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LAND USE BYLAW 2025-01
Adopted June 18, 2025
BYLAW 2025-01
BEING A BYLAW OF THE VILLAGE OF EMPRESS, IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, TO PROHIBIT OR
REGULATE AND CONTROL THE USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF LANDS AND BUILDINGS
WHEREAS pursuant to the provisions of Section 640(1) of the Municipal Government Act, RSA, Chapter
M-26 as amended, the Council of a Municipality must, by Bylaw, adopt a land use bylaw;
AND WHEREAS Council has undertaken a major review of the Land Use Bylaw 7-2013;
AND WHEREAS Council, having considered at a public hearing the concerns of persons claiming to be
affected by the land use bylaw, believes that a new land use bylaw should be enacted to achieve the
orderly, economical and beneficial use of land in the municipality;
NOW THEREFORE, the Council of the Village of Empress in the province of Alberta, duly assembled,
enacts as follows:
1. This Bylaw shall be known as "The Village of Empress Land Use Bylaw".
2. The Village of Empress Land Use Bylaw being Schedule "A" as attached to and forming part of this
Bylaw is hereby adopted.
3. Bylaw 7-2013 and all amendments are hereby repealed.
4. This Bylaw takes effect on the date of the third and final reading.
READ A FIRST TIME THIS 15th DAY OF JANUARY, 2025
READ A SECOND TIME THIS 28th DAY OF MAY, 2025
READ A THIRD AND FINAL TIME THIS 18th DAY OF JUNE, 2025
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Table of Contents
PART A - THE APPROVALS PROCESS ............................................................. 1
1
ADMINISTRATION .............................................................................................................. 1
TITLE .......................................................................................................................................... 1
PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................... 1
APPLICATION ............................................................................................................................. 1
EFFECTIVE DATE AND TRANSITION ............................................................................................. 1
OTHER LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................... 2
NON-CONFORMING BUILDINGS AND USES ................................................................................. 2
SEVERABILITY ............................................................................................................................. 2
2
RULES OF INTERPRETATION ................................................................................................ 2
3
DEVELOPMENT NOT REQUIRING A DEVELOPMENT PERMIT .................................................. 3
4
ADMINISTRATIVE AGENCIES ............................................................................................... 5
DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL AUTHORITIES ................................................................................... 5
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY - POWERS AND DUTIES .................................................................. 5
VARIANCE POWERS OF THE DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ............................................................ 6
SUBDIVISION AUTHORITY ........................................................................................................... 7
SUBDIVISION AUTHORITY - POWERS AND DUTIES ..................................................................... 7
5
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION AND APPROVAL PROCESS ...................................................... 9
APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT ............................................................................................. 9
NOTICE OF COMPLETE OR INCOMPLETE APPLICATION ............................................................. 10
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND APPLICATION REFERRAL ............................................................ 10
DECISION PROCESS - DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY .................................................................... 11
DEVELOPMENT PERMITS AND NOTICE OF DECISION ................................................................ 13
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL ..................................................................................................... 14
COMMENCEMENT AND COMPLETION OF DEVELOPMENT ........................................................ 15
DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICTS AND PERMITS .............................................................................. 15
6
APPEALS ...........................................................................................................................16
DEVELOPMENT AND SUBDIVISION APPEALS ............................................................................. 16
7
BYLAW AMENDMENT PROCESS .........................................................................................17
APPLICATION TO AMEND THE LAND USE BYLAW ...................................................................... 17
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8
ENFORCEMENT .................................................................................................................18
OFFENCES ................................................................................................................................ 18
ENTRY AND INSPECTION .......................................................................................................... 18
ORDERS ................................................................................................................................... 18
PART B - GENERAL REGULATIONS .............................................................. 20
9
GENERAL LAND USE REGULATIONS ....................................................................................20
APPLICABILITY .......................................................................................................................... 20
DWELLING UNITS ON A PARCEL ............................................................................................... 20
SCREENING .............................................................................................................................. 20
UTILITY SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE ................................................................................ 20
SITE GRADING AND DRAINAGE ................................................................................................. 21
RELOCATION OF BUILDINGS ..................................................................................................... 21
YARD SETBACKS AND PERMITTED PROJECTIONS ...................................................................... 22
FENCES .................................................................................................................................... 24
CORNER LOTS, REVERSE CORNER LOTS AND IRREGULAR LOTS ................................................. 25
VEHICLE ENTRANCES AND EXITS .............................................................................................. 26
RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS ................................................................................................ 27
COMPREHENSIVELY PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS ....................................................................... 27
PART C - SPECIFIC USE REGULATIONS ......................................................... 28
10 SPECIFIC USE REGULATIONS ..............................................................................................28
ACCESSORY BUILDINGS ............................................................................................................ 29
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS .................................................................................................. 30
HOME OCCUPATIONS .............................................................................................................. 31
BED AND BREAKFASTS ............................................................................................................. 32
DWELLINGS, MANUFACTURED ................................................................................................. 32
TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION ACCOMODATION ....................................................................... 33
SEASONAL ACCOMMODATION ................................................................................................. 33
SHORT-TERM RENTALS ............................................................................................................. 34
PET CARE SERVICES AND KENNELS ........................................................................................... 35
AUTO BODY SHOPS .................................................................................................................. 35
CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY ............................................................................................ 35
WORK CAMPS .......................................................................................................................... 36
SIGNS ....................................................................................................................................... 36
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PART D - DISTRICTS .................................................................................... 38
11 DISTRICTS ADMINISTRATION .............................................................................................38
ESTABLISHMENT OF DISTRICTS ................................................................................................ 38
DISTRICT BOUNDARIES ............................................................................................................. 39
DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICTS .................................................................................................... 39
12 R - RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT .................................................................................................39
PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................. 39
PERMITTED USES ..................................................................................................................... 39
DISCRETIONARY USES .............................................................................................................. 39
REGULATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 39
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................... 40
13 C - COMMERCIAL DISTRICT ...............................................................................................41
PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................. 41
PERMITTED USES ..................................................................................................................... 41
DISCRETIONARY USES .............................................................................................................. 41
REGULATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 42
14 I - INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT ...................................................................................................43
PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................. 43
PERMITTED USES ..................................................................................................................... 43
DISCRETIONARY USES .............................................................................................................. 43
REGULATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 44
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................... 44
15 G - GENERAL VILLAGE DISTRICT .........................................................................................45
PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................. 45
PERMITTED USES ..................................................................................................................... 45
DISCRETIONARY USES .............................................................................................................. 45
REGULATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 46
16 REC - RECREATIONAL DISTRICT ..........................................................................................47
PURPOSE ................................................................................................................................. 47
PERMITTED USES ..................................................................................................................... 47
DISCRETIONARY USES .............................................................................................................. 47
REGULATIONS .......................................................................................................................... 47
PART E - DEFINITIONS ................................................................................ 49
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17 DEFINITIONS .....................................................................................................................49
PART F - LAND USE DISTRICTS MAP ............................................................ 68
18 LAND USE DISTRICTS MAP .................................................................................................68
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PART A - THE APPROVALS PROCESS
1
ADMINISTRATION
TITLE
The title of this Bylaw shall be the Land Use Bylaw of the Village of Empress.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Bylaw is to direct the orderly, economic and beneficial development
and use of land for the residents of the Village of Empress in accordance with the vision
of the Village of Empress Municipal Development Plan. This is achieved through this
Bylaw by regulating and controlling development, or where necessary, prohibiting
development without infringing on the rights of individuals for any public interest
except to the extent that is for the overall greater public interest.
APPLICATION
This Bylaw shall apply to the whole of the Village of Empress being all lands and
buildings contained within its corporate limits.
No person shall commence any development within the Village of Empress except in
conformity with this Bylaw.
Compliance with the requirements of this Bylaw does not exempt any person from the
requirements of any adopted statutory plan, including the Municipal Development Plan,
Intermunicipal Development Plans and Area Structure/Redevelopment Plans.
No development shall be undertaken within the Village of Empress unless an application
for it has been approved and a development permit has been issued except for those
items listed in Section 3 Development Not Requiring a Development Permit.
EFFECTIVE DATE AND TRANSITION
The Village of Empress Land Use Bylaw 7-2013, as amended, is hereby repealed and will
cease to have effect on the day this Bylaw comes into force. This Bylaw comes into force
upon third reading.
An application for a subdivision, development permit or amendment to this Bylaw
submitted prior to the coming into force of this Bylaw shall be evaluated under the
provisions of the Village of Empress Land Use Bylaw 7-2013, as amended.
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OTHER LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS
In addition to this Bylaw, an applicant is responsible for complying with any other
applicable federal, provincial, or municipal legislation, bylaw or policy, licensing or
permitting regime, or approval process. The applicant is also responsible for complying
with the conditions of any caveat, covenant, easement or other instrument affecting a
building or land.
The Village of Empress is not responsible for nor does the Village of Empress have any
obligation whatsoever to determine what other legislation may apply to a development,
nor to monitor or enforce compliance with such legislation.
NON-CONFORMING BUILDINGS AND USES
Non-conforming buildings and non-conforming uses shall be treated in accordance with
the Act, and any amendments thereto.
A non-conforming building may continue to be used, and the building may be enlarged,
added to, rebuilt or structurally altered, if at the discretion of the Development
Authority, the alterations do not substantially increase the extent of non-conformance
and are within all other requirements of the Bylaw.
Nothing in this Bylaw diminishes or in any way affects the power of the Development
Authority to issue a development permit which makes a non-conforming building
conforming through the granting of a relaxation of the requirements or rules to which
the existing building does not conform.
SEVERABILITY
In the event any portion of this Bylaw is found invalid by a Court of Law or is overturned
by a superior jurisdiction, the validity of the remaining portions of the Bylaw shall not be
affected.
2
RULES OF INTERPRETATION
Where a word is used in the singular, such a word may also mean plural.
Where a masculine or impersonal pronoun or adjective is used, such a word may also
mean the feminine or impersonal pronoun or adjective.
Where a word is used in the present tense, such a word may also mean the future tense.
The word "person" includes a corporation as well as an individual.
The words "shall" and "must" require mandatory compliance except where a variance or
relaxation has been granted pursuant to the Act or this Bylaw. "May" means a choice is
available, with no particular direction or guidance intended.
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Words, phrases, and terms not defined in this Bylaw may be given their definition in the
Act or the Safety Codes Act. Other words shall be given their usual and customary
meaning.
Where a regulation involves two or more conditions or provisions connected by the
conjunction "and" means all the connected items shall apply in combination; "or"
indicates that the connected items may apply singly; and "and/or" indicates the items
may apply singly or in combination.
For ease of reference:
words that are Capitalized and Bold denote uses defined in Part E Definitions;
words that are italicized and bold denote general terms defined in Part E
Definitions;
words that are italicized reference federal or provincial legislation or
regulations thereunder; and
all other words must be given their plain and ordinary meaning as the context
requires.
3
DEVELOPMENT NOT REQUIRING A DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
This Section does not negate the requirement of obtaining all required permits, as
applicable, under the Safety Codes Act or any other provincial or federal statute.
The following developments shall not require a development permit:
any use or development exempted under section 618(1) of the Act;
any use or development exempted by the Lieutenant Governor in Council
pursuant to section 618(4) of the Act;
Telecommunication Structures;
the completion and use of a development which was lawfully under
construction at the date this Bylaw came into effect provided the development
is completed in accordance with the terms and conditions of any development
permit(s) granted;
the completion of a development that did not require a development permit
under the previous Land Use Bylaw and which was lawfully under construction
provided the development is completed within twelve (12) months from the
date this Bylaw came into effect and complies with the applicable requirements
of the previous Land Use Bylaw;
an official notice, Sign, placard or bulletin required to be displayed pursuant to
provisions of federal, provincial or municipal legislation; and
the use of a building or part thereof for a federal, provincial, or municipal
election, referendum or plebiscite.
