Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw No. 1237/17 (Parts 1-8)
Lacombe County, Alberta
· No. 1237/17
· adopted 2017-07-06
· summary & facts
This is the exact embedded text of the captured official document.
Snapshot 1a9a730453fb · verified 2026-09-27 ·
original document ·
archived snapshot ·
unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.
YOUR PLAN
YOUR DEVELOPMENT
LAND USE
BYLAW
No. 1237/17
ADOPTED: JULY 6, 2017
UPDATED: APRIL 9, 2026
LUB No. 1237/17
LUB No. 1237/17
Lacombe County would like to acknowledge the contributions
Lacombe County would like to acknowledge the contributions
of the following people in preparing this document:
of the following people in preparing this document:
- -
All individuals who offered input through the public consultation
All individuals who offered input through the public consultation
process, including the public meetings and online surveys
process, including the public meetings and online surveys
- -
Lacombe County Council
Lacombe County Council
- -
Lacombe County Senior Management Team
Lacombe County Senior Management Team
-
Lacombe County Staff
-
Lacombe County Planning Services
For electronic copies of this document, please visit our website:
For electronic copies of this document, please visit our website:
For paper copies of this document, please contact Planning Services
For paper copies of this document, please contact Planning Services
directly:
directly:
www.lacombecounty.com
(403) 782-8389
Lacombe County acknowledges that our municipality is situated on Treaty 6
Lacombe County acknowledges that our municipality is situated on Treaty 6
lands, the traditional and ancestral territory of the people's of the Cree, Dene,
lands, the traditional and ancestral territory of the people's of the Cree, Dene,
Blackfoot, Saulteaux and Nakota Sioux, as well as the Métis.
Blackfoot, Saulteaux and Nakota Sioux, as well as the Métis.
We acknowledge the many First Nations, Métis and Inuit and all First Peoples
We acknowledge the many First Nations, Métis and Inuit and all First Peoples
of Canada whose footsteps have marked these lands for generations. We
of Canada whose footsteps have marked these lands for generations. We
respect the histories, languages, and cultures of Indigenous peoples whose
respect the histories, languages, and cultures of Indigenous peoples whose
presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
We make this acknowledgement as an act of reconciliation and gratitude to
We make this acknowledgement as an act of reconciliation and gratitude to
those whose territory we reside on.
those whose territory we reside on.
acknowledging
acknowledging
land and people
land and people
Page i
1.1
TITLE��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3
1.2 PURPOSE������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3
1.3 PREVIOUS BYLAW������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3
1.4
EFFECTIVE DATE���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3
1.4
COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER LAWS����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3
1.5 SCOPE�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3
1.6
DEFINITIONS ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������4
2.1
DEVELOPMENT OFFICER��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������23
2.2 MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION (MPC)����������������������������������������������������������������������������23
2.3 SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD��������������������������������������������������������������23
3.1
CONTROL OF DEVELOPMENT����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������27
3.2 REQUIREMENT FOR DEVELOPMENT PERMIT����������������������������������������������������������������������������27
3.3 NON-CONFORMING BUILDINGS AND USES������������������������������������������������������������������������������28
3.4 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������29
3.5 DECISION��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������34
3.6 DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������36
3.7 NOTICE OF DECISION��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������37
3.8 DEVELOPMENT PERMIT����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������37
3.9 SUBDIVISION APPLICATION�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������38
4.1
PROCEDURE FOR APPEALS���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������41
4.2 SDAB APPEAL HEARING���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������41
4.3 DECISION��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������41
5.1
CONTRAVENTION���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������45
5.2 COMPLIANCE������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������45
5.3 PENALTY���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������45
5.4 APPLICATION TO AMEND BYLAW��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������45
6.1
DWELLINGS ON A PARCEL�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������51
6.2 ACCESSORY BUILDINGS AND USES�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������51
6.3 SECONDARY SUITES�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������52
6.4 BED AND BREAKFAST ESTABLISHMENTS�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������52
6.5 MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������52
6.6 HOME BASED BUSINESSES����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������53
6.7 MINOR BUSINESSES OR TRADES����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������54
6.8 MOBILE VENDOR�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������55
6.9 CORNER LOT RESTRICTIONS AND SIGHT LINES�����������������������������������������������������������������������55
6.10 PERMITTED ENCROACHMENTS������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������57
6.11 HIGHWAYS AND COUNTY MAIN ROADS OVERLAY DISTRICT��������������������������������������������57
6.12 DESIGN, CHARACTER AND APPEARANCE OF BUILDINGS���������������������������������������������������57
6.13 FENCING AND SCREENING����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������59
6.14 LANDSCAPING���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������59
6.15 LIGHTING��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������61
6.16 LANDS SUBJECT TO FLOODING, EROSION AND OTHER HAZARDS��������������������������������62
6.17 LOT GRADING AND DRAINAGE�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������62
6.18 SETBACKS FROM COUNTY MAIN ROADS AND ROADS���������������������������������������������������������62
6.19 PARKING AND LOADING SPACE REQUIREMENTS�������������������������������������������������������������������63
6.20 TELECOMMUNICATION TOWERS���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������64
6.21 CAMPGROUNDS������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������65
6.22 SECURITY/OPERATOR SUITES����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������66
6.23 SIGNS����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������67
6.24 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������70
6.25 SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������71
6.26 WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS, PERSONAL��������������������������������������������������������������71
6.27 WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS, COMMERCIAL��������������������������������������������������������72
6.28 WASTE-TO-ENERGY SYSTEMS���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������74
6.29 SHOW HOMES����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������74
6.30 SPECIAL EVENTS������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������74
6.31 FIRE PROTECTION���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������75
6.32 CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������75
6.33 CANNABIS RETAIL���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������77
6.34 TOURIST HOMES�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������77
6.35 DATA PROCESSING CENTRES�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������78
7.1
'A' AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������81
7.2 'C-GC' GENERAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT����������������������������������������������������������������������������������87
7.3
'C-HC' HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL DISTRICT���������������������������������������������������������������������������������91
7.4
'C-H' HAMLET COMMERCIAL DISTRICT���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������95
7.5
'I-BI' BUSINESS INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������101
7.6
'I-HI' HEAVY INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������105
7.7
'I-H' HAMLET INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������109
7.8 'PR' RECREATION DISTRICT������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������113
7.9
'PR-H' HAMLET PUBLIC RECREATION DISTRICT��������������������������������������������������������������������119
7.10 'R-RVR' RECREATIONAL VEHICLE RESORT DISTRICT�����������������������������������������������������������123
7.11 'H' HAMLET DISTRICT�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������131
7.12 'H-R1' HAMLET RESIDENTIAL 1 DISTRICT���������������������������������������������������������������������������������139
7.13 'H-R2' HAMLET RESIDENTIAL 2 MOBILE HOME DISTRICT�������������������������������������������������147
7.14 'H-R3' HAMLET RESIDENTIAL 3 DISTRICT��������������������������������������������������������������������������������153
7.15 'R-CR' COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT���������������������������������������������������������������������������������159
7.16 'R-CRE' COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL ESTATE DISTRICT��������������������������������������������������������������167
7.17 'R-RCC' RESIDENTIAL CONSERVATION (CLUSTER) DISTRICT�������������������������������������������175
7.18 'R-RLA' RESIDENTIAL LAKE AREA DISTRICT ��������������������������������������������������������������������������183
7.19 'R-HDR' HIGHER DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT��������������������������������������������������������������191
7.20 'R-UFR' URBAN FRINGE RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT�������������������������������������������������������������������199
8.1
'DC' SPECIFIC - DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICT �������������������������������������������������������������������������209
8.2 'DC-1' SANDY POINT - DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICT �����������������������������������������������������������213
8.3 'OD-1' HIGHWAYS AND COUNTY MAIN ROADS OVERLAY ....DISTRICT �����������������������217
8.4 'OD-2' HISTORICAL PRESERVATION OVERLAY DISTRICT���������������������������������������������������223
Table of Contents
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 10, 2025
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1236/17
Redesignation - Burbank Heights
Pt. SW 24-39-27-W4M
Country
Residential 'R-CR'
District
Country
Residential Estate
'R-CRE' District
1248/17
Resdesignation - Procor Limited
Lot 2 Block 1 Plan 992
4793, Pt. SW 09-39-25-
W4M
Agricultural 'A'
District
Heavy Industrial
'I-HI' District
1269/18
PART 1 - Definitions
Add definitions for CONTRACTOR BUSINESS, CUSTOM MANUFACTURING, FARM MACHINERY AND
EQUIPMENT SALES AND SERVICES, LANDSCAPING SALES AND SERVICE, and SPECIALIZED OR
INTENSIVE AGRICULTURAL OPERATION
Revisions to PART 2, PART 3, PART 4 as per the Municipal Government Act updates
PART 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District - add 'adult care residence' as a discretionary use, and add an outdoor
storage limit
Highway Commercial 'C-HC' District - add 'special event, minor' and 'special event, major' to the
site specific discretionary use on Block 1 Plan 992 0636, Pt. SW 23-40-27-W4M
Hamlet Commercial 'C-H' District - amend setbacks
Hamlet Industrial 'I-H' District - amend setbacks
Recreation 'PR' District - add 'special event, minor' as a discretionary use, and clarify servicing in a
lake plan area
Hamlet Recreation 'PR-H' District - add 'special event, minor' as a discretionary use
Hamlet Residential 1 'H-R1' District - amend setbacks
1273/18
Redesignation - North Aspelund Industrial Park
NE 28-39-27-W4M and Lot
7 Block 6 Plan 182 0290,
Pt. NW 28-39-27-W4M
Agricultural 'A'
District
Business
Industrial 'I-BI'
District
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page ii
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page iii
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1285/18
PART 1 - Definitions
Add definitions for CANNABIS, CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY, and CANNABIS RETAIL
Amend definition for AGRICULTURAL OPERATION - to exclude cannabis production facility
PART 3 - Added section 3.4(11) regarding cannabis production facility or cannabis retail
development applications
PART 6 - Added Section 6.31 CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY, and Section 6.32 CANNABIS
RETAIL
PART 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District - add 'cannabis production facility' as a discretionary use, and include
Development Authority's discretion to impose, as a condition of approval, a greater setback from
the property boundary for a cannabis production facility
General Commercial 'C-GC' District - add 'cannabis retail' as a discretionary use
Highway Commercial 'C-HC' District - add 'cannabis retail' as a discretionary use
Hamlet Commercial 'C-H' District - add 'cannabis retail' as a discretionary use
Business Industrial 'I-BI' District - add 'cannabis production facility' as a discretionary use and,
amend setbacks
Hamlet Industrial 'I-H' District - add 'cannabis production facility' as a discretionary use and, amend
setbacks
Recreation 'PR' District - add 'cannabis retail' as a discretionary use
Page iv
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1297/19
PART 1 - Definitions
Amend definitions for AGRICULTURAL SERVICE FACILITY and COMMUNITY FACILITY
Remove definitions for ALTERNATIVE ENERGY (GREEN TECHNOLOGY, SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION
SYSTEM (COMMERCIAL), SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM (MICRO GENERATION),
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM (COMMERCIAL), WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM
(MICROGENERATION), and WIND FARMS
Add definitions for ALTERNATIVE ENERGY, COMMERCIAL; ALTERNATIVE ENERGY, PERSONAL; and
WASTE-TO-ENERGY SYSTEM
PART 6 - General Regulations
Amend section titles as follows: 6.24 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY, 6.25 SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION
SYSTEMS, 6.26 WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS, PERSONAL, 6.27 WIND ENERGY
CONVERSION SYSTEMS, COMMERCIAL
Amend Section 6.24
Insert Section 6.28 WASTE-TO-ENERGY SYSTEMS
PART 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District - add 'Waste-to-energy system' as a discretionary use
Business Industrial 'I-BI' District - add 'Cartage and freight terminal' as a discretionary use
1305/19
Redesignation - Burbank Industrial Park
Lot 15 Block 1 Plan 162
0927, Pt. SW 23-39-27-
W4M
Agricultural 'A'
District
Business
Industrial 'I-BI'
District
1267/18
Redesignation - Lincoln Ranch
Pt. NW 14-41-28-W4M
Agricultural 'A'
District
Recreation
'PR' District,
Residential
Conservation
Cluster 'R-RCC'
District, and
High Density
Residential
'R-HDR' District
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1317/20
PART 1 - Definitions
Add definition for AGRI-TOURISM BUSINESS
Amend definition for BED AND BREAKFAST
Remove definition for COMMUNICATION TOWER, COMMERCIAL and COMMUNICATION TOWER,
PRIVATE
Add definition for TELECOMMUNICATION TOWER
PART 2 - Approving Authorities: Duties and Responsibilities
Amend section 2.2(5) regarding holding MPC meetings
PART 3 - Amend 3.2(2)(s) regarding telecommunication towers
Amend 3.(7) regarding community consultation
PART 6 - Amend 6.20 TELECOMMUNICATION TOWERS
Amend 6.29 CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITIES
PART 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District - add 'agri-tourism business' as a discretionary use, remove 'Radio, TV
or other communication tower and associated service buildings and/or equipment' as a
discretionary use, and add setback where a property line has been adjusted due to a change in a
natural boundary
Hamlet Commercial 'C-H' District - amend (1) Maximum Parcel Frontage Setbacks for Fringe
Commercial Area and insert (3) Setbacks map
Recreation 'PR' District - add 'agri-tourism business' as a permitted use, and add setback where a
property line has been adjusted due to a change in a natural boundary
Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District - amend 3(11)(a), measuring maximum height of a
Recreational Vehicle
Residential Lake Area 'R-RLA' District - amend 3(6) Servicing for subdivisions in the Sylvan Lake
Communal Sewage Bylaw
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page v
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1300/19
Redesignation - Transand
Pt. SE 29-40-22-W4M
Agricultural 'A'
District
Business
Industrial 'I-BI'
District
1335/21
PART 1 - Definitions
Add definition for TOURIST HOME
Amend definition for CANNABIS RETAIL, RACING ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE FACILITY, and
RECREATION FACILITIES, OUTDOOR
Remove definition for GREENHOUSE AND PLANT NURSERY and GOLF COURSE
PART 3 - Development & Subdivision Application Process
Amend 3.4(7) and 3.4(11)(a) regarding pre-circulation requirements
Insert 3.4(12) and 3.4(13) regarding Development Design Plan requirements
PART 6 - General Regulations
Amend 6.13(6) FENCING AND SCREENING
Amend 6.19(7) PARKING AND LOADING SPACE REQUIREMENTS
Amend 6.33(1) CANNABIS RETAIL
Insert 6.34 TOURIST HOMES
PART 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District - add 'tourist home' and 'veterinary hospital' as discretionary uses, and
remove 'greenhouse and plant nursery' as a discretionary use
Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District, Hamlet 'H' District, Hamlet Residential 1 'H-R1' District,
Hamlet Residential 2 Mobile Home 'H-R2' District, Hamlet Residential 3 'H-R3' District, Country
Residential 'R-CR' District, Country Residential Estate 'R-CRE' District, Residential Conservation
(Cluster) 'R-RCC' District, Residential Lake Area 'R-RLA' District, Higher Density Residential 'R-HDR'
District and Urban Fringe Residential 'R-UFR' District - add 'tourist home' as a discretionary use
Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District - remove 'golf course' as a discretionary use
Recreational 'PR' District, Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District, Residential Conservation
(Cluster) 'R-RCC' District, Residential Lake Area 'R-RLA' District and Higher Density Residential
'R-HDR' District - amend servicing regulations
1341/21
Redesignation - Sandy Point
10 acres of Block 5 Plan
982 4269 (Pt. NE 01-41-01-
W5M)
Recreation 'PR'
District
Recreational
Vehicle Resort
'R-RVR' District
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page vi
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1366/22
PART 1 - Definitions
Add definitions for AGRI-COMMERCIAL and AGRI-INDUSTRIAL
PART 4 - Development Appeal Process
Amend Policy 4.1(1), Policy6 4.1(3) and 4.2 header regarding development appeal boards
PART 7 - Districts
General Commercial 'C-GC' District - add 'agri-commercial' as permitted use
Highway Commercial 'C-HC' District - add 'agri-commercial' as permitted use
Hamlet Commercial 'C-H' District - add 'agri-commercial' as discretionary use
Business Industrial 'I-BI' District - add 'agri-industrial' as permitted use, and remove 'agricultural
service facility' as a discretionary use
Heavy Industrial 'I-HI' District - add 'agri-industrial' as discretionary use
Hamlet Industrial 'I-H' District - add 'agri-industrial' as discretionary use, and update purpose of the
District
1368/22
Redesignation - Alberta Views
Pt. NW 21-39-03-W5M
Agricultural 'A'
District
Recreation 'PR'
District
1374/22
Redesignation - The Slopes on Sylvan Lake
Lots 13-16 Block 5 Plan
152 4826
Higher Density
Residential
'R-HDR' District
Residential
Conservation
Cluster 'R-RCC'
District
1369/22
PART 1 - Definitions
Add definition for RECOVERY CENTRE
PART 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District - add 'recovery centre' as a discretionary use on W1/2 Pt. SW 16-39-01-W5M
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page vii
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1388/23
Update Government of Alberta department names, and Subdivision Authority references
PART 1 - Definitions
Amend definition for INDUSTRIAL, HEAVY MANUFACTURING AND PROCESSING
Add definitions for DATA PROCESSING CENTRE, RAIL SPUR and RAIL YARD
PART 3 - Development & Subdivision Application Process
Amend 3.2 REQUIREMENT FOR DEVELOPMENT PERMIT to exempt personal solar systems
Amend 3.4 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION PROCESS for DATA PROCESSING CENTRES
PART 6- General Regulations
Insert section 6.35 DATA PROCESSING CENTRES
PART 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District, Hamlet 'H' District, Hamlet Residential 1 'H-R1' District, Hamlet Residential 2
Mobile Home 'H-R2' District - amend minimum floor area for a dwelling
Agricultural 'A' District, Business Industrial 'I-BI' District, Heavy Industrial 'I-HI' District - insert 'data
processing centre' as a discretionary use
General Commercial 'C-GC' District, Highway Commercial 'C-HC' District, Hamlet Commercial
'C-H' District, Business Industrial 'I-BI' District, Hamlet Industrial 'I-H' District Recreation 'PR' District,
Hamlet Public Recreation 'PR'-H District - move 'alternative energy, personal' to a permitted use
Hamlet Commercial 'C-H' District - insert 'special event, major (in Fringe Commercial Area only)' as
a discretionary use
Business Industrial 'I-BI' District, Heavy Industrial 'I-HI' District, Hamlet Industrial 'I-H' District - insert
'rail spur' and 'rail yard' as a permitted use
Heavy Industrial 'I-HI' District - move a number of uses to a permitted use
Residential Conservation (Cluster) 'R-RCC' District - amend side setbacks
1396/23
Redesignation - Kuusamo Krest
0.539 acres (0.218
hectares) of Pt. SE 21-39-
02-W5M
Agricultural 'A'
District
Residential Lake
Area 'R-RLA'
District
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page viii
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page ix
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1399/23
Redesignation - DOW Chemical Canada ULC
9.03 acres (3.65 hectares)
of Pt. SW 31-39-25-W4M
Agricultural 'A'
District
Heavy Industrial
'I-HI' District
1407/24
PART 6 - General Regulations
Amend 6.1 DWELLINGS ON A PARCEL - change minimum parcel size for a second dwelling in the
Agricultural 'A' District from 16.18 ha (40 ac) to 4.05 ha (10 ac)
1413/24
PART 1 - Definitions
Add definitions for AGRICULTURAL SUPPORT SERVICE, MAJOR AGRICULTURAL PROCESSING,
MINOR AGRICULTURAL PROCESSING, ALCOHOL PRODUCTION, ELECTRICAL VEHICLE CHARGING
STATION (EV CHARGER), KITCHEN FACILITIES, THEATRE, TRANSPORTATION TERMINAL/HUB, and
VEHICLE WASH
Amend definitions for AUTOMOTIVE, FARM EQUIPMENT AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE SERVICES,
MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOME DWELLING, MODULAR HOME/RTM DWELLING, MOVED-
IN RESIDENCE DWELLING, SINGLE DETACHED DWELLING, GUEST HOUSE, MOBILE VENDOR,
OUTDOOR RECREATION FACILITIES, and WAREHOUSING AND STORAGE
Delete definitions for AGRICULTURAL SERVICE FACILITY, BOARDING AND ROOMING HOUSE, BUS
DEPOT, DISTRICT SHOPPING CENTRE, FARM MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT SALES AND SERVICES,
MUNICIPAL SHOP AND STORAGE YARD, PARKING FACILITY, RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK,
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE SALES AND SERVICES and REPAIR SERVICES
PART 3 - DEVELOPMENT & SUBDIVISION APPLICATION PROCESS and PART 6 - GENERAL
REGULATIONS
Replace all 'mobile home' references with 'mobile/manufactured home'
PART 7 - LAND USE DISTRICTS
Permitted and discretionary uses were updated for revised definitions and for businesses that are
agricultural, commercial, or industrial in nature.
-
.Agricultural support services and agricultural processing uses have been enhanced.
-
.All commercial and industrial districts have been thoroughly assessed for their economic
development potential, and enhancements have been made. New commercial or industrial
uses are included to address emerging development trends.
-
Dwelling uses have been enhanced for clarity.
-
Public Use and Public Utility were updated for consistency.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page x
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1420/24
Part 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District - add 'recovery centre' as a discretionary use on N ½ 22-41-23-W4M
1430/25
Update Government of Alberta department names
Update all 'residence' references to 'dwelling'
PART 1 - Definitions
Amend definitions for SIGN,
Add definitions for FREESTANDING SIGN, and FASCADE SIGN
PART 6- General Regulations
Amend Section 6.2 to increase maximum accessory building size in the R-RVR DIstrict, and include
the engineering requirements for Country Residential 'R-CR' District tarp structures
Replace section 6.23 SIGNS
PART 7 - Districts
Update the storage of recreational vehicles and use for visitors in all residential districts
1428/25
PART 1 - Definitions
Add definitions for APIARY, BEEHIVE, BEEKEEPER, COOP, LIVESTOCK, and LIVESTOCK UNIT
PART 3 - Development & Subdivision Application Process
Update Section 3.6 REQUIREMENT FOR A DEVELOPMENT PERMIT, exempting keeping of animals
in a residential district, subject to compliance with other provisions of the Bylaw
PART 7 - Districts
Update the Keeping of Animals in all residential districts regarding livestock, chickens and bees
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page xi
AMENDMENTS TO LACOMBE COUNTY'S LAND USE BYLAW NO. 1237/17
BYLAW
NO.
DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENTS
CHANGE OF LAND USE ZONING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
FROM
TO
1454/26
PART 6 - General Regulations
Update Section 6.2 ACCCESSORY BUILDINGS AND USES to increase the maximum height of
accessory buildings from 6.10 m (20 ft) to 7.32 m (24 ft) in the Country Residential 'R-CR' District,
Country Residential Estate 'R-CRE' District, Residential Conservation (Cluster) 'R-RCC' District,
Residential Lake Area 'R-RLA' District
Part 7 - Districts
Agricultural 'A' District - remove the use of recovery centre on W ½ Pt. SW 16-39-01-W5M'
Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District - update wording regarding condo unit outdoor
storage provisions to allow two off-road vehicle units per condo unit, and for a trailer with two
off-road vehicles to be considered one unit.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 1
PART 1
INTRODUCTION
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 2
Part 1
1.1
TITLE
This Bylaw shall be known as the "Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw".
1.2
PURPOSE
(1) The purpose of this Bylaw is to facilitate the orderly, economical
and sustainable development and use of land and buildings
within the County and for that purpose, the Bylaw, among other
things:
(a) divides the County into Districts;
(b) describes the purposes for which land and buildings may be
used within each District;
(c) establishes the powers of the Development Authority;
(d) sets out a method for making decisions on applications for
development permits, including the issuing of development
permits; and
(e) identifies the manner in which notice of the issuance of a
development permit is to be given.
(2) The Bylaw shall be applied in a manner to that serves to implement
statutory plans and local plans which have been adopted by
the County, and is consistent with the County's Municipal
Development Plan and the Municipal Government Act.
1.3
PREVIOUS BYLAW
Bylaw No. 1056/07 and all amendments thereto are hereby rescinded.
1.4
EFFECTIVE DATE
This Bylaw came into effect upon the date of it being finally passed.
Bylaw No. 1237/17
Read a first time this 11th day of May, 2017.
Read a second time this 6th day of July, 2017.
Read a third time and finally passed this 6th day of July, 2017.
"original signed"
Reeve
"original signed"
County Manager
1.4
COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER LAWS
(1) Compliance with the requirements of this Bylaw does not
exempt any person undertaking a development from complying
with all applicable municipal, provincial or federal legislation,
and respecting any easements, covenants, agreements or other
contracts affecting the land or the development.
