sites
and buildings within the MD as Provincial Historic Sites
where it considers such action to be in the public interest.
Trails
6.6.4
The MD may prepare a Trails Master Plan to include, but not
be limited to:
(a) Trail networks to accommodate both pedestrian and off-
road vehicle traffic;
(b) Establishing criteria for developer responsibility for new
trails in private developments;
(c) New trails around communities and industrial and
commercial areas to act as surface fuel breaks and
provide access for suppression crews;
(d) Integration with other regional trail networks; and
(e) Community hubs and bench programs.
Communications
6.6.5
The MD shall advocate to communications service providers
for improved communications facilities and services on
behalf of its residents.
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7.0
RECREATION, ENVIRONMENT AND TRAILS
Municipal Reserve
6.5.1
Municipal Reserve (MR) should not be required for subdivisions located in the Agricultural Area,
unless otherwise specified within the LUB. MR dedicated under this policy shall be dedicated as
cash-in-lieu in accordance with the Act.
7 Recreation, Environment, & Trails
The MD is characterized by an abundance of natural resources whichareas that are ideally suited for a
variety of outdoor recreation activities. In anticipation ofWith increasing use pressuresdemand
expected on these resources, it isareas, the intent of this MDP is to encourage diversifiedsupport
recreational development appropriate to the capabilities of these resources and the intent of the
Plan goal, and to provide for the acquisition of municipal and environmental reserve pursuant to
the Act. that aligns with the sustainable capacity of the landscape and respects the overall goals of this
Plan. Additionally, the MD shall acquire Municipal Reserve and Environmental Reserve lands as provided
by the Act to ensure long-term preservation and public access to key natural areas.
Objectives
-
To provideProvide diversity in public recreation opportunities.
-
To provideProvide public recreation development that is compatible with the capabilities and
characteristics of the natural environment and surrounding land uses.
-
To ensureEnsure that high quality recreation resources are not jeopardized through premature or
incompatible development.
-
To encourageEncourage quality development of public outdoor recreation resources as a means
of promoting tourism in the MD.
-
To recognizeRecognize that non-development and preservation of natural areas contribute
significantly towards the promotion of tourism in the MD.
7.1 7.1
Recreation, Environment, & Trails - Land Use Policies
Support for Recreation
Development
7.1.1
Within the MD, recreational uses such as campgrounds, day
use areas, picnic sites, hiking and ski trails, and other similar
uses as developed by either private or public interests shall
be allowed in all areas, provided that they do not interfere
with agricultural operations or resource extraction and
processing industries.
Design of Recreation
Facilities
7.1.2
All public recreation development shall be designed to fit into
the surrounding natural landscape, particularly in terms of
siting, scale and visual impact.
Recreation Master
Plan
7.1.3
The MD may prepare a Recreation and Open Space Master
Plan, to which shall be used as the basis for future recreation,
park and trail planning and development. The plan shall:
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(a) Identify and enhance the provision of a sustainable land
base to support tourism development;
(b) Develop plans to create significant recreation and
tourism features, settings and scenery on public lands;
(c) Identify the partners, resources, and need for new
investment in infrastructure that supports the
development of tourism;
(d) Identify and designate high intensity motorized recreation
areas;
(e) Identify other infrastructure and facilities necessary to
support trails based recreation; and
(f) Coordinate with other municipalities and governments to
develop a regional trail system.
Recreation Services
7.1.4
The MD shall, through regional and local recreation boards,
continue an active program for the provision, upkeep and
improvement of recreational areas and facilities to meet the
recreational needs and desires of MD residents.
7.2
Support for Recreation Development
7.1.1
Within the MD, recreational uses such as campgrounds, day use areas, picnic sites, hiking and
ski trails, and other similar uses as developed by either private or public interests shall be allowed
in all areas, provided that they do not interfere with agricultural operations or resource extraction
and processing industries.
Design of Recreation Facilities
7.1.2
All public recreation development shall be designed to fit into the surrounding natural landscape,
particularly in terms of siting, scale and visual impact.