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The following developments shall not require a development permit, but must
otherwise comply with all other provisions of this Bylaw (example: setbacks, parking,
building height, etc.):
the carrying out of works, maintenance or repair to any building provided that
such works:
i.
do not include structural alterations that would affect any regulations in
this Land Use Bylaw, or
ii.
do not change the use or the intensity of use of the structure or building;
interior renovations to a building which do not:
i.
create an additional Dwelling Unit,
ii.
increase parking stall requirements, or
iii.
result in the change of use or the intensity of use of a building;
the temporary placement or construction of a building, works, plants or
machinery needed in connection with the construction of a development for
which a development permit has been issued for the period of those
operations;
the use of land for, or the maintenance or repair of works, services and Utilities
on publicly owned or administered land carried out by or on behalf of federal,
provincial, municipal or public authorities or private Utilities under special
agreement with the Village of Empress;
a Home Occupation - Minor (See Section 10.3 Home Occupations);
landscaping;
retaining walls that are no greater than 1.0 m in height measured from the
lowest ground elevation adjacent to the retaining wall;
the construction of a patio;
the erection, construction or maintenance of gates, fences, walls, or other
means of enclosure in accordance with this Bylaw (see Section 9.8 Fences);
the construction or replacement of Accessory Buildings which do not exceed
9.29 m2 (100.0 ft2), when listed as a permitted use in that district (See Section
10.1 Accessory Buildings);
the construction, maintenance and repair of private walkways, pathways,
driveways, and similar works;
demolition of a building (a building permit is required);
renewable energy systems (See Section 9.11 Renewable Energy Systems);
the installation of a Sign (See Section 10.13 Signs);
the parking or storage of 1 (one) recreational vehicle on a parcel with a
Dwelling Unit. For greater clarity, the storage of more than 1 (one) recreational
vehicle on a parcel requires a development permit, and a recreational vehicle
may not be stored on a vacant parcel unless it is allowed as part of a use as
defined in this Bylaw; and
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an electric vehicle charging station.
4
ADMINISTRATIVE AGENCIES
DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL AUTHORITIES
The Development Authority shall exercise powers and perform duties on behalf of the
Municipality in accordance with the Act.
The Development Authority is:
the Development Officer while carrying out his or her functions or duties under
this Bylaw and/or the Act;
the Municipal Planning Commission while exercising development powers or
duties under this Bylaw and/or the Act; or
where the context of this Bylaw permits in Direct Control Districts, the Council.
Development Officer
The office of the Development Officer is hereby established to act on behalf of Council
in those matters delegated by the Bylaw and in such matters as Council may instruct
from time to time.
Municipal Planning Commission
The Municipal Planning Commission, established by Bylaw in accordance with the Act,
shall perform such duties as are specified in this Bylaw.
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY - POWERS AND DUTIES
The Development Authority must administer all development permit applications in
accordance with this Bylaw and decide upon all development permit applications.
The Development Authority must refuse to accept a development permit application
where the prescribed fee for a development permit has not been paid.
The Development Authority may refuse to deem complete a development permit
application where:
the information required by this Bylaw is not provided; or
the quality is inadequate or insufficient to properly evaluate the application.
The Development Authority must make available for inspection, during office hours, all
applications and decisions for development permits, subject to any legislation in force.
The Development Authority must collect fees according to the schedule approved by
Council.
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The types of development permit applications a Development Authority may consider
are a development permit for:
a permitted use that complies with all requirements of this Bylaw;
a permitted use that does not comply with all requirements of this Bylaw;
a discretionary use that complies with requirements of this Bylaw; and
a discretionary use that does not comply with all requirements of this Bylaw.
The Development Authority issues the following notices and acknowledgements on
development permit applications in accordance with section 683.1 of the Act:
notice of complete application;
notice of incomplete application;
notice of decision; and
notice of refusal/deemed refusal of an application.
Development Officer
The Development Officer shall:
receive, consider and decide on an application for a development permit for
those uses listed as permitted uses for the relevant Land Use District which:
i.
comply with the minimum standards; or
ii.
otherwise comply with the minimum standards, but require relaxation of
any measurable standard in accordance with Subsection 4.3.2; and
receive, and refer with recommendations to the Municipal Planning
Commission for its consideration and decision, any application for a
development permit which has been assigned to it for consideration and
decision.
Municipal Planning Commission
The Municipal Planning Commission shall decide on an application for:
those uses listed as discretionary uses;
similar uses as described in Subsection 5.3.8;
the relocation of buildings as described in Section 9.6; and
those uses listed as permitted uses and requires a relaxation of any measurable
standard in accordance with Subsection 4.3.3.
VARIANCE POWERS OF THE DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
The Development Authority may approve a development permit application for a
permitted use or discretionary use where the proposed development does not comply
with all of the applicable requirements and rules of this Bylaw if, in the opinion of the
Development Authority:
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the proposed development would not unduly interfere with the amenities of
the neighbourhood or materially interfere with or affect the use, enjoyment or
value of neighbouring properties; and
the proposed development conforms with a use prescribed by this Bylaw for
that land or building.
Development Officer
The Development Officer, at its discretion, may relax the development standards up to
10% of that requirement.
Municipal Planning Commission
The Municipal Planning Commission, at its discretion, may relax the development
standards 10% or greater than that requirement.
SUBDIVISION AUTHORITY
The Subdivision Authority, as established by bylaw, shall perform duties on behalf of the
municipality in accordance with the Act, the Land Use Bylaw and all relevant Village of
Empress planning documents.
SUBDIVISION AUTHORITY - POWERS AND DUTIES
The Subdivision Authority must administer all subdivision applications in accordance
with this Bylaw and decide upon all subdivision applications.
The Subdivision Authority must refuse to accept a subdivision application where the
prescribed fee for a subdivision application has not been paid.
The Subdivision Authority may refuse to deem complete a subdivision application
where:
the information required is not provided; and/or
the quality is inadequate to properly evaluate the application.
The Subdivision Authority shall:
keep and maintain for the inspection of the public copies of all decisions and
ensure that copies of same are available to the public at a reasonable charge;
keep a register of all applications for subdivision, including the decisions therein
and the reasons therefore;
receive all applications for subdivision including the prescribed application fees
and decide upon all applications in accordance with the Regulation and the
Land Use Bylaw with consideration of all comments received through
circulation;
issue the following notices and acknowledgements on subdivision applications:
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i.
notice of complete application;
ii.
notice of incomplete application;
iii.
notice of decision; and
iv.
notice of refusal/deemed refusal of an application.
A notice shall be issued to the applicant on the form created by the Subdivision
Authority and sent by email where consent has been granted by the applicant,
otherwise it shall be sent by mail;
excepting subdivision applications not requiring circulation under the Act, to
circulate applications for subdivision for comments to an adjacent municipality
when the original parcel boundaries are adjacent to the municipal boundary or
where an intermunicipal development plan requires;
prepare, sign and transmit all notices of decision to the relevant agencies in
accordance with the Regulation;
ensure all conditions are complied with prior to endorsement to the satisfaction
of the municipality; and
endorse Land Titles instruments to effect the registration of the subdivision of
land.
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5
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION AND APPROVAL PROCESS
APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT
An application for a development permit shall be completed and submitted to the
Development Authority in writing, in the form required by the Development Authority,
and shall be accompanied by the prescribed development permit fee and application
submission requirements, including:
authorization of the registered landowner;
a site plan (drawn to scale) showing the following:
i.
legal description and north arrow;
ii.
area and dimensions of the parcel boundaries, showing the required
front, rear, and side yards, if any;
iii.
existing and proposed easements and rights-of-way, including dimensions
and type of easement, if applicable;
iv.
the location and dimensions of all existing and proposed buildings,
structures, or uses on the parcel and the measured distance to property
line;
v.
identification of existing and proposed roads or lanes that will provide
access to the development; and
vi.
any provision for off-street parking stalls and loading stalls; and vehicle
entrances to and exits from the parcel;
statement of existing and proposed Utility services (i.e. on-site or municipal);
statement of the current and proposed use of the lands;
the estimated cost of the project or contract price;
the estimated dates of commencement and completion; and
the presence of abandoned oil and gas wells in accordance with the Regulation.
The Development Authority may also require additional information in order to assess
the conformity of a proposed development with this Bylaw before consideration of the
development permit application shall commence. Such information may include, but is
not limited to:
current copy of Certificate of Title, and copies of any restrictive covenants,
utility rights-of-way, easements, or Village of Empress caveats registered on the
Title(s);
floor plans, elevations and section drawings;
written rationale supporting any requested variances;
samples or representations of exterior building finishing materials and colors;
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existing site grades at the corners of the parcel, and at the corners of existing
and proposed buildings;
stormwater management, grading or landscaping plans, prepared by a qualified
professional;
a Real Property Report, prepared by an Alberta Land Surveyor, showing the
location and distances of any existing buildings, waterbodies, trees or other
physical features on or adjacent to the parcel being developed;
in the case of the placement of an already constructed or partially constructed
building on a parcel of land, information relating to the age and condition of
the building and its compatibility with the District in which it is to be located;
where a proposal is considered to have a significant environmental impact, the
Development Authority may request the applicant to have an environmental
evaluation or report prepared and submitted or undertake its own
environmental evaluation regarding the proposed development, at the cost of
the applicant; and
a construction management plan.
Notwithstanding 5.1.1 and 5.1.2, at the discretion of the Development Authority,
additional information, plans or reports may be required to adequately render a
decision on an application.
In the case where an application for a development permit has been refused pursuant
to this Bylaw or ultimately after appeal to an Appeal Body, the submission of a
subsequent application for a development permit on the same parcel and for the same
or similar use of the land by the same or any other applicant may not be accepted by the
Development Authority for at least six (6) months after the date of the previous refusal.
NOTICE OF COMPLETE OR INCOMPLETE APPLICATION
A notice of complete application or incomplete application shall be issued to the
applicant on the form created by the Development Authority and sent by email where
consent has been granted by the applicant, otherwise it shall be sent by mail.
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND APPLICATION REFERRAL
Once a development permit application for a Seasonal Accommodation has been
deemed complete, the Development Authority shall provide a notice of application to
all adjacent owners of land or a greater circulation area if potential for conflict is
deemed to be probable.
The Development Officer may refer for comment any matter or any application for a
development permit to any agency or authority it deems necessary.
Applications for development permits on parcels within an area covered by an
Intermunicipal Development Plan shall be referred to the other municipality for review
and comment in accordance with the requirements of the Plan.
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The Development Authority may refer to an adjacent municipality for consideration and
comment any matter or any application for a development permit that relates to lands,
that the Development Authority deems appropriate or necessary.
A referral must state the location and details of the application being circulated, how
more information can be obtained, the date comments are due by and to whom the
comments must be sent to.
Having received a reply on a matter referred to any person, municipality, agency or
authority, the Development Authority shall make a decision giving due consideration to
the comments received.
After the time period identified in the circulation notice from the date of referral, the
application may be dealt with by the Development Authority whether or not comments
have been received.
DECISION PROCESS - DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Permitted Use Permits That Meet All Requirements
Where a development permit application is for a permitted use in a building or on a
parcel and the proposed development conforms to all of the applicable requirements
and rules of this Bylaw, the Development Authority must approve the application and
issue the development permit. The Development Authority may impose such conditions
as required to ensure compliance with this Bylaw.
Permitted Use Permits That Do Not Meet All Requirements
Where a development permit application is for a permitted use in a building or on a
parcel and the proposed development does not conform to all of the applicable
requirements and rules of this Bylaw, the Development Authority may:
refuse to approve the development permit application; or
approve the development permit application; and may:
i.
grant a relaxation of the requirement or regulation to which the proposed
use does not conform; or
ii.
impose such conditions as required to ensure compliance with this Bylaw.
The Development Authority may, as a condition of approving a development permit
that does not comply with all of the applicable requirements and rules of this Bylaw
require the applicant to conform to a higher standard than required by the applicable
rules if, in the opinion of the Development Authority, conformance to a higher standard
will off-set any impact of granting the relaxation.
Discretionary Use Permits
When making a decision on a development permit for a discretionary use the
Development Authority must take into account:
any plans and policies affecting the parcel;
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the purpose statement in the applicable Land Use District;
the appropriateness of the location and parcel for the proposed use;
the compatibility and impact of the proposed development with respect to
adjacent parcels and the neighbourhood;
the merits of the proposed development;
the utility servicing requirements;
access, parking and transportation requirements;
vehicle and pedestrian circulation within the parcel;
the impact on the public transportation system; and
sound planning principles.
The Development Authority may approve a development permit application for a
discretionary use, and may impose such conditions considered appropriate or
necessary, which may include:
limiting the seasonality of occupation of a building or structure;
limiting hours of operation;
limiting number of patrons;
establishing landscaping requirements;
requiring noise attenuation;
requiring special provisions be made for parking;
regarding the location, character and appearance of a building;
regarding the grading of a parcel or such other procedures as is necessary to
protect the parcel from other developments or to protect other developments;
establishing the period of time during which a development may continue; and
ensuring the development is compatible with surrounding uses.
The Development Authority may refuse a development permit application for a
discretionary use even though it meets the requirements and rules of this Bylaw.
Applications the Development Authority Must Refuse
The Development Authority must refuse a development permit application when the
proposed development:
is for a use that is not listed as either a permitted use or discretionary use in
the Land Use District; or
is for a use containing a restriction in its definition that is not met by the
proposed use.