1.5
SCOPE
(1) No development shall be carried out within the County except in
accordance with this Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 3
Part 1
1.6
DEFINITIONS
(1) In this Bylaw:
ACCESSORY BUILDING AND USE means a building, structure or use
detached from a principal building, normally incidental, or secondary
to the principal building or use. The building or use is subordinate in
area, extent or purpose to the principal building or use and is located
on the same site as the principal building or use. For the purpose of
this Bylaw, an accessory building and use may include a private garage,
garden shed, and in a residential lakeshore area, a boat house or guest
house.
ACCOMMODATION
AND
CONVENTION
SERVICES
means
development that primarily provides rooms or suites for temporary
sleeping accommodation, such as hotels and motels, or development
which provides permanent facilities for meetings, seminars,
conventions, trade fairs and other exhibitions.
ACCREDITED AGENCY means a person or corporation designated as
an accredited agency under the Safety Codes Act.
ACT means the Municipal Government Act, RSA 2000, c.M-26-1, as
amended.
ADDITION means the subsequent external construction to an existing
building, not including a motorized or towable recreational vehicle,
which results in increasing the building's area or external dimensions in
any manner and which when added to the principal structure makes
one singular combined structure. Such structures shall include a roof
and walls, and may include, but not be limited to a sunroom, bedroom,
storage or mudroom.
ADJACENT LAND means land which is contiguous to the land that
is the subject of an application and includes land which would be
contiguous if not for a right-of-way, railway, river or stream.
ADULT CARE RESIDENCE means a building with two or more
accommodation units designed to provide long-term housing wherein
the adult residents, who because of their circumstances cannot or do
not wish to maintain their own households, are provided with meal
services and may receive such services as housekeeping and personal
care assistance. This definition does not include, housing for transient
workers, shelters and outreach centres.
ADULT ENTERTAINMENT FACILITY means any premises or part
thereof wherein live or recorded performances are held for an audience
that shows or displays nudity or partial nudity of a person.
AGRICULTURAL BUILDING means a building used in connection
with an agricultural operation but does not include a dwelling or any
building that is part of a confined feeding operation which is subject
to an approval, registration or authorization under the Agricultural
Operation Practices Act and where livestock are confined for the
purpose of growing, sustaining, finishing or breeding by means other
than grazing.
AGRICULTURAL OPERATION means an agricultural activity (other
than a confined feeding operation or cannabis production facility)
conducted on agricultural land for gain or reward or in the hope of
gain or reward, and includes:
(a) the cultivation of land;
(b) the raising of livestock, including game-production animals
within the meaning of the Livestock Industry Diversification
Act and poultry;
(c) the raising of fur-bearing animals, pheasants or fish;
(d) the production of agricultural field crops;
(e) the production of fruit, vegetables, sod, trees, shrubs and
other specialty horticultural crops;
(f) the production of eggs and milk;
(g) the production of honey;
(h) the operation of agricultural machinery and equipment,
including irrigation pumps; and
(i)
the application of fertilizers, manure, insecticides, pesticides,
fungicides and herbicides, including application by ground
and aerial spraying, for agricultural purposes.
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Part 1
AGRICULTURAL OPERATION, MINOR means an agricultural activity,
such as the production of fruit, vegetables, trees, shrubs and other
specialty horticultural crops, that may be carried out on a small scale in
the Country Residential 'R-CR' District. This agricultural activity must be
secondary to the residential use, is conducted by a permanent resident
of the dwelling, has little or no customer traffic, and does not include
any non-resident on-site employees.
AGRICULTURAL PROCESSING, MAJOR means a large-scale value-
added agricultural operation (other than a confined feeding operation
or cannabis production facility) that includes the use of land and/
or a building for the upgrading of a product for distribution or sale
that was originally produced in an agricultural operation. Due to the
large-scale nature of the business, the agricultural products may be
produced onsite or offsite. A major agricultural processing operation
may produce some offsite impacts such as noise, appearance, or odour.
AGRICULTURAL PROCESSING, MINOR means a small-scale value-
added agricultural operation (other than a confined feeding operation
or cannabis production facility) that includes the use of land and/
or a building for the upgrading of a product for distribution or sale
that was originally produced in an agricultural operation. These minor
operations are intended to primarily use agricultural products which
are produced onsite. A minor agricultural processing operation does
not produce any offsite impacts.
AGRICULTURAL SUPPORT SERVICE means development providing
products or services directly related to the agricultural industry. This
use would include the service, sale or storage of seed, feed, fertilizer,
chemical products, fuel, and agricultural machinery. This may include
ancillary uses, including, but not limited to, office, sales, technical,
administrative support, storage or warehousing. An agricultural
support service is larger in size or scale than a home based business
or minor business.
AGRI-COMMERCIAL means a use that provides commercial
agriculturally oriented retail services in a commercial district.
AGRI-INDUSTRIAL means a use that provides industrial agriculturally
oriented services, manufacturing, or processing in an industrial district.
The use includes only those developments where no significant
nuisance factor is created or apparent beyond the boundaries of the
site.
AGRI-TOURISM BUSINESS means a low intensity agricultural
diversification and agri-tourism business that is secondary to the
existing principal agricultural use of the land and is compatible with
the agricultural character of the area. The business may link travel with
agricultural products, services or experiences, and give an opportunity
for visitors to experience agricultural life. The business may include but
is not limited to growing, packing and sale of agricultural food products,
educational gatherings, festive gatherings, small-scale wineries
and breweries and associated uses, minor food establishments and
storefronts including farm gate stores, cafes and diners.
AIRPORT means an area of land used for the arrival and departure of
aircraft for which aerodrome certification has been given by Transport
Canada, and includes any building, installation or equipment in
connection therewith.
ALCOHOL PRODUCTION means a use where beer, wine, spirits or
other alcoholic beverages are manufactured. This use may include
the sale of alcoholic beverages to the public for consumption within
the premises, and may include the retail sale of products. Accessory
activities may include the preparation and sale of food, storage,
packaging, bottling, canning and shipping of products manufactured
within the premises. The use includes only those developments
where no significant nuisance factor is created or apparent beyond
the boundaries of the site. Typical uses include breweries, distilleries,
wineries, and meaderies.
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY, COMMERCIAL means any system, device or
structure that is used to collect natural energy resources, such as the
sun, or wind, to generate thermal, electrical, or mechanical energy to
use as an alternative to fossil fuels and other non-renewable resources.
Typical examples are, but not limited to, commercial solar energy
conversion systems and commercial wind energy conversion systems.
A commercial alternative energy system is intended to provide power
primarily for resale.
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Page 5
Part 1
Includes:
SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM, COMMERCIAL means
a power generation facility consisting of active or passive solar
panels and related facilities. This system is connected to the same
substation or metering point used for the production of electrical
power, and is primarily for resale.
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM, COMMERCIAL means
multiple wind energy systems developed to generate energy
primarily for resale.
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY, PERSONAL means any system, device or
structure that is used to collect natural energy resources, such as the
sun or wind, to generate thermal, electrical, or mechanical energy to
use as an alternative to fossil fuels and other non-renewable resources.
Typical examples are, but not limited to, personal solar energy
conversion systems and personal wind energy conversion systems.
A personal alternative energy system is intended to provide power
for onsite consumption requirements, either on or off-grid, and may
provide residual power to the grid but is not intended to produce
power primarily for resale.
Includes:
SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM, PERSONAL means
a power generation facility consisting of active or passive solar
panels and related facilities. It is intended to provide electrical
power for onsite consumption requirements, either on or off-grid,
and may provide residual power to the grid but is not intended to
produce power primarily for resale.
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM, PERSONAL means a
single wind energy conversion system developed to generate
electrical power for onsite consumption requirements, either on
or offgrid and may provide residual power to the grid but is not
intended to produce power primarily for resale. The system and
supporting structure is less than 25 m (82 ft) in height.
AMENITY BUILDING means a building that provides amenities for the
users of a campground or recreational vehicle resort, and may include
a recreational building, laundromat, washroom/shower facility and
other similar uses.
ANIMAL GROOMING FACILITY means a facility that provides a service
for the care and appearance of domestic animals but does not include
the breeding and overnight boarding of such animals.
APIARY means a shelter in which a colony or colonies of bees are
housed.
AREA STRUCTURE PLAN means a local plan (other than the Municipal
Development Plan and an Intermunicipal Development Plan), which
has been adopted by Council.
AUCTION SERVICE means a building, structure or lands used for the
storage of goods and materials which are to be sold on the premises
by public auction on an occasional basis.
AUTOMOTIVE GAS BAR means a development used for the sale
of motor fuel, lubricating oils, automotive fluids, and may include
associated convenience store products. The gas bar may be a self-
service and/or full service, and may include vehicle washing facilities
as an accessory use but not auto repair or service.
AUTOMOTIVE, FARM EQUIPMENT AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
SERVICES means development used for the rental, lease, sale,
storage, service, inspection, restoration and/or mechanical repair
of automobiles, trucks, trailers, motorcycles, farm machinery and
equipment, snowmobiles, boats and recreation vehicles. Uses would
also include transmission shops, muffler shops, auto body paint and
repair facilities, service stations and fleet services involving vehicles for
the delivery of people, goods and services.
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE STATION means a facility where automotive
fuels, oil, grease, batteries, tires, and automotive accessories may be
supplied and/or installed, and where general automotive maintenance,
such as oil changes, tune ups, brake repairs, etc. may be undertaken.
BEEHIVE means a dome-shaped or boxlike structure in which bees
are kept.
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 6
Part 1
BEEKEEPER means a person who owns and possesses bees or
beekeeping equipment or both.
BEE KEEPING means the keeping of bees for the production of honey.
BED AND BREAKFAST means the accessory use of a principal dwelling
unit, or in the Agricultural 'A' District principal dwelling unit and/or
accessory building(s), in which short term overnight accommodation
and limited meals are provided to overnight guests.
BUILDING AREA means the total ground floor area and/or footprint
of a building or structure with or without walls, inclusive of additions,
covered and/or enclosed decks, porches, verandas and/or lean-tos.
BUILDING HEIGHT means the vertical distance from grade level
at the exterior wall to the highest point of a building, excluding a
skylight, chimney, flagpole, antenna, a parapet wall or similar device
not structurally essential to the building. On sloping ground, building
height shall be considered as the average of the highest and lowest
grades.
BULK FUEL DEPOT means lands, buildings and structures for the bulk
storage and distribution of petroleum products and may include key
lock retail sales. This does not include automotive gas bars or service
stations.
Highest point of building
Building height from
highest grade point
Building height from
lowest grade point
CAMPGROUND MINOR means an area which has been planned
and improved for the seasonal short term occupancy of up to a
maximum of six (6) holiday trailers, motor homes, tents, campers or
similar recreational vehicles, and is not used as a year round storage,
or accommodation for residential use. Typical uses include tourist
recreational vehicle parks, campsites and tenting grounds and
recreational activities, such as picnic grounds, boating facilities and
playgrounds.
CAMPGROUND INTERMEDIATE means an area which has been
planned and improved for the seasonal short term occupancy of up
to a maximum of nineteen (19) holiday trailers, motor homes, tents,
campers or similar recreational vehicles, and is not used as a year round
storage, or accommodation for residential use. Typical uses include
tourist recreational vehicle parks, campsites and tenting grounds and
recreational activities, such as picnic grounds, boating facilities and
playgrounds.
CAMPGROUND MAJOR means an area which has been planned and
improved for the seasonal short term occupancy of more than twenty
(20) holiday trailers, motor homes, tents, campers or similar recreational
vehicles, and is not used as a year round storage, or accommodation
for residential use. Typical uses include tourist recreational vehicle
parks, campsites and tenting grounds and recreational activities, such
as picnic grounds, boating facilities and playgrounds.
CANNABIS means cannabis plant, fresh cannabis, dried cannabis,
cannabis oil and cannabis plant seeds and any other substance defined
in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, as amended from time to
time and includes edible products that contain cannabis.
CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY means a premises authorized
by a licence issued by Health Canada and used for the production,
cultivation, harvesting, processing (including the trimming, drying,
and curing of raw materials), storage or distribution of cannabis or its
by-products for commercial sale.
CANNABIS RETAIL means a retail business where cannabis and
cannabis related products and accessories are displayed and sold; and
which holds a provincial licence permitting the sale of cannabis from
the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC).
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CARE CENTRE means an establishment licensed by the regional
health authority intended to provide care, educational services and
supervision for 7 to 20 children or adults during the day or evening and
may include limited overnight accommodation to accommodate shift
workers. This includes group day care centres, out-of-school centres,
nursery or play schools and drop in centres. This includes developments
for group day care or for the provision of care, before and after school
hours and during school holidays for children attending school.
CARTAGE AND FREIGHT TERMINAL means a facility accommodating
the storage and distribution of freight shipped by road and rail.
CARTAGE AND MOVING SERVICES means development using a
fleet of vehicles for the delivery of goods, where such vehicles are not
available for sale or long term lease.
CEMETERY means land that is used for the burial of human or animal
remains. Typical uses are memorial parks and burial grounds.
COMMERCIAL SCHOOL means development used for training,
instruction and certification in a specific trade, skill or service for the
financial gain of the person owning the school. Typical uses include
but are not limited to secretarial business, hairdressing, beauty culture,
driving, dancing or music schools.
COMMUNITY FACILITY means a public or public/private development
for a community use, providing artistic, social, cultural, religious or
tourism facilities. Typical uses include, but are not limited to, non-
profit education centres, museums, churches, libraries, and public and
private clubs.
CONFINED FEEDING OPERATION means a confined feeding
operation as defined in the Agricultural Operation Practices Act.
CONSERVATION EASEMENT means an agreement registered against
title whereby a landowner grants to the County (or other government,
government agency, or non-profit society with conservation objectives
satisfactory to the County) provisions for the protection, conservation
and enhancement of the environment including the protection,
conservation and enhancement of biological diversity and natural
scenic or aesthetic values. A conservation agreement may provide for
recreational use, agricultures, open space use, environmental education
use, and research and scientific studies of natural ecosystems.
CONTRACTOR BUSINESS means a development used for commercial
and industrial service support and construction. Typical uses include
oilfield support services, building construction, surveying, landscaping,
concrete, electrical, excavation, drilling, heating, plumbing, paving,
road construction, sewer or similar services or a construction nature
which require on-site storage space for materials, mobile equipment
or vehicles normally associated with the contractor service. Any sales,
display, office or technical support service areas shall be accessory to
the principal general contractor use.
COOP means a fully enclosed weatherproof structure used for the
keeping of poultry.
CORE COMMERCIAL means a commercial area inside the residential
periphery of a hamlet or clustered residential area.
COUNCIL means the Council of Lacombe County.
COUNTY shall mean the Corporation of Lacombe County and where
required by the context shall include all lands within the corporate
boundaries of the said County.
COUNTY MAIN ROAD means a right-of-way designated as a main
road by the County.
CREMATORIUM means a development fitted with equipment for
the purposes of the cremation of human remains or animal remains
and may include associated facilities for the preparation of the dead
human body or animal body for internment or cremation and facilities
associated with conducting funeral services.
CUSTOM MANUFACTURING means development used for the small
scale on-site production of goods by hand, primarily involving use of
hand and power tools, and provided such developments have fewer
than five production employees. This use includes trades such as a
cabinet maker, carpenter, decorator, electrician, upholsterer or similar.
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DATA PROCESSING CENTRE means a building, dedicated space
within a building, or a group of buildings used to house computer
systems and associated infrastructure and components for the digital
transactions required for processing data. This includes, but is not
limited to cryptocurrency, digital currency processing, non-fungible
tokens, and blockchain transactions.
DAY USE AREA means public or private land which provides low-
impact amenities to visitors during daylight hours. Without restricting
the generality of the foregoing, uses might include picnic sites, cook
shelters, washrooms and trails, but does not include facilities for
camping or overnight accommodation.
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY means the Development Officer or the
Municipal Planning Commission of the County, or both as the case
may be.
DEVELOPMENT OFFICER means the person appointed to the office
established by this Bylaw.
DISCRETIONARY USE means the use of land or a building provided
for in this Bylaw for which a development permit may be issued upon
an application having been made.
DISTRICT means a land use district established under this Bylaw.
DWELLING OR DWELLING UNIT means a building or a portion of a
building containing one or more habitable rooms that constitute a self
contained living accommodation unit having sleeping, washroom and
kitchen facilities.
DWELLING, APARTMENT means a residential building consisting of
three or more dwelling units, but shall not include buildings containing
units with separate exterior entranceway(s).
DWELLING, DUPLEX means a residential building containing only
two dwelling units, located side by side or one above the other.
DWELLING, FOURPLEX means a building containing four dwelling
units located immediately adjacent to each other and sharing a
common wall and each having a separate entrance to grade.
DWELLING, MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOME means a prefabricated
transportable, single or multiple section dwelling unit conforming to
CAN/CSA Z240 MH Series or A277 certified standards at the time of
manufacture. A mobile/manufactured home may be a single section
("single-wide") or consist of two sections which are put together
to comprise a complete dwelling unit ("double-wide"). Mobile/
manufactured homes shall have the following features:
(a) minimum roof pitch of 5.08 cm (2 in) of vertical rise for every
30.48 cm (12 in); and
(b) minimum length to width ratio of 3:1.
Also for the purpose of this Bylaw, a mobile/manufactured home
excludes a modular home/RTM or recreational vehicle-park model
recreational unit.
DWELLING, MODULAR HOME/RTM means a prefabricated or factory
built frame or shell which comprises of the walls or siding of a single
dwelling unit. More specifically, a modular unit represents only a
section of the modular home. A modular home/RTM has no chassis,
running gear or wheels, but units may be stacked side by side or
vertically and complete to form a dwelling unit. Also for the purpose
of this Bylaw, a modular home/RTM excludes a Mobile/Manufactured
Home, or Recreational Vehicle-Park Model Recreational Unit.
DWELLING, MOVED-IN RESIDENCE means a residential building that
has previously been constructed or placed on a different parcel for
occupancy and has been relocated to serve as a residence at its new
location. A moved-in residence is not of new construction, and for the
purpose of this bylaw does not include a Mobile/Manufactured Home,
Modular Home/RTM, or Recreational Vehicle-Park Model Recreational
Unit.
DWELLINGS, ROW HOUSING means a building designed and built to
contain three or more dwelling units with a separate exterior entrance
at grade that shares no more than two party walls with adjacent
dwelling units. No part of a dwelling unit is placed over another in part
or in whole and every dwelling unit shall have a separate, individual,
direct access to grade. For the purposes of this Bylaw, garden linked,
row and townhouse units are considered to be row housing dwellings.
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DWELLING, SECONDARY SUITE means a self-contained dwelling unit
providing sleeping, washroom and kitchen facilities, located in a single
detached dwelling, which is the principal use on the site. A secondary
suite also has an entrance separate from the entrance to the principal
dwelling, either from a common indoor landing or directly from the
exterior of the structure. It includes the conversion of basement space
to a dwelling, or the addition of new floor space for a secondary suite
to an existing single detached dwelling.
DWELLING, SINGLE DETACHED means a residential building
containing one dwelling unit and intended as a permanent residence.
Detached dwellings shall be of new construction, typically with the
following features:
(a) all exterior walls dimensioned at less than or equal to 3:1
length to width ratio; and
(b) roof pitches being a minimum of 3:12 ratio (3 ft of elevation
for every 12 ft of width).
A detached dwelling may include a building that has been constructed
off-site. All detached dwellings constructed outside the Province of
Alberta must meet the standards of the Alberta Safety Codes Act. For the
purpose of this Bylaw, a single detached dwelling excludes a Mobile/
Manufactured Home or Recreational Vehicle-Park Model Recreational
Unit.
DWELLING, TEMPORARY FAMILY CARE means a dwelling that
is required for a person who will provide personal care, or require
personal care from, the residents of the other dwelling on the site.
EATING AND DRINKING ESTABLISHMENT means development
used for eating and drinking where prepared food and beverages are
offered for sale to the public, for consumption within the premises or
off the site. Typical uses include pubs, restaurants, cafes, take-out and
drive-in restaurants, and banquet facilities.
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES means development for instruction and
education purposes, involving assembly for education, training or
instruction purposes and includes administration offices, dormitory
and accessory buildings. Typical facilities would include public and
separate schools, private schools or seminaries, community colleges,
universities, technical and vocational facilities.
ELECTRICAL VEHICLE CHARGING STATION (EV CHARGER) means
a piece of equipment that supplies electrical power for a charging
plug-in for electric vehicles. This may include but is not limited to
hybrids or electric, vehicles, trucks and/or buses.
ENTERTAINMENT FACILITY means a facility or establishment which
provides for entertainment for gain or profit and may include a gaming
establishment including a casino or a bingo hall for example.
FINANCIAL SERVICE means the provision of financial and investment
services by a bank, trust company, investment dealer, credit union,
mortgage broker or related business.
FLOODPLAIN means the area of land bordering a water course or
body of water that would be inundated by a 1 in 100 year flood (i.e. a
flood that has a 1% chance of occurring every year) as determined by
the Government of Alberta.
FLOOR AREA means the total area of every room and hallway
contained in a building, but does not include the basement, any
garage or portion of the building that is not enclosed, such as an open
porch or patio.
FRAGMENTED PARCEL means a parcel that is separated from the
balance of the existing titled area by a natural or man-made feature,
such as a highway or county road, a railway, or a permanent and
naturally occurring body of water, lake, river, stream or water course. A
parcel of land does not qualify as a fragmented parcel for subdivision
purposes, if:
(a) the fragment is created by a watercourse or waterbody
which is traversable via an access road or bridge; or
(b) if the parcel has been fragmented by title due to a previously
approved subdivision.
FRINGE COMMERCIAL a commercial area outside the residential
periphery of a hamlet or clustered residential area.
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FUNERAL HOME means a development used for the purpose of
furnishing funeral supplies and services to the public and includes
facilities for the preparation of the dead human body for internment.
This use does not include crematoriums.
GAZEBO means a freestanding roofed structure that is open on all sides
and not fully enclosed by any impermeable material, as determined by
the development authority.
GEOTHERMAL ENERGY SYSTEM means a renewable source of
energy that employs the use of a heat pump to warm or cool air by
utilizing the constant temperatures of the Earth.
GOVERNMENT SERVICE means a development where a crown
corporation, or a municipal, provincial or federal government, provide
services directly to the public. Typical uses include courthouses, postal
stations, manpower and employment offices, and social service offices.
It does not include protective and emergency services, detention and
correction services and schools.
GUEST HOUSE means an accessory building which has sleeping
accommodation and may have sanitary, but does not have kitchen
facilities and is not intended to be a self-contained unit.
HEALTH SERVICE means the provision of physical and mental health
services on an outpatient basis. Services may be of a preventive,
diagnostic, treatment, therapeutic, rehabilitative or counseling
nature. Typical uses include medical and dental offices, health clinics,
acupuncture clinics, massage and counseling services.
HEAVY EQUIPMENT SALES AND RENTAL means the sale or rental
of new or used machinery or mechanical equipment typically used
in building, roadway, pipeline, oil field and mining construction,
manufacturing, assembling and processing operations, and agricultural
production.
HEAVY EQUIPMENT SERVICE AND REPAIR means development
used for the service, cleaning or repair of heavy vehicles, machinery
or mechanical equipment typically used in building, roadway, railway,
pipeline, oil field and mining construction, manufacturing, assembling
and processing operations, and agricultural production.
HOME BASED BUSINESS, MAJOR means a secondary use of a
principal dwelling, its accessory buildings, or combination thereof, by
a least one resident of the dwelling to conduct a business or activity
or occupation. It includes client visits and in the Agricultural 'A' District
allows for not more than two (2) non-resident on-site employees.
HOME BASED BUSINESS, MINOR means a secondary use of a
principal dwelling, its accessory buildings, or combination thereof, by
a least one resident of the dwelling to conduct a business or activity
or occupation. The use has no external impact on adjacent residential
dwellings.
It does not include:
(a) any non-resident on-site employees;
(b) the visiting of clients to the site; and
(c) any outside storage, except for farm equipment used
primarily in a farming operations located on the property in
the Agricultural 'A' District only
HOTEL means rooms or suites in a commercial development for
temporary sleeping accommodation where the rooms have access
from a common interior corridor and may be equipped with individual
kitchen facilities. Hotels may include accessory food services,
neighbourhood pubs, nightclubs, meeting rooms, and personal
service establishments.
INDUSTRIAL, LIGHT MANUFACTURING AND PROCESSING means
a development used principally for one or more of the following:
processing of raw materials; the manufacturing or assembling of
semi-finished or finished goods, products or equipment; the storage,
cleaning, servicing, repairing or testing of materials, goods and
equipment normally associated with industrial, business or household
use; terminals for the storage or transhipping of materials, goods and
equipment; the distribution and sale of material, bulk goods and
equipment to industrial, institutional, or commercial businesses. Any
indoor display, office, technical, administrative support, or retail sale
operation shall be accessory to the general industrial uses listed above.