Recreation Master Plan
7.1.3
The MD may prepare a Recreation and Open Space Master Plan, which shall be used as the
basis for future recreation, park and trail planning and development. The plan shall:
a) Identify and enhance the provision of a sustainable land base to support tourism
development;
b) Develop plans to create significant recreation and tourism features, settings and scenery on
public lands;
c) Identify the partners, resources, and need for new investment in infrastructure that supports
the development of tourism;
d) Identify and designate high intensity motorized recreation areas;
e) Identify other infrastructure and facilities necessary to support trails based recreation; and
f)
Coordinate with other municipalities and governments to develop a regional trail system.
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Recreation Services
7.1.4
The MD shall, through regional and local recreation boards, continue an active program for the
provision, upkeep and improvement of recreational areas and facilities to meet the recreational
needs and desires of MD residents.
7.2 Recreation, Environment, & Trails - Environmental Policies
Recreational Use in
Environmental Areas
7.2.1
The MD supports the use of lake shores, river corridors and
other environmentally sensitive areas for passive
recreational purposes that do not place undue stress or harm
on the resource.
Flood Hazard
7.2.2
No recreational development shall take place which may be
subject to a flood hazard unless the hazard has been
specifically identified and unless the development occurs in
such a manner as to protect the development from the flood
hazard.
Environmental Reserve
7.2.3
Lands that are subject to a flood hazard, contain sensitive
habitat, or are subject to potential erosion due to steep or
unstable slopes, shall be dedicated as Environmental
Reserve (ER) at the time of subdivision. In accordance with
the Act, ER may be dedicated as a lot or in the form of an
easement.
Reports for
Environmental Reserve
Confirmation
7.2.4
Where the need for ER requires confirmation, or situations
arise where the amount of ER proposed to be dedicated
exceeds the allocations identified in the Act, the MD may
require that a geotechnical report, biophysical assessment,
and/or environmental assessment be prepared to support
the proposed dedication.
Shoreline Protection
7.2.5
For subdivisions adjacent to water bodies, ER shall include
sufficient shore lands so as to provide adequate protection
for waterfowl and fish habitat, and public shoreline access. In
these areas, the ER allocation may be supplemented by
municipal reserve where the additional lands are required to
accommodate parks or playground areas, trail corridors or
walkways, or parking areas.
Tourism Development
7.2.6
(a) Carry out tourism opportunity assessments to identify
various potential tourism opportunities, including guided
tours, educational programs, attractions, exhibits or
interpretive sites.
(b) Work with the Provincial government and other partners
to acquire funding and expertise for promoting the MD's
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scenic routes and by-ways network with high quality
attractions including routes, trails and waterways, to
create distinctive experiences for visitors and showcase
its unique natural and scenic resources.
7.3
FireSmart Policies
FireSmart Design
Principles
7.3.1
The MD shall encourage developers of open space and trail
systems to be aware of "FireSmart: Protecting Your
Community from Wildfire" design principles, and minimize
the potential for wildfire damage through the:
(a) Provision of recreational facilities along the outer
perimeter of the development so that the developed
portions may be separated from environmentally
sensitive areas;
(b) Provision of a fire guard which shall serve as a buffer
between development and the surrounding
environmentally sensitive areas; and
(c) Development of trails between developments and
surrounding forested lands which may be used in an
emergency for fire prevention purposes.
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8.0
INTERMUNICIPAL COORDINATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Recreational Use in Environmental Areas
7.2.1
The MD supports the use of lake shores, river corridors and other environmentally sensitive areas
for passive recreational purposes that do not place undue stress or harm on the resource.
Tourism Development
7.2.2
a) The MD should conduct tourism opportunity assessments to identify potential tourism
experiences, which may include guided tours, educational programs, attractions, exhibits, and
interpretive sites.
b) The MD is surrounded byshould collaborate with the Provincial government and other partners
to secure funding and technical support to promote the MD's scenic routes, trails, waterways, and
attractions. These collaborative efforts should aim to create distinctive visitor experiences and
effectively showcase the region's unique natural and scenic resources.