Similar Use Permits
In the case where a proposed specific use of land or a building is not provided for in any
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District in the Bylaw, the Municipal Planning Commission may determine that such use
is similar in character and purpose to the definition of a permitted use or discretionary
use prescribed for a particular District.
Temporary Use Permits
If an application is made for a development that is identified as temporary in this Bylaw,
the Development Authority may consider and approve a development for a specific
period of time, not exceeding one (1) year, unless otherwise allowed in this Bylaw.
Where a temporary development permit is issued in accordance with this Bylaw and the
specified time period lapses, it is the responsibility of the applicant to request extension
or renewal of the permit.
DEVELOPMENT PERMITS AND NOTICE OF DECISION
A development permit issued for a permitted use in compliance with the regulations
and standards of this Bylaw, or a development permit issued by Council pursuant to a
Direct Control District, comes into effect on the date that the decision is made.
When a development permit is approved for a discretionary use or for a permitted use
in which a variance has been granted, the Development Authority shall:
provide a notice of decision to the applicant of the approval;
immediately post a notice of the decision conspicuously on the parcel the
development permit has been issued;
publish the notice of decision on the Village of Empress's website; and
issue a development permit after the appeal period has expired.
A development permit issued pursuant to Subsection 5.5.2 does not come into effect
until twenty-one (21) days after the date the notice of decision is posted on the parcel.
Any development proceeded with by the applicant prior to the expiry of this appeal
period is done solely at the risk of the applicant.
The notices indicated in Subsection 5.5.2 must state:
the legal description and the street address of the parcel of the proposed
development;
the uses proposed for the subject development;
any discretion that was granted in the approval of the development, whether by
use or by interpretation of this Bylaw, and any variation or relaxation in
regulation that was made by the Development Authority when the
development permit was approved;
the date the development permit was approved; and
how an appeal may be made to the Appeal Body and the deadline for such
appeal.
Where an appeal is made pursuant to Section 6.1 Appeals of this Bylaw, a development
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permit which has been granted shall not come into effect until the appeal has been
determined and the development permit has been confirmed or modified.
When the Development Authority refuses an application for a development permit, the
notice of refusal shall be issued to the applicant. The notice of refusal shall contain
reasons for the refusal.
After the issuance of a development permit, a Development Authority may suspend or
revoke a development permit in writing to the applicant at any time:
where the development permit was issued on the basis of incorrect
information, fraud, non-disclosure, or misrepresentation on the part of the
applicant; or
where the development permit was issued in error.
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Where a development permit application does not demonstrate that the proposed
development conforms to all the applicable requirements of this Bylaw, the
Development Authority may, as a condition of issuing the development permit, require
the applicant to amend specific elements of the plans to conform with the applicable
requirements.
The Development Authority may, as a condition of issuing a development permit for a
permitted use or discretionary use, require the applicant to make satisfactory
arrangements for the supply of Utilities including, but not limited to natural gas, cable,
water, electric power, sewer service, or any one or more of them including payment of
the cost of installation or construction of any such Utility or facility by the applicant.
The Development Authority may, as a condition of issuing a development permit for a
permitted use or discretionary use, require the applicant enter into an agreement with
the Village of Empress to do any or all of the following:
to construct or pay for the construction of a road required to give access to the
development;
to construct or pay for the construction of:
i.
a pedestrian walkway system to serve the development, or
ii.
pedestrian walkways to connect the pedestrian walkway system serving
the development with a pedestrian walkway system that serves or is
proposed to serve an adjacent development, or both;
to install or pay for the installation of a public Utility that is necessary to serve
the development, whether or not the public Utility is, or will be, located on the
land that is the subject of the development;
to construct or pay for the construction of:
i.
off-street or other parking facilities, and
ii.
loading and unloading facilities;
to pay an off-site levy or redevelopment levy imposed by bylaw; and
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to give security to ensure that the terms of the agreement under this section
are carried out.
The Village of Empress may register a caveat pursuant to the provisions of the Act and
the Land Titles Act in respect of an agreement under Subsection 5.6.3 against the
Certificate of Title for the land that is the subject of the development. Said caveat shall
be discharged when the agreement has been complied with.
The Development Authority may attach conditions to a development permit which may
include adherence to engineering standards, the completion of any required reports and
studies, or phasing requirements.
COMMENCEMENT AND COMPLETION OF DEVELOPMENT
If the development authorized by a development permit is not commenced within
twelve (12) months from the date granted or carried out with reasonable diligence the
development permit is deemed to be void, unless an extension request for the time
period is submitted in writing by the applicant and granted by the Development
Authority. The extension request must provide reasons for the request.
If the development authorized by a development permit is not completed within two (2)
years of the date of issue or as otherwise specified within a development permit, the
development permit is deemed to be void, unless an extension request for the time
period is submitted in writing by the applicant and granted by the Development
Authority. The extension request must provide reasons for the request.
For the purposes of this Bylaw, commencement includes excavation, does not include
fencing, or demolition on the parcel, or obtaining permits.
The approval or issuance of a development permit does not authorize commencement
of construction except in conjunction with all other required permits and conditions of
the development permit.
DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICTS AND PERMITS
Upon receipt of a completed application for a development permit pursuant to a Direct
Control District, the Council may, prior to making a decision, refer the application to the
Development Authority, any municipal department or external agency for comment.
Prior to deciding upon the development permit application before it, the Council may
provide public notice through means and to whom it considers necessary, that a
decision on a development permit pursuant to a Direct Control District is to be made
and that Council may afford an opportunity to any interested person to make
representation on the application and shall take into account any such representations
made when giving final consideration to the said application.
Appeals within a Direct Control District shall be in accordance with the Act.
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6
APPEALS
DEVELOPMENT AND SUBDIVISION APPEALS
Appeals in respect of decisions on development permit applications are governed by the
Act.
Where the Development Authority:
refuses or fails to render a decision on an application for a development permit;
or
approves an application for a development; or
issues an order under this Bylaw;
the person applying for the permit or affected by the order, or any other affected
person, as the case may be, may appeal to the Appeal Body within the dates outlined in
the Act.
An appeal with respect to a decision on a subdivision application is governed by the Act
and the Regulation.
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7
BYLAW AMENDMENT PROCESS
APPLICATION TO AMEND THE LAND USE BYLAW
Council may at any time initiate an amendment to this Bylaw.
Any owner of a parcel, his authorized agent, or other persons having legal or equitable
interest in the parcel may apply to have the Land Use District of the parcel changed
through an amendment to this Bylaw.
All applications for amendments of this Bylaw shall be made using the approved form,
accompanied by:
the prescribed fee;
a statement of the applicant's interest in the land;
a title search for the land affected or other documents satisfactory to the
Village of Empress that supports the applicant's interest in the said land;
any drawings, plans or maps required by the Village of Empress; and
any other documents as required by the Village of Empress.
All amendments to this Land Use Bylaw shall be made by Council by bylaw and in
accordance with the procedures set forth in the Act.
The Council, in considering an application for an amendment to this Land Use Bylaw,
shall refer a copy of the proposed amendment to the following agencies:
Palliser Regional Municipal Services;
Special Areas 2 and/or the M.D. of Acadia if, the proposed amendment:
i.
affects land on the boundary with Special Areas 2 and/or the M.D. of
Acadia; or
ii.
may otherwise have an effect on Special Areas 2 and/or the M.D. of
Acadia; or
such other persons or agencies as it considers necessary for comment.
If an application for an amendment to this Bylaw has been refused by Council, Council
may not accept an application for an amendment for the same use on the same parcel
for twelve (12) months from the date of the refusal.
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8
ENFORCEMENT
OFFENCES
Any owner, lessee or occupant of land or a building, or the owner of a structure or a
Sign thereon, who with respect to such land, building, structure or Sign, contravenes,
causes, or allows a contravention of any provision of the Bylaw commits an offense.
Any person who commences or continues development for which a development permit
is required but has not been issued, has expired, has been revoked or suspended, or
which is in contravention of a condition of a development permit under the Bylaw
commits an offense.
Any person who prevents or obstructs the Development Authority or a Designated
Officer from carrying out any official duty under the Bylaw or the Act commits an
offense.
A Designated Officer may enforce the provisions of the Bylaw, or the conditions of a
development permit pursuant to the Act.
Nothing in this Bylaw diminishes or in any way affects the rights of the Village of
Empress pursuant to the Act, or at common law to seek an entry order, order for
compliance, injunction or any other order to obtain compliance with this Bylaw.
ENTRY AND INSPECTION
Pursuant to the Act, a Designated Officer after giving reasonable notice to the owner or
occupier of the land may only enter land or a building for the purpose of ensuring
compliance with the Act and the Regulation, or this Bylaw if:
the owner or person in possession of it gives his consent to the entry; or
the entry is authorized by an Order of the Court of King's Bench; and
only for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the Act and the Regulation, or
this Bylaw.
ORDERS
Pursuant to Section 645 of the Act where an offense under the Bylaw occurs, the
Development Officer may by written notice, order the owner or the person in
possession of the land or buildings, or the person responsible for the contravention to:
stop the development or use of the land or buildings in whole or in part as
directed by the notice; or
demolish, remove or replace the development; or
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carry out any other actions required by the notice so that the development or
use complies with the Bylaw.
A person who receives an order referred to in Subsection 8.3.1 above may appeal to the
Appeal Body in accordance with Section 6 Appeals of this Bylaw.
Where the Council or a person appointed by it carries out an order the Council shall
cause the costs and expenses incurred in carrying out the order to be added to the tax
roll of the parcel of land and the amount:
is deemed for all purposes to be a tax imposed under the Act from the date it
was added to the tax roll; and
it forms a special lien against the parcel of land in favour of the Municipality
from the date it was added to the tax roll.
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Part B - General Regulations
9
GENERAL LAND USE REGULATIONS
APPLICABILITY
These regulations within Section 9 General Land Use Regulations, shall apply to all
developments within the Village of Empress, unless otherwise exempted.
Where any regulation in this section may be in conflict with any regulation of a given
Land Use District in Part D or the Specific Use Regulations in Part C, the regulation in
the District or Specific Use Regulation shall take precedence.
DWELLING UNITS ON A PARCEL
No person shall construct or locate more than one Dwelling Unit on a parcel unless it is
otherwise permitted in this Land Use Bylaw.
SCREENING
For commercial, industrial and Apartment developments, garbage and waste material
must be stored in weather proof and animal proof containers. Garbage and waste
material storage must be screened from public roads, excluding lanes.
Commercial and industrial developments abutting a parcel with a principal residential
use shall be screened from view on an interior side parcel line or rear parcel line, to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority.
The Development Authority may require commercial and industrial developments be
screened from adjacent parcels including any side, front or rear parcel line, and public
roads.
On corner lots within the corner visibility setback, screening shall be a maximum of 1.22
m (4.0 ft) in height above grade to ensure public safety and/or good visibility for traffic
and pedestrian purposes.
UTILITY SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The Development Authority must confirm there is adequate sewage collection,
treatment and disposal, water supply treatment and distribution, stormwater collection
and storage and road capacity necessary to serve a development.
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A development may not be permitted if the development is not served by:
the municipal sewer and water system; or
at the discretion of the Development Authority, a provincially approved private
system.
Where a proposed use may release contaminants or other deleterious substances into
the municipal sewer system, the Development Authority may require an applicant to
submit plans and reports prepared by a qualified professional to evaluate the potential
impact on the sewer system and propose mitigations.
The Development Authority may require a fats, oil and grease (FOG) interceptor, an oil
and grit separator or other such interceptor, and/or a test manhole to be installed
where a use may release contaminants or other deleterious substances into the
municipal sewer system.
Stormwater run-off shall be contained on-site or disposed of in a manner acceptable to
the Village of Empress and/or as required in a stormwater management report prepared
by a qualified professional.
SITE GRADING AND DRAINAGE
Parcel grades and building elevations shall be established to ensure effective drainage
and prevent drainage from one parcel to another, except where drainage conforms to
an approved subdivision drainage plan.
The owner of a parcel shall be responsible to ensure that grading is maintained over
time to provide effective drainage. Where maintenance of a common drainage swale or
path at a property line is required, the responsibility of maintenance lies with the
owners of both parcels. Where a drainage swale or path is established within an
easement or right-of-way on a parcel, swale grades shall be maintained and the swale
shall be kept free of any obstructions.
Where retaining walls are necessary or proposed in any development, such walls shall
be developed with professional quality and shall not negatively affect abutting parcels
due to site elevations or drainage.