The use includes only those developments where no significant
nuisance factor is created or apparent beyond the boundaries of the
site.
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Part 1
ornamental plantings, fences, walls and associated earthworks.
However, it shall not include areas occupied by garbage containers,
storage, parking lots or driveways.
LANDSCAPING SALES AND SERVICE means the use of lands,
buildings or structures, or part thereof, for the purpose of selling soft
landscaping materials such as seeds, plants, trees and shrubs as well
as hard landscaping materials such as rocks, pavers, ornaments, shale,
crushed rock or other similar materials associated with landscaping.
LANE means a right-of-way, which provides a secondary means of
access to a lot.
LEASE BAY BUILDING means a building with self-contained units
which may be sold or leased for individual occupancy.
LIVESTOCK includes, but is not limited to a cow, horse, mule, alpaca,
llama, miniature horse, pig, sheep, goat, or other at the Development
Authority's discretion.
LIVESTOCK UNIT or "LU" means livestock units, as set out in the
Country Residential 'R-CR' District in this bylaw.
LOT, CORNER means a lot having frontage on two or more rights-
of-way, other than lanes, or in the case of a bare land condominium
development, a unit as described in the Condominium Property Act
having two contiguous property lines abutting common property
used as road access.
LOT, INTERIOR means any lot or bare land condominium unit, other
than a corner lot.
LOT, LINE means the legally defined boundary of any lot or bare land
condominium unit, or property line
LOT LINE, FRONT means, the property line separating a lot from an
adjoining right-of-way other than a lane. In the case of a corner lot,
the front line is the shorter of the property lines adjoining the right-
of-way other than a lane. For lots that do not fall within this definition
then the determination of the front lot line will be at the discretion of
the County.
INDUSTRIAL, HEAVY MANUFACTURING AND PROCESSING means
a large-scale industrial manufacturing or processing activity. Without
restricting the generality of the foregoing, heavy manufacturing and
processing industry would include plants for the manufacture of
petroleum products, pulp and paper products, stone, clay and glass
products, cement and lime products, fertilizers, animal by-products;
plants engaged in the primary metal industry, including metal
processing; the processing of natural gas or its derivatives; power
generating stations (other than a commercial alternative energy
system); and incinerators, including those for municipal and industrial
use. Heavy industrial uses may have some negative effect on the
safety, use, amenity and enjoyment of adjacent or nearby sites due to
appearance, noise, odour, emission of contaminants, fire or explosive
hazards, or dangerous goods.
INDUSTRIAL TRAINING SERVICE means a development that provides
for technical instruction to students and/or the training of personnel in
commercial businesses and/or industrial operations.
INSTITUTIONAL CAMP means a facility providing social or recreational
activities for members of a non-profit, religious, philanthropic
organization, with or without on-site campsites or dwelling units, but
generally with an outdoor emphasis. Institutional camps may include
rooms for eating and assembly purposes.
INTERMUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN means a plan adopted by
Council and another Council of one or more municipalities pursuant
to the Act to guide future land use and development in an area of
common interest.
KENNEL means the breeding, keeping or boarding of dogs, excluding
unweaned pups in return for remuneration or kept for the purposes
of sale.
KITCHEN FACILITIES means area for the preparation of cooking food
and includes any room containing counters, cabinets, plumbing,
and appliances including range or an oven or utility connections for
servicing a range or oven.
LANDSCAPED AREA means an area of land made attractive and
desirable by the use of any or all of the following: grass, trees, shrubs,
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LOT LINE, REAR means the property line along the back of the lot or
bare land condominium unit, generally opposite the front line.
LOT LINE, SIDE means the property line along the side of a lot or bare
land condominium unit, generally lying perpendicular to the front line.
LOT WIDTH means the horizontal distance between the side lot lines
of a site measured at a distance from the front lot line equal to the
minimum required front yard setback (FYS) for the applicable land use
district.
MAIN BUILDING/PRINCIPAL BUILDING means a building in which is
the principal use of the land, on which it is placed, is conducted.
MARINA AND/OR BOAT RENTAL means a facility that extends into or
over a water body or watercourse and provides service to the public
or members of a marina for docking, loading, servicing or rental of
recreational watercraft.
MINOR BUSINESS OR TRADE means a small light industrial or service-
oriented activity employing not more than six (6) non-resident on-site
employees, unless otherwise approved by the Municipal Planning
Commission for businesses approved prior to the adoption of this
Bylaw. The business shall not create a nuisance by way of noise,
vibration, smoke, dust, odour, heat glare or the loss of visual character
and privacy as determined by the Development Authority. The
business must comply with policy ECON 5.4.4 of the Lacombe County
Municipal Development Plan.
MOBILE VENDOR means a self-contained vehicle, trailer or stand
Avenue
Street
Alley
Front Lot Line
Lot Width
Side Lot line
Rear Lot Line
that is capable of being moved from one location to another that is
equipped to prepare, serve and sell food, or goods. The mobile vendor
is on a specific location for a period of ten (10) consecutive days or
more.
MOTEL means a development divided into self-contained sleeping or
dwelling units, each with a separate exterior entrance and convenient
access to on-site parking. Motels may include food services and
personal service establishments.
MPC means the Municipal Planning Commission appointed by Council
pursuant to the Act.
MULTIPLE HOUSING means row housing, duplexes, fourplexes and
apartments.
MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN means the plan adopted as the
Lacombe County Municipal Development Plan.
MUNICIPAL HISTORIC RESOURCE means a building together with
any land in or on which it is located whose preservation is considered
to be in the public interest designated by the municipality.
NEIGHBOURHOOD CONVENIENCE STORE means a commercial
establishment with off-street parking established on the same site
which serves the convenience shopping needs of the immediate
neighbourhood only.
NON-RESIDENT ON-SITE EMPLOYEE means any person employed by
the resident operator of a home business who normally works on the
site of the home business more than a total of 6 hours in a consecutive
7 day period as part of their employment. Employees who work off-site
or occasionally attend the site for less than this period of time in any 7
day period shall not be considered a non-resident on-site employee.
OFFICE means development primarily for the provision of professional,
management, administrative, consulting, or financial services in an
office setting. Typical uses include, but are not limited to, the offices
of lawyers, accountants, travel agents, real estate and insurance firms,
planners, clerical and secretarial agencies. This excludes government
services, the servicing and repair of goods, the sale of goods to the
customer on the site, and the manufacture or handling of a product.
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OIL AND GAS FACILITY, USES ACCESSORY TO THE OIL AND GAS
INDUSTRY means a facility used in extracting and processing oil and
gas, including a gas processing plant for the extraction of hydrogen
sulphide, natural gas liquids or other substances. Accessory uses may
include pre and post processing storage, transmission lines, parking,
and administrative offices.
OPEN SPACE means reserve lands and/or other lands to be kept in an
undeveloped state and preserved in that state by way of an easement
or other legal instrument, and shall include other recreational uses
which may be authorized by the County.
OUTDOOR STORAGE means the storage of equipment, goods and
materials in the open air. Typical uses include pipe yards or vehicle or
heavy equipment storage compounds.
OVERLAY DISTRICT means additional development regulations
superimposed on specific areas of the County, which supersede or
add to the development regulations of the District for which the land
is designated under this Bylaw. The Overlay Districts are contained in
Part 8 of the Bylaw.
PARK means land set aside through municipal or environmental
reserve dedication or conservation easement for outdoor recreation
or education, or to protect sensitive natural features and/or areas
of cultural or scenic value. Without restricting the generality of the
foregoing, parkland may accommodate more active recreational
pursuits, such as tot-lots, playgrounds, walkways and sports fields.
PERMITTED USE means the use of land or a building provided for in
this Bylaw for which a development permit shall be issued where the
use conforms to the requirements of this Bylaw.
PERMANENT FOUNDATION means:
(a) a foundation meeting CSA Z240.10.1 standard; or
(b) an engineered approved wood foundation; or
(c) a poured reinforced concrete basement; or
(d) a concrete block basement.
PERSONAL SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT means development used
for the provision of personal services to an individual that are related
to the care and appearance of the body or the cleaning and repair
of personal effects. Typical uses include but are not limited to barber
shops, hairdressers, manicurists, aestheticians, tailors, dress makers,
shoe repair shops, dry cleaning establishments, and laundries, but do
not include medical offices, health services, general retail businesses,
or adult entertainment facilities.
PRINCIPAL BUILDING means a building that, in the opinion of the
Development Authority, is the main purpose for which the building or
site is ordinarily used.
PROVINCIAL HIGHWAY means a highway pursuant to the Public
Highways Development Act.
PROTECTIVE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES means a public facility
used by fire protection, police, ambulance, correctional or other such
services as a base of operations.
PROVINCIAL HISTORIC RESOURCE means a building together with
any land in or on which it is located whose preservation is considered
to be in the public interest designated by the Minister responsible for
the Alberta Historical Resources Act. (Bylaw No. 1100/09)
PUBLIC SERVICES means those services provided by the municipal
government for the benefit of the community, such as fire and police
protection, education, solid waste disposal, street cleaning, and snow
removal
PUBLIC USE means the use of land for a building, plant, public utility
infrastructure, material storage, maintenance yards, water towers and
telecommunications towers, that are owned and/or operated by a
municipal corporation, the provincial or the federal governments.
PUBLIC UTILITY means a system or works used to provide one or more
of the following for public consumption, benefit, convenience or use:
(a)
water or steam;
(b)
wastewater disposal;
(c)
telecommunication;
(d)
drainage;
(e)
irrigation;
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(f)
heat;
(g)
electric power;
(h)
waste management;
(i)
street lighting; and
(j)
includes the thing that is provided for public
consumption and benefit.
PUBLIC UTILITY BUILDING means a building in which the proprietor
of a public utility maintains an office, or maintains or houses equipment
used in connection with the public utility.
PUBLIC WORKS means facilities or structures (such as roads, schools,
bridges and government buildings) constructed at government
expense for public use.
RACING ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE FACILITY means a racing
entertainment centre facility that has been licensed by the Alberta
Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) under the Gaming and Liquor
Regulation.
RAIL SPUR means a secondary track used by railroads to allow
customers at a location to store, load and unload railcars without
interfering with other railroad operations
RAIL YARD means a series of railroad tracks for storing, sorting, or
loading/unloading, railroad cars and/or locomotives.
RECOVERY CENTRE means a centre for the treatment of persons
with addiction, such as but not limited to drugs or alcohol, which
may include the provision of services including psychotherapy and
the dispensing of medication, but does not include detoxification.
This includes providing overnight or short-term accommodation to
residents but does not include a detention or correction centre.
RECREATION EQUIPMENT STORAGE means a building or compound
for the seasonal storage of recreational equipment, such as boats,
seadoos, trailers and ATVs in the Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR'
District.
RECREATION FACILITIES, INDOOR means facilities which are available
to the public for sports and active recreation conducted indoors.
Typical uses include health and fitness clubs, curling, roller skating and
hockey rinks, swimming pools, bowling alleys, racquet clubs, billiard
halls, amusement arcades, simulated golf, but does not include an
adult entertainment facility, casino or bingo hall.
RECREATION FACILITIES, OUTDOOR means facilities which are
available to the public for sports and active recreation conducted
outdoors. Typical uses include driving ranges, miniature golf courses,
sports fields, outdoor ice surfaces or rinks, go-cart tracks, amusement
parks, outdoor swimming pools, drive-in theatre, water slides, marinas,
equestrian centres, race tracks, fair/exhibition/rodeo grounds and golf
courses.
Includes:
GOLF COURSE means an area and accessory buildings and uses
related to the playing of the game of golf and without restricting
the generality of the foregoing includes pro shop, club house,
restaurant, licensed dining area or lounge, driving range and
picnic area.
RECREATION VEHICLE means a vehicle primarily designed as
temporary living quarters for recreational camping or travelling, which
either has its own motor power or is mounted onto or drawn by
another vehicle.
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Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 15
Part 1
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE - MOTORIZED OR TOWABLE means
a recreational vehicle either built on or as an integral part of a self-
propelled motor vehicle chassis combining transportation and living
quarters in one unit or designed to be towed by a motorized vehicle
(car, van or pickup truck). These recreational vehicles are designed
to provide temporary living accommodation for travel, vacation or
recreational use, which may include sleeping, kitchen, bathroom and
systems for fresh and waste water, electricity, propane, heating, air
conditioning and entertainment. They shall have an overall width not
exceeding 2.6 m (8 ft. 6 in.), where the width is the sum of the distance
from the vehicle centreline to the outmost projections on each side
(including door handles, water connections, etc.) when the vehicle
is folded or stowed away for transit. Such units include motorhomes,
travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, folding camping trailers and truck
campers.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE - PARK MODEL RECREATIONAL UNIT
(ALSO REFERRED TO AS A "COTTAGE MODEL") means a recreational
vehicle built on a single chassis mounted on wheels which may be
removed. The unit is designed to facilitate occasional relocation,
with living quarters for a temporary residence or seasonal use, and
must be connected to those utilities necessary for the operation of
installed fixtures and appliances. This type of recreation vehicle has a
width greater than 2.6 m (8 ft. 6 in.) in the transit mode. Park Model
Recreational Units require a special tow vehicle and a special permit
to move on the road. They conform to the CSA Z-241 Standard for
Park Model Recreational Units or another similar CSA standard to be
approved by the Development Authority at its sole discretion.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE - PARK MODEL TRAILER means a
recreational vehicle designed to be towed by a heavy duty tow vehicle
but is of restricted size and weight so that it does not require a special
highway movement permit. The maximum width when being towed
is 2.6 m (8 ft. 6 in.). This type of recreational vehicle is designed for
infrequent towing, and is not fitted with a 12-volt system for fixtures
and appliances. Once on site in the set-up mode, it must be connected
to local utilities. The Park Model Trailer is built on a single chassis
mounted on wheels and has one or more slide-outs and conforms
to the CSA Z-240 Standard for Recreational Vehicles or another similar
CSA standard to be approved by the Development Authority at its sole
discretion.
RECYCLING DEPOT means a development for collecting, sorting and
temporarily storing recyclable materials, such as bottles, cans, paper,
boxes and small household goods, but does not include auto wreckers.
RETAIL, MAJOR means a development used for the retail sale of
consumer goods from within an enclosed building and includes
limited on-site storage and limited seasonal outdoor sales to support
that stores operations. Typical uses include the sale of groceries,
household goods, furniture and appliances, hardware, lumber, printed
matter, second-hand/used household goods and related repair and
refurnishing activities, personal care items, automotive parts and
accessories, stationary, office equipment and similar goods.
RETAIL, MINOR means a development used for the retail sale of
consumer goods frequently required by area residents in an enclosed
building which does not exceed 325 m2 (3,500 ft2) in gross floor
area. Typical uses include pharmaceutical and personal care stores,
liquor stores, variety stores selling confectionery, tobacco, groceries,
beverages, hardware, printed matter or the rental of videos.
RIDING AND BOARDING FACILITIES means a commercial facility used
for feeding, grooming, housing, exercising and training of domestic
animals for which the operators/owners receives remuneration.
RIGHT-OF-WAY means a lane, road, county main road or highway.
ROAD means land used or surveyed for use as a road but does not
include a lane, county main road or highway registered by plan of
survey.
SALVAGE YARD means land or building used for the collection,
demolition, dismantling, storage, salvage, recycling or sale of waste
materials, including scrap metal, vehicles, machinery, and other
discarded materials.
SAND AND GRAVEL EXTRACTION AND PROCESSING means the
removal of sand and gravel resources from an excavation, to prepare it
for market, including but not limited to, crushing, washing and sorting.
SAFETY CODES OFFICER means an individual designated as a safety
codes officer under the Safety Codes Act.
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Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 16
Part 1
SEA CONTAINER (SEA-CAN) means an intermodal cargo container for
marine, rail and truck transport.
SDAB means the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board
appointed by Council pursuant to the Act.
SECURITY/OPERATOR SUITE means a secondary building or portion
of a building used to provide on-site accommodation by the employer
for persons employed on the property, a residence for the site caretaker
or operator of a commercial or industrial establishment, or for the on-
duty security personnel at a storage facility when permitted in the
District. No more than one security/operator suite is permitted on a
site.
SETBACK means the perpendicular distance that a development must
be set back from property boundaries of the parcel as specified in the
particular District in which the development is located.
SHOW HOME means a building or structure used for a limited period
of time for the purpose of marketing residential land or buildings and
which is not under any circumstances to be used for the purpose of
a dwelling or dwelling unit as defined under the County's Land Use
Bylaw.
SITE COVERAGE means the total percentage of the site area covered
by building(s) or structures, which are located at or higher than 0.91 m
(3 ft) above grade, including accessory buildings and structures, but
does not include steps, eaves, cornices or similar projections permitted
in this Bylaw; or driveways, aisles or parking lots, or terraces or patios
where these are less than 0.91 m (3 ft) above grade.
SIGN means an object or device used for the purpose of advertising or
calling attention to any person, matter, thing or event.
Includes:
FREESTANDING SIGN means a sign that is not attached to a
building and is erected from the ground independently with
the support of posts, columns, or other structural elements.
A freestanding sign does not include signs that are attached,
displayed, or affixed to/from a vehicle, trailer, sea-container,
fence, or retaining wall.
FAÇADE SIGN means a sign that is attached, displayed, or
affixed to/on a building, and has been designed to be structural
component of the building. A façade sign does not include a
sign that is attached, displayed, or affixed to/from a vehicle,
trailer, sea-container, fence, or retaining wall.
SPECIAL EVENT, MAJOR means a public or private event, held indoors
or outdoors that is not part of the existing use of the site, the duration
of which is temporary and has an expected attendance of more than
400 people. Typical events include but are not limited to festivals, trade
shows, exhibitions or recreational competitions. The County may at its
discretion permit certain small scale non-commercial or community
events to take place without the requirement to obtain a development
permit.
SPECIAL EVENT, MINOR means any public or private event, held
indoors or outdoors that is not part of the existing use of the site, the
duration of which is temporary and has an expected attendance of less
than 400 people. Typical events include but are not limited to festivals,
trade shows, exhibitions or recreational competitions. The County
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Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
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Page 17
Part 1
may at its discretion permit certain small scale non-commercial or
community events to take place without the requirement to obtain a
development permit.
SPECIALIZED OR INTENSIVE AGRICULTURAL OPERATION means
operations which typically produce high value, lower volume,
intensively managed agricultural products and do not require the
large parcel sizes typically associated with annual crop production and
livestock operations. Specialized or intensive agricultural operations
include greenhouse production, specialty livestock production and
horticultural production.
STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE means a document which illustrates
the value of a historic resource in narrative and photographic terms.
STRUCTURAL ALTERATION means any change or addition to
supporting members of a building or structure, including the
foundation, bearing walls, rafters, columns, beams or girders.
TARP/CANVAS COVERED STRUCTURE means a framed, canvas/fabric
covered membrane building for temporary and/or permanent use.
Applications may include warehouses, vehicle and equipment storage,
manufacturing facilities, barns, stables, arenas and event centers.
TELECOMMUNICATION TOWER means a structure that is used to
convey communication, internet, radio or television signals and may
include other structures necessary for the carrying out of this function.
THEATRE means a building or part of a building used for the
commercial showing of films on indoor screens, the presentation
of live entertainment, such a live theatre, musical concerts and
dance performances, but does not include an adult entertainment
establishment.
TOURIST HOME means a commercial use wherein a dwelling unit is
offered for rent to guests for a period of time of 28 days or less.
TOURIST INFORMATION SERVICES AND FACILITIES means the use
of a parcel of land or building to provide information to the travelling
public, and may include washrooms and picnic facilities.
TRANSPORTATION TERMINAL/HUB means a facility for bus depots,
moving companies, vehicle rental agencies, trucking, taxi, or courier
firms.
TREATMENT CENTRE means a centre for the treatment of persons
with addiction, such as but not limited to drugs or alcohol, which
may include the provision of services including psychotherapy,
detoxification, and the dispensing of medication. This includes
providing overnight or short-term accommodation to residents but
does not include a detention or correction centre.
TRUCK STOP means the provision of facilities, including a service
station and restaurant, for the parking of tractor/trailer units.
UNSIGHTLY PREMISES means any property, whether land, building
improvements to lands or buildings, personal property, or any
other combination of the above, located on the land within the
County is unsightly to such an extent as to detrimentally affect the
repose, amenities, use, value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands
in reasonable proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly condition as
defined by the Municipal Government Act.
VEHICLE WASH means a use, building, or structure where facilities are
specifically used or intended to be used for washing vehicles either by
production line methods employing mechanical devices or by hand.
VETERINARY CLINIC means a facility for the medical care and treatment
of animals and includes provision for their overnight accommodation,
but does not include kennels, outdoor pens, runs or enclosures.
VETERINARY HOSPITAL means a facility for the medical care and
treatment of animals and includes the provision for their overnight
accommodation and may include kennels, outdoor pens, runs or
enclosures.
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Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 18
WAREHOUSING AND STORAGE means the use of a building and/
or site primarily for the keeping of goods and merchandise, excluding
dangerous or hazardous materials, derelict vehicles thereof, or any
waste material. It includes self service storage where storage rooms,
or lockers are provided on site for the purpose of renting space for the
indoor storage of goods.
WASTE MANAGEMENT SITE means a site used primarily for the
storage, processing, treatment and disposal of solid and/or liquid
wastes, which may have adverse environmental impact on adjacent
sites by virtue of potential emissions and/or appearance. Typical
uses include sanitary landfills, waste transfer sites, recycling facilities,
incinerators, wastewater lagoons, wrecking and scrap metal yards and
similar uses. A waste management site includes a dry waste site, which
may be used for the storage or disposal of waste concrete, non-noxious
scrap building materials and similar non-hazardous wastes.
WASTE-TO-ENERGY SYSTEM means a system developed to process
solid or liquid waste, to generate electrical, mechanical, or thermal
energy. Typical examples are, but not limited to, anaerobic digesters,
biodiesel, or biofuels. A waste-to-energy system is intended to provide
energy primarily for resale.
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM means the aggregation of
parts, including but not limited to the tower, nacelle and blade(s)
that in their aggregate convert wind energy into electrical power. The
following definitions pertain to Wind Energy Conversion Systems:
(a) BLADE means the part of a wind energy conversion system
that forms an aerodynamic surface and revolves on contact
with the wind;
(b) BLADE CLEARANCE means the minimum distance from
grade to the tip of the blade when that tip is at the bottom
of a full 360 degree revolution and pointed down to the
ground;
(c) GRADE means the elevation of the developed and finished
ground surface at the base of the tower;
(d) HORIZONTAL AXIS NACELLE means a wind energy
conversion system on which the axis of the nacelle is parallel
to the grade;
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(e) NACELLE means the part of the wind energy conversion
system that includes a generator, gearbox or yaw motor, and
other operating parts that is installed at the top of the tower,
and to which the blades are attached, and is responsible for
converting wind power to energy;
(f) TOTAL HEIGHT means the distance from grade to the tip
of a blade when that tip is at the top of a full 360 degree
revolution and is pointed up to the sky; and
(g) TOWER means the vertical structure that supports the
nacelle and the blade above the ground.
YARD means the required open space unoccupied by any building,
unless otherwise permitted in this Bylaw.
YARD, FRONT means a yard extending across the full width of a parcel
from the front property boundary of the parcel to the front wall of the
main building situated on the parcel.
YARD, REAR means a yard extending across the full width of a parcel
from the rear property boundary of the parcel to the rear wall of the
main building situated on the parcel.
YARD, SIDE means a yard extending across the length of a parcel from
the side property boundary of the parcel to the side wall of the main
building situated on the parcel.
Avenue
Street
Alley
Front Yard
Side Yard
Rear Yard
(3) All other words and expressions used in this Bylaw shall have the
meanings assigned to them in the Act.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 19
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 20
PART 2
APPROVING
AUTHORITIES:
DUTIES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 21
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 22
Part 2
2.1
DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
(1) The Chief Administrative Officer or their designate shall exercise
the powers, duties and functions of the Development Officer
specified in this Bylaw.
(2) The Development Officer shall be a Development Authority
Officer pursuant to the Development Authority Bylaw of the
County.
(3) The Development Officer shall be a Subdivision Authority Officer
pursuant to the Subdivision Bylaw of the County.
2.2
MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION (MPC)
(1) The MPC of the County is hereby established in accordance with
the Act and shall be the Development Authority pursuant to the
Development Authority Bylaw of the County.
(2) The MPC shall be composed of all members of Council appointed
by resolution of Council.
(3) Council shall by resolution:
(a) appoint the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the MPC and
specify their terms of office;
(b) fill any vacancy on the MPC; and
(c) provide for the remuneration and expenses of the members
of the MPC.
(4) Four members of the MPC shall constitute a quorum for the
purpose of any meeting with all decisions being determined by
majority vote. Every member present at a meeting shall vote on
matters put to vote unless:
(a) in a specific case, the member is excused by resolution of the
MPC from voting; or
(b) the member is disqualified from voting by reason of a
pecuniary interest pursuant to the Act.