8 Intermunicipal Coordination & Economic
Development
The MD shares boundaries with six rural municipalities and, surrounds the Town of Slave Lake. The, and
also surrounds the Sawridge First Nation is also surrounded by the MD. . The MD shall workcollaborate
closely with all adjacentneighbouring municipalities and the Sawridge First Nation to besteffectively
serve its inhabitantsresidents and industries. It is theThe intent of this MDP is to encourage the
coordination ofcoordinated development activity, planning activities, and the efficient delivery of shared
services with these otherbetween the MD and adjacent jurisdictions.
Objectives
-
To provideProvide for coordination of development activity and infrastructure with neighbouring
jurisdictions.
-
To continueContinue to implement intermunicipal agreements as a means of continuing to
provide services to residents on a cost-efficient basis.
8.1 8.1
Intermunicipal and Economic Development Policies
Circulation of MDP
Amendments
8.1.1
All proposals for amendments to this MDP shall be
circulated to all Rural Municipalities and the Town of Slave
Lake for comment and input before a decision on the
proposal is made.
Referrals
8.1.2
All proposals for a Statutory Plan, Statutory Plan
amendment, Land Use Bylaw amendment, subdivision, or
development permit for lands located within 3.2 km of a
Rural Municipality shall be circulated to that municipality for
comment and input before a decision on the proposal is
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made. All referrals to the Town of Slave Lake shall be in
accordance with the Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP).
Slave Lake
Intermunicipal
Development Plan
8.1.3
The MD shall continue to support its IDP with the Town of
Slave Lake. The MD shall participate in the monitoring and
review of the IDP to ensure it remains current and reflects the
needs of the municipalities and area residents.
Conformity with IDP
8.1.4
The MD shall not approve any development proposal in
contravention of an IDP. If such development is proposed
and deemed to have merit, then an amendment to the IDP
shall be pursued in accordance with the provisions of the
IDP.
Intermunicipal
Agreements
8.1.5
The MD supports the continuing use of intermunicipal
agreements as means of delivering services, such as
emergency response, affordable housing, transportation,
and utility infrastructure, in a cooperative manner and to
maximize available resources.
Joint Economic
Development Strategy
8.1.6
The MD, in cooperation with other strategic partners
including First Nations, shall develop and maintain a long
term economic development strategy that will promote the
MD and region as an attractive place to locate new
businesses, and support the retention and expansion of
existing businesses and industries.
Economic
Development
8.1.7
Investments in projects that are critical to the MD's
economic growth will help in achieving the goals of
economic competitiveness and prosperity. Some of the
strategies to facilitate future economic development may
include:
(a) Protecting industrial and commercial districts for
business development;
(b) Directing growth to key locations that provide live-work
experience and provide a sustainable living;
(c) Investing in communities and neighbourhoods to create
housing opportunities in the MD;
(d) Priorizing the issuance of permits for a wide range of
business activity in suitable locations across the MD;
(e) Collaboration with other levels of government and non-
government and non-profit organizations to bring
investment and economic development opportunities to
the MD.
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Interagency
Cooperation
8.1.8
The MD shall endeavor to cooperate wherever appropriate
with other municipalities and/or the provincial government
with the planning, development and operation of
transportation networks, water distribution systems and
sewage treatment facilities.
MD as Affected Party
8.1.9
The MD considers itself to be an affected party for any
application under review by the NRCB that affects Lesser
Slave Lake. The MD shall work with the NRCB to ensure it is
consulted during the NRCB review process as the Lake is a
significant source of drinking water for the MD.
Emergency Services
8.1.10
(a) The MD may assist at fires, rescues or other
emergencies occurring outside its boundaries.
(b) The MD may agree with other municipalities, First
Nations, fire protection departments / agencies,
provincial and regional departments and agencies or
others to provide assistance at fires, rescues and other
emergencies and to receive assistance at fires, rescues
and other emergencies.
Tourism Development
8.1.11 With its historic and natural resources and its vast ecological
and wildlife habitat, the MD has great potential as a tourist
destination, attracting persons looking for historical
interpretation and/or ecotourism opportunities. The MD will
use its best efforts to expand and encourage both forms of
tourism that are sensitive to the resources.
Cooperative
Recreation and
Tourism Development
8.1.12 The MD shall promote cooperative private, non-government
and public sector initiatives to develop local recreation and
tourism opportunities.