RELOCATION OF BUILDINGS
Notwithstanding Section 3 Development Not Requiring A Development Permit, a
development permit shall be required for the relocation of any building, which has been
previously used or occupied, to any parcel in the Village of Empress as part of the
development of a permitted or discretionary use.
A development permit for the relocation of a building may include conditions of
approval that:
the building and the proposed location of the building meets the requirements
of the Land Use District in which the building is to be located;
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the building is compatible with the character of the neighbourhood in which the
building is to be relocated to; and
the building be renovated to a satisfactory condition within a specified time.
YARD SETBACKS AND PERMITTED PROJECTIONS
In all districts, the minimum yard setbacks do not apply to:
construction wholly beneath the surface of the ground;
driveways, parking stalls and sidewalks;
fences, patios and retaining walls; and
landscaping.
Where a building or buildings on the parcel are planned as a comprehensively planned
development and are divided by condominium such that the building contains units that
are on separate lots or Titles, the district yard setbacks do not apply within the
development, but shall apply from the property line of abutting lots.
Residential Projections
Residential building projections specified in Subsections 9.7.4 to 9.7.9 into or over a
required yard setback shall not require a variance (Figure 1: Permitted Projections Into
Yard Setbacks).
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Figure 1: Permitted Projections Into Yard Setbacks
The following projections may be permitted to a maximum of 2.0 m (6.6 ft) into the
required front yard setback:
balconies,
bay windows,
cantilevers,
chimneys,
eaves,
shade projections,
stairways and landings, and
uncovered decks.
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The following projections may be permitted to a maximum of 50% into the required side
yard setback:
cantilevers,
chimneys,
eaves,
shade projections, and
stairways and landings greater than 0.6 m above grade.
The following projections may be permitted to a maximum of 100% of the required side
yard setback:
stairways and landings no more than 0.6 m above grade.
The following projections may be permitted to a maximum of 1.52 m (5.0 ft) into the
required rear yard setback:
balconies,
bay windows,
cantilevers,
chimneys,
eaves, and
shade projections.
The following projections may be permitted to a maximum of 50% into the required rear
yard setback:
uncovered decks, and
stairways and landings.
Wheelchair ramps may be permitted to encroach into any required yard setback, at the
discretion of the Development Authority, provided that the ramp:
does not impede fire access to or around the building;
is complementary to and well-integrated into the existing building design; and
does not extend beyond the property line.
FENCES
In residential districts or a parcel with a principal residential use, the maximum height
above grade of a fence located within a yard shall be in accordance with Table 2:
Maximum Fence Height in a Residential Yard.
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Table 2: Maximum Fence Height in a Residential Yard
Yard
Maximum Fence
Height From Grade
Rear
1.83 m (6.0 ft)
Interior side
1.83 m (6.0 ft)
Front
1.22 m (4.0 ft)
Exterior Side
1.22 m (4.0 ft)
On corner lots within the corner visibility setback, fences shall be a maximum of 1.0 m
(3.3 ft) in height to ensure public safety and/or good visibility for traffic and pedestrian
purposes.
The maximum height above grade of a fence located within a yard of a commercial or
industrial development shall be 3.0 m (10.0 ft).
Materials used to construct fences shall be wood, brick, stone, concrete, or metal or
other acceptable material to the satisfaction of the Development Authority, and shall be
aesthetically acceptable and in general conformity with adjacent development.
CORNER LOTS, REVERSE CORNER LOTS AND IRREGULAR LOTS
The parcel lines and yards of corner lots shall be determined by the following (Figure 2:
Corner Lot and Reverse Corner Lot):
the front parcel line of a corner lot is the shortest property line abutting a
road;
the exterior side parcel line of a corner lot is the longest property line abutting
a road;
the interior side parcel line of a corner lot is the longest property line abutting
a parcel; and
the rear parcel line of a corner lot is the shortest property line abutting a
parcel or lane.
Notwithstanding 9.9.1 or anything else in this Bylaw, the Development Authority may
determine a corner lot to be a reverse corner lot (Figure 2: Corner Lot and Reverse
Corner Lot).
The Development Authority shall determine the front, rear and side yards of a reverse
corner lot by taking into account:
the general pattern and location of existing buildings on adjacent parcels;
the size and geometry of the corner lot;
the ability to create sufficient privacy on the parcel and privacy for adjacent
parcels;
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ensuring safe traffic movement at the intersection, considering the primary flow
of traffic and access to the parcel; and
the general aesthetics, considering the location and height of fencing and
hedges.
For parcels other than corner lots which have frontage on two roads, or for parcels
which are not rectangular in shape, the Development Authority shall determine the
yard designations.
Figure 2: Corner Lot and Reverse Corner Lot
VEHICLE ENTRANCES AND EXITS
Vehicle entrances and exits shall be located at least 6.0 m (19.7 ft) from the corner
along a property line at the intersection of two (2) or more roads.
All vehicle entrances and exits onto a highway shall be approved by the Provincial
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highway authority.
The Development Authority may require that entrances and exists for vehicles be
separate, one-directional, and/or adequately signed.
RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS
Renewable energy systems attached to a principal building or Accessory Building shall:
not extend above the peak of a roof;
not project past a roof by 1.52 m (5.0 ft) at any point; and
not generate noise, in the opinion of the Development Authority, which affects
the amenity or enjoyment of an adjacent residential use.
Renewable energy systems that are freestanding must meet the height and setback
regulations for an Accessory Building within the applicable Land Use District.
COMPREHENSIVELY PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS
A site plan must be provided for all comprehensively planned development applications.
The site plan must clearly identify private roads, pedestrian walkways, common areas
and buildings, garbage and waste storage areas or buildings, visitor parking stalls, and
the boundaries of Dwelling Unit plots.
All private roads in a comprehensively planned development shall be a minimum 6.0 m
(19.7 ft) width and constructed to the satisfaction of the Development Authority for
emergency access and egress.
Internal pedestrian walkways shall have a minimum width of 1.5 m (4.9 ft) and be
surfaced to the satisfaction of the Development Authority.
Visitor parking stalls shall be provided in the ratio of one (1) parking stall for every
three (3) Dwelling Units. Visitor parking stalls shall be dispersed throughout the
comprehensively planned development and clearly identified.
A minimum of 10% of the parcel area of a comprehensively planned development shall
be set aside for an outdoor common amenity area or recreational use.
A screened outdoor storage area may be provided for vehicles and equipment such as
trucks, recreational vehicles, travel trailers, snowmobiles, and boats, at a location and
in a manner satisfactory to the Development Authority.
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Part C - Specific Use Regulations
10
SPECIFIC USE REGULATIONS
This Section of the Land Use Bylaw contains regulations for specific land uses, as listed below.
10.1
Accessory Buildings
10.2
Accessory Dwelling Units
10.3
Home Occupations
10.4
Bed and Breakfasts
10.5
Dwellings, Manufactured
10.6
Temporary Construction Accommodation
10.7
Seasonal Accommodation
10.8
Short-Term Rentals
10.9
Pet Care Services and Kennels
10.10
Autobody Shops
10.11
Cannabis Production Facility
10.12
Work Camps
10.13
Signs
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ACCESSORY BUILDINGS
Accessory Buildings must be secondary and subordinate to the principal building or
principal use on the same parcel.
The determination of whether a use, building or structure is considered accessory shall
be at the discretion of the Development Authority.
An enclosed structure which is attached to the principal building by a roof, a floor or a
foundation is not an Accessory Building and is to be considered part of the principal
building.
An Accessory Building shall not be used as a Dwelling Unit unless approved in
accordance with the provisions of this Bylaw.
The maximum height of an Accessory Building in a residential district shall be 5.0 m
(16.4 ft).
No Accessory Building shall be located in the front yard of a parcel in a residential
district or a parcel with a principal residential use.
The minimum side yard setbacks of an Accessory Building in any District shall be 1.0 m
(3.3 ft) except on corner lots, where the minimum side yard setback shall be 3.0 m (9.8
ft) from the exterior side parcel line.
The minimum rear yard setback of an Accessory Building in any District shall be 0.9 m
(2.95 ft), except where the vehicle door of a detached garage opens to an abutting lane,
the minimum rear yard setback shall be 2.0 m (6.6 ft).
The maximum parcel coverage of all Accessory Buildings on a parcel is 15%.
Accessory Buildings - Fabric Covered
Accessory Buildings - Fabric Covered shall be:
setback a minimum of 3.0 m (9.8 ft) from any structure or equipment that
contains open flames (i.e. fire pits or other open flame accessories);
kept in good condition and the fabric not frayed or damaged; and
fully enclosed with closable doors on the ends.
Within residential districts Accessory Buildings - Fabric Covered must not:
exceed one (1) Accessory Building - Fabric Covered per parcel;
exceed 20.5 m2 (220.7 ft2) in floor area; and
be used in a manner that would cause or create a nuisance by way of noise,
vibration or dust to impact the privacy and enjoyment of adjacent residential
uses or the amenities of the neighbourhood.
Accessory Buildings - Shipping Container
Within residential districts Accessory Buildings - Shipping Container must not:
exceed one (1) Accessory Building - Shipping Container per parcel;
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exceed 15.0 m2 (161.5 ft2) in floor area on a parcel that is less than 836.1 m2
(9000.0 ft2) in parcel area;
exceed 30.0 m2 (323.0 ft2) in floor area on a parcel that is 836.1 m2 (9000.0 ft2)
or greater in parcel area; and
be used in a manner that would cause or create a nuisance by way of noise,
vibration or dust to impact the privacy and enjoyment of adjacent residential
uses or the amenities of the neighbourhood.
In residential districts, the Development Authority shall require the exterior surface of
an Accessory Building - Shipping Container be finished, or screened from public view, to
the satisfaction of the Development Authority.
An Accessory Building - Shipping Container shall not be used as a structure for installing
or displaying a Sign.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
An Accessory Dwelling Unit may be developed only in those Land Use Districts where it
is listed as a permitted use or discretionary use.
The issuance of a development permit in no way exempts the applicant from obtaining a
building permit for an Accessory Dwelling Unit.
A maximum of one (1) Accessory Dwelling Unit is allowed per parcel.
Notwithstanding 10.2.3, a maximum of one (1) Accessory Dwelling Unit - Attached and
one (1) Accessory Dwelling Unit - Detached may be allowed on a parcel with a parcel
area of 836.1 m2 (9,000.0 ft2) or greater.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit must not be separated from the principal residential use on
a parcel by the registration of a condominium or subdivision.
Detached Accessory Dwelling Units
The maximum floor area of an Accessory Dwelling Unit - Detached shall not exceed
80.0 m2 (861.1 ft2), excluding any internal area for stairways and landings or common
areas that are accessible and intended to be used by residents of both Dwelling Units.
Where an Accessory Dwelling Unit - Detached is located on the second storey, the
maximum building height shall be 7.0 m (22.97 ft) and shall not exceed the height of the
principal building.
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Attached Accessory Dwelling Units
The maximum floor area of an Accessory Dwelling Unit - Attached shall not exceed 40%
of the gross floor area of the principal Dwelling Unit or 80.0 m2 (861.1 ft2), whichever is
the lesser. Internal areas for stairways and landings or common areas that are
accessible and intended to be used by residents of both Dwelling Units shall not be
included in the floor area of the Accessory Dwelling Unit.
Notwithstanding 10.2.8, where an Accessory Dwelling Unit - Attached occupies:
the basement within a one-storey Dwelling, Detached; or
the second storey of a two-storey Dwelling, Detached;
the Accessory Dwelling Unit - Attached may occupy a maximum of 50% of the gross
floor area of the building.
HOME OCCUPATIONS
In accordance with Section 3 Development Not Requiring a Development Permit, a
Home Occupation - Minor does not require a development permit.
Where the applicant for a Home Occupation - Major is not the registered owner of the
Dwelling Unit proposed to be used for a Home Occupation - Major, the applicant shall
provide to the Development Authority written authorization from the registered
owner(s).
A Home Occupation shall not include any activity or operation which will cause or create
a nuisance by way of noise, dust, and/or smoke or other nuisance that is not
characteristic of a residential use.
A Home Occupation - Minor shall meet all of the following criteria:
located within the principal Dwelling Unit only;
on-site sales or customer visits totaling no greater than 9 visits per day, and no
more than two customers on-site at a time;
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no on-site employees other than the residents of the Dwelling Unit (all
employees must reside on the premise or work remotely);
no outdoor storage or display of goods.
A Home Occupation - Major shall be determined as any Home Occupation which
meets one or more of the following criteria:
located within an Accessory Building; and/or
on-site sales or customer visits totaling 10 or more customer visits per day, or
more than two customer on-site at a time.
The Development Authority may require the operator of a Home Occupation - Major to
maintain a register of the number of customer visits to the parcel on a daily basis.