(5) The MPC shall hold such meetings as are necessary to perform
its duties as set out in Part 3 of this Bylaw. The MPC meetings will
be held, as necessary, during the hours of the regular Council
meetings as set out in The Procedures Bylaw.
(6) The MPC shall have prepared and maintain a file of written
minutes of the business transacted at all meetings of the MPC,
copies of which shall be regularly filed with Council.
(7) The MPC may set rules as are necessary for the conduct of its
meetings and its business that are consistent with this Bylaw and
the Act.
(8) The Chief Administrative Officer is deemed to be the Secretary of
the MPC. The Secretary or their designate is authorized to sign any
order, decision, notice, or other document on behalf of the MPC.
(9) The MPC shall advise and assist Council with regard to planning
for the orderly and economical development of land within the
County, and shall seek to ensure that any proposed development
complies with the provisions of the Municipal Development Plan,
any Intermunicipal Development Plan, or other adopted local
plan affecting the land, this Bylaw and the Act.
2.3
SUBDIVISION AND DEVELOPMENT APPEAL
BOARD
(1) The SDAB shall be the Board established and appointed by
Council pursuant to the Subdivision and Development Appeal
Board Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 23
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 24
PART 3
DEVELOPMENT
& SUBDIVISION
APPLICATION
PROCESS
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 25
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 26
Part 3
3.1
CONTROL OF DEVELOPMENT
(1) No development other than that designated in section 3.2 shall
be undertaken within the County unless an application for it has
been approved and a development permit issued.
3.2
REQUIREMENT FOR DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
(1) The following permitted uses in the Agricultural 'A' District shall
require a development permit, subject to compliance with all
relevant provisions of this Bylaw:
(a) all dwellings;
(b) an agricultural building in an area that has been designated
for future urban expansion, as described in an Intermunicipal
Development Plan or other agreement with a neighbouring
urban municipality;
(c) a campground minor;
(d) a building located in the referral area for the Lacombe Airport
Protection Area; and
(e) a building and/or lands subject to the requirements of the
Historical Preservation Overlay 'OD-2' District.
(2) The following development shall not require a development
permit:
(a) subject to compliance with all relevant provisions of this
Bylaw, permitted uses in the Agricultural 'A' District not listed
in section 3.2(1);
(b) the carrying out of works of maintenance or repair to any
building provided that such works do not include structural
alterations or major works of renovation excepting works
proposed to be carried out to a designated Municipal
Historic Resource shall require a development permit;
(c) the completion of any development authorized, undertaken
and completed pursuant to previously approved Land Use
Bylaws and amendments thereto;
(d) the use of any such buildings referred to in subsection 3.2(1)
(c) for the purpose for which construction was commenced;
(e) subject to compliance with all other requirements of this
Bylaw, the construction, alteration or maintenance of fences,
gates, walls or other enclosures;
(f) the placement or erection of accessory buildings, works,
plant or machinery needed in conjunction with an approved
development in the Heavy Industrial 'I-HI' District for which
a development permit has been issued, for the period of
the operation, provided that such development does not
increase the design capacity, number of employees, or traffic
to the site of the approved operation;
(g) the construction, maintenance and repair of public works,
services and utilities carried out by or on behalf of the
federal, provincial or municipal government on land which
is publicly owned or controlled;
(h) the placement of mobile/manufactured homes in an
approved mobile home park or industrial and construction
camp as defined in the Public Health Act and associated Work
Camps Regulation;
(i)
the use of a building or part thereof as a temporary polling
station, a candidate's campaign office or any other official
temporary use in connection with a federal, provincial or
municipal election or referendum;
(j)
a confined feeding operation;
(k) development specified in section 618 and 618.1 of the
Municipal Government Act which includes:
(i)
a highway or roadway;
(ii) a well or battery within the meaning of the Oil and Gas
Conservation Act;
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 27
Part 3
3.3
NON-CONFORMING BUILDINGS AND USES
(1) Where:
(a) on or before the day on which this Bylaw or any amendment
comes into force, a development permit has been issued;
and
(b) the enactment of this Bylaw or an amendment thereto would
render the development in respect of which the permit was
issued, a non-conforming use or non-conforming building,
the development permit continues in effect notwithstanding
the enactment of this Bylaw, and any amendments thereto.
(2) A non-conforming use of land or a non-conforming use of a
building may be continued but if that use is discontinued for a
period of six consecutive months or more, any future use of the
land or building shall conform to this Bylaw.
(3) A non-conforming use of part of a building may be extended
throughout the building but the building shall not be enlarged or
added to nor shall any structural alterations be made to it.
(4) A non-conforming use of part of a lot shall not be extended or
transferred in whole or in part to any other part of the lot, and no
additional buildings shall be erected upon the lot while the non-
conforming use continues.
(5) A non-conforming building shall not be enlarged, added to,
rebuilt or structurally altered except:
(a) to make it a conforming building;
(b) for the routine maintenance of the building; and
(c) in accordance with this Bylaw where, for the purposes of
this section, a Development Authority has minor variance
powers regarding setbacks, floor area and building height,
from the conforming requirements of the Bylaw.
(6) If a non-conforming building is damaged or destroyed to the
extent of more than 75% of the value of the building above its
foundation, the building shall not be repaired or rebuilt except in
accordance with this Bylaw.
(iii) a pipeline or an installation or structure incidental to
the operation of a pipeline;
(iv) a designated area of Crown land; and
(v) any other thing specified by the Lieutenant Governor in
Council by regulation.
(l)
the placement of outdoor advertisements and signs, subject
to section 6.23 of this Bylaw;
(m) subject to compliance with all relevant provisions of this
Bylaw, accessory buildings and improvements:
(i)
not exceeding 13.94 m² (150 ft²);
(ii) uncovered decks.
(n) the development and operation of a sand and gravel
extraction and processing use by the County;
(o) any public development on County-owned lands, at the
discretion of the County;
(p) subject to compliance with all other requirements of this
Bylaw, the construction or placement of office buildings
associated with oil and gas facilities;
(q) subject to compliance with all relevant provisions of this
Bylaw, the placement of recreational vehicles (excluding
Recreational Vehicle - Park Model Recreational Unit, also
referred to as a Cottage Model and Recreational Vehicle -
Park Model Trailer) in an approved recreational vehicle resort
development under the Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR'
District;
(r)
clay extraction, subject to the execution of a road use
agreement with the County;
(s) telecommunication tower;
(t) subject to compliance with all relevant provisions of this
Bylaw, solar energy conversion system, personal;
(u) subject to compliance with all relevant provisions of this
Bylaw, the keeping of animals in any residential district.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 28
Part 3
(7) A change of ownership, tenancy or occupancy of land or a
building shall not be considered to affect its nonconforming
status.
3.4
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION
(1) An application for a development permit shall be made in writing
to the Development Authority by submitting:
(a) an application form prescribed by the Development
Authority with the signature of the registered owner of
the land or an agent authorized by the owner to make the
application;
(b) if the applicant is an agent of the landowner, a letter from
the landowner verifying the agent's authority to make the
application;
(c) a site plan at an appropriate scale and level of detail so the
Development Authority can determine whether or not the
proposed use or development complies with the Bylaw;
(d) details of any proposed changes to site elevations and
building grades;
(e) confirmation from the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) for
building larger than 47 m² (500 ft²) or larger, identifying the
presence or absence of abandoned wells;
(f) a non-refundable processing fee as set from time to time by
resolution of Council;
(g) Within 20 days after receipt of an application for a development
permit, the Development Authority will determine whether
the application is complete. An application is complete if, in
the opinion of the Development Authority, the application
contains the documents and information necessary to
review and process the application;
(i)
the period of 20 days outlined in 1(g) may be
extended by an agreement in writing between the
applicant and the Development Authority;
(h) The manner in which notice of an application for a
development permit being determined to be complete
or incomplete by the Development Authority shall be as
follows:
(2) If the intended development is a dwelling unit, the application shall
also include a copy of the Private Sewage Disposal System Permit
issued by an accredited agency approving the proposed method
of wastewater treatment and disposal for the development.
(3) Should permission be requested for an addition to an existing
dwelling unit, confirmation may be required in writing from a
plumbing safety codes officer that the existing private sewage
disposal system is adequate for the proposed development.
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
APPLICATION
FORM OF NOTICE
Development permit application
determined to be complete
Letter and/or e-mail immediately
issued to applicant advising that
the application is complete and to
be processed, or issue of decision
approving the application prior to
the expiry of the 20th day period
after receipt of application by
Development Authority
Development permit application
determined to be incomplete
Letter and/or e-mail immediately
issued to applicant advising that
the application is incomplete
due to outstanding information
required. The letter will identify a
date by which the outstanding
information identified therein
must be submitted to the
Development Authority
Development permit application
for which a determination as to
completeness is not made within 20
days of receipt of application
Letter and/or e-mail immediately
issued following the 20th day to
applicant deeming the application
complete and to be processed
Development permit application
determined to be incomplete, with
information requested provided to the
Development Authorities satisfaction
within the specified time
Letter and/or e-mail immediately
issued to applicant deeming the
application complete and to be
processed
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 29
Part 3
(4) In addition to the development permit application requirements
stipulated in 3.4(1), the Development Authority may require any
of the following additional information depending upon the
nature of the application and other circumstances:
(a) any of the following information on the site plan:
(i)
legal description of property;
(ii) site topography, grades and special conditions;
(iii) location of existing/proposed on-site water and sewer
services;
(iv) location of all registered utility easements and rights-of-
way;
(v) dimension layout of existing and proposed parking
areas, internal roadway(s), entrances and exits abutting
roads shown and labelled.
(b) a copy of a Private Sewage Disposal Permit issued by an
accredited safety codes agency
(c) plans showing elevations, floor plans, foundation plans, and
the perspective of the proposed development, including a
description of the exterior finishing materials and colours;
(d) engineering plans or statement of intent respecting the
provision of water and wastewater services, and all utilities
on the site;
(e) a lot grading plan;
(f) a copy of the current Certificate of Title indicating ownership;
(g) a map showing the designated land use of the project
site and all properties located within 100 m (328 ft) of the
boundaries of the site;
(h) the estimated commencement and completion dates;
(i)
a geotechnical study prepared by a qualified professional
for development on lands that may be prone to flooding,
erosion, slope stability or other hazard risk that confirms
that the site is suitable for the proposed development
and describing the measures which need to be taken to
safeguard the proposed development;
(j)
a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment conducted in
accordance with the Canadian Standards Association
where the potential for prior contamination of a site exists.
Follow-up assessments and remedies, including a Phase 2
Environmental Site Assessment, may be required based on
the results of the Phase I assessment;
(k) a plan of survey prepared by an Alberta Land Surveyor
showing the site to be developed;
(l)
photographic prints or slides showing the site in its existing
state;
(m) a reclamation plan for a major surface disturbance;
(n) a biophysical assessment prepared by an environmental
scientist, or other qualified professional for development,
to identify and assess the environmental significance
and sensitivity of existing vegetation, wetlands and other
features, wildlife habitat and unique physical features of
the site. Recommendations regarding the protection of
significant or sensitive features, ways to avoid or mitigate
risks, project limitations and any further recommended
studies or monitoring should be provided;
(o) a plan outlining a buffering or interface treatment to
minimize impacts of commercial and industrial land uses
on neighbouring land uses. A noise attenuation study
conducted by a qualified professional may be required;
(p) a traffic impact assessment conducted by a qualified
professional may be required to determine the traffic impact
of the development on external roadways and adjacent
lands and the upgrading that would be required to these
roadways as a result of the proposed development;
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 30
Part 3
(q) a groundwater supply study, conducted by a qualified
professional, when potable water is to be provided through
a private or communal water system. If a communal system
is proposed, then details must be provided as to how the
system will be managed and operated;
(r)
percolation and near surface water table testing conducted
by a qualified professional where an onsite wastewater
system is proposed;
(s) a storm water management study prepared by a qualified
professional describing how storm water runoff will be
managed in terms of both runoff rates and volumes, and
water quality;
(t)
identification of impacts on community services and
protective and emergency services (e.g. fire and police
protection and other emergency response services);
(u) a landscaping plan; and
(v) any other information that is deemed necessary by the
Development Authority.
(5) An application for a business shall complete a Supplementary
Business Application which shall include but is not limited to the
following:
(a) a detailed description of the business, including the types of
operations or activities that will take place at the site;
(b) the materials, equipment and/or vehicles that will be used,
where they will be stored on site and if stored outside, what
screening will be provided from the road and neighbours;
(c) the number of resident and non-resident employees visiting
or working at the site;
(d) the number of business visits per day to the property;
(e) the number of parking spaces on the property; and
(f) other measures that will be undertaken to avoid potential
nuisance effects for neighbours.
(6) Minor Home Based Businesses located in the Agricultural 'A'
District shall be exempted from the requirement to obtain a
development permit, subject to compliance with all relevant
provisions of this Bylaw. Operators of Minor Home Based
Businesses are encouraged to complete the Supplementary
Business Form to ensure that the business meets the criteria for
a Minor Home Based Business, and so the County has a record of
the business as a deemed approval.
(7) The Development Authority shall require the applicant of an
application for an intermediate campground, major campground,
community facility, sand or gravel pit, cannabis production facility,
special event, commercial alternative energy, kennel (new kennel
or expanded kennel), data processing centre, and any other use
or development that the Development Authority considers may
have a potential adverse effect on the surrounding community,
to undertake community consultation prior to an application
being made to the County. The applicant is required to submit
a summary of their community consultation with the application
outlining neighbours concerns and how these concerns will be
addressed or why they cannot be addressed.
(a) The standard community consultation circulation distance
will require notification to all landowners within a half (0.5)
mile radius of the proposed development location, with the
exception of the following:
(i)
A community facility development requires notification
to all landowners within a one (1) mile radius of the
proposed development location.
(ii) A sand or gravel pit development requires notification
to all landowners within a one (1) mile radius of the
proposed pit location as well as landowners within half
(0.5) mile of an unpaved haul route.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 31
Part 3
(iii) A special event, data processing centre, or commercial
alternative energy development requires notification
to all landowners within a two (2) mile radius of the
proposed development location.
(8) The Development Authority may require the applicant for a sand
and/or gravel extraction use to provide the following information,
in addition to the general requirements of the development
permit:
(a) site analysis of the geology, groundwater, surface water,
natural vegetation and wildlife features of the site;
(b) extraction and operations plan;
(c) reclamation and end use plan, including surface drainage
plan;
(d) proposed mitigation measures for dust, traffic, noise and
visual impacts;
(e) haul road plan; and
(f) details of the proposed community consultation, including
the pre-application consultation with potentially affected
landowners and the further communications that will
be carried out to inform landowners of the ongoing sand
or gravel extraction activities and to address any issues or
concerns landowners may have regarding the operation.
(9) The Development Authority may require the applicant for
an alternative energy development to provide the following
information, in addition to the general requirements of the
development permit:
(a) drawings and/or information on a wind energy conversion
system tower foundation and if the tower is not of
tubular design that provides internal access, the drawing/
information must also address anchor design, the location
of any guy wire anchors and how the tower is to be secured
from trespass and unauthorized use;
(b) photographs and/or renderings to show the proposed
alternative energy system;
(c) if the wind farm or solar farm is to be developed in stages,
a phasing plan to show the number and location of wind
energy conversion towers to be developed in each phase,
and the timing for each phase; and
(d) a decommissioning plan to show how a wind energy
conversion system tower site, or the wind energy conversion
system tower sites in a wind farm or solar farm will be
reclaimed if the tower(s) become non-operational.
(10) Should permission be required to disturb, alter, restore or repair
a Municipal Historic Resource or remove any historic object from
a Municipal Historic Resource, proof of conformance that such
development complies with the Standards and Guidelines for the
Conservation of Historic Places in Canada and respects the historic
character of the regulated portions of the building designated
as a Municipal Historic Resource may be required. The regulated
portions are those described in the Statement of Significance.
(11)
(a) The Development Authority shall require the applicant of
an application for a cannabis production facility or cannabis
retail development to undertake community consultation
with all potentially affected landowners, to the satisfaction
of the Development Authority, prior to the application
being made to the County. The applicant is required to
submit a summary of their community consultation with the
application outlining neighbours concerns and how these
will be addressed.
(i)
The standard community consultation circulation
distance for a cannabis production facility or cannabis
retail development will require notification to all
landowners within a one (1) mile radius of the proposed
development location.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 32
Part 3
(b) The Development Authority may require the applicant for a
cannabis production facility or cannabis retail development
to provide the following information when applicable:
(i)
An applicant that applies for a Development Permit for
cannabis retail shall provide evidence that the location
meets the provincial requirements for minimum
separation distances from provincial health care
facilities, schools, and school or municipal reserve lands.
(ii) Elevation drawings, renderings or pictures showing of all
sides of the proposed development including lighting
and signs that comply with Part 6, Sections 15 and 23
of this Bylaw and relevant Site Development Guidelines.
In the event a conflict between the requirements of this
Bylaw and the relevant Site Development Guidelines,
the Development Authority shall in its discretion
determine which requirements shall apply.
(iii) Confirmation how the building(s), landscaping and
lighting design has incorporated Crime Prevention
Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Principles.
(iv) Lighting plan that conforms with Dark Sky Principles.
(v) Proposed mitigation measures for dust, traffic, noise,
odour and visual impact of the development.
(12) The Development Authority shall require the applicant of an
application for a vacant parcel or on redevelopment lands, where
the development is within 30 m (98 ft) of the top of bank or high
water mark of Sylvan Lake, to provide a Development Design
Plan.
(a) The Development Design Plan shall be to the Development
Authority's satisfaction that the design will satisfy the goal
of mitigating negative impacts on watershed health, and at
minimum include the following details:
-
A planting plan including native vegetation;
-
A sediment control plan;
-
A drainage plan; and
-
Parcel coverage.
(b) The Development Design Plan will be enforced as a condition
of approval.
(c) Determining which feature (top of bank or high water mark
of Sylvan Lake) is appropriate will be at the discretion of the
Development Authority.
(13) The Development Authority shall require the applicant of an
application for a vacant parcel or on redevelopment lands, where
the development is within 30 m (98 ft) of the top of bank or high
water mark of any naturally occurring tributary to Sylvan Lake, to
provide a Development Design Plan.
(a) The Development Design Plan shall be to the Development
Authority's satisfaction that the design will satisfy the goal
of mitigating negative impacts on watershed health, and at
minimum include the following details:
-
A planting plan including native vegetation;
-
A sediment control plan;
-
A drainage plan; and
-
Parcel coverage.
(b) The Development Design Plan will be enforced as a condition
of approval.
(c) Determining which feature (top of bank or high water
mark of the naturally occurring tributary to Sylvan Lake) is
appropriate will be at the discretion of the Development
Authority.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 33
Part 3 3.5
DECISION
(1) The Development Officer:
(a) shall approve, with or without conditions, an application that
constitutes a permitted use in the District and complies with
the standards for that District;
(b) may approve, subject to appropriate conditions, an
application for a permitted use that does not comply with
the standards of the District but may be made to do so by
conforming with the conditions specified;
(c) may approve, with or without conditions, any application for
a permitted use that does not comply in all respects to the
standards of the District;
(d) may approve, with or without conditions, an application for:
(i)
a building or use accessory to a discretionary use that
has been authorized by the County;
(ii) a minor or major home based business;
(iii) a moved-in residence or mobile/manufactured home
and any additions thereto in the Country Residential 'R-
CR' District, Hamlet 'H' District and Residential Lake Area
'R-RLA' District;
(iv) renewal of any development permit that was originally
approved by the MPC, provided there are no changes;
(v) a temporary family care dwelling;
(vi) alternative energy, personal; and
(vII) accessory buildings and uses where the total building
area for all such buildings on the lot is 232.25m2 (2500
ft2) or less in the Country Residential 'R-CR' District;
(e) shall refer with their recommendation to the MPC, any other
application which constitutes a discretionary use or which, in
the opinion of the Development Officer, should be decided
by the MPC; and
(f) shall refuse all other applications.
(2) For development applications for lands in a Direct Control
District, the Development Officer or the MPC may only decide
on applications where Council has delegated its authority to the
Development Officer or the MPC, as the case may be.
(3) In making a decision on an application referred to it, the MPC may
approve the application with or without conditions, or refuse the
application.
(4) Before a decision is made, a development application may be
referred to such authorities or persons as the Development
Authority considers necessary, or is required by the Municipal
Development Plan, any Intermunicipal Development Plan or local
plan, for comments and advice respecting the application.
(5) In determining a development permit application on lands
subject to Site Development Guidelines endorsed by Council, the
Development Authority shall comply with the provisions of the
relevant Site Development Guidelines.
(6) In determining a development permit application for industrial or
commercial use within 0.80 km (0.50 mi) of the Queen Elizabeth
II (QEII) Highway or Highway 2A and within 0.40 km (0.25 mi)
of other highways and county main roads, the Development
Authority shall comply with the provisions of the Highways and
County Main Roads Overlay 'OD-1' District - Section 8.3 of this
Bylaw.
(7) In determining a development permit application, the
Development Authority may require the applicant to submit to
the County, after the footings have been installed and before any
foundation walls are constructed, a survey prepared by an Alberta
Land Surveyor certifying that the building under construction
meets the setback requirements of this Bylaw;
(a) In determining a development permit application, the
Development Officer may require the applicant to submit
to the County, after a Park Model has been installed on
a condominium lot Recreational Vehicle Resort, a survey
prepared by an Alberta Land Surveyor certifying that the
building be brought on site meets the setback requirements
of this Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 34
Part 3
(8) The Development Authority may, based on the results of a
geotechnical study, impose such conditions that are considered
necessary to mitigate any potential problems or alternatively,
refuse the application if the site is not regarded as being suitable
for the proposed development.
(9) In determining a development permit application for a
development in an area that is subject to an overall site grading
plan, the Development Authority shall ensure that the proposed
development conforms to this plan. Where any alterations from
the overall site grading plan are proposed, the Development
Authority may require the applicant(s) to submit to the County
certification from a qualified professional engineer that the
proposed alterations do not affect the overall drainage for the area
and that the development is not at risk for flooding, erosion, slope
instability or other hazard as determined by the Development
Authority.
(10) In determining an application for a development located wholly
or partly in the Lacombe Airport Protection Area, as shown on
Figure 1, the Development Authority shall refer the application
to Transport Canada for their review. Based on the comments
received, the Development Authority may refuse an application if
the development has the potential to adversely affect any aspect
of the airport as determined by the Development Authority.
Figure 1: Lacombe Airport Protection Area
(11) In determining an application for development, the Development
Authority as a condition of development approval, may require
the construction of an access or access road to ensure legal and
physical access for the proposed development and furthermore
request security to be paid to the County to ensure such works
are carried out to the satisfaction of the County.
(12) Where a proposed use of land or a building is not provided for in
the district for which the land is designated in this Bylaw, the MPC
may approve the application if, in its opinion, the use is similar
in character and purpose to a permitted or discretionary use
prescribed for that district.
(13) In determining an application for development in Rosedale Valley,
the Development Authority will require the landowner to enter
into a Deferred Services Agreement outlining the requirement to
connect to municipal water and wastewater services when they
become available.
(14) In determining an application for a proposed business in the
Agricultural 'A' District, where the Development Authority
considers that a proposed business would be more appropriately
located in a commercial or industrial district due to the proposed
scale, potential traffic generation, potential off-site impact
or nuisance, the Development Authority shall not approve a
development permit.
(15) Subject to requirements set out elsewhere in this Bylaw, the
Development Authority may approve an application for a
development permit notwithstanding that the proposed
development does not comply with this Bylaw if, in its opinion:
(a) the proposed development would not:
(i)
unduly
interfere
with
the
amenities
of
the
neighbourhood; or
(ii) materially interfere with or affect the use, enjoyment or
value of neighbouring properties; and
(b) the proposed development conforms with the use
prescribed for the land or building in this Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 35
Part 3
(16) If conditions of a development approval relating to actions
required prior to the issuance of a development permit are not
satisfied within one year after the date of the notice of the decision
of the Development Authority or if there has been appeal to
the SDAB, the date of the SDAB's decision, the approval shall be
declared void unless the Development Authority has agreed in
writing to a longer period. Any request for an extension of the
one-year time limit by the applicant shall be made in writing, and
must state the reasons for requesting an extension.
(17) If an application for a development permit is refused pursuant
to this Part or ultimately after an appeal pursuant to Part 4 of
this Bylaw, the Development Authority may refuse to accept a
subsequent application on the same property and for the same
or similar use until a period of six months has passed from the
date of the previous refusal;
(a) If an application for a development permit is refused on the
grounds the Development Authority deemed the application
incomplete it is not subject to the six (6) month reapplication
time outlined in subsection 17.