Support for Eco-
Tourism and Agri-
Tourism
8.1.13 The MD supports eco-tourism and agri-tourism as a means
to create employment opportunities and diversify the
economy.
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9.0
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
Circulation of MDP Amendments
8.1.1
All proposals for amendments to this MDP shall be circulated to Sawridge First Nation, all Rural
Municipalities, and the Town of Slave Lake for comment and input before a decision on the
proposal is made.
Referrals
8.1.2
All proposals for a Statutory Plan, Statutory Plan amendment, Land Use Bylaw amendment,
subdivision, or development permit for lands located within 3.2 km of a Rural Municipality or
Sawridge First Nation shall be circulated to that municipality for comment and input before a
decision on the proposal is made. All referrals to the Town of Slave Lake shall be in accordance
with the Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP).
Slave Lake Intermunicipal Development Plan
8.1.3
The MD shall continue to support its IDP with the Town of Slave Lake. The MD shall participate in
the monitoring and review of the IDP to ensure it remains current and reflects the needs of the
municipalities and area residents.
Conformity with IDP
8.1.4
The MD shall not approve any development proposal in contravention of an IDP. If such
development is proposed and deemed to have merit, then an amendment to the IDP shall be
pursued in accordance with the provisions of the IDP.
Intermunicipal Agreements
8.1.5
The MD shall continue the use of intermunicipal agreements as a means of delivering services,
such as emergency response, affordable housing, transportation, and utility infrastructure, in a
cooperative manner and to maximize available resources.
Joint Economic Development Strategy
8.1.6
The MD, in cooperation with other strategic partners including Sawridge First Nation, should
develop and maintain a long-term economic development strategy that will promote the MD and
region as an attractive place to locate new businesses and support the retention and expansion
of existing businesses and industries.
Economic Development
8.1.7
Investments in projects that support economic growth shall be prioritized to enhance the MD's
overall competitiveness and prosperity. The following strategies should guide future economic
development efforts:
(a) Protecting and enhancing industrial and commercial areas to ensure suitable spaces are
available for new and expanding businesses;
(b) Focusing growth in strategic locations that provide sustainable, vibrant communities offering a
high quality live-work environment;
(c) Encouraging investment in local communities and neighbourhoods to increase diverse and
affordable housing opportunities;
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(d) Prioritizing efficient review and issuance of permits for various types of businesses to
stimulate local economic activity and investment; and
(e) Actively collaborating with government partners, Indigenous communities, non-governmental
organizations, and non-profit sectors to attract investment and foster broader economic
opportunities throughout the MD."
Interagency Cooperation
8.1.8
The MD shall actively collaborate with neighbouring municipalities, Indigenous communities, and
provincial authorities in planning, developing, and operating shared transportation networks,
water distribution systems, and sewage treatment facilities, where cooperation can achieve
mutual benefits and cost efficiencies.
MD as Affected Party
8.1.9
The MD considers itself to be an affected party for any application under review by any regulatory
agency that affects Lesser Slave Lake. The MD shall work with regulatory agencies to ensure it is
consulted during the review process as the Lake is a significant source of drinking water for the
MD.
Emergency Services
8.1.10 The MD may provide assistance in response to fires, rescues, or other emergencies that occur
outside its municipal boundaries, when appropriate and feasible.
8.1.11 The MD may enter into mutual aid agreements with neighbouring municipalities, First Nations, fire
protection services, and relevant provincial or regional agencies to both provide and receive
emergency assistance for fires, rescues, and other incidents.
Tourism Development
8.1.12 The MD possesses significant historical, natural, ecological, and wildlife resources, making it an
attractive destination for both heritage tourism and ecotourism. The MD shall actively support and
promote tourism initiatives that celebrate these resources, while ensuring that all development
and activities are environmentally responsible and culturally respectful.
Cooperative Recreation and Tourism Development
8.1.13 The MD shall promote cooperative private, non-government and public sector initiatives to
develop local recreation and tourism opportunities.
Support for Eco-Tourism and Agri-Tourism
8.1.14 The MD should support the development of eco-tourism and agri-tourism as strategies to diversify
the local economy and generate employment opportunities, provided such initiatives align with
land use compatibility and environmental stewardship goals.