A maximum of one (1) Sign for a Home Occupation may be displayed.
BED AND BREAKFASTS
Bed and Breakfasts shall:
not provide cooking facilities in guest rooms;
not change the residential character or external appearance of the building.
A maximum of one (1) Sign for a Bed and Breakfast may be displayed.
The Development Authority shall issue a temporary development permit for a Bed and
Breakfast for a maximum of five (5) years.
The issuance of a development permit in no way exempts the applicant from obtaining
any other provincial approvals that may be required.
DWELLINGS, MANUFACTURED
Dwellings, Manufactured constructed greater than ten (10) years at the time of
development permit application may not be approved at the discretion of the
Development Authority in consideration of its condition and appearance.
In determining the suitability of a Dwelling, Manufactured for placement on a parcel,
consideration shall be given to its condition and appearance in context with the
adjacent parcels.
The undercarriage of a Dwelling, Manufactured shall be screened from view by the
foundation or by skirting within 30 days of placement of the Dwelling, Manufactured.
All accessory structures such as stairways and landings, patios, decks, and skirting shall
be of complementary quality and design to the Dwelling, Manufactured.
All Dwellings, Manufactured shall be provided with stairways and landings to all
entrances within 45 days of their placement.
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TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION ACCOMODATION
A development permit for Temporary Construction Accommodation may be issued for a
recreational vehicle or park model provided a development permit and building permit
has been issued for the construction of a principal building on the parcel.
As part of an application for a development permit for Temporary Construction
Accommodation, the following are required:
proof of valid vehicle registration and insurance of a recreational vehicle or
park model;
information regarding proposed servicing of the development, including water
and disposal of sanitary wastes;
current photographs indicating the condition of the proposed recreational
vehicle, park model or similar structure;
a site plan showing the placement of the recreational vehicle, park model or
similar structure, including any patios or decks; and
any proposed landscaping or screening.
Any decks or patios on a parcel with an approved Temporary Construction
Accommodation shall not be placed in a manner to restrict or prevent the removal of
the recreational vehicle or park model.
A recreational vehicle or park model approved for Temporary Construction
Accommodation shall be maintained and kept in good condition and shall have valid
registration and insurance. Any recreational vehicle or park model that is considered, in
the opinion of the Development Officer, to be a derelict vehicle (i.e. broken windows,
damaged siding) or does not have valid insurance and registration may be required to be
removed from the parcel in accordance with the provisions of Section 8 Enforcement.
A temporary development permit for Temporary Construction Accommodation shall be
issued for a maximum of one (1) year. An extension of the development permit may be
granted provided the extension is for a period of six (6) months or less and that
construction has been proceeding with reasonable diligence during the term of the
development permit.
A Temporary Construction Accommodation shall be removed within 30 days of the
occupancy of the principal building.
SEASONAL ACCOMMODATION
A maximum of one (1) recreational vehicle, park model or similar structure may be
located on a parcel with an approved Seasonal Accommodation use.
A recreational vehicle or park model constructed greater than ten (10) years at the time
of development permit application may not be approved at the discretion of the
Development Authority in consideration of its condition and appearance.
As part of an application for a development permit for Seasonal Accommodation, the
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following are required:
proof of valid vehicle registration and insurance of a recreational vehicle or
park model;
information regarding proposed servicing of the development; including water
and disposal of sanitary wastes;
current photographs indicating the condition of the proposed recreational
vehicle, park model or similar structure;
a site plan showing the placement of the recreational vehicle, park model or
similar structure, including any patios, decks or Accessory Buildings; and
any proposed landscaping or screening.
A recreational vehicle or park model or similar structure shall only be occupied for
Seasonal Accommodation from March 1 to October 31, annually.
Where a Seasonal Accommodation development is connected to municipal water and
sanitary services, these services shall be disconnected annually from the first day of
November to the last day in the month of February. The owner shall be responsible to
pay any disconnection or connection fees as per the Village of Empress Water and Sewer
Bylaws.
Any decks, patios or Accessory Buildings on a parcel with a Seasonal Accommodation
development shall not be placed in a manner to restrict or prevent the removal of the
recreational vehicle or park model or similar structure.
A recreational vehicle or park model or similar structure shall be maintained and kept in
good condition. Any recreational vehicle or park model or similar structure that is
considered, in the opinion of the Development Officer, to be a derelict vehicle (i.e.
broken windows, damaged siding) may be required to be removed from the parcel in
accordance with the provisions of Section 8 Enforcement.
A temporary development permit for Seasonal Accommodation shall be issued for a
maximum of one (1) year.
A copy of valid vehicle registration and insurance of a recreational vehicle or park
model shall be provided annually to the Development Officer. Where proof of insurance
and registration is not provided, the Development Officer may require the recreational
vehicle or park model be removed from the parcel in accordance with the provisions of
Section 8 Enforcement.
SHORT-TERM RENTALS
A development permit for Short-Term Rental of a Dwelling Unit shall be issued for a
maximum of five (5) years.
A Short-Term Rental may be allowed to operate year-round.
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PET CARE SERVICES AND KENNELS
Pet Care Services and Kennels shall be designed, constructed and operated in a manner
to prevent a nuisance to any adjacent residential use or other adjacent uses in regard
to factors such as noise, odors and waste. Outside enclosures, pens, runs or exercise
areas may be allowed at the discretion of the Development Authority.
The Development Authority may, as a condition of a development permit for a Pet Care
Service or Kennel, limit the maximum number of animals that may be kept at any one
time.
AUTO BODY SHOPS
All buildings and outdoor storage areas related to the Auto Body Shop must be
oriented on the parcel to minimize any potential adverse effects on adjacent uses.
An Auto Body Shop may include outdoor storage and activities associated with the use
located outside of a building provided those areas of the parcel are fenced to a
minimum height of 2.44 m (8.0 ft) , and the fence is a solid fence of either metal or
wood, designed and constructed to the satisfaction of the Development Authority.
CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY
The Development Authority may require for a complete application for a Cannabis
Production Facility, the submission of a waste management plan completed by a
qualified professional, which includes but is not limited to:
the quantity and characteristics of liquid and solid waste material discharged by
the facility;
the method and location of collection and disposal of liquid and solid waste
material discharged by the facility; and
the incineration of waste products and method of treatment of airborne
emissions, including odours.
The issuance of a development permit in no way exempts the applicant from obtaining
any other approval, permit, authorization, consent or license that may be required to
ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial or other municipal legislation.
As a condition of a development permit and prior to the operation of the facility, the
developer must provide a copy of the current license for all activities associated with
cannabis production as issued by Health Canada.
All processes and functions related to a Cannabis Production Facility must be fully
contained within a building including all loading stalls and docks, garbage receptacles
and waste material.
A Cannabis Production Facility shall not include outdoor storage of goods, materials or
supplies.
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A Cannabis Production Facility shall not be allowed to operate on a parcel with any
other use.
A Cannabis Production Facility must include equipment in the ventilation system
designed and intended to remove odours from the air where it is discharged from the
building.
WORK CAMPS
A temporary development permit for a Work Camp may be issued for up to three (3)
years, unless otherwise approved by the Development Authority as a condition in a
development permit.
In addition to the requirements in Section 5.1 Development Permit Applications, an
application for a Work Camp shall include:
a description of the location, type and purpose of the Work Camp;
a plan showing the location, number and type of accommodations;
a plan showing the adjacent land uses, and any proposed screening or fencing;
a plan and/or description of the method of supplying water, sewage and solid
waste disposal to the Work Camp;
the number of persons proposed to reside in the Work Camp;
the anticipated start date of construction of the Work Camp, date of occupancy
and removal date; and
reclamation measures once the Work Camp is completed and removed.
A Work Camp must be directly associated with the construction of an industrial or
commercial development within the municipal boundary or the adjacent area, and must
be located in close proximity to the development.
Once completed, a Work Camp site must be:
reclaimed to its original condition; or
reclaimed to a state where sediment and dust are controlled, and the aesthetics
are returned to an acceptable condition, to the satisfaction of the Development
Authority.
SIGNS
Except for election signs, no Sign shall be erected on or affixed to municipal property
without the prior consent of the Village of Empress.
No Sign shall resemble or conflict with a traffic sign, signal or device.
All Signs shall be designed and manufactured to a professional standard of quality.
A Sign shall not be located to obstruct the movement or free and clear vision of a
pedestrian or motorist.
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All Signs shall be kept in a safe, clean, tidy and legible condition and may, at the
discretion of the Development Authority, be required to be renovated or removed if not
kept in a safe, clean, tidy or legible condition.
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Part D - Districts
11
DISTRICTS ADMINISTRATION
ESTABLISHMENT OF DISTRICTS
For the purpose of this Bylaw, the Municipality is divided into the following Land Use
Districts.
Short Title
District Name
Residential Districts
R
Residential District
Commercial Districts
C
Commercial District
Industrial Districts
I
Industrial District
Miscellaneous Districts
G
General Village District
REC
Recreational District
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DISTRICT BOUNDARIES
The locations and boundaries of the Land Use Districts are shown on the Land Use
District Maps in Part F Land Use Districts Map, which forms part of this Bylaw.
The locations of boundaries shown on the Land Use Districts Map shall be governed by
the following rules:
where a boundary is shown as following the municipal boundary, it shall be
deemed to follow the municipal boundary;
where a boundary is shown as approximately following a property line, it shall
be deemed to follow the property line; and
where a boundary is shown to follow the shoreline of a bank of a waterbody, it
follows that line.
Where the exact location of the boundary of a Land Use District cannot be determined,
using the rules in Subsection 11.2.2 above, the Council, on its own motion or on a
written request, shall fix the location:
in a manner consistent with the provisions of this Bylaw; and
with the appropriate degree of detail required.
The location of a district boundary, once fixed, shall not be altered except by an
amendment of this Bylaw.
DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICTS
Direct Control Districts provide for development that, due to its unique characteristics,
unusual site conditions, or innovative design, requires specific regulations unavailable in
other Land Use Districts. Land Uses within a Direct Control District shall be determined
by Council.
Direct Control Districts may not be substituted for any other Land Use District if the
same outcome can occur in that Land Use District through the approval of a variance or
relaxation to development standards.
Where Council deems there are sufficient and appropriate regulations within a Direct
Control Bylaw, authority to approve development within the Direct Control District may
be delegated to the Development Authority.
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12
R - RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT
PURPOSE
To provide for low density residential development and other compatible residential
neighbourhood uses.
PERMITTED USES
The following uses are permitted uses in the R - Residential District:
Accessory Building*
Accessory Dwelling Unit - Attached*
Accessory Dwelling Unit - Detached*
Dwelling, Detached
Dwelling, Duplex
Home Occupation - Minor*
Dwelling, Manufactured*
Park
Sign*
Utilities
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
DISCRETIONARY USES
The following uses are discretionary uses in the R - Residential District:
Accessory Building - Fabric Covered*
Accessory Building - Shipping Container*
Attached Housing
Bed and Breakfast*
Child Care Centre
Care Facility
Home Occupation - Major*
Public Building
Short-Term Rentals*
Temporary Construction Accommodation*
Worship Facility
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
REGULATIONS
The minimum parcel area is 279.0 m2 (3,003.1 ft2), except 204.0 m2 (2,195.8 ft2) for each
Dwelling Unit in Attached Housing.
The minimum parcel width is 7.4 m (25.0 ft), except 6.0 m (19.7 ft) for each Dwelling
Unit in Attached Housing.
The minimum front yard setback is 4.87 m (16.0 ft).
The minimum side yard setback is 1.22 m (4.0 ft).
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The minimum rear yard setback is 6.01 m (20.0 ft).
The maximum building height of a principal Dwelling Unit is 10.0 m (32.8 ft).
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
A recreational vehicle shall only be stored or parked on a parcel with an approved
principal residential use.
A recreational vehicle shall not be parked or stored in the front yard.
A Short-Term Rental shall not interfere with the rights of nearby residents to quiet
enjoyment of a residential neighbourhood.
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13
C - COMMERCIAL DISTRICT
PURPOSE
To provide for commercial development.
PERMITTED USES
The following uses are permitted uses in the C - Commercial District:
Accessory Building*
Accessory Building - Fabric Covered*
Amusement Centre
Artist Studio
Athletic and Recreational Facility - Indoor
Automotive Sales
Car Wash
Clinic
Contractor Services - Minor
Convenience Store
Cultural Establishment
Dwelling Units (above the first storey or to
the rear)
Eating and Drinking Establishment
Financial Institution
Funeral Home
Hotel/Motel
Office
Park
Parking Lot
Personal Service Establishment
Public Building
Retail Store
Sign*
Utilities
Wholesale Outlet
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
DISCRETIONARY USES
The following uses are discretionary uses in the C - Commercial District:
Accessory Building - Shipping Container*
Automotive Repair and Service
Building Supply Centre
Cannabis Retail Store
Drinking Establishment
Gas Bar and Service Station*
Greenhouse
Laundry Facility
Liquor Store
Pet Care Services*
Temporary Construction Accommodation*
Worship Facility
Veterinary Clinic
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
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REGULATIONS
The minimum parcel area is 300.0 m2 (3,229.2 ft2).