(18) An application for a development permit shall, at the option of
the applicant, be deemed to be refused when a decision thereon
is not made within 40 days of receipt of the application, or within
such longer period as the applicant may have approved in writing.
3.6
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
(1) The Development Authority may require that, as a condition of
development approval, the applicant enter into an agreement
with the County and comply with the agreement to do all or any
of the following:
(a) 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;
(b) 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;
(c) to construct or pay for the construction of:
(i)
off-street or other parking facilities; and
(ii) loading and unloading facilities;
(d) to pay an off-site levy or redevelopment levy;
(e) carry out landscaping of the site which may include the
retention and/or planting of trees, the construction of an
earth berm or some other form of screening; and
(f) such other work or things as the Development Authority
considers necessary or advisable having regard to the nature
of the proposed development.
(2) An irrevocable letter of credit or other form of security may be
required in such a sum as the Development Authority deems
appropriate to ensure the applicant complies with the terms and
conditions of a development agreement or development permit.
(3) To ensure compliance with a development agreement, the
County may register a caveat against the certificate of title for the
property that is being developed. This caveat shall be discharged
when the obligations to be assumed by the applicant under the
agreement have been fulfilled.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 36
Part 3
3.7
NOTICE OF DECISION
(1) The manner in which notice of the decision of the Development
Officer or the MPC on an application for a development permit is
to be given shall be as follows:
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
APPLICATION
FORM OF NOTICE
Permitted uses that comply with the
requirements of the Bylaw or may
be made to do so by conditions of
approval
Notice of decision and
development permit immediately
issued to applicant
Permitted uses approved with
relaxations
Buildings and/or uses ancillary to an
already approved discretionary use
Notice of decision sent to applicant
Surrounding landowners are
notified in writing of decision
21 day appeal period
Development permit issued if no
appeals received
For discretionary uses and other
uses approved pursuant to sections
3.5(13) and 3.5(14)
Notice of decision sent to applicant
Surrounding landowners are
notified in writing of decision
21 day appeal period
Development permit issued if no
appeals received
For applications that are refused
Notice of decision sent to applicant
outlining reasons for refusal
Applicants have 21 days to appeal
the decision
For applications determined to
be incomplete and for which
the requested information is not
provided and therefore deemed to
be refused
Notice of decision sent to applicant
outlining reason for refusal
A copy of the notice of decision on an application for a development
permit shall be sent to any authority or person that was consulted
pursuant to section 3.5(4).
3.8
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
(1) Unless the conditions of the development approval specifically
require further actions of the applicant before a development
permit will be issued, the Development Officer shall issue a
permit to the applicant immediately after expiry of the appeal
period referred to in section 4.1 (under Part 4 of this Bylaw) when
no appeal is received.
(2) If the development authorized by a development permit is not
started within 12 months from the date of its issue, or carried out
with reasonable diligence as determined by the Development
Authority, the permit shall be declared void unless an extension
to this period has previously been granted by the Development
Officer.
(3) A development, once begun, shall not be abandoned, or left for
an extended period of time in what the Development Officer
considers to be an unsightly or unsafe condition.
(4) A development permit issued for a discretionary use shall
be declared void if the use is discontinued for a period of 12
consecutive months or more.
(5) A Development Authority may suspend or revoke a development
permit when:
(a) the permit was issued on the basis or incorrect information
or misrepresentation by the applicant;
(b) a contravention of the conditions of the development
approval takes place;
(c) the permit was issued in error; or
(d) requested by an applicant or the owner(s) of the land.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 37
Part 3 3.9
SUBDIVISION APPLICATION
(1) Subdivision applications must be made in accordance with Part
1 of the Planning and Development Regulation, Section 653 of
the Municipal Government Act or other requirements as deemed
necessary by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Within 20 days after receipt of an application for subdivision, the
subdivision authority will determine whether the application is
complete. An application is complete if, in the opinion of the
Subdivision Authority, the application contains the documents
and information necessary to review and process the application.
(3) The period of 20 days outlined in (2) may be extended by an
agreement in writing between the applicant and the Subdivision
Authority
(4) The manner in which notice of an application for subdivision being
determined to be complete or incomplete by the Subdivision
Authority shall be as follows:
SUBDIVISION APPLICATION
FORM OF NOTICE
Subdivision application determined
to be complete
Letter and/or e-mail immediately
issued to applicant advising that the
application is complete and to be
processed
Subdivision application determined
to be incomplete
Letter and/or e-mail immediately
issued to applicant advising that the
application is incomplete due to
outstanding information required.
The letter will identify a date for the
outstanding information identified
therein must be submitted to the
Subdivision Authority.
Subdivision application for which a
determination as to the complete-
ness is not made within 20 days of
receipt of application
Letter and/or e-mail immediately
issued following the 20th day, to
applicant deeming the application
complete and to be processed
Subdivision application determined
incomplete with information re-
quested provided to the Subdivision
Authority's satisfaction within the
specified time
Letter and/or e-mail immediately
issued to applicant advising the
application is complete and to be
processed
(5) If the applicant fails to submit the required information outlined in
the letter deemed the application incomplete by the date referred
to therein, then the subdivision application will be refused.
(6) The manner in which the decision of the Subdivision Authority is
given on an application in accordance with Section 653.1 of the
Municipal Government Act:
SUBDIVISION APPLICATION
FORM OF NOTICE
Subdivision application refused
Letter sent to applicant outlining
reason for refusal
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 38
PART 4
DEVELOPMENT
APPEAL
PROCESS
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 39
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 40
Part 4
4.1
PROCEDURE FOR APPEALS
(1) An appeal may be made to the appropriate appeal board
(Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) or Land and
Property Rights Tribunal (LPRT)):
(a) by the applicant, if a Development Authority:
(i)
refuses or fails to issue a development permit;
(ii) issues a development permit subject to conditions;
(iii) fails to make a decision with respect to an application
within 40 days of the application being deemed
complete as per the notice by the Development
Authority or within such longer period as the applicant
may have approved in writing; or
(iv) issues an order under section 645 of the Act, or section
5.1 of this Bylaw.
(b) by any person claiming to be affected by an order, decision
or development permit made or issued by a Development
Authority.
(2) No appeal may be made in respect of the issuance of a
development permit for a permitted use unless the provisions of
this Bylaw were relaxed, varied or misinterpreted.
(3) An appeal to the the appropriate appeal board (Subdivision and
Development Appeal Board (SDAB) or Land and Property Rights
Tribunal (LPRT)) is commenced by filing a written notice of the
appeal, containing reasons, with the Secretary of the board within
14 days.
(4) in the case of an appeal made by a person referred to in section
1(a) after:
(a) the date on which the person receives notice of the order or
decision or the issuance of the development permit; or
(b) if no decision is made with respect to the application within
the 40-day period or within any extension of this time limit
referred to under subsection (1)(a)(iii), the date the period or
extension expires; or
(5) in the case of an appeal made by a person referred to in subsection
(1)(b), after the date on which the notice of the issuance of the
permit was received or posted.
(6) Date of receipt of a decision or order is deemed to be 5 days from
the date the decision or order is mailed.
4.2
SDAB APPEAL HEARING
(1) Within 30 days of receiving a notice of appeal, the SDAB shall hold
an appeal hearing respecting the appeal.
(2) The Secretary of the SDAB shall give at least 5 days' notice in
writing of the appeal hearing to:
(a) the appellant;
(b) the applicant for the development permit if not the appellant;
(c) the owners of all adjacent lands when an appeal is made by
the applicant;
(d) the Development Officer;
(e) the MPC; and
(f) any other person that the SDAB considers to be affected by
the appeal.
(3) The SDAB shall make available for public inspection before the
appeal hearing all relevant documents respecting the appeal,
including:
(a) the application for the development permit, the notice of
decision, and the appeal there from; or
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 41
Part 4
(b) the order of the Development Officer issued under section
5.1, as the case may be.
(4) At the appeal hearing, the SDAB shall hear:
(a) the appellant;
(b) the Development Officer;
(c) any person who was served with notice of the hearing and
who wishes to be heard;
(d) any other person who claims to be affected by the decision
or order, and that the SDAB agrees to hear; and
(e) or any person acting on behalf of these persons.
4.3
DECISION
(1) The SDAB shall consider each appeal having due regard to the
circumstances and merits of the case.
(2) In determining an appeal, the SDAB:
(a) shall comply with the Municipal Development Plan, any
Intermunicipal Development Plan, or other adopted local
plan affecting the land and, subject to subsection (c), this
Bylaw and the Act;
(b) must have regard to but is not bound by the Subdivision and
Development Regulation;
(c) may confirm, reverse or vary the order or decision, and may
impose such conditions as it considers proper and desirable
for the circumstances;
(d) may make an order or decision or issue a development
permit notwithstanding that the proposed development
does not comply with this Bylaw if, in its opinion:
(i)
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
(ii) the proposed development conforms with the uses
prescribed for the land or building in this Bylaw; and
(iii) in addition to its own powers, may exercise the powers
of the Development Authority in the matter of orders,
decisions, or the issuance of development permits and
conditions thereto.
(3) The SDAB shall give its decision in writing together with reasons
for the decision within 15 days of the conclusion of the hearing.
(4) The decision of the SDAB is final and binding on all parties subject
only to an appeal upon a question of jurisdiction or law pursuant
to section 688 of the Act. An application for leave to appeal must
be made to a judge of the Court of Appeal within 30 days after
the issue of the decision or order that is being appealed.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 42
PART 5
ENFORCEMENT
AND
ADMINISTRATION
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 43
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 44
Part 5
5.1
CONTRAVENTION
(1) If the Development Officer finds that a development or use
of land or a building is not in accordance with the Act, the
Subdivision and Development Regulation, a development permit or
subdivision approval, or this Bylaw, the Development Officer shall
by notice in writing, order the registered owner or the person in
possession of the land or building, or the person responsible for
the contravention, or all or any of them, to:
(a) stop the development or use of the land or building; or
(b) demolish, remove or replace the development; or
(c) take such other measures as may be required to ensure
compliance with the Act, the Subdivision and Development
Regulation, a development permit, subdivision approval, or
this Bylaw, as the case may be, within the time specified by
the notice.
(2) A person who receives a notice pursuant to subsection (1) may
appeal the order to the SDAB.
(3) The Development Officer may cause an application to be made
to the Alberta Court of King's Bench for an injunction restraining
the contravention or non-compliance.
5.2
COMPLIANCE
(1) Where a person does not comply with an order, Council may
by resolution direct that the Development Officer to undertake
any action necessary as provided for under the Act to ensure
compliance.
5.3
PENALTY
(1) Any person who does not comply with this Bylaw is guilty of an
offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine of not more than
$2,500.
5.4
APPLICATION TO AMEND BYLAW
(1) A person may apply in writing to the Council to have this Bylaw
amended. The application shall:
(a) specify the nature of the amendment requested;
(b) outline the reasons for making the application;
(c) if the application is for a change of land use district, include:
(i)
a copy of the current certificate of title for the lands
affected, or any other documentation satisfactory to
the County stating the proponent's legal interest in the
land;
(ii) if the applicant is an agent of the landowner, a letter
from the landowner authorizing the agent to make the
application;
(iii) permission allowing County employees to enter upon
the land for the purposes of inspecting the property;
and
(iv) a drawing showing the dimensions and the area of the
land to be changed; and
(d) other information that the County may deem necessary to
properly evaluate the application which may include the
following:
(i)
a statement describing how the Municipal Development
Plan and other relevant statutory and non-statutory
plans and studies have been considered;
(ii) a site concept plan that describes the land uses proposed
for the property, if the land is to be developed in stages
(or phases), the size of the lots proposed, the location
of proposed roads and other utility infrastructure and
how the proposed development will integrate with the
natural topography and features, such as existing treed
areas, watercourse, wetlands and ravines;
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Part 5
(iii) a geotechnical study conducted by a qualified
professional;
(iv) a noise attenuation study conducted by a qualified
professional;
(v) a traffic impact assessment conducted by a qualified
professional;
(vi) a ground water supply study conducted by a qualified
professional;
(vii) a description of how wastewater treatment and disposal
will be handled. Where on site wastewater systems are
proposed, percolation and near surface water table
testing is to be conducted by a qualified professional;
(viii) a storm water management study prepared by a
qualified professional;
(ix) an environmental impact assessment conducted by a
qualified professional;
(x) a description of how utilities, such as power, gas and
telephone, will be provided; and
(xi) an analysis of the impacts on community services and
protective and emergency services (e.g. fire and police
protection and other emergency response services).
(2) Upon receipt of an application to amend this Bylaw, the Director
of Planning Services shall determine when the application will be
placed before Council and shall issue not less than 10 days' notice
to the applicant advising that he/she may appear before Council
and speak to the application. An application to amend this Bylaw
shall be placed before Council within 60 days of Lacombe County
receiving the application and deeming it complete.
(3) Council may, after due consideration of the application, give first
reading to a bylaw to amend this Bylaw.
(4) Council may, on its own initiative, give first reading to a bylaw to
amend this Bylaw.
(5) Should first reading be given to a bylaw to amend this Bylaw,
Council shall:
(a) establish the date, time and place for a public hearing on the
proposed bylaw;
(b) outline the procedure to be followed by anyone wishing to
be heard at the public hearing; and
(c) outline the procedure by which the public hearing will be
conducted.
(6) On first reading being given to the proposed bylaw, the County
shall:
(a) arrange for notice of the public hearing to be published
in two issues of a newspaper circulating in the area, the
publication date of the second issue being not less than 5
days preceding the date of the hearing; and
(b) mail not less than 14 days preceding the date of the hearing,
notice to:
(i)
the applicant;
(ii) the owner of the land if not the applicant, the owners
of adjacent land if the proposed bylaw provides for a
change of District, and if adjacent land is in another
municipality, notice to that municipality; and
(iii) any other authorities who, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, may be affected.
(7) The notice of the public hearing shall contain the following
information:
(a) the date, time and place of the public hearing;
(b) the purpose of the proposed bylaw;
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Part 5
(c) that a copy of the proposed bylaw and any public documents
applicable to the proposed Bylaw may be inspected at the
County Office during regular office hours; and
(d) the procedure to be followed at the public hearing.
(8) At the public hearing, Council shall hear from any person or group
of persons, or person acting on his or their behalf;,who:
(a) was served with notice of the hearing and who wishes to be
heard; and
(b) claims to be affected by the proposed bylaw, and whom
Council agrees to hear.
(9) Council, after considering:
(a) the representations made to it at the public hearing; and
(b) the Municipal Development Plan, any Intermunicipal
Development Plan, or other adopted local plan affecting the
application, and this Bylaw;
may
(c) make such changes as it considers necessary to the proposed
bylaw, and proceed to pass the proposed bylaw; or
(d) defeat the proposed bylaw.
(10) Prior to third reading of the proposed bylaw, Council may require
the applicant to enter into a development agreement in respect
of the proposal which initiated the application for amendment to
this Bylaw.
(11) If an application to amend this Bylaw for a change in land use
designation is refused, the Council may refuse to accept a
subsequent application for a change in land use designation to
the same property until a period of six (6) months has expired
from the date of the previous refusal.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 48
PART 6
GENERAL
REGULATIONS
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
6.1
DWELLINGS ON A PARCEL
(1) Except as otherwise provided for in this section, not more than
one dwelling unit shall be allowed on a parcel of land.
(2) A development permit shall be issued by the Development Officer
for a second dwelling if the parcel has an area of at least 4.05 ha
(10 ac) or its equivalent had land not been taken for right-of-way,
provided all other requirements of this Bylaw are complied with.
(3) On smaller parcels, a second dwelling may only be permitted by
the Development Officer if the dwelling unit is to be occupied by
a person who will be solely, or mainly, employed in an agricultural
operation or confined feeding operation on the site.
(4) A third or additional dwelling may be permitted by the
Development Officer if the proposed dwelling and all of the
existing dwellings are occupied by a person who is solely, or
mainly, employed in an agricultural operation or confined feeding
operation on the site. The proposed dwelling must be located in
the same yard site as one of the existing dwellings.
(5) In the Agricultural 'A' District and Country Residential 'R-CR' District,
an application for a temporary family care dwelling may be
approved by the Development Officer if the additional dwelling
unit is required for a person who will provide personal care to, or
require personal care from, the residents of the other dwelling on
the site, provided that:
(a) such personal care is necessary for health reasons; and
(b) a medical physician, surgeon or other qualified health care
professional verifies the need for such personal care.
The dwelling unit may be a mobile/manufactured home or other
structure capable of being converted for use as an accessory
building when the personal care is no longer required.
(6) Where a development permit application is made for a temporary
development, the Development Officer shall require the applicant
to enter into an agreement with the County guaranteeing the
removal or cessation of the temporary development when the
intended use is changed or discontinued. The County will also
require the applicant to provide acceptable security to ensure
that the terms of the agreement are carried out.
(7) More than one dwelling unit may be permitted on a parcel of land
in a non-agricultural District if the second or additional dwelling
unit is contained in a building that is designed for or divided into
two or more dwelling units, and is located in a District which
allows duplexes, fourplexes or multiple housing.
6.2
ACCESSORY BUILDINGS AND USES
(1) No accessory building or part of an accessory building shall be
located in a front yard, except for in the following Districts:
(a) the Agricultural 'A' District, with the exception of sea
container(s) (sea-can) as per policy 7.1(4)(a)(v);
(b) Country Residential 'R-CR' District, Country Residential Estates
'R-CRE' District and Residential Lake Area 'R-RLA' District.
(2) An accessory building shall not be located on an easement, utility
right-of-way or undeveloped road allowance.
(3) Maximum height restrictions for accessory buildings shall be:
(a) Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District - 3.55 m (11 ft);
(b) Hamlet 'H' District, Hamlet Residential 1 'H-R1' District, Hamlet
Residential 2 Mobile Home 'H-R2' District, Hamlet Residential
3 'H-R3' District, Higher Density Residential 'R-HDR' District,
and Urban Fringe Residential 'R-UFR' District - 6.10 m (20 ft);
(c) Country Residential 'R-CR' District, Country Residential Estate
'R-CRE' District, Residential Conservation (Cluster) 'R-RCC'
District, Residential Lake Area 'R-RLA' District - 7.32 m (24 ft).
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(4) Only one accessory building is permitted on a condominium unit
in the Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District. The building
shall not exceed 22.30 m2 (240 ft2) in size or as determined by the
Development Authority. The size includes the floor area and/or
footprint of the building, including all additions, covered and/or
enclosed decks, porches and/or verandas. A wood storage box is
excluded from this provision.
(5) No accessory building in the Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR'
District shall be used for sleeping accommodation.
(6) No development permit shall be issued for an accessory building
until the principal building or use has been established on the lot.
(7) An accessory building on a site in a residential district or
Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District shall be similar to,
and complement, the principal building or recreational vehicle,
including Park Model, in exterior material, colour and appearance.
(8) Tarp/canvas covered buildings are prohibited in all residential
districts except in the Country Residential 'R-CR' District where it
meets all other sections of the Land Use Bylaw, is site specifically
designed and approved by a professional engineer, and has
received approval from the Development Authority.
6.3
SECONDARY SUITES
(1) A secondary suite shall be restricted to a site occupied by a single
detached dwelling.
(2) A secondary suite shall comply with the Safety Codes Act.
(3) At least one on-site parking space shall be provided for a
secondary suite in addition to the parking requirements for the
principal dwelling pursuant to section 6.19 of this Bylaw.
6.4
BED AND BREAKFAST ESTABLISHMENTS
(1) A bed and breakfast is an accessory use to a principal residential
use.
(2) No more than three (3) guest rooms shall be allowed in a bed and
breakfast.
(3) The Development Authority may permit a bed and breakfast only
if, in the opinion of the Development Authority, it complies with
the following regulations:
(a) with the exception of the Agricultural 'A' District, bed and
breakfasts are not permitted where a development permit
has been issued for a major home based business, unless
otherwise approved by the Development Authority;
(b) the privacy and enjoyment of adjacent dwellings shall
be preserved and the amenities of the neighbourhood
maintained at all times;
(c) interior or exterior alterations, additions or renovations to
accommodate a bed and breakfast may be allowed provided
such alterations, additions or renovations maintain the
principal residential appearance or character of the dwelling
and comply with this Bylaw, the Safety Codes Act, and any
other County bylaws;
(d) a bed and breakfast shall be operated only by the resident(s)
of the principal dwelling in a residential district. In the
Agricultural 'A' District, two (2) non-resident employees may
work on site; and
(e) No exterior advertisement other than sign approved by the
Development Officer shall be permitted.
(4) A development permit issued for a bed and breakfast does not
exempt compliance with health and safety code requirements.
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Part 6
6.5
MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES
(1) All mobile/manufactured homes must have CSA (Canadian
Standards Association) approval. If a particular mobile/
manufactured home has been damaged or structurally altered,
the mobile/manufactured home must be certified as safe by a
Provincial Building Inspector.
(2) The Development Authority reserves the right to refuse a
development permit for a mobile/manufactured home that is of
poor appearance or condition.
(3) It shall be the responsibility of the owner to place the mobile/
manufactured home on a permanent foundation or base in
accordance with the requirements of the Alberta Building Code.
(4) All accessory buildings or structures, such as patios, porches and
additions, which shall be a factory prefabricated unit or of an
equivalent quality and shall be pre-finished or painted so that the
design and construction complements the mobile/manufactured
home.
(5) The roofline of any addition shall match or complement the roof
pitch of the mobile/manufactured home.
(6) All mobile/manufactured homes shall be skirted from the ground
to floor level, and such skirting shall match the existing exterior
finish of the mobile/manufactured home. Skirting shall be
installed within 60 days of the date the mobile/manufactured
home is placed on the site.
6.6
HOME BASED BUSINESSES
(1) A minor home based business shall comply with the following:
(a) the business must be located in the principal dwelling or
accessory building(s); or in the Recreational Vehicle Resort
'R-RVR' District, in a Park Model or Recreational Vehicle,
approved by the Development Officer;
(b) no person other than the resident(s) of the property may
work on-site in the business;
(c) there shall be no on-site visiting of clients;
(d) no offensive noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odour, heat or
glare or anything else of an objectionable nature detectable
beyond the property boundary shall be produced by the
business as determined by the Development Officer;
(e) any storage of materials, equipment or products related to
the business must be located within the principal dwelling or
accessory building(s). No exterior storage shall be permitted;
except for farm equipment used primarily in a farming
operation located on the property in the Agricultural 'A'
District only; and
(f) no exterior advertisement other than sign approved by the
Development Officer shall be permitted.
(2) In the Agricultural 'A' District, a major home based business shall
comply with the following:
(a) the business shall be operated by the resident(s) of the
property, and not more than two (2) non-resident employees
or non-resident business partners may work on-site in the
business;
(b) no offensive noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odour, heat or
glare or anything else of an objectionable nature detectable
beyond the property boundary shall be produced by the
business, as determined by the Development Officer;
(c) the business shall not have an unreasonable number of late
visits of clients, cause traffic congestion or excessive off-
street parking, as determined by the Development Officer;
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Part 6
(d) any outdoor storage of materials, equipment or vehicles
associated with the business on the site must be suitably
screened from view to the satisfaction of the Development
Officer. Outdoor storage area used for the business shall
be no greater than 0.4 ha (1 ac) in size unless otherwise
approved by the Development Authority; and
(e) signage related to the business shall comply with the
requirements of section 6.23 of this Bylaw.
(3) In all other districts a major home based business shall comply
with the following:
(a) the business must be located in the principal dwelling and/
or an accessory building(s); or in the Recreational Vehicle
Resort 'R-RVR' District in a Park Model or Recreational Vehicle,
approved by the Development Officer;
(b) no person other than the resident(s) of the property may
work on-site in the business;
(c) no offensive noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odour, heat or
glare or anything else of an objectionable nature detectable
beyond the property boundary shall be produced by the
business as determined by the Development Officer;
(d) the business shall not generate business related vehicle trips
between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., cause traffic
congestion or excessive off-street parking, as determined by
the Development Officer;
(e) any storage of materials, equipment or vehicles associated
with the business must be located within the principal
dwelling and/or accessory building(s). No exterior storage
shall be permitted;
(f) no exterior advertisement other than a sign approved by the
Development Officer shall be permitted; and
(g) in the Hamlet Residential 3 'H-R3' District not more than
two (2) non-resident employees or non-resident business
partners may work on-site in the business.
(4) A development permit issued for a home based business does not
exempt compliance with health and safety code requirements.
6.7
MINOR BUSINESSES OR TRADES
(1) A minor business or trade shall comply with the following
regulations:
(a) the business shall not create a nuisance by way of noise,
vibration, smoke, dust, odour, heat, glare or anything else
of an objectionable nature privacy as determined by the
Development Authority;
(b) any outdoor storage of materials, equipment or vehicles
on the site must be suitably screened from view to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority. The outdoor
storage area used for the business shall be no greater than
1.6 ha (4.0 ac) in size unless otherwise approved by the
Development Authority ;
(c) any retail sales shall be secondary to the commercial,
industrial or service aspect of the business;
(d) employ not more than six (6) non-resident on-site employees;
and
(e) use not more than 30% of the dwelling for the business.