9 Plan Implementation
This section of the MDP relates to the mechanisms for the ongoing monitoring, implementation and
administration of the Municipal Development Plan.
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9.1 9.1
Authority of the Plan
Subdivision and
Development
Compliance
9.1.1
Subdivision and development of lands within the MD shall be
in accordance with the provisions of this MDP and other
statutory plans that may be applicable.
Government Regard
for Plan
9.1.2
Council shall encourage the Provincial and Federal
governments to have regard for the provisions of this MDP in
the development and redevelopment of Crown lands, and in
the formulation of Provincial and Federal policies and
programs within the MD.
9.2
Subdivision and Development Compliance
9.1.1
Subdivision and development of lands within the MD must be in accordance with the provisions of
this MDP and other Statutory Plans that may be applicable.
Government Regard for Plan
9.1.2
Council shall encourage the Provincial and Federal governments to have regard for the
provisions of this MDP in the development and redevelopment of Crown lands, and in the
formulation of Provincial and Federal policies and programs within the MD.
9.2 Land Use Bylaw
MD not Compelled to
Rezone Land
9.2.1
No provisions of this MDP shall compel the MD to rezone
lands in the Land Use Bylaw for any use until such time as a
subdivision or development application is submitted to the
County requiring such action.
9.3
MD Not Compelled to Rezone Land
9.2.1
No provisions of this MDP shall compel the MD to rezone lands in the Land Use Bylaw for any
use until such time as a subdivision or development application is submitted to the MD requiring
such action.
9.3 Amendments to the Plan
Amendments in
Accordance with Act
9.3.1
Should changing conditions necessitate an amendment to
the MDP, the amendment shall be adopted by bylaw in
accordance with the Act.
Amendment Criteria
9.3.2
In order to ensure that a proper evaluation is made of the
impact of a proposed amendment to this MDP, the following
criteria shall apply to consideration of an amendment:
(a) A formal request for amendment shall be submitted to
Council with the appropriate fee; and
(b) The request shall be in the form of a written brief
demonstrating the implications and relationship of the
proposed amendment with respect to the goal,
objectives and policies of the MDP.
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Agency Referrals
9.3.3
During deliberation on the proposed amendment, Council
may refer the request to such agencies as it considers
necessary for comment; and may request such information
as it deems necessary to reach a decision on the proposed
amendment.
Amendment by MD
9.3.4
An amendment to this MDP may be initiated by the MD if
deemed to be in the best interests of the municipality to do
so.
9.4
Amendments in Accordance with Act
9.3.1
Any amendments to this Municipal Development Plan (MDP) required due to changing conditions
shall be adopted by Council through a bylaw, in accordance with the Act.
Amendment Criteria
9.3.2
Requests to amend this MDP shall meet the following criteria:
a) Applicants shall submit a formal, written request to Council, accompanied by the required
application fee; and,
b) The request shall include a detailed written explanation clearly outlining how the proposed
amendment relates to, and impacts, the goals, objectives, and policies of this MDP.
Agency Referrals
9.3.3
Council may circulate amendment proposals to relevant external agencies or stakeholders for
review and comment, and may request additional information as necessary to adequately assess
and make an informed decision on the proposed amendment. .
9.3.4
An amendment to this MDP may be initiated by the MD if deemed to be in the best interests of
the MD to do so.
9.4 Plan Review
Review of MDP
9.4.1
The planning process is dynamic, subject to inevitable
change. With this MDP being a major component of the MD's
municipal planning framework, it is intended that this MDP be
subject to periodic review. Review of the MDP may be
initiated by the MD in the following ways:
(a) A complete or partial review due to economic, social, or
technical developments or environmental considerations;
(b) A complete review at least once every five years; or
(c) A complete or partial review as a result of an MDP
amendment request.
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Review of MDP
9.4.1
As planning conditions continuously evolve, this MDP shall be reviewed regularly to ensure it
remains relevant and responsive to the MD's needs. Reviews of this MDP shall occur as follows:
a) A complete or partial review due to economic, social, or technical developments or
environmental considerations;
b) A complete review at least once every five years; or
c) A complete or partial review as a result of an MDP amendment request.
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