The minimum parcel width is 7.6 m (25.0 ft)
The minimum front yard setback is zero.
The minimum side yard setback is 1.22 m (4.0 ft), except:
zero where a fire wall is provided; and
1.52 m (5.0 ft) where abutting a parcel with a principal residential use.
The minimum rear yard setback is 3.0 m (10.0 ft).
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14
I - INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT
PURPOSE
To provide for a range of manufacturing, warehousing and other industrial uses.
PERMITTED USES
The following uses are permitted uses in the I - Industrial District:
Accessory Building*
Accessory Building - Fabric Covered*
Accessory Building - Shipping Container*
Agricultural Supply Depot
Artist Studio
Athletic and Recreational Facility - Indoor
Auto Body Shop
Automotive Repair and Service
Building Supply Centre
Car Wash
Contractor Services - Minor
Contractor Services - Major
Equipment Rental Shop
Food Processing Storage and Sales
Greenhouse
Heavy Equipment Sales and Service
Manufacturing - Light
Print Shop
Public Building
Recycling Depot
Sign*
Self-Storage Facility
Storage Yard
Utilities
Veterinary Clinic
Warehousing and Distribution
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
DISCRETIONARY USES
The following uses are discretionary uses in the I - Industrial District:
Auction Facility
Bulk Fuel Station
Cannabis Production Facility*
Drinking Establishment
Dwelling Unit (accessory to industrial use)
Gas Bar and Service Station
Grain Elevator and Seed Cleaning
Kennel*
Manufacturing - Heavy
Park
Retail Store
Temporary Construction Accommodation*
Truck and Freight Terminal
Waste Transfer Station
Wrecker and Salvage
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
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REGULATIONS
The minimum parcel area is 464.0 m2 (4,994.5 ft2).
The minimum front yard setback is 4.87 m (16.0 ft).
The minimum side yard setback is 3.0 m (10.0 ft), excepting no side yard is required
where a fire wall is provided.
The minimum rear yard setback is 6.0 m (19.7 ft).
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
For an application for an industrial development, the development permit application
shall contain the following information:
the type and nature of the industry;
the estimated number of employees;
the estimated water demand and source;
the type of effluent and method of treatment;
the release of airborne pollutants or odors;
the storage or release of any hazardous, flammable or explosive materials;
transportation routes to be used; and
any accessory works required.
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15
G - GENERAL VILLAGE DISTRICT
PURPOSE
To provide for a variety of community service, residential and other general uses and
acts as a transitional area between the commercial or industrial areas and residential
areas.
PERMITTED USES
The following uses are permitted uses in the G - General Village District:
Accessory Building*
Apartment
Athletic and Recreational Facility - Indoor
Athletic and Recreational Facility - Outdoor
Attached Housing
Care Facility
Child Care Centre
Clinic
Cultural Establishment
Dwelling, Detached
Dwelling, Duplex
Dwelling, Manufactured*
Dwelling Units (above the first storey or to
the rear)
Educational Institution
Home Occupation - Minor*
Home Occupation - Major*
Park
Parking Lot
Public Building
Short-Term Rentals*
Sign*
Utilities
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
DISCRETIONARY USES
The following uses are discretionary uses in the G - General Village District:
Accessory Building - Fabric Covered*
Accessory Building - Shipping Container*
Artist Studio
Automotive Repair and Service
Automotive Sales
Cannabis Retail Store
Contractor Services - Minor
Drinking Establishment
Eating and Drinking Establishment
Extensive Agriculture
Financial Institution
Funeral Home
Greenhouse
Hospital
Hotel/Motel
Liquor Store
Manufactured Dwelling Park
Office
Personal Service Establishment
Pet Care Services*
Retail Store
Seasonal Accommodation*
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Temporary Construction Accommodation*
Veterinary Clinic
Work Camp*
Worship Facility
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
REGULATIONS
The regulations for any principal residential use shall be those specified in Section 12.4
and 12.5 of the R - Residential District.
For all other uses, the regulations shall be those specified in Section 13.4. of the C -
Commercial District.
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16
REC - RECREATIONAL DISTRICT
PURPOSE
To provide for areas of the Village specifically designated for Manufactured Dwellings,
Seasonal Accommodation and Campground uses.
PERMITTED USES
The following uses are permitted uses in the REC - Recreational District:
Accessory Buildings*
Campground
Dwellings, Manufactured*
Home Occupation - Minor*
Parks
Public Building
Seasonal Accommodation*
Signs*
Utilities
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
DISCRETIONARY USES
The following uses are discretionary uses in the REC - Recreational District:
Accessory Buildings - Fabric Covered*
Accessory Buildings - Shipping Container*
Dwelling, Detached
Home Occupation - Major*
Manufactured Dwelling Park
Temporary Construction Accommodation*
*See Section 10 Specific Use Regulations
REGULATIONS
The minimum parcel area is 279.0 m2 (3,003.1 ft2), except 1.0 ha (2.5 ac) for a
Manufactured Dwelling Park.
The minimum parcel width is 7.4 m (25.0 ft).
The minimum front yard setback is 4.87 m (16.0 ft).
The minimum side yard setback is 1.22 m (4.0 ft).
The minimum rear yard setback is 6.01 m (20.0 ft).
The maximum building height of a principal building is 6.1 m (20.0 ft).
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Part E - Definitions
17
DEFINITIONS
The following definitions pertain to terms and uses within the Land Use Bylaw.
Quick links - click on the letter to jump to the definitions.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
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A
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
abut or abutting
means immediately contiguous to, or physically touching, and when used
with respect to a lot or a parcel, means that the lot or parcel physically
touches another lot, parcel, or development, and shares a property line
with it.
Accessory Building
means a use where a building or structure accommodates a use which is
related to, but is incidental or subordinate to, the use of the principal
building located on the same parcel. This includes buildings or structures
such as sheds, carports, detached garages and greenhouses.
Accessory Building -
Fabric Covered
means a use where a structure accommodates a use which is related to,
but is incidental or subordinate to, the use of the principal building located
on the same parcel. An Accessory Building, Fabric Covered is designed by
virtue of easy assembly and dismantling, commercially constructed of metal
or synthetic tube and fabric, plastic or similar materials, and covered with
waterproof sheeting, synthetic sheeting or plastic film.
Accessory Building -
Shipping Container
means a use where a shipping container accommodates an accessory use
which is related to, but is incidental or subordinate to, the principal use of
the parcel.
Accessory Dwelling Unit
means a self-contained Dwelling Unit that is subordinate to and under one
title with the principal residential use.
Accessory Dwelling Unit -
Attached
means a use where an Accessory Dwelling Unit is located within or
attached to the building containing the principal residential use.
Accessory Dwelling Unit -
Detached
means a use where an Accessory Dwelling Unit is located on the same
parcel as, but within a separate building, from the principal residential
use.
accessory use
means a use which is related to, but is subordinate or incidental to the
principal use located on the same parcel.
Act
means the Municipal Government Act, Revised Statues of Alberta 2000, Ch.
M-26, as amended, and any parallel or successor legislation.
adjacent
means land that is contiguous to a parcel of land and includes land that
would be contiguous if not for a highway, road, river, stream, or railway.
Agricultural Supply Depot means a use where goods, materials or services that support agricultural
activities are provided, whether retail, wholesale or in bulk. This includes
such goods and services as sale and storage of seeds, feeds, fertilizers,
chemical products, fuels, and lubricants but does not include the buying or
selling of farm produce or animals.
amenity area
means an indoor or outdoor space provided for the active or passive
recreation and enjoyment of the occupants of a development, which may
be for private or communal use and owned individually or in common.
Amusement Centre
means a use where entertainment is provided to customers for a fee, which
may include, but is not limited to facilities such as bowling alleys, theaters,
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axe throwing, golf simulator or mini golf, go-cart courses, and billiard
parlours.
Appeal Body
means the board hearing a subdivision or development permit appeal in
accordance with the Act.
Apartment
means a use where a building designed for residential use contains five (5)
or more Dwelling Units with a shared or common entrance.
Artist Studio
means a use:
(a) where art is produced by individuals;
(b) that may include the instruction of art to individuals or groups;
and
(c) that may include the sale of art pieces produced by that use.
Athletic and Recreational
Facility - Indoor
means a use for the purpose of providing indoor active recreation or
athletic activities where patrons are predominantly participants and any
spectators are incidental. This includes but is not limited to gyms, athletic
studios, skating and hockey rinks, swimming pools, rifle, archery and pistol
ranges, and racquet courts.
Athletic and Recreational
Facility - Outdoor
means a use for the purpose of providing outdoor active recreation or
athletic activities. This includes but is not limited to golf courses, driving
ranges, sports fields, tennis courts, ice surfaces or rinks, athletic fields,
splash parks, bowling greens, and riding stables.
Attached Housing
means a use where a building designed for residential use consists of three
(3) or more Dwelling Units, each of which has an individual entrance to the
outdoors. This includes rowhouses, townhouses, triplexes and fourplexes.
Auction Facility
means use intended for the auctioneering of livestock, goods, equipment
and may include temporary storage of such goods and holding of the
livestock. This does not include on-site slaughtering such as an abattoir or
one-time on-site estate auction sales.
Auto Body Shop
means a use where the bodies, but not other parts, of motor vehicles are
repaired and painted.
Automotive Repair and
Service
means a use for the servicing and repair of motor vehicles within a
building, excluding an Auto Body Shop.
Automotive Sales
means a use where motor vehicles are sold or leased and stored on
portions of the parcel approved exclusively for storage or display, and may
have buildings for administrative functions associated with the use.
average grade
means the average elevation at the mid-point along the front parcel line
and the finished ground elevation at the rear of the building. (Refer to
building height)
B
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
balcony
means a projecting platform on a building, which is greater than 0.6 m
above grade. A balcony is only accessible from within the building and is
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enclosed by a railing. It may be cantilevered from the building or supported
from below.
bareland condominium
means the subdivision of land into individual bare land units and registered
as a condominium plan at Land Titles, and where shared areas such as
roads and utilities are contained within common property.
basement
means that portion of a building between two floor levels which is partly
underground but which has a portion of its height from finished floor to
finished ceiling above the adjacent finished grade.
bay window
means a type of window that protrudes outwards from a wall.
Bed and Breakfast
means a use where sleeping accommodation, with or without meals, is
provided to guests as an accessory use to a principal Dwelling Unit, and
where the Dwelling Unit is occupied by the owner or operator.
boulevard
means that portion of a road which is public land and is often landscaped
or planted to distinguish private lands from the road.
buffer
means a row of trees, shrubs, earth berm, or fencing to provide visual
screening and separation between parcels and districts.
building
means anything constructed or placed on, in, over or under land that does
not include a highway or road.
building height
means the vertical distance measured from the average grade and the
highest point of a building, excluding a roof, stairway entrance, elevator
shaft, ventilating fan , skylight, steeple, chimney, smoke stack, fire wall or
parapet, flagpole, or similar devices not structurally essential to the
building.
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building permit
means a permit or document issued in writing by a designated Safety Code
Officer within the building discipline pursuant to the Safety Codes Act
authorizing the commencement of a use, occupancy, relocation,
construction, or demolition of any building.
Building Supply Center
means a use where building materials, household accessories and other
related goods are stored, offered, or kept for sale and may include outdoor
storage.
Bulk Fuel Station
means a use for the purpose of storing fuel for the distribution to
customers, typically for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (G.V.W.)
greater than 4536 kg. This does not include a Gas Bar and Service Station.
C
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Campground
means a use for the purpose of providing temporary accommodation for
the public in recreational vehicles or tents. A campground is not construed
to mean a use for the purpose of accommodating long-term or permanent
occupancy in recreational vehicles or Dwelling, Manufactured. A
campground may include facilities such as an administration building and
laundry facilities.
Cannabis Production
Facility
means a use where Cannabis is for grown, produced, tested, destroyed,
stored or distributed in a federally approved and licensed facility. This does
not include Cannabis Retail Sales.