(2) The expansion of a minor business or trade beyond six (6) non-
resident on-site employees may be allowed where there are
no specific or significant concerns, such as unacceptable noise,
traffic, and aesthetic, safety and health impacts as determined by
the Development Authority.
(3) A development permit issued for a minor business or trade does
not exempt compliance with health and safety code requirements.
(4) Signage related to the minor business or trade shall comply with
the requirements of section 6.23 of this Bylaw.
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Page 54
Part 6
(5) Where the Development Authority determines that a proposed
business would be more appropriately located in a commercial
or industrial district due to the proposed scale, potential
traffic generation, potential off-site impact or nuisance, the
Development Authority shall not approve a development permit.
6.8
MOBILE VENDOR
(1) Prior to an application for a Development Permit if the mobile
vendor wishes to operate on County owned land, the mobile
vendor must obtain a licence of occupation from the County.
If the mobile vendor wishes to operate on private land, landowner
permission is required as part of the development permit
application.
(2) A comprehensive operation plan must be provided to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority outlining the goods
to be sold, location(s) of the operation base, details of solid
waste and wastewater disposal and management, provisions for
signage, and hours of operation.
(3) The vendor shall not conduct or locate business in such a way
that would restrict or interfere with the ingress or egress of
the adjacent property owner(s) or constitute an obstruction to
adequate access by emergency vehicles.
(4) The mobile vendor and its operations shall not cause any vehicular
or pedestrian obstructions or hazards.
(5) The mobile vendor vehicle must be clean, well-lit, and aesthetically
pleasing in appearance and shall not have any lights, sounds,
or actions which could be a distraction for motorists and/or
pedestrians.
(6) Mobile vendors must obtain all applicable Alberta Health Services
permits and approvals.
(7) Mobile vendor operations shall not create any disturbance or
nuisance, including but not limited to noise, vibration, smoke,
dust, odour, air pollution, heat, glare, bright light, hazardous or
unacceptable waste. Lights, sounds or actions which may be a
distraction for motorists and/or pedestrians are not permitted.
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Part 6
(8) The Mobile vendor shall be responsible for providing solid waste
collecting facilities (garbage cans/bins) and ensuring that all litter
and waste associated with Mobile Vendor is cleaned up to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority.
(9) The County may allow multiple vendors to be included within
a single development permit for a special event provided that
adequate provisions have been made for mobile vending.
(10) Mobile Vendors must submit a Certificate of Insurance with a
minimum liability coverage in the amount of $2,000,000 (two
million dollars) with Lacombe County named as an "additional
insured".
6.9
CORNER LOT RESTRICTIONS AND SIGHT
LINES AT ROAD INTERSECTIONS
(1) On a corner lot in any residential district, no building, fence, wall,
shrub, tree or any other object with a height exceeding 0.91 m (3
ft) above the lower right-of-way grade level that limits visibility
shall be constructed, or placed within the triangle formed by the
boundaries of the lot abutting the right-of-ways and a straight
line connecting points established on the said boundaries a
distance of 7.62 m (25 ft) from the point where they intersect
Sight Triangle
7.62 m
(25 ft)
7.62 m
(25 ft)
(2) In all hamlet districts, a 6.10 m (20 ft) clear sight triangle shall be
provided for sight lines at a 4 way road intersections as follows:
6.10m
(20 ft)
6.10m
(20 ft)
6.10m
(20 ft)
6.10m
(20 ft)
No building, fence, wall, shrub, tree or any other object with a
height exceeding 0.91 m (3 ft) shall be constructed or placed
within the sight triangle.
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Part 6
(3) In all hamlet districts, a 3.05 m (10 ft) sight triangle shall be
provided for sight lines at a T intersection of two lanes as follows:
3.05m
(10 ft)
3.05m
(10 ft)
3.05m
(10 ft)
No building, fence, wall, shrub, tree or any other object with a height
exceeding 3 ft (0.91 m) shall be constructed or placed within the sight
triangle.
6.10 PERMITTED ENCROACHMENTS
(1) Encroachments into required front, side and rear yard setbacks
in all residential districts, may be permitted for decks, balconies,
fireplaces, roof eaves or awnings which project no more than 0.91
m (3 ft) into the setback area from a side or front line and 1.52 m
(5 ft) into the setback from a rear line, provided that they are not
less than 0.30 m (1 ft) from the rear boundary of the lot.
6.11 HIGHWAYS AND COUNTY MAIN ROADS
OVERLAY 'OD-1' DISTRICT
(1) The Highways and County Main Roads Overlay 'OD-1' District shall
apply to development permit applications for all commercial and
industrial uses, or other business which are deemed to have a
negative visual impact by the Development Authority, that are
proposed within 0.80 km (0.50 mi) of the Queen Elizabeth II (QEII)
Highway or Highway 2A and within 0.40 km (0.25 mi) of other
highways and county main roads. Those commercial and industrial
developments that are subject to Site Development Guidelines
endorsed by Council, these Guidelines will take precedence.
0.91 m
(3 ft)
0.91 m
(3 ft)
1.52 m
(5ft)
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Part 6
6.12 DESIGN, CHARACTER AND APPEARANCE
OF BUILDINGS
(1) General
(a) Buildings shall be of new construction unless otherwise
approved by the Development Authority.
(b) The design and type of exterior finishing materials and
construction shall be to the satisfaction of the Development
Authority, who shall ensure where reasonably practical that
the materials used will be complementary to the surrounding
development.
(c) Each site shall be designed having regard to development
on adjoining sites in order to ensure developments are
complementary and compatible.
(d) Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)
principles are encouraged to discourage crime by reducing
concealment opportunities, providing lighting to minimize
dark spaces, placing windows to maximize surveillance, and
maintaining easily identifiable addresses.
(2) Industrial and Commercial Development
(a) Where the uses which may be approved on an industrial or
commercial lot are restricted to uses including a minimum of
one (1) principal building, the minimum size of that principal
building is 278.7 m² (3000 ft²).
(b) Buildings, parking, driveways, and outdoor functions shall be
arranged and located to emphasize the aesthetically pleasant
components of the site, such as trees, views, and architectural
features, and disguise its less attractive elements, such as
service facilities, outside storage and equipment areas, and
garbage enclosures, through placement and design of
structures and landscaping/screening.
(c) Exterior finish shall be wood, prefabricated materials, stone,
brick, architecturally finished block or concrete, stucco or
other durable aesthetic pleasing material that is appropriate
to the development style and to the satisfaction of the
Development Authority.
(d) All sides of a building exposed to the view from a highway,
county main road, road or other public space shall be treated
as a principal façade and finished in a pleasing architectural
manner.
(e) Roof lines and building facades shall be articulated and
varied to reduce perceived mass and length appearance of
buildings.
(f) Mechanical equipment shall be screened or incorporated
into the roof envelope.
(g) Business identification signs shall utilize the same
architectural vocabulary and be constructed of similar, or
complementary materials, as the buildings on the site for a
sense of continuity and cohesiveness.
(h) On business/industrial lots, the developer shall ensure that any
working yard is screened from view from a highway, county
main road or road to the satisfaction of the Development
Authority. Yard screening may be supplemented by a
planting buffer as illustrated below:
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(3) Multiple Housing Development
(a) Multiple housing developments shall be designed with
a visual appearance and building form (height, scale
and massing) complementary to the surrounding built
environment.
(b) The design of each site shall ensure architectural compatibility
of structures such that the principal design elements,
finishing materials, colours and roof style shall be applied to
each building with appropriate variations.
(c) Sloped roofs are encouraged. If roofs are not sloped,
the architectural treatment of the building facades shall
incorporate design elements to create the appearance of a
sloped roof.
ROW
PLANTING
BUFFER
WORKING YARD
(d) The predominant building material shall consist of brick,
stone, stucco, wood, architecturally finished block or
concrete, or prefabricated metal or other durable and
aesthetically pleasing materials, having regard to the
objective of ensuring that material is appropriate to the
development and is compatible with the location.
(e) Doorway entrances and window frames shall be highlighted
through vertical façade articulation, including roofline
accents, the use of awnings or other architectural features.
6.13 FENCING AND SCREENING
(1) Subject to the corner lot restrictions of section 6.9, no fence or
hedge for residential developments in the residential and hamlet
Districts shall exceed a height of 1.22 m (4 ft) in the front setback
area and no fence shall be higher than 1.83 m (6 ft) in the side or
rear setback areas.
(2) A higher fence or a fence with barbed or other security features
may be approved for public safety, security, and privacy or
buffering purposes.
(3) Unless required as part of the sale, promotion or display of the
vehicle, equipment or product, all outdoor storage of vehicles,
equipment, or products shall be screened from public view to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority.
(4) Screening in the form of fences, hedges, landscaped berms or
other means shall be required along the property lines of all
commercial and industrial lots where such lines are coterminous
with a residential property line or are adjacent to lanes that abut
a neighbouring residential property. Such screening shall be at
least 1.83 m (6 ft) high. The extent of the screening shall be at the
discretion of the Development Authority.
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Part 6
(5) For outdoor storage, including but not limited to salvage yards,
lumber yards, pipe storage and similar uses, where because of
the height of the materials stored, a screen planting would not
be sufficient, a fence, earth berm or combination thereof, with
sufficient height to substantially block the view, shall be required
to the satisfaction of the Development Authority.
(6) Chain link fencing with vinyl slats shall not be permitted in any
district, except in the Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District
where the fence is no taller than 1.22 m (4 ft) high.
6.14 LANDSCAPING
(1) Landscaping for multiple housing developments shall be
provided as required by the Development Authority.
(2) The Development Authority shall apply landscaping regulations
in conjunction with an application for a development permit in all
non-residential districts except for an agricultural operation and
residential uses in the Agricultural 'A' District.
(3) A landscaping plan prepared by a landscape architect or a person
qualified to perform such work shall be submitted with the
application for development in compliance with the landscaping
regulations specified herein, which shall include the lands
proposed for development as well as municipal reserves.
(4) The landscaping plan shall include the following:
(a) boundaries and dimensions of the subject site;
(b) location and dimensions of all the buildings, parking areas,
driveways and entrances;
(c) location of all exterior lights on the site and their projected
light patterns in relation to adjacent public roadways and
developments;
(d) location of existing plant materials to be retained;
(e) location of new plant materials;
(f) plant material list identifying the name, quantity and size of
plant material;
(g) all other physical features, existing or proposed, including
berms, walls, fences, outdoor furniture, lighting and
decorative paving; and
(h) a location plan showing the proposed development and
landscaping relative to the landscaping and improvements
on adjacent properties.
(5) All industrial and commercial lands, or other businesses which are
deemed to have a negative visual impact by the development
officer, shall be subject to the landscaping regulations of
this section which shall be applied in conjunction with the
requirements of other sections of this Bylaw, unless the property
is subject to Site Development Guidelines previously endorsed
by Council in which case these Guidelines shall prevail over the
regulations of this section. When Site Development Guidelines
are not applicable and, where the provision of the landscaping
regulations conflict with any other section of this Bylaw, the
following landscaping regulations shall take precedence:
(a) to provide year round colour and interest, a tree mix of
approximately 50% coniferous and 50% deciduous, shall be
provided;
(b) 50% of required deciduous trees shall be at least 65 mm
(2.5 in) calliper and 50% shall be a minimum of 76 mm (3 in)
calliper above the root ball;
(c) 75% of coniferous trees shall be a minimum of 2.5 m (8.2 ft)
in height and 25% shall be a minimum of 3.5 m (11.5 ft) in
height above the root ball;
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
(d) tree and shrub species shall follow the Lacombe County
Guide to Suitable Landscaping Species, unless otherwise
directed by the Development Authority. All species used
must be capable of healthy growth in Lacombe County and
be resilient to the specific site location factors present (ie, sun,
excessive wind, shade, gravel and reasonable maintenance
practices);
(e) coniferous shrubs must be a minimum spread of 450 mm
(17.7 in) at the time of planting;
(f) deciduous shrubs must be a minimum height of 450 mm
(17.7 in) at the time of planting; and
(g) the number of trees and shrubs to be provided shall be
determined as follows:
(i)
one (1) tree for every 3.05 m (10 ft) and one (1) shrub for
each 1.83 m (6 ft) of linear frontage abutting the right-
of-way shall be required; and
(ii) one (1) tree for every 3.05 m (10 ft) and one (1) shrub
for each 1.83 m (6 ft) of linear side or rear yard may be
required.
(6) Notwithstanding section 6.14(5), industrial and commercial lands
located along a highway or county main road shall be subject
to the landscaping regulations specified in the Highways and
County Main Roads Overlay 'OD-1' District.
(7) The use of landscaping shall be required adjacent to exterior walls
that are visible from public roads to minimize the perceived mass
of the building and to create visual interest.
(8) Landscaping shall be provided within front, side and rear yards
adjacent to public roads and shall include a mixture of trees and
shrubs to the satisfaction of the Development Authority.
(9) The landscaped area, including location, extent of plantings
and other landscaping treatments provided shall be subject to
approval of the Development Authority.
(10) Where onsite parking for 25 or more vehicles is required and is
being provided at grade, landscaped areas may be required
within the interior of the parking area(s) where possible for the
purpose of providing visual relief and to break up large areas of
parking into smaller areas.
(11) Landscaping shall be completed in accordance with the
provisions of this Bylaw and the approved landscaping plan by
the end of one full growing season after the completion of the
development.
(12) The owner of the property, or his/her successor or assignees, shall
be responsible for landscaping and its proper maintenance. As
a condition of a development approval, the applicant shall enter
into a development agreement with the County respecting the
landscaping that will be required by the Development Authority.
Under this agreement, the owner shall provide the County with
an irrevocable letter of credit or other security acceptable to the
County of a value of 100% of the estimated cost of the work, as
deemed acceptable to the County, to ensure that the landscaping
is carried out with reasonable diligence. The conditions of the
security shall be that:
(a) if the landscaping is not completed in accordance with
this Bylaw and the landscaping plan within one year from
the date the development permit is issued, the County
may use the security to complete the approved landscape
development;
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
(b) upon completion of the landscaping, the security amount
will be reduced to 25% of the value of the original letter
of credit or other security provided and shall be held for a
further two (2) full growing seasons during which time if
the landscaping does not survive the owner must replace
the planting with a similar type of species and with a similar
calliper width or the County shall draw from the remaining
security to replace the necessary landscaping.
The letter of credit shall be released when the landscaping has
been completed to the satisfaction of the Development Officer
and the two (2) full growing seasons has expired.
6.15 LIGHTING
(1) Any outdoor lighting for any development shall be located
and arranged so that no direct rays of light are directed at any
adjoining properties, interfere with the use and enjoyment of
neighbouring lands, or interfere with the effectiveness of any
traffic control devices or the safety of adjacent traffic.
(2) Appropriate lighting to provide security and add visual interest
which minimizes light pollution through the application of dark
sky lighting principles.
(3) Lighting standards and fixtures shall be of a consistent design,
complementary to the overall architectural theme of the
development.
(4) All public access areas within development areas shall be lit
in keeping with the principles of Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design and require site lighting as necessary to
encourage safety and security through the development.
(5) In commercial and industrial areas no lighting standard or fixture
shall exceed 7.62 m (25 ft) in height.
(6) In resident areas, no lighting standard or fixture shall exceed 6.0 m
(19.6 ft) in height.
(7) The developer shall provide a plan indicating the location of all
exterior lights, including the projected light patterns in relation to
adjacent public motorways and developments.
(8) No flashing, strobe or revolving lights, which may impact the
safety of motorists using adjacent public roadways, shall be
installed on any property.
6.16 LANDS SUBJECT TO FLOODING, EROSION AND
OTHER HAZARDS
(1) The Development Authority may, based on the results of a
geotechnical study, impose such conditions that are considered
necessary to mitigate any potential problems or alternatively,
refuse an application for development if the site is not regarded
as being suitable for the proposed development.
6.17 LOT GRADING AND DRAINAGE
(1) The grading of a lot shall conform to a lot grading plan approved
by the County.
(2) Lot grading within a multi-lot development which has an
approved stormwater management plan may have to provide
confirmation from a qualified professional engineer that the lot
grading complies with the plan for the site, at the discretion of the
Development Authority.
(3) If a person alters the approved lot drainage on a site so that water
drains onto adjacent parcels, that person shall be responsible for
corrective drainage structures, including retaining walls, to divert
water from neighbouring properties.
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
6.18 SETBACKS FROM COUNTY MAIN ROADS
AND ROADS
(1) The Development Authority may require a larger setback from
any county main road or road, which may be re-aligned in the
direction of the proposed building or development.
(2) Setbacks from a provincial highway shall be in accordance with
Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors Regulations.
(3) No development, access or egress, shall be permitted within the
areas illustrated below for county main roads and roads in the
Agricultural 'A' District:
(a) Road approaches shall be located no closer than the
following minimum distances from an intersection: 150 m
(492 ft) onto a dirt or gravel road and 200 m (656 ft) onto a
paved road.
30.48m
(100ft)
53.34m
(175ft)
22.86m
(75ft)
38.10m
(125ft)
COUNTY MAIN ROAD
COUNTY ROAD
150m
(492ft)
200m
(656ft)
County Main Road Building Setback (from centerline)
County Main Road Vegitation Setback (from centerline)
County Road Building Setback (from centerline)
County Road Vegitation Setback (from centerline)
(4) Development proposed on existing lots that cannot comply with
the setback requirements as specified in this section shall meet
the setbacks as required by the Development Authority.
(5) For regulations affecting the placement of signs, refer to section
6.23 of this Bylaw.
6.19 PARKING AND LOADING SPACE
REQUIREMENTS
(1) Where required as part of a development permit approval process,
vehicular entrances and exits onto county main roads and roads
shall only be permitted at locations approved by the Development
Authority. A permit shall be obtained from Alberta Transportation
and Economic Corridors for access onto a provincial highway.
(2) A loading space shall be designed and located so that all vehicles
using that space can be parked and maneuvred entirely within
the bounds of the site without backing onto or from the adjacent
right-of-ways.
(3) Unless otherwise approved by the Development Authority, an
off-street parking space shall not be less than 2.59 m (8.5 ft) in
width or 5.48 m (18 ft) in length and shall be located on the same
lot as the main building or use.
(4) Parallel parking stalls shall be a minimum of 6.99 m (22.9 ft) in
length, except those having open space at the end of the row,
which may be a minimum of 5.48 m (18.04 ft) in length.
(5) Parking aisles shall be a minimum of 6.99 m (22.9 ft) wide for 90
degree parking, 5.48 m (18 ft) wide for 60 degree parking, and 3.6
m (11.8 ft) wide for 45 degree parking.
(6) All off-street parking facilities shall be constructed so that:
(a) curb cuts are located and flared to the satisfaction of the
Development Authority;
(b) they are not located within 1.07 m (3.5 ft) of a lot line;
Vegetation
Vegetation
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
(c) parking areas must be paved or of a gravel mixture, whichever
is required by the Development Authority, in accordance
with the Lacombe County Standards Manual;
(d) each parking area shall be so graded and drained as to
dispose of all storm water runoff. In no case shall drainage be
allowed to cross a site boundary unless otherwise approved
by the Development Authority; and
(e) parking for the physically handicapped shall be provided as
provincial regulations require and shall be considered as part
of the number of stalls required for the project.
(7) The minimum number of off-street parking spaces required for
each building or use shall be as identified in the following table:
Note: In the case of a use not specifically mentioned, the required
number of off street parking spaces shall be the same as for a
similar use as determined by the Development Authority. Where
the development falls within more than one class, the required
number of spaces shall be the sum of the requirements for each
of the development classes.
Where the calculation of the total number of parking stalls yields
a fractional number, the required number of spaces shall be
rounded to the nearest whole number.
MINIMUM OFF-STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS
Multiple Housing
2 per unit or 1.5 per unit where 5 or
more units exist
Personal Service Establishment
1 per 46.45 m² (500 ft²) of gross floor
area.
Places of Public Assembly
1 per 99.96 m² (1,076 ft²) of gross
floor area or 3 per establishment
whichever is the greater
Professional, Financial Offices
1 per 46.45 m² (500 ft²) of gross floor
area.
Recreation Facilities, Indoor &
Outdoor
1 per 3.5 seats or 1 per 3.25 m² (35
ft²) of the gross floor area used by
the patrons, whichever is greater
Single Detached/Duplex Dwelling
2 per dwelling
Special Event
1 per two (2) persons expected to
attend
Tourist home
1 per guest room
MINIMUM OFF-STREET PARKING REQUIREMENTS
Adult Care Residence
0.2 per bed plus 1.5 per 2
employees
Bed and Breakfast
1 per guest room
Commercial Development
Less than 2,000 m² (21,528 ft²) - 2.2
per 100 m² (1,076 ft²) of gross floor
area;
2,000 m² (21,528 ft²) to 20,000 m²
(215,278 ft²) - 3.2 per 100 m² (1,076
ft²) of gross floor area; or
greater than 20,000 m² (215,278 ft²)
- 4.3 per 100 m², (1,076 ft²) of gross
floor area.
Drive-In Establishment
1 per 4 seats and required space for
5 car stackup per window or bay
Eating & Drinking Establishments
1 per 4 seats plus 1 space per 2
employees on maximum shift
Government Service
2 per 46.45 m² (500 ft²) of gross floor
area
Hotel / Motels
1 per sleeping unit plus 1 per 2
employees
Industrial Development
1 per 99.96 m² (1,076 ft²) of gross
floor area or 3 per establishment
whichever is the greater
Table continues on next page...
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 64
Part 6
6.20 TELECOMMUNICATION TOWERS
(1) The placement of telecommunication towers and equipment
are federally regulated and are therefore exempt from municipal
control. Lacombe County will review telecommunication tower
submissions and, depending on the nature of the proposal, a letter
of support (concurrence) or non-support (non-concurrence)
will be sent to the wireless service provider. Proponents are
encouraged to conduct a pre-submission consultation with the
County to identify preliminary issues of concern prior to making
their submissions. In order to fully assess an application, the
County asks that proponents provide the following information:
(a) name and signature of the registered owner(s) of the land (or
their appointed representative or agent);
(b) the legal land description of the property on which the
telecommunication tower is proposed;
(c) a letter and/or report outlining the reason(s) for the erection/
modification of a telecommunication tower, the proposed
site and rationale for site selection;
(d) a map showing the location and distance of all dwellings
within a distance of six (6) times the height of the
telecommunication tower, measured from the property
boundaries of the subject site;
(e) a site plan showing the proposed location of the
telecommunication tower and any existing structures/
buildings, including all dimensions and setback distances
from property boundaries and right-of-ways.
(2) The County has established the following lists of preferred
locations for telecommunication tower placement:
Preferred Locations:
-
those in the Agricultural 'A' District or Heavy Industrial 'I-HI'
District
-
within or adjacent to utility corridors
-
those which do not impact the County's cultural or heritage
resources
-
those which avoid environmentally sensitive areas
-
those which are located away from residential development
(3) Note that in cases where the County does not support a proposal,
it cannot prevent a proponent from ultimately gaining permission
from the federal government to install a telecommunication
tower even if it does not meet the above noted criteria.
6.21 CAMPGROUNDS
(1) A comprehensive site plan shall be provided to the satisfaction
of the Development Authority that shows the location, design
standards and site requirements of any common accessory
uses and services, such as washrooms, laundromat, recreational
buildings, retail store, food concession, fire pits, fire wood storage,
lighting, water supply, wastewater disposal facilities, solid
waste collection facilities and any other similar uses or services
that may be associated with or required within a campground.
The following regulations shall be applied in designing the
campground site plan:
(a) a minimum site area of 0.40 ha (1 ac);
(b) a minimum of 10% of the total site shall be set aside in a
location acceptable to the Development Authority as a
common open space recreation area;
(c) each stall shall be accessed by an internal road;
(d) the road system shall be properly signed for users and for
emergency response vehicles, and shall be sensitive to the
topography and environmental characteristics of the site;
(e) walkways with a minimum width of 1.62 m (4 ft) surfaced
to the satisfaction of the Development Authority shall be
provided from all stalls to all service buildings and facilities,
refuse areas and recreation areas;
(f) roads shall be hard surfaced or surfaced to the satisfaction of
the Development Authority and shall be:
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 65
Part 6
(i)
3.05 m (10 ft) in width for one-way traffic; and
(ii) 6.10 m (20 ft) in width for two-way traffic;
(g) fires will be permitted only in designated fire pits or other
such facilities;
(h) potable water and wastewater disposal facilities are required
to the satisfaction of the Development Authority;
(i)
all utility services and all utility wires and conduits shall be
provided as required by the Development Authority and the
utility companies;
(j)
fences shall be allowed within the recreational vehicle park
only if they are erected and maintained by the park operator
to a uniform standard throughout the park;
(k) all stall boundaries shall be clearly defined on the ground by
permanent flush stakes or markers, with a stall number or
other identification system;
(l)
suitable ground cover and a flat area for each stall shall be
provided;
(m) minimum camping stall size shall be:
(i)
6.10 m (20 ft) in width;
(ii) 18.29 m (60 ft) in depth; and
(iii) 111.48 m2 (1,200 ft2) in area;
(n) minimum distance between camping stalls shall be 3.05 m
(10 ft);
(o) minimum campground front, side and rear yards shall be
3.05 m (10 ft) from all site boundaries;
(p) one (1) parking stall per camping stall; and
(q) visitor parking shall be provided in a common area to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority.
(2) A landscaping plan that retains natural vegetation shall be
provided to the satisfaction of the Development Authority.
(3) Campgrounds are considered temporary occupancies.
(4) One on-site security/operator suite may be permitted.
(5) No new campgrounds will be allowed within the plan areas for
the Sylvan Lake Area Structure Plan, the Gull Lake Intermunicipal
Development Plan or the Buffalo Lake Intermunicipal Development
Plan unless they are located in the Recreation 'PR' District or
Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District.
(6) All campgrounds designated Recreation 'PR' District located within
the plan areas for the Sylvan Lake Area Structure Plan, the Gull Lake
Intermunicipal Development Plan or the Buffalo Lake Intermunicipal
Development Plan must meet the same standard of infrastructure
servicing requirements as required in the Recreational Vehicle
Resort 'R-RVR' District to the satisfaction of the Development
Authority.
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 66
Part 6
6.22 SECURITY/OPERATOR SUITES
(1) In Districts where a security/operator suite is listed as a
discretionary use under this Bylaw, a maximum of one security/
operator suite per parcel may be approved by the Development
Authority.
(2) Where the security/operator suite is a mobile/manufactured
home unit, the unit shall have a Canadian Standards Association
Certification Number or an Alberta Labour Number. Acceptable
evidence of these shall be submitted with the development
permit application. The skirting shall be factory prefabricated or
the equivalent thereof and designed and erected to harmonize
with the mobile/manufactured home. The mobile/manufactured
home unit shall be skirted from the ground level to the floor level.
(3) The maximum floor area of any security/operator suite shall be
a maximum area of not more than 33% of the total area of the
principal building, or as required by the Development Authority.
(4) Where the security/operator suite is not part of the principal
building then it shall be temporary at the discretion of the
Development Authority.
(5) The quality of exterior treatment and design for all security units
shall be to the satisfaction of the Development Authority. The
design, character and appearance of all security/operator suites
shall be compatible with other buildings on the property.
6.23 SIGNS
Administration
(1) The provisions contained within this section shall apply to all
signs within Lacombe County, except any sign that is required
to be displayed under the provisions of federal, provincial, or
municipal legislation.
(2) Where a sign is proposed on lands that are governed by multiple
authorities or more than one (1) set of standards, the higher or
most restrictive standards will prevail.
Application for Development Permit
(3) All signs, structures for signs, as well as alterations or relocations
of existing signs shall require a development permit in all
districts of the Land Use Bylaw, unless specifically exempt from
the requirement to obtain a development permit, as outlined in
section 6.23.
(4) The Development Authority may approve a sign as part of an
application for development for which the sign is accessory to,
so long as they are satisfied that all the required information has
been provided.
(5) In addition to the requirements of section 3.4, the Development
Authority may require an applicant of a development permit for a
sign to submit any or all of the following:
(a) a sketch showing the contents of the proposed sign,
including all text, photos, or graphics;
(b) the design characteristics and nature of the sign and
associated structure to which the sign will be affixed to or
displayed from, including dimensions, size, construction
materials, paint materials, colour, and illumination;
(c) a site plan showing the location of the sign on the property;
and
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
(d) drawings illustrating the position, orientation, and method
of attachment of the sign.
(6) In addition to the requirements of section 6.23(4), at its discretion,
the Development Authority may require an applicant of a
development permit for a sign to submit written confirmation
and/or sealed drawings from a qualified professional engineer
verifying that the proposed sign-bearing structure can structurally
accommodate the sign.
Signs Exempt from Requiring Development Permit Approval
(7) The following signs do not require development permit approval,
subject to compliance with the regulations of this Bylaw:
Freestanding Signs
(8) The maximum height for any freestanding sign shall be 7.62
metres (25 feet) when measured from grade to the highest feature
of the sign, unless otherwise directed by the Land Use Bylaw or
approved by the Development Authority.
(9) The maximum size of any freestanding sign shall be 2.97 m2
(32 ft2), unless otherwise directed by the Land Use Bylaw, Site
Development Guidelines, or approved by the Development
Authority.
(10) There shall be no more than one (1) freestanding sign permitted
on a parcel, unless otherwise directed by the Land Use Bylaw or
approved by the Development Authority.
Façade Signs
(11) A sign which is located on, or affixed to the façade of a building
shall have an area which does not exceed 15% of the façade area,
to a maximum of 40.04 m² (431 ft²).
SIGN
RESTRICTIONS
Sign advertising a minor home-
based business
Shall not exceed 0.93 m² (10 ft²)
Shall be located on the same parcel
as the minor home-based business
Agricultural identification sign
Must not exceed 1.86 m² (20 ft²)
Sign for the advertisement of, or
direction to a local event
Must not exceed 1.86 m² (20 ft²)
Shall relate to an event on the
property on which the sign is
located, unless otherwise approved
by the Development Authority
May be erected no sooner than two
(2) weeks prior to the event, and
shall be removed within seven (7)
days of the completion of the event
SIGN
RESTRICTIONS
Election signs relating to a federal,
provincial or municipal election
Sign(s) shall comply with the
County's Guidelines for the
Placement and Installation of
Election Signs
Property identification sign for non-
business/non-commercial use
Shall not exceed 1.86 m² (20 ft²)
Limit of one (1) sign per parcel
Sign intended to inform or guide,
warn of potential hazards/danger, or
restrict activity on a private property
Shall not exceed 1.86 m² (20 ft²)
Real estate sign
Shall not exceed 1.86 m² (20 ft²)
Shall relate to the property on
which the sign is located
Shall be removed within seven (7)
days of the completion of transfer or
sale to which the sign relates
Construction sign (pertaining to
works being carried out on private
property)
Must not exceed 1.86 m² (20 ft²)
Shall relate to the property on
which the sign is located
Shall be removed within seven (7)
days of the completion of work or
project
Private sale sign (temporary)
Must not exceed 1.86 m² (20 ft²)
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Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 68
Part 6
(12) For façade signs that extend more than 0.1 metres (0.33 feet)
from the façade, the sign shall have a minimum clearance of 2.44
metres (8 feet) from grade to the bottom of the sign.
(13) A façade sign may extend horizontally no further than 0.3 metres
(1 foot) from the façade.
(14) A façade sign may consist of individual letters, symbols or logos
affixed or attached directly to the building.
Subdivision Signs
(15) The location, size and design of the subdivision sign shall be
approved by the Development Authority prior to construction
and installation, and shall be erected in accordance with the
standards described in the County's Standards Manual.
Signage on County Lands
(16) No sign other than traffic and directional signage authorized by
Lacombe County, or an election sign permitted under this section,
shall be located on municipal lands under the jurisdiction of
Lacombe County, without the prior approval of the County. This
includes, but is not limited to, County rights-of-ways easements,
public utility lots, and reserve lands.
(17) The approval of an application to install signage on municipal
lands under the jurisdiction of Lacombe County, including but
not limited to County rights-of-ways, easements, public utility
lots, and reserve lands, shall be at the sole discretion of the
Development Authority. The Development Authority shall not
approve an application for the erection of a sign upon or over a
municipal property without:
(a) confirmation that the proposed signage will not negatively
impact traffic safety, the functionality, or the original intended
purpose of the said County lands, to the satisfaction of the
Development Authority;
(b) the issuance of a Development Permit, as required in section
6.23; and
(c) the applicant entering into a Sign Encroachment Agreement
containing provisions to:
(i)
indemnify and save harmless the County from any and
all liability;
(ii) place and maintain insurance; and
(iii) charge the land(s) with any costs incurred by the
County.
(18) No sign shall be located within a road sight line triangle as
described in section 6.9 of this Bylaw, unless otherwise approved
by the Development Authority.
Prohibited Signage
(19) Signs that are not explicitly permitted in this Bylaw are prohibited.
(20) No sign shall be affixed, erected, and/or displayed on/from a
parked motor vehicle, trailer, or sea container.
(21) No sign shall be affixed, erected, and/or displayed on/from a
fence, retaining wall, topographical slope, or vegetation, unless
approved at the discretion of the Development Authority.
(22) No sign shall use a video display, motion picture or audible
component.
(23) No sign shall obstruct the view of, or be liable to be confused with
any traffic sign or signal, or otherwise pose a potential hazard to
traffic or pedestrians.
(24) No sign shall be attached, affixed to or constructed on the building
roof or above the parapet portion of the building, except for:
(a) an integrated roof façade sign;
(b) an integrated wall façade sign; or
(c) a façade sign on a mansard roof.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 69
Part 6
(25) No sign shall have balloons, flags, streamers, ribbons, or other
hazards attached to it, at the discretion of the Development
Authority.
(26) No sign shall identify a business, development, or service not
authorized to operate in the County under the provisions of this
Bylaw or applicable municipal, provincial, and federal legislation.
General Regulations
(27) The landowner shall ensure that signs are maintained in good
repair and working order at all times in accordance with the
provisions of this Bylaw.
(28) Electrical power supply, including any wiring and conduits, to a
freestanding sign shall be located underground, except where a
sign is powered by solar energy. Where a sign is powered by solar
energy, the solar panel may be located aboveground provided all
wiring and conduits are hidden from public view.
(29) Where a sign is affixed or attached to a building, electrical power
supply shall be located/concealed within the sign or within the
building to which the sign is affixed, to the satisfaction of the
Development Authority.
(30) Illuminated signs are not permitted within any residential district
of Lacombe County. Illuminated signs in all other districts will be
at the discretion of the Development Authority.
Lighting for Illuminated
signs SHALL
Lighting for Illuminated
signs SHALL NOT
-
Be positioned in a downward-
facing orientation
-
Have the capacity to be
dimmed, to the satisfaction of
the County
-
Use full cut-off shielded and
screened external light sources
-
Be positioned in a manner that
directs light directly onto the
sign and minimizes glare
-
Be completely shielded from
direct view if they provide
internal illumination of the sign
-
Comply with Dark Sky
Standards, to the satisfaction of
the County
-
Shine or reflect light directly
onto adjacent properties or,
in the direction of oncoming
traffic
-
Contain or display lights
resembling flashing,
intermittent or scintillating
motion usually associated with
danger or those used by police,
fire, ambulance and other
emergency services
-
Contain or display flicker, chase
and/or strobe lighting
-
Create hazards for pedestrians
or motorists
(31) No sign shall be located within 300 metres (984 feet) of a highway
right-of-way boundary or within 800 metres (2625 feet) of the
centre point of an intersection of a highway with another public
road without prior approval from Alberta Transportation and
Economic Corridors.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 70
Part 6
6.24 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
(1) All alternative energy technology applications will be reviewed to
ensure the proposal will not negatively impact the surrounding
area in which it is located and decisions on all applications will be
at the discretion of the Development Authority.
(2) The proposed installation of any alternative energy system, device
or structure shall require a development permit unless otherwise
stated in this Bylaw. The applicant must ensure that the alternative
energy system, device or structure meets all applicable provincial
and federal codes, regulations and standards, and if applicable
shall attain any other required permits.
(3) There shall be no aboveground portion of an alternative energy
structure located in a front or side yard, with the exception of
solar panels being ground mounted in a side yard, provided
the structure complies with the minimum side yard setback
requirements of the District.
(4) Any above ground portion of an alternative energy structure,
including but not limited to guy wires and anchors, which are
accessory to a principal building/structure shall comply with all
other regulations of this Bylaw.
(5) When practical, methods of screening shall be used to ensure
that all alternative energy technologies visually blend with the
surrounding natural and built environment in which they are
situated.
(6) No advertising, except for a manufacturer's logo, shall be visible
on any alternative energy technology, building or structure.
6.25 SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS
(1) A solar collector may be located on the roof or wall of a building
or structure, or ground mounted in a side yard provided the
structure complies with the minimum side yard requirements
of the District. If optimal solar orientation of a solar collector
would be located in a front yard, the Development Authority may
consider an exception on a case by case basis.
(2) A solar collector mounted on a roof must not extend beyond the
outermost edge of the roof or above the peak of the roof.
(3) A freestanding solar collector must not exceed the maximum
building height of the accessory structure within the district.
(4) A solar collector that is mounted on a wall may project a maximum
of:
(a) 1.5 m (4.9 ft) from the surface of that wall, when the wall
facing a rear line; and
(b) In all other cases, 0.6 m (2 ft) from the surface of that wall.
6.26 WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS, PERSONAL
(1) Applications for wind energy systems (WES) for personal
use purposes shall meet or exceed all provincial and federal
regulations and shall include the manufacturer's specifications
indicating:
(a) the WES rated output in kilowatts;
(b) safety features and sound characteristics;
(c) type of material used in tower, blade, and/or construction;
(d) turbine height;
(e) blade diameter and rotor clearance;
(f) Canadian Standards Association approval, if applicable;
(g) potential for electromagnetic interference;
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Part 6
(h) nature and function of over speed controls which are
provided;
(i)
specifications on the foundations and/or anchor design,
including location and anchoring of any guy wires;
(j)
information demonstrating that the system will be used
primarily to generate on-site electricity; and
(k) location of existing building or improvements.
(2) Prior to making a decision on a development permit application
for a wind energy system for personal use, the Development
Authority may refer and consider input of any authorities having
jurisdiction and any applicable legislation.
(3) Notwithstanding the maximum height provisions applicable to a
site, the total height of a wind energy system for personal use may
exceed the maximum building height of a District by a maximum
of 2 m (6.6 ft).
(4) The moving components clearance of any system shall not be
less than 4.6 m (15.1 ft) above grade.
(5) Systems shall be setback from any boundary line a minimum
distance equal to the height of the structure when bounded by
adjacent developed or developable properties. In situations where
properties back onto undevelopable areas these requirements
may not apply and are at the discretion of the Development
Authority. In addition, small wind energy systems must comply
with the minimum yard requirements of the District.
(6) The maximum diameter of the wind turbine blades shall be 3 m
(9.8 ft).
(7) The property owner shall be responsible to ensure that the system
is properly maintained, including but not limited to the general
appearance of the structure and that its ongoing operation
meets industry standards with regard to noise limits and does not
become a nuisance due to noise.
(8) Systems shall comply with the following standards:
(a) there shall be a limit of one (1) system per site in all residential
districts, and the limit in all other districts shall be at the
discretion of the Development Authority;
(b) the system shall be equipped with manual and automatic
over speed controls;
(c) the conformance rotor and over speed control design and
fabrication to good engineering practices shall be certified
by a licensed mechanical, structural or civil engineer;
(d) the system shall be operated such that no electromagnetic
interference is caused.
6.27 WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS,
COMMERCIAL
(1) Setbacks for wind energy conversion systems and wind farms for
commercial purposes shall comply with the following:
(a) A wind energy conversion system shall be located so that
from the vertical projection of the boundary of the title
parcel on which the wind energy conversion system is
located, and when the axis of the blade is parallel to grade,
the tip of the blade is a minimum of 20 m (66 ft) from the
vertically projected line. A lesser setback requirement may be
considered at the discretion of the Development Authority
where the adjacent lands are part of the same wind farm
project;
(b) A wind energy conversion system shall be located a distance
of at least two (2) times the total height of the wind energy
conversion system from a dwelling that is located on the title
property that the wind energy conversion system is located
on;
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Part 6
(c) A wind energy conversion system shall be located a distance
of at least five (5) times the total height of the wind energy
conversion system from a dwelling that is located on
an adjacent, separately titled property. A lesser setback
requirement may be considered at the discretion of the
Development Authority where the adjacent lands are part of
the same wind farm project;
(d) Setbacks from all other non-residential buildings shall be at
the discretion of the Development Authority;
(e) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located;
(f) If, in the opinion of the Development Authority, the above
noted setbacks will be insufficient to buffer the wind energy
conversion system from a dwelling, road or any other
adjacent land use, the Development Authority may increase
the required setback;
(g) Setbacks from a provincial highway shall be as required by
Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors;
(h) Setbacks from railway facilities shall be as required by the
respective railway company;
(i)
In the case of a wind farm, the Development Authority may
increase the required setbacks to address compatibility
issues between the wind farm and the aesthetic, physical,
social and visual characteristics of the proposed wind farm
location.
(2) Wind energy conversion systems shall have a minimum blade
clearance of 7.6 m (25 ft) from grade.
(3) The following tower access requirements do not apply to wind
energy conversion system towers designed and constructed to
a tubular standard that provides internal access to the tower,
and secured with a locked door for access at or near grade. For
non-tubular wind energy conversion system towers, and to avoid
improper use, trespass and ensure public safety, the Development
Authority will require for each wind energy conversion system
approved under a development permit:
(a) that a security fence with a locking gate be installed around
a wind energy conversion system tower and any outlying
guy wire anchor points if the tower could be climbed or be
subject to vandalism if no fence is present. The fence shall
not be less than 2.43 m (8 ft) in height, with outward facing
barbed wire at the top of the fence;
(b) that no ladder or other similar access device be installed on
the outside of the tower below a point 3.7 m (12 ft) from
grade; and
(c) that a locking device be installed to bar access to the top of
the tower.
(4) Subject to any federal and/or provincial regulatory requirements,
the wind energy conversion system shall have a non-reflective
matte finish in a non-obtrusive and/or neutral colour, to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority.
(5) All power lines installed on the wind energy conversion system
site to transfer wind energy converted to power to be transferred
to the grid shall be installed below grade, unless otherwise
approved by the Development Authority.
(6) When considering an application for a wind farm, the Development
Authority must have regard for:
(a) the total number of proposed wind energy conversion
system towers;
(b) the overall density of the wind farm and/or site specific
densities if density varies within the wind farm;
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
(c) the proximity of the proposed wind energy conversion
system towers to all adjacent land uses;
(d) the findings and results of the mandatory public consultation
program required under subsection 3.4(7) of this Bylaw; and
(e) a review and evaluation of the way in which the proposed
wind energy conversion system towers in a wind farm will
relate to adjacent and other land uses in the area to determine
the overall compatibility of the proposed wind farm, and
if deemed necessary by the Development Authority, the
compatibility of individual wind energy conversion system
towers within the proposed wind farm.
(7) The maximum density of wind energy conversion system towers
in a wind farm shall be sixteen (16) per section of land, or four (4)
towers per quarter section of land. A wind farm that requires a
higher density will be required to apply for an amendment to the
Bylaw to achieve a higher standard.
(8) The Development Authority may approve a development permit
application that clusters the allowed density on one quarter
section or parcel of land, providing the maximum density allowed
is not exceeded. The Development Authority may do this to
meet the developer's needs with respect to the topography of
the subject lands and the optimum location of the wind energy
conversion system towers with respect to the prevailing winds
and/or to address the concerns of adjacent land uses, if identified
through the public consultation process.
(9) The maximum decibel A-weighting (dBA) from outside any
receptor building at any wind speed shall not exceed 35 dBA.
6.28 WASTE-TO-ENERGY SYSTEMS
(1) All waste-to-energy systems require a development permit.
Applications will be reviewed to ensure the proposal will not
negatively impact the surrounding area in which it is located
and decisions on all applications will be at the discretion of the
Development Authority.
(2) The applicant must ensure that the waste-to-energy system
meets all applicable provincial and federal codes, regulations
and standards, and if applicable shall attain any other required
permits.
(3) When practical, methods of screening shall be used to ensure that
all waste-to-energy systems visually blend with the surrounding
natural and built environment in which they are situated.
(4) No advertising, except for a manufacturer's logo, shall be visible
on any waste-to-energy systems, buildings or structures.
6.29 SHOW HOMES
(1) A developer may construct a maximum of four (4) show homes
or 10% of the lots whichever is the lesser, with a minimum being
one (1) show home where the development is less than 10 lots,
on lands which have been redesignated as a residential district
under the County's Land Use Bylaw prior to final subdivision
approval subject to the following conditions:
(a) show home(s) must be constructed in a manner which
complies with all development requirements of the County's
Land Use Bylaw;
(b) show home(s) shall not be occupied or sold as a residential
dwelling until the lots(s) for the subject home(s) are registered
at Land Titles;
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
(c) signage, approved by the County, shall be erected on the
proposed lot on which the show home is to be located
advising the public that the show home is not for sale and
cannot be occupied until the lot is registered at Land Titles;
(d) confirmation from a qualified Alberta Land Surveyor that the
proposed lot that the show home is to be located on is in
accordance with the plan of subdivision for the lands to be
registered pursuant to Subdivision Authority Approval and
that the show home meet all the required setbacks for the
subject District; and
(e) work on the site, including lot grading, utilities and roads
servicing the subdivision has been completed to a standard
satisfactory to the County to accommodate the construction
of the show home.
6.30 SPECIAL EVENTS
(1) All special events must prepare an Emergency Response Plan
approved by the County, at its discretion.
(2) Special events shall provide adequate ingress and egress to
parking areas and site of event to the satisfaction of the County.
Therefore adequate roads, driveways and entrance ways shall exist
to ensure the orderly flow of traffic into the premises to or from
a highway or County road. A special access way for emergency
vehicles shall be required.
(3) Duration of an event to be limited to no more than ten (10)
consecutive calendar days in duration, excluding the time
required to prepare, erect, clean-up and dismantle the event;
(4) Hours of Operation are to be limited to 8:00 am to 12:00 am unless
otherwise approved by the County.
(5) Sound levels from the event shall be no more than 60 dBA
measured at the 0.8 km (0.5 mi) radius.
(6) All necessary approvals will be required from applicable municipal,
provincial and federal bodies such as, but not limited to Alberta
Health Services and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, prior to
a development permit being issued.
6.31 FIRE PROTECTION
(1) All new multi lot developments must provide a Fire Protection
Plan to the County's satisfaction.
(2) All new multi lot development in the Hamlet 'H' District,
Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District, Higher Density
Residential 'R-HDR' District, and Urban Fringe Residential 'R-UFR'
District must provide full fire flow (hydrant) protection to the
County's satisfaction.
(3) All new multi lot residential development in the Residential
Conservation Cluster 'R-RCC' District, Country Residential Estate
'R-CRE' District and Residential Lake Area 'R-RLA' District where
one or more lots are less than 0.30 ha (0.75 acre) must provide full
fire flow (hydrant) protection to the County's satisfaction.
(4) All existing or new developments connecting to a regional or
municipal water system must provide full fire flow (hydrant)
protection to the County's satisfaction.
(5) All new multi lot developments may be required to provide
additional fire protection in the form of residential sprinklers at
the discretion of the County.
(6) The requirement for full fire flow (hydrant) protection may be
waived at Council's discretion if residential sprinklers are required
in combination with other fire protection methods which can be
demonstrated to achieve an appropriate level of fire protection to
Lacombe County's satisfaction.
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 6
6.32 CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY
(1) All cannabis production facility applications will be reviewed to
ensure the proposal will not negatively impact the surrounding
area in which it is located and all applications will be at the
discretion of the Development Authority.
(2) All necessary approvals will be required from Health Canada.
(3) The applicant shall obtain the requisite federal licence prior to
commencing development. Cannabis production facilities shall
at all times comply with all applicable federal and provincial
legislation and regulations which apply to the development.
(4) Fire Safety Plan to be submitted to the satisfaction of the County's
Fire Chief.
(5) Sound levels from the production facility shall be no more than
35 dBA measured within a 0.8 km (0.5 mi) radius.
(6) No advertising, except for company's name and/or logo subject
to approval from the County, shall be visible from the property.
(7) Lighting for the development to comply with Dark Sky and Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design Principles.
(8) Landscaping and building design to comply with the County's
Highways and County Main Roads Overlay 'OD-1' District. The
Development Authority may require a buffer such as a berm in
additions to landscaping.
(9) Setbacks for cannabis production facilities shall comply with the
following:
(a) A cannabis production facility in the Agricultural 'A' District
less than 1.6 ha (4.0 ac) in total site size, shall be located a
minimum of:
(i)
100 m (328 ft) from a dwelling that is located on an
adjacent, separately titled property. Distances shall
be measured between the proposed site area of the
cannabis production facility to the exterior wall of the
dwelling; and
(ii) 100 m (328 ft) from a boundary of a residential district.
Distances shall be measured between the proposed site
area of the cannabis production facility to the boundary
of the residential district.
(b) A cannabis production facility in the Agricultural 'A' District
more than 1.6 ha (4.0 ac) in total site size, shall be located a
minimum of:
(i)
300 m (984 ft) from a dwelling that is located on an
adjacent, separately titled property. Distances shall
be measured between the proposed site area of the
cannabis production facility to the exterior wall of the
dwelling; and
(ii) 300 m (984 ft) from a boundary of a residential district.