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Cannabis Retail Sales
means a use where Cannabis is sold for consumption off the premises and
may include the retail sale or rental of merchandise. Cannabis Retail Sales
offers cannabis for sale from a federally approved and licenced facility and
has been licenced to operate by the Alberta Government.
canopy
means a non-retractable solid projection extending from the wall of a
building intended to be used as a protection against weather, other than
normal architectural features such as lintels, sills, mounding, architraves
and pediments, but includes a marquee.
cantilever
means a projection from the wall of a building to increase the useable
gross floor area. A cantilever does not have external bracing.
Car Wash
means a use intended for the washing, cleaning, or polishing of motor
vehicles.
Care Facility
means a use where a public or private facility provides for the care,
supervision or rehabilitation of individuals, or for palliative and end-of-life-
care, containing overnight accommodation and operated in accordance
with any relevant legislation or regulations of the Province of Alberta. Units
within a Care Facility may, at the discretion of the Development Authority,
be considered both long-term care units or Dwelling Units as these may be
for permanent residences for the occupants.
Child Care Centre
means a use where children are supervised and cared for, and may include
group day care, family daycare, nursing school, child minding, out of school
care, or specialized daycare. This does not include a dayhome.
Clinic
means a use where public or private medical, surgical, physiotherapeutic or
other professional healing treatment is provided, and includes but is not
limited to offices for medical, dentistry, physiotherapy, massage or
chiropractic services and Community Health Centres.
comprehensively planned
means a development where multiple Dwelling Units are located on a
single parcel or a parcel divided by bareland condominium and is serviced
by private roads and utilities.
condominium
means a condominium plan registered with the Land Titles Office that
complies with the requirements of the Condominium Property Act.
Confined Feeding
Operation
means a use where livestock is confined for the purpose of growing,
sustaining, finishing or breeding by means other than grazing and requires
registration or approval under the conditions set forth in the Agricultural
Operations Practices Act through the Natural Resources Conservation
Board.
construction
management plan
means a plan that considers all relevant aspects of demolition,
development and building work and outlines methods for avoidance and
mitigation of identified impacts. A construction management plan typically
addresses issues such as public safety, traffic control, operating hours,
control of noise and vibration, air quality and dust management,
stormwater and sediment control, site contamination, waste disposal and
materials re-use or recycling and weed control.
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Contractor Services -
Major
means a use for the provision of contractor services in the building trades
and services, or road and utility construction where materials and
equipment may not be stored within a building and includes outdoor
storage.
Contractor Services -
Minor
means a use for the provision of contractor services primarily to individual
households and the accessory sale of goods normally associated with such
contractor services, and where all materials are primarily kept within an
enclosed building, and there are no associated primary manufacturing
activities. This does not include the outdoor storage of goods or
equipment.
Convenience Store
means a use where a limited range of household goods and groceries are
stocked and sold in small neighbourhood retail stores. This does not include
Cannabis Retail Sales.
corner lot
means a lot situated at the intersection of two or more roads, or at the
intersection of two parts of the same road which parts have an intersection
of not more than 135 degrees.
corner visibility setback
means a triangular area formed on a corner lot by the two curb lines and a
straight line which intersects them 7.5 m from the corner where they meet.
In the case where there is no curb on one or more roads, 6.0 m from the
corner where they meet.
Council
means the duly elected Council of the Village of Empress.
Cultural Establishment
means a use which is available to the public for the purpose of assembly,
instruction, cultural or community activity and includes such things as a
library, museum, art gallery, community centre and similar activities.
D
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
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day home
means a type of Home Occupation - Major where temporary care,
development and supervision is provided within a Dwelling Unit for periods
not exceeding 24 consecutive hours to a maximum of six (6) children under
the age of 13 years, not including children under the age of 13 years who
permanently reside in the home.
deck
means a flat, floored concrete or wooden platform, elevated more than 0.6
m above grade and usually adjoining a building.
density
means a measure of development intensity expressed as a ratio of the
number of Dwelling Units to parcel area.
derelict vehicle
means any vehicle no longer in road worthy condition, in a state of
disrepair, wrecked or being dismantled but does not include vehicles stored
in buildings, commercial or farm vehicles or vehicles used for commercial
or industrial purposes on land designated for commercial or industrial use
in this Bylaw.
Designated Officer
means a position established by bylaw whereby Council has delegated
powers, duties, and/or functions.
development
means:
(a) an excavation or stockpile and the creation of either of them; or
(b) a building or an addition to, or replacement or repair of a
building and the construction or placing in, on or under land of
any of them; or
(c) a change of use of land or a building, or an act done in relation to
land or a building that results or is likely to result in a change in
the land or the building; or
(d) a change in the intensity of use of land or building that results in
or is likely to result in a change in the intensity of use of the land
or building.
Development Authority
means a person or persons appointed as a Development Authority as
contemplated by and in accordance with the Act.
Development Officer
means a person or persons appointed as a Development Officer as
contemplated by and in accordance with the Act.
development permit
means a document authorizing a development, issued by the Development
Authority pursuant to this Bylaw, and includes the plans and conditions of
approval.
discretionary use
means the use of land or of a building which is listed as such a use in a Land
Use District or a Direct Control District.
Drinking Establishment
means a use:
(a) where the primary function is the servicing of alcoholic beverages
for consumption on the premises and is licensed by Alberta
Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis. Typical businesses include taverns,
pubs, bars and nightclubs; and
(b) may include supplementary preparation and sale of food for
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consumption on the premises.
Dwelling, Detached
means a use where a building designed for residential use contains one
principal Dwelling Unit.
Dwelling, Duplex
means a use where a building designed for residential use contains two
principal Dwelling Units, each having a separate entrance from the outside
and may be located one above the other or side-by-side.
Dwelling, Manufactured
means a use where a transportable, single or multiple section building
conforming to CSA standards at the time of construction that contains a
Dwelling Unit and when placed on a permanent foundation is ready for
residential use and occupancy. A Manufactured Dwelling includes such styles
known as modular homes, manufactured homes and Ready to Move (RTM)
Homes.
Dwelling Unit
means a use where a building or a self-contained portion of a building
contains sleeping, cooking and toilet facilities for the residential use of one
or more people.
E
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
easement
means a right to the limited use of land held by another, generally for
access to another parcel or as a right-of-way for a utility and is registered
on the parcel with the Land Titles Office in accordance with the Land Titles
Act.
eave
means the edges of the roof that overhang past the walls of a building that
primarily function to protect a building from rain and to provide
ventilation.
Eating and Drinking
Establishment
means a use where food and beverages are prepared and served and
includes supplementary alcoholic beverage service licensed by the Alberta
Gaming and Liquor Commission. This includes restaurants, cafes, and
cafeterias, and may include a drive though.
Educational Institution
means a use where persons are assembled for educational purposes within
buildings and structures, including classrooms, libraries, offices,
recreational facilities and other related facilities, and where dormitory
accommodations and common kitchen and dining facilities may also be
provided.
environmental
evaluation
means a study or report prepared by a qualified professional that considers
relevant environmental impacts and mitigations related to a proposed
development, and may include considerations such as:
(a) fish or wildlife and associated habitat;
(b) vegetation, soils and terrain;
(c) groundwater or surface water;
(d) air quality; and
(e) cumulative effects.
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Equipment Rental Shop
means a use for the rental of tools, appliances, office machines, light
construction equipment or similar items but not the rental of motor
vehicles.
existing
means existing as of the effective date of this Bylaw.
Extensive Agriculture
means a use where systems of tillage and animal husbandry through which
one may gain livelihood from large areas of land by the raising of crops or
the rearing of livestock either separately or in conjunction with one
another in unified operations and includes Accessory Buildings and other
structures incidental to the operation. This does not include a Confined
Feeding Operation, or residential uses.
F
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
fence
means a vertical physical barrier constructed out of typical building
material to prevent visual or unauthorized access, or both.
Financial Institution
means a use where banks, credit unions, trust companies and treasury
branches operate within a building and may include automated banking
machines. This does not include businesses such as a pawn shop.
fire wall
means a type of fire separation of non-combustible construction which
internally divides a building or separates adjoining buildings to resist the
spread of fire and which has a fire resistance rating.
floor area
means the area of a building or specified portion of a building, measured
to the outside surface of the exterior walls, or where buildings are
separated by fire walls, to the centre line of the common fire walls, and
excludes all mechanical equipment areas and all open areas inside a
building that do not contain a floor including atriums, elevator shafts,
stairwells and similar areas.
Food Processing, Storage,
and Sales
means a use where raw farm products, combined with other consumable
ingredients, produce marketable products for consumption that can be
easily prepared and served by the consumer, and where raw farm products
may be warehoused prior to being sold either directly to consumers or for
wholesale, and the selling of raw farm products either directly to
consumers or for wholesale.
frontage
means a property line of a parcel which abuts a highway or road.
Funeral Home
means a use where funerals are arranged and held, where the deceased are
prepared for burial or cremation, and where not more than one cremation
chamber is provided.
G
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Gas Bar and Service
Station
means a use where fuel, lubricating oils and minor accessories for motor
vehicles are sold and may include a portion of the premises for the
servicing and minor repairing of motor vehicles.
grade
means the geodetic elevation of the existing ground in an undisturbed
natural state or an approved design grade as described in a grading plan.
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Grain Elevator and Seed
Cleaning
means a use where grain is stored and stockpiled in towers, and includes
the cleaning of seeds to remove any debris or unwanted seeds.
Greenhouse
means a use which is devoted to the commercial cultivation of vegetables,
flowers or other plants within a building, and where such vegetables or
plants may be sold wholesale or directly to the consumer. This does not
include a Cannabis Production Facility.
gross floor area
means the sum of the areas of all above grade floors of a building
measured to the outside surface of the exterior walls, or where buildings
are separated by fire walls, to the centre line of the common fire walls,
and includes all mechanical equipment areas and all open areas inside a
building that do not contain a floor including atriums, elevator shafts,
stairwells and similar areas. For greater clarity, a walk-out basement is not
included in the calculation of gross floor area, but Dwelling units in the
basement of an Apartment shall be included in the calculation of gross
floor area.
H
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Heavy Equipment Sales
and Service
means a use where farm and heavy industrial equipment is sold, rented and
serviced.
highway
means a road designated and classified as a provincial highway by the
Province of Alberta.
Home Occupation
means an occupation, trade, profession, or craft operated by an occupant
of a Dwelling Unit as an accessory use to the principal residential use of
the building pursuant to this Bylaw.
Home Occupation -
Major
means a use where a Home Occupation is operated which may be
detectable outside of the Dwelling Unit but does not negatively impact the
general residential nature of the neighbourhood.
Home Occupation -
Minor
means a use where a Home Occupation is operated which allows for
limited customer visits and deliveries but does not impact adjacent
residential uses beyond that of a typical Dwelling Unit.
Hospital
means a use where in-patient and out-patient health care is provided to
the public.
Hotel/Motel
means a use where temporary or short-term sleeping accommodations are
provided in rooms or suites, which may contain kitchen facilities. This
definition includes hotels, motels, hostels and similar overnight
accommodations. This may include additional facilities or services such as
Eating and Drinking Establishments, meeting or banquet rooms, Personal
Service Establishments, a manager's suite and convention facilities.
I
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
J
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
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K
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Kennel
means a use where dogs or cats or other domestic pets may be maintained,
boarded, bred or trained and may include the incidental sale of products
related to the services provided, but does not include a Veterinary Clinic.
L
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
landing
means a platform that primarily functions as an entrance into a building.
Landings are a separate building element to balconies, decks and patios as
they are not intended to provide or function as an amenity area.
landscaped area
means that portion of a parcel which is required to be landscaped pursuant
to district regulations or conditions of approval of a development permit.
landscaping
means the modification and enhancement of a parcel or a portion of a
parcel through the use of any combination of trees, bushes, shrubs, plants,
flowers, lawns, bark mulch or other ground cover, and hard landscaping
materials such as brick, stone, concrete tile or wood, but excludes all areas
used for a parking area or driveway and retaining walls 1.0 m (3.3 ft) in
height or greater.
lane
means a public thoroughfare usually less than 10.0 m (32.8 ft) wide
typically providing secondary access to one or more parcels. For the
purpose of this Bylaw, a lane is not a road.
Laundry Facility
means a use where clothes and other fabric goods are cleaned or pressed.
This includes businesses such as a laundromat and dry cleaners.
Liquor Store
means a use where alcoholic beverages are sold for off-site consumption
from a retail store licensed by the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission.
loading stall
means a space for parking a vehicle while it is being loaded or unloaded.
lot
means a lot as defined in the Act.
M
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Manufactured Dwelling
Park
means a use where a parcel of land under one Title is comprehensively
planned for the placement of Dwellings, Manufactured for permanent
residential use. A Manufactured Dwelling Park may also include Accessory
Buildings and accessory uses such as maintenance buildings, amenity areas
and common facilities.
Manufacturing - Heavy
means a use where goods or products are fabricated, processed,
assembled, or packaged for distribution, where all or part of the processes
associated with the use are located outside of a building, and which may
generate a nuisance beyond the boundary of the parcel. Heavy
Manufacturing does not include a Cannabis Production Facility.
Manufacturing - Light
means a use where goods or products are fabricated, processed,
assembled, or packaged for distribution, where all of the processes
associated with the use are located inside of a building, and which does not
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generate any nuisance beyond the boundary of the parcel. Light
Manufacturing does not include a Cannabis Production Facility.
Municipal Planning
Commission (MPC)
means the Municipal Planning Commission established by Bylaw pursuant
to the Act.
Municipality
means the Village of Empress.
N
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
non-conforming building
means a building that is lawfully constructed or lawfully under construction
at the date a Land Use Bylaw affecting the building or the land on which
the building is situated becomes effective and that on the date the Land
Use Bylaw becomes effective does not, or when fully constructed will not,
comply with the Land Use Bylaw.
non-conforming use
means a lawful, specific use being made of land or a building, or intended
to be made of a building lawfully under construction at the date a Land Use
Bylaw affecting the land or building becomes effective and that on the date
the Land Use Bylaw becomes effective does not, or in the case of a building
under construction will not, comply with the Land Use Bylaw.
O
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Office
means a use for the provision of professional, management, administrative,
and consulting services. This does not include a Clinic.
outdoor storage
means the storing, stockpiling, or accumulation of goods, equipment or
materials in an area that is open or exposed to the natural elements, and
includes vehicles, recreational vehicles and boats, waste materials, debris
or garbage.
P
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
parcel
means the aggregate of the one or more lots described in a Certificate of
Title or described in a Certificate of Title by reference to a plan file or
registered in a Land Titles Office.
parcel area
means the total area of land within the parcel.
parcel coverage
means the percentage of the parcel area covered by the area of all
buildings including Accessory Buildings, and excludes balconies, bay
windows, canopies, shade projections, cornices, eaves and gutters, roof
overhangs, fire escapes, sills, stairways and landings, patios and decks or
similar projections.
parcel line, exterior side
means a property line, other than the front parcel line, which abuts a road.
parcel line, front
means the shortest property line that abuts a road, unless otherwise
determined by the Development Authority in accordance with this Bylaw.
parcel line, interior side
means a property line other than a front parcel line or rear parcel line,
which abuts another parcel or a lane.
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parcel line, rear
means the property line which is opposite to and is not connected to the
front parcel line, excepting in the case for a reverse corner lot where the
rear parcel line is opposite to the exterior side parcel line.
parcel width
means the average horizontal distance between two side parcel lines.
Park
means a use where land is designated or reserved for active or passive
recreation, or to be left in a natural state, and/or areas of cultural or scenic
value. This may include facilities such as playgrounds, picnic grounds,
pathways and trails, landscaped buffers, gardens and fields.
park model
means a type of recreational vehicle that provides for temporary or
seasonal accommodation and may be connected to utilities. A park model
is not a Dwelling Unit.
parking area
means an open area of land, above or underground, other than a road,
used for the parking of vehicles and shall include parking stalls, vehicle
entrances and exits, and maneuvering aisles.
Parking Lot
means a use where the primary purpose of the land is for the parking of
motor vehicles at grade, or in a parking structure which may be above or
below grade.
parking, off-street
means a parking area located on the same parcel as the building,
structure, or use.
parking stall
means a space within a building or parking area, for the parking of one
vehicle, excluding driveways, aisles, and ramps.
parking stall, visitor
means a parking stall intended only for the use of visitors to Dwelling
Units.
patio
means a platform, the height of which may be up to but does not exceed
0.61 m (2.0 ft) from grade, that may or may not be attached to a building.
permitted use
means the use of land or a building which is listed as such use in a Land Use
District or Direct Control District.
Personal Service
Establishment
means a use where personal services are provided to an individual which
are related to the care and appearance of the body or the cleaning and
repair of personal effects. This includes but is not limited to such
businesses as barber shops, hair and/or beauty salons, and tailors.
Pet Care Services
means a use where domestic pets are cleaned, groomed and cared for,
where no boarding or kenneling of any animals occurs, and may include the
incidental sale of products related to the services provided. This does not
include a Kennel or Veterinary Clinic.
principal
means the main purpose for which a building or parcel is used.
Print Shop
means a use where retail photocopying and/or commercial printing service,
or industrial printing and publishing services, are provided.
property line
means the legal boundary of a parcel or lot.
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Public Building
means a use where facilities or buildings that are owned or operated by, or
for, the Municipality, the Provincial Government, the Federal Government
or a corporation under federal or provincial statute, for the purpose of
furnishing services or commodities to, or for the use of, the inhabitants of
the municipality.
Q
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
qualified professional
means individuals with experience and training in a particular discipline
with a recognized degree, certification, license or registration.
R
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
recreational vehicle
means a portable structure designed and built to be carried on a vehicle, or
a unit designed and built to be transported on its own wheels, to provide
temporary living accommodation for travel and recreational purpose and
includes, but is not limited to, such vehicles as a motor home, camper,
holiday (travel) trailer and a tent trailer, but does not include a Dwelling,
Manufactured or a Dwelling Unit.
Recycling Depot
means a use where recyclable materials are collected, sorted and
transferred off-site for processing or manufacturing.
Regulation
means the Matters Related to Subdivision and Development Regulation
AR84/2022, as amended, and any parallel or successor legislation.
renewable energy system means a system that produces electrical power or heat to be used for on-
site consumption or heating requirements by means such as, but not
limited to, active and passive solar collectors, geothermal energy or heat
exchange systems. A renewable energy system may provide residual power
to the grid but is not intended to produce power primarily for resale.
residential use
means the use of a parcel for the purpose of a residence by a person or
persons and does not include use of the property for commercial purposes.
A residential use is one where the occupants have exclusive use for an
indefinite amount of time except in accordance with a tenancy agreement
under the Residential Tenancies Act or the Mobile Homes Site Tenancies
Act.
Retail Store
means a use where the primary function is for the sale of finished products
or goods to customers, and also includes rental services. This does not
include a Building Supply Centre, Cannabis Retail Sales, a Convenience
Store, a Liquor Store or Wholesale Outlet.
reverse corner lot
means a residential corner lot where the front façade of the Dwelling Unit
is oriented towards the longest property line which abuts a road which is
considered the front parcel line. The exterior side parcel line of a reversed
corner lot is the shorter property line which abuts a road.
road
means any public road, including the boulevards, sidewalks and
improvements, but excluding a lane, highway or private road.
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S
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
screening
means a fence, earth berm, or hedge used to visually separate between
parcels, districts or uses.
Seasonal Accommodation means a use of a parcel for the purpose of seasonal or temporary
accommodation of a recreational vehicle, park model or similar structure.
Seasonal Accommodation does not provide for residential use or the
commercial use of the parcel as a Campground.
Self-Storage Facility
means a use:
(a) where goods are stored in a building;
(b) where the building is made up of separate compartments and
each compartment has separate access;
(c) that may be available to the general public for the storage of
personal items;
(d) that may include the administrative functions associated with the
use; and
(e) that may incorporate custodial quarters for the custodian of the
facility.
setback
means the minimum distance as required by the district between a
building, structure, or use, or from each of the respective property lines, or
from a natural boundary or other reference line.
shade projection
means a structure that is attached to and projects from a building with the
intent of providing shade or cover, and may include a canopy, awning,
shade louvre, or pergola.
shipping container
means a large metal container with suitable strength for the shipping,
storage and handling of goods. Shipping containers are also commonly
known as sea cans or intermodal containers.
Short-Term Rental
means a use where a Dwelling Unit is operated as a temporary place to
stay and includes vacation rentals of a Dwelling Unit. The characteristics of
a Short-Term Rental may include, but is not limited to: the intent of the
occupant to stay for short-term purposes rather than as a residence; the
management and advertising of the property as a short-term
accommodation property; and/or the use of a system for reservations,
deposits, confirmations, credit cards or other forms of electronic payment.
Sign
means any device or fixture intended to convey information or to advertise
or attract attention to any person, business, matter, message, object or
event.
Storage Yard
means a use:
(a) where goods, motor vehicles or equipment are stored when they
are not being used and may include long term storage where a fee
is paid;
(b) where the vehicles and equipment stored may also be serviced,
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cleaned or repaired;
(c) that may involve the storage of construction materials;
(d) that does not involve the storage of any derelict vehicles or
derelict equipment;
(e) that does not involve the production or sale of goods as part of
the use; and
(f) that may have a building for the administrative functions
associated with the use.
storey
means the space between the top of any floor and the top of the next floor
above it, and if there is no floor above it, the portion between the top of
the floor and the ceiling above it.
storey, first
means the storey with its floor closest to grade and having its ceiling more
than 1.8 m above grade.
structure
means anything constructed or erected with a fixed location on the ground
or attached to something having a fixed location on the ground, but does
not include a fence or a Sign.
subdivision
means the division of a parcel by an instrument and the word "subdivide"
has corresponding meaning.
Subdivision Authority
means a person or body appointed as a Subdivision Authority in
accordance with the Act.
T
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Telecommunication
Structure
means a device that requires a permit from the Federal Government and is
used to receive and/or to transmit radio-frequency (RF) signals, microwave
signals, or other communications energy transmitted from, or to be
received by, other antennas. Telecommunication Structures include the
antenna, and may include a supporting tower, mast or other supporting
structure, and an equipment shelter. A Telecommunication Structure may
be freestanding or mounted on an existing building or structure.
temporary
means a limited period of time as decided by the Development Authority.
Temporary Construction
Accommodation
means a use where a recreational vehicle or park model may be placed on
a parcel for use as a temporary residence during the construction of the
principal use of the parcel.
Truck and Freight
Terminal
means a use where goods/freight are received, transferred, stored short-
term, and dispatched for transport by truck.
U
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
use
means a permitted use or discretionary use.
Utility
means a use where a system or works are provided for treatment, storage
or distribution of one or more of the following:
(a) waterworks;
(b) sewage disposal;
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(c) public transportation;
(d) irrigation;
(e) drainage;
(f) fuel;
(g) electric power;
(h) heat;
(i) waste management (excluding a Waste Transfer Station); and
(j) communications (excluding a Telecommunication Structure).
V
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Veterinary Clinic
means a use for the medical treatment of animals and includes provision
for their overnight accommodation within the building only, and may
include associated office space. This does not include Pet Care Services or
Kennels.
W
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
Warehousing and
Distribution
means a use where goods are stored inside a building and transferred to
and from other locations. Warehousing and Distribution does not include
any manufacturing, display or sales of the goods, but may include
associated administrative functions.
Waste Transfer Station
means a use where solid waste materials are received from collection
vehicles and consolidated into larger vehicles for transport to the landfill.
Wholesale Outlet
means a use where goods are sold for retail in larger quantities to other
retailers or direct to consumers.
Work Camp
means a use where temporary living accommodation for employees
involved in the construction of a commercial or industrial development is
provided in a camp. This may include accommodation in the form of
manufactured dwellings, park models, recreational vehicles, or tents.
Worship Facility
means a use for the purpose of spiritual worship. Examples may be, but are
not limited to, churches, temples, mosques and synagogues.
Wrecker and Salvage
means a use:
(a) where derelict vehicles are stored, dismantled or crushed;
(b) where used motor vehicle parts may be sold;
(c) where motor vehicles in their complete and operable state are
not displayed or sold;
(d) that may have equipment used for crushing, dismantling or
moving motor vehicle parts; and
(e) that may have a building for administrative functions associated
with the use.
X
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
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Y
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
yard
means any open space on a parcel, unoccupied and unobstructed and is the
distance between the property line to the foundation of the principal
building or the exterior finishing materials of an Accessory Building.
yard, exterior side
means the area of a parcel extending from the front foundation of the
principal building to the rear foundation of the principal building and
between the side foundation of the principal building to the exterior side
parcel line.
yard, front
means the area of a parcel extending across the full width of the parcel
between the front parcel line and the front foundation of the principal
building.
yard, interior side
means the area of a parcel extending from the front foundation of the
principal building to the rear foundation of the principal building and
between the side foundation of the principal building to the interior side
parcel line.
yard, rear
means the area of a parcel extending across the full width of the parcel
between the rear parcel line and the rear foundation of the principal
building
Z
[ Click to Return to Definitions Index ]
All other words and phrases mean the same as they do in the Act.
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Part F - Land Use Districts Map
18
LAND USE DISTRICTS MAP
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