Distances shall be measured between the proposed site
area of the cannabis production facility to the boundary
of the residential district.
(c) A cannabis production facility in the Hamlet Industrial 'I-H'
District shall be located a minimum of:
(i)
40 m (131 ft) from a dwelling that is located on an
adjacent, separately titled property. Distances shall
be measured between the parcel boundary of the
cannabis production facility to the exterior wall of the
dwelling; and
(ii) 40 m (131 ft) from a boundary of a residential district.
Distances shall be measured between the parcel
boundary of the cannabis production facility to the
boundary of the residential district
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Part 6
(d) A dwelling approved on an adjacent, separately titled
property after an application submitted for a cannabis
production facility is deemed complete shall not be
considered a dwelling for the purposes of interpreting
Section 6.32(9)(a)(i), Section 6.32(9)(b)(i) and Section 6.32(9)
(c)(i) of this Bylaw.
(e) A residential district approved after an application submitted
for a cannabis production facility is deemed complete shall
not be considered a residential district for the purposes of
interpreting Section 6.32(9)(a)(ii), Section 6.32(9)(b)(ii) and
Section 6.32(9)(c)(ii) of this Bylaw.
(f) The site area of a cannabis production facility is at the
Development Authority's discretion, and at minimum
includes all indoor and outdoor areas used for the production,
cultivation, harvesting, processing (including the trimming,
drying, and curing of raw materials), storage or distribution of
cannabis or its by-products, for the purposes of interpreting
Section 6.32(9)(a), Section 6.32(9)(b) and Section 6.32(9)(c) of
this Bylaw.
(g) Setbacks from all other non-residential buildings shall be at
the discretion of the Development Authority;
(h) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located;
(i)
If, in the opinion of the Development Authority, the above
noted setbacks will be insufficient to buffer the cannabis
production facility from a dwelling, residential district, road
or any other adjacent land use, the Development Authority
may increase the required setback;
(j)
Setbacks from a provincial highway shall be as required by
Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors; and
(k) Setbacks from railway facilities shall be as required by the
respective railway company.
(l)
Setbacks for cannabis production facilities in the Agricultural
'A' District conditionally approved by the County prior to July
9, 2020 shall not be subject to subsection (a) and (b); and
(m) Setbacks for cannabis production facilities in the Hamlet
Industrial 'I-H' District conditionally approved by the County
prior to July 9, 2020 shall not be subject to subsection (c).
6.33 CANNABIS RETAIL
(1) All necessary approvals will be required from Alberta Gaming,
Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC). The applicant shall obtain the
requisite provincial licence prior to commencing development
and shall maintain the licence in good standing thereafter.
Cannabis retail development shall at all times comply with all
applicable federal and provincial legislations and regulations
which apply to the development.
(2) The minimum distance between a cannabis retail development
and a school established by the provincial legislation and
regulations shall not apply to home education programs,
no separation distance is required between a cannabis retail
development and a home education program.
(3) The hours of operation for cannabis retail development are 10
a.m. to 2 a.m. or such lesser hours of operation established at the
discretion of the Development Authority.
(4) No advertising, except for company's name and/or logo subject
to approval from the County, shall be visible from the property.
(5) Lighting for the development to comply with Dark Sky and Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design Principles
(6) Landscaping and building design, if required, to comply with
the County's Highways and County Main Roads Overlay 'OD-1'
District.
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Part 6
6.34 TOURIST HOMES
(1) Tourist homes shall be limited to one (1) rental unit per parcel.
(2) The Development Authority may permit a tourist home only if, in
the opinion of the Development Authority, it complies with the
following regulations:
(a) guest houses or recreational vehicles shall not be used as
accommodation for tourist home guests;
(b) the maximum number of people staying overnight in a
tourist home shall be two (2) times the number of guest
rooms plus two (2). Floor plan is to be submitted at the time
of application.
(c) the privacy and enjoyment of adjacent dwellings shall
be preserved and the amenities of the neighbourhood
maintained at all times;
(d) a minimum of one (1) off-street parking stall per guest
room. All parking stalls are to be located off-street within
the boundaries of the parcel, and in accordance with the
standards described in Section 6.19 Parking and Loading
Space Requirements; and
(e) no exterior advertisement other than one (1) property
identification sign, in accordance with the standards
described in Section 6.23 Signs.
(3) Tourist homes shall always abide by the municipal community
standards bylaw and municipal fire bylaw regardless of who is
occupying the home. This includes noise, nuisance, and quiet
hours etc..
(4) A development permit issued for a tourist home does not exempt
compliance with federal, provincial, or other municipal legislation
such as health and safety code requirements.
(5) A development permit issued for a tourist home in the Recreational
Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District does not exempt compliance with
condominium bylaws.
6.35 DATA PROCESSING CENTRES
(1) All data processing centre applications will be reviewed to ensure
the proposal will not negatively impact the surrounding area in
which it is located and all applications will be at the discretion of
the Development Authority.
(2) All necessary approvals will be required from the Alberta Utilities
Commission.
(3) Fire Safety Plan to be submitted to the satisfaction of the County's
Fire Chief.
(4) No advertising, except for company's name and/or logo subject
to approval from the County, shall be visible from the property.
(5) Lighting for the development to comply with Dark Sky and Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design Principles.
(6) Landscaping and building design to comply with Section 6.14
Landscaping and the County's Highways and County Main Roads
Overlay 'OD-1' District. In addition, the Development Authority
may require additional landscaping or a buffer such as a berm.
(7) A noise attenuation study conducted by a qualified professional
may be required by the Development Authority. If deemed
necessary, a noise mitigation plan that may include a noise
monitoring system may also be required.
(8) A data processing centre that includes a power plant shall
provide written notice from the Alberta Utilities Commission
that the power plant meets all the Alberta Utilities Commission
requirements.
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Part 6
(a) If the Alberta Utilities Commission deems the application
outside of their regulatory authority, then a data process-
ing centre and associated power plant in the Agricultural 'A'
District shall be located a minimum of 800m (2,625 ft) from
a dwelling that is located on an adjacent, separately titled
property. Distances shall be measured between the pro-
posed site area of the data processing centre and associated
power plant to the exterior wall of the dwelling;
(i) If, in the opinion of the Development Authority, the
above noted setback will be insufficient to buffer the
data processing centre and associated power plant
from a dwelling, the Development Authority may in-
crease the required setback; and
(ii) If, in the opinion of the Development Authority, the
noise attenuation study and noise mitigation plan is
deemed sufficient to buffer the data processing centre
and associated power plant from a dwelling, the Devel-
opment Authority may decrease the required setback.
(9) No offensive noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odour, heat or glare
or anything else of an objectionable nature detectable beyond
the property boundary shall be produced by the data processing
centre as determined by the Development Authority.
(10) The Development Authority may require the applicant for a data
processing centre to provide proposed mitigation measures for
dust, traffic, noise and visual impact of the development.
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 79
PART 7
LAND USE
DISTRICTS
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 80
A
AGRICULTURAL
DISTRICT
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Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 81
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 82
Part 7
A
7.1
AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT (A)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Agricultural 'A' District is to provide a land base
to support a variety of agricultural operations. Other uses may
be considered in this District based upon their compatibility with
surrounding agricultural operations.
2
USES
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building (for permitted use
only)
Accessory building (for discretionary
use)
Agricultural building
Adult care residence
Agricultural operation
Agricultural processing, major
Agricultural processing, minor
Agricultural support service
Alternative energy, personal
Agri-tourism business
Bee keeping
Airport
Campground minor
Alcohol production
Dwelling unit in accordance with
sections 6.1(1), 6.1(2), 6.1(3) and
6.1(4) in Part 6 of this Bylaw
Alternative energy, commercial
Home based business, minor
Bed and breakfast
Campground intermediate
Cannabis production facility
Cemetery
Community facility
Crematorium
Data processing centre
Dwelling, temporary family care in
accordance with sections 6.1(5) and
6.1(6) in Part 6 of this Bylaw
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Dwelling, secondary suite
Government service
Home based business, major
Kennel
Minor business and trade
Oil and gas facility, uses accessory to
the oil and gas industry
Outdoor storage
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Recovery centre on N ½ 22-41-23-
W4M
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Residential
alcohol
and
drug
treatment centre on the lands
legally described as follows: Plan
2398 EU, Pt. SE 6-41-23-W4M
Riding and boarding facility
Sand and gravel extraction and
processing
Special event, major
Special event, minor
Tourist home
Veterinary hospital
Waste management site
Waste-to-Energy system
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
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Part 7
A
Side Setback
Front Setback
53.34 m
175 ft
38.10 m
125 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
22.86 m (75 ft) if adjacent
to any other district
Side Setback
22.86m (75 ft) if adjacent to
any other district
County Main Road
County Road
(4) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) more than six (6) recreational vehicle on a regular
basis, unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority;
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for a dwelling unit shall be not less
than 69.68 m2 (750 ft2).
(3) Setbacks
(a) Setbacks from right-of-ways shall be in accordance with
section 6.18.
(b) The setback from any property line adjoining a lot located in
any other district in this Bylaw shall be 22.86 m (75 ft).
(c) The setback from the property boundary in the Agricultural
'A' District shall be 7.62 m (25 ft).
(d) Where a lot adjoins a lake or river, no building shall be placed
in the area outside the lot property lines as shown on the
registered plan of subdivision or original land survey or lands
claimed by the Crown.
(e) Where a property line has been adjusted due to a change
in a natural boundary, the setback shall be applied from
the original property boundary and any development
must be contained within the development area of the
original boundary. The Development Authority may
make an exception where provision has been made for
development on accreted land in a Municipal Development
Plan, an Intermunicipal Development Plan or other local plan
approved by Council.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 84
Part 7
A
(iv) a recreational vehicle that is used as permanent
dwelling. However, a recreational vehicle may be used
for living and sleeping accommodation by visitors on a
temporary, short-term basis, no longer than two weeks,
or as temporary accommodation by the landowner(s)
or their building contractor for a period not exceeding
one (1) year following the issue of a development permit
for the construction of a dwelling on the property and
where arrangements, satisfactory to the Development
Officer, have been made for the disposal of wastewater
effluent; or
(v) sea container(s) (sea-can) shall not be located in
the front or side yard unless suitably screened to the
satisfaction of a Development Officer.
(5) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(6) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
(b) Outdoor storage will be a maximum of 1.61 hectares (4 acres)
and suitably screened to the satisfaction of the Development
Authority. RV and Boat storage may be larger at the discretion
of the Development Authority.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 86
GENERAL
COMMERCIAL
DISTRICT
C-GC
C-GC
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 87
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 88
Part 7
C-GC
7.2
GENERAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT (C-GC)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the General Commercial 'C-GC' District is to
accommodate a diversity of retail and service commercial uses typically
located in highly visible locations, such as resorts or other high traffic
areas.
Only those of the permitted or discretionary uses listed above which
include a principal building as part of the use may be approved on lands
in a multi-lot development subject to which this district applies which
lands are serviced by municipal/regional water and/or wastewater;
have a deferred service agreement on title; or have been identified for
future regional water and wastewater servicing. All other uses listed
above are prohibited on those lands.
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the General Commercial
'C-GC' District, the setback from the right-of-way and other
property lines shall be as follows:
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
3.05 m (10 ft)
6.10 m (20 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right-of-way or
a residential district
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Accommodation and convention
services
Agri-commercial
Alcohol production
Alternative energy, personal
Cannabis retail
Animal grooming facility
Care centre
Automotive, farm equipment and
recreational vehicle services
Entertainment facility
Automotive gas bar
Funeral home
Automotive service station
Heavy equipment sales and rental
Commercial school
Heavy equipment service and repair
Community facility
Mobile vendor
Custom manufacturing
Protective and emergency services
Eating and drinking establishment
Public use
Electric vehicle charging station
Public utility
Financial service
Public utility building
Government service
Recreation facilities, indoor
Health service
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Landscaping sales and service
Recycling depot
Lease bay building
Retail, major
Office
Security/operator suite
Personal service establishment
Veterinary hospital
2
USES
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Retail, minor
Tourist information services and
facilities
Veterinary clinic
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 89
Part 7
C-GC
Rear Line
3.05 m (10 ft)
6.10 m (20 ft) from a rear line
adjacent to a right-of-way or
a residential district
Side Setback
(Adjacent to ROW)
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
Rear Setback
6.10 m (20 ft) if adjacent to
a ROW or a residential district
Side Setback
(3) Height of Buildings
(a) Unless otherwise approved by the Development Authority,
the maximum building height shall be 11.89 m (39 ft), except
where a building abuts a residential district in which case the
maximum height shall be 10.06 m (33 ft).
(4) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise detri-
mental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly condition
as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(5) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 90
C-HC
C-HC
HIGHWAY
COMMERCIAL
DISTRICT
C-HC
C-HC
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 91
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 92
Part 7
C-HC
7.3
HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL DISTRICT (C-HC)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Highway Commercial 'C-HC' District is to accom-
modate a diversity of commercial, recreation and tourist uses largely
intended for highway travellers.
2
USES
Only those of the permitted or discretionary uses listed above which
include a principal building as part of the use may be approved on lands
in a multi-lot development subject to which this district applies which
lands are serviced by municipal/regional water and/or wastewater;
have a deferred service agreement on title; or have been identified for
future regional water and wastewater servicing. All other uses listed
above are prohibited on those lands.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Bulk fuel depot
Accommodation and convention
services
Campground, intermediate
Agri-commercial
Cannabis retail
Alcohol production
Care centre
Alternative energy, personal
Educational services
Animal grooming facility
Entertainment facility
Auction service
Funeral home
Automotive, farm equipment and
recreational vehicle services
Mobile vendor
Automotive gas bar
Modular,
RTM,
mobile
or
manufactured home sales
Automotive service station
Public use
Campground, minor
Public utility
Cartage and moving services
Public utility building
Commercial school
Racing entertainment centre facility
on the lands legally described as
Block 1 Plan 992 0636, Pt. SW 23-40-
27-W4M
Community facility
Recreation facilities, indoor
Custom manufacturing
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Eating and drinking establishment
Retail, major
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Electric vehicle charging station
Security/operator suite
Financial service
Special event, major on the lands
legally described as Block 1 Plan 992
0636, Pt. SW 23-40-27-W4M
Government service
Special event, minor on the lands
legally described as Block 1 Plan 992
0636, Pt. SW 23-40-27-W4M
Health service
Veterinary hospital
Heavy equipment sales and rental
Heavy equipment service and repair
Industrial training service
Landscaping sales and service
Lease bay building
Office
Personal service establishment
Protective and emergency services
Retail, minor
Theatre
Tourist information services and
facilities
Transportation terminal/hub
Truck stop
Vehicle wash
Veterinary clinic
Warehousing and storage
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 93
Part 7
C-HC
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Highway Commercial
'C-HC' District, the setback from the right-of-way and other
property lines shall be as follows:
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
6.10 m (20 ft)
9.14 m (30 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a residential district
Rear Line
6.10 m (20 ft)
9.14 m (30 ft) from a rear line
adjacent to a residential district
Side Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
Rear Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Side Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
(3) Height of Buildings
(a) Unless otherwise approved by the Development Authority,
the maximum building height shall be 10.06 m (33 ft), except
that a hotel may be up to 16.15 m (53 ft) in height.
(4) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(5) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 94
HAMLET
COMMERCIAL
DISTRICT
C-H
C-H
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 95
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 96
Part 7
C-H
7.4
HAMLET COMMERCIAL DISTRICT (C-H)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Hamlet Commercial 'C-H' District is to provide an
area for commercial and related uses which are compatible with a
hamlet or community scale setting.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Maximum Parcel Frontage
Fringe Commercial Area
15.24 m (50 ft) adjacent to a service road
45.72 m (150 ft) without a service road
(2) Site Coverage
(a) The area of land covered by buildings (includes accessory
buildings) to be a maximum of 80%.
(3) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where the right-of-way is situated in the Hamlet Commercial
'C-H' District, the setback from the right-of way and other
property lines for all buildings shall be as follows:
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Accommodation and convention
services
Agri-commercial
Adult care residence
Alternative energy, personal
Alcohol production
Animal grooming facility
Automotive gas bar
Automotive, farm equipment and
recreational vehicle services
Automotive service station
Community facility
Bulk fuel depot (in Fringe Commercial
Area Only)
Commercial school
Campground, minor
Custom manufacturing
Cannabis retail
Eating and drinking establishment
Care centre
Electric vehicle charging station
Dwelling unit above the ground
floor in core commercial area only
Financial service
Educational services
Government service
Funeral home
Health service
Mobile vendor
Industrial training service
Public use
Landscaping sales and service
Public utility
Lease bay building
Public utility building
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Office
Recreation facilities, indoor
Personal service establishment
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Retail, minor
Retail major
Tourist information services and
facilities
Security/operator suite (developed in
accordance with the H-R2 regulations)
Vehicle wash
Special event, major (in Fringe
Commercial Area Only)
Veterinary clinic
Special event, minor
Theatre
Transportation terminal
Veterinary hospital
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 97
Part 7
C-H
Core Commercial Area
Front
none
Side
none, or as required in the Alberta
Building Code
Rear
6.10 m (20 ft)
Exemptions from Setback Requirements for Core Commercial Area
The setbacks do not apply to:
(a)
the portion of and attachments to a main or
accessory building not exceeding 1.52 m (5
ft) into a rear yard; and
(b)
any projection that is an exterior fire escape
not exceeding 1.21 m (4 ft) in width.
No portion of a building other than eaves, signs or canopies
shall project into a public or private right-of-way.
Side Setback
none, or as required by
the Alberta Building Code
Front Setback
0 m
0 ft
0 m
0 ft
0 m
0 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
Rear Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Side Setback
none, or as required by
the Alberta Building Code
Fringe Commercial Area
Front
7.62 (25 ft)
Side
6.10 m (20 ft)
9.14 m (30 ft) from a side line adjacent to a
right-of-way or a residential district
Rear
6.10 m (20 ft)
9.14 m (30 ft) from a rear line adjacent to a
right-of-way or a residential district
Side Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
Rear Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Side Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
HAMLET OF MIRROR
HAMLET OF MIRROR
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 98
Part 7
C-H
(4) Parking and Loading
(a) Loading spaces shall be located in the rear and side yards
only.
(b) Hard surfacing of the loading space shall be required, where
a loading space enters a paved road, otherwise, the surfacing
shall be all-weather.
(c) Parking must be in accordance with Section 6.19 of the
Bylaw.
(5) Dwelling Unit
(a) Buildings containing a dwelling unit in the Hamlet
Commercial 'C-H' District shall have an entrance to the
dwelling unit that is separate from the entrance to any
commercial part of the building.
(6) Building Height Maximum
(a) Unless otherwise approved by the Development Authority,
the maximum building height shall be 12.19m (40 ft).
(7) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(8) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS of the Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 99
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 100
BUSINESS
INDUSTRIAL
DISTRICT
I-BI
I-BI
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 101
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 102
Part 7
I-BI
7.5
BUSINESS INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT (I-BI)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Business Industrial 'I-BI' District is to provide for a
broad range of commercial and industrial uses in business and indus-
trial parks, some of which may have outdoor storage or work activities.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Subdivision Authority.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Bulk fuel depot
Agri-commercial
Cannabis production facility
Agri-industrial
Cartage and freight terminal
Alcohol production
Crematorium
Alternative energy, personal
Data processing centre
Auction service
Eating and drinking establishment
Automotive, farm equipment and
recreational vehicle services
Mobile vendor
Automotive gas bar
Outdoor storage
Automotive service station
Recreation facilities, indoor
Cartage and moving services
Recycling depot
Commercial school
Retail, major
Community facility
Retail, minor
Custom manufacturing
Salvage yard
Contractor business
Security/operator suite
Electric vehicle charging station
Truck stop
Financial service
Government service
Health service
Heavy equipment sales and rental
Only those of the permitted or discretionary uses listed above which
include a principal building as part of the use may be approved
on lands in a multi-lot development subject to which this District
applies which lands are serviced by municipal/regional water and/or
wastewater; have a deferred service agreement on title; or have been
identified for future regional water and wastewater servicing. All other
uses listed above are prohibited on those lands.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Heavy equipment service and repair
Industrial, light manufacturing and
processing
Industrial training service
Landscaping sales and service
Lease bay building
Protective and emergency services
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Rail spur
Rail yard
Transportation terminal/hub
Vehicle wash
Veterinary hospital
Warehousing and storage
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 103
Part 7
I-BI
(b) The maximum size of a lot adjacent to a provincial highway
or a county main road shall be 4 ha (10 ac), unless otherwise
approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Business Industrial
'I-BI' District, the setback from the right-of-way and other
property lines shall be as follows:
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
6.10 m (20 ft)
9.14 m (30 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a residential district
Rear Line
6.10 m (20 ft)
9.14 m (30 ft) from a rear line
adjacent to a residential district
(3) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height of a building shall be determined by
the Development Authority.
(4) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(5) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Side Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
Rear Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Side Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 104
HEAVY
INDUSTRIAL
DISTRICT
I-HI
I-HI
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 105
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 106
Part 7
I-HI
7.6
HEAVY INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT (I-HI)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Heavy Industrial 'I-HI' District is to provide for
large scale industrial uses that due, to their noise, odour, risk of toxic
emissions, fire or explosion hazard, are incompatible with residential
and other land uses.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Heavy Industrial 'I-HI'
District, the setback from the right-of-way and other property
lines shall be as follows:
Front Line
15.24 m (50 ft)
Side Line
15.24 m (50 ft)
Rear Line
15.24 m (50 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
15.24 m
50 ft
15.24 m
50 ft
15.24 m
50 ft
15.24 m
50 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use, except
those buildings that are exempt
under section 3.2(1)(f) in Part 3 of
this Bylaw
Alternative energy, commercial
Alternative energy, personal
Data processing centre
Agri-industrial
Electric vehicle charging station
Heavy equipment service and repair
Industrial, heavy manufacturing and
processing
Oil and gas facility, uses accessory to
the oil and gas industry
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Rail spur
Rail yard
Security/operator suite
Warehousing and storage
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 107
Part 7
I-HI
(3) Notwithstanding section (2)(b), the Development Authority may
require a minimum setback of 457.2 m (1,500 ft) from the limits of
a heavy industrial facility to the outside boundary of the parcel on
which the facility is situated when the parcel is located adjacent
to a land use which is deemed incompatible.
(4) Floor Area
(a) Building size as per the Section 6.12 of the General
Regulations.
(5) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height of a building shall be determined by
the Development Authority.
(6) Unsightly premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(7) General Provisions
(a) Safety and risk assessment is an integral component of the
industrial development permitting process. Where there
are potential effects or risks associated with a proposed
development, the Development Authority may require an
applicant to retain a qualified professional acceptable to the
Development Authority to provide a risk assessment report
of the proposed development.
(8) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 108
HAMLET
INDUSTRIAL
DISTRICT
I-H
I-H
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 109
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 110
Part 7
I-H
7.7
HAMLET INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT (I-H)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Hamlet Industrial 'I-H' District is to provide an area
for industrial related uses, which are compatible with a hamlet or
community scale setting.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where the right-of-way is situated in the Hamlet Industrial
'I-H' District, the setback from the right-of way and other
property lines for all buildings shall be as follows:
Front
6.10 m (20 ft)
Side
3.04 m (10 ft)
6.10 m (20 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a residential district
Rear
6.10 m (20 ft)
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Alcohol production
Alternative energy, personal
Auto wrecking yard
Agri-commercial
Bulk fuel depot
Agri-industrial
Cannabis production facility
Automotive, farm equipment and
recreational vehicle services
Cartage and freight terminal
Automotive gas bar
Industrial, heavy manufacturing and
processing
Automotive service station
Mobile vendor
Commercial school
Outdoor storage
Community facility
Public use
Custom manufacturing
Public utility
Electric vehicle charging station
Public utility building
Heavy equipment sales and rental
Security/operator suite (developed in
accordance with the H-R2 regulations)
Heavy equipment service and repair
Solid waste transfer station
Industrial, light manufacturing and
processing
Veterinary hospital
Lease bay building
Rail spur
Rail yard
Transportation terminal/hub
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Vehicle wash
Veterinary clinic
Warehousing and storage
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 111
Part 7
I-H
(2) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise detri-
mental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly condition
as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(3) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS of the Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 112
RECREATION
DISTRICT
PR
PR
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 113
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 114
Part 7
PR
7.8
RECREATION DISTRICT (PR)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Recreation 'PR' District is to provide a wide range of
recreational facilities and tourist attractions.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Recreation 'PR' District,
the setback from the right-of-way and other property lines
for all buildings shall be as follows:
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
6.10 m (20 ft)
9.14 m (30 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a residential district
Rear Line
6.10 m (20 ft)
9.14 m (30 ft) from a rear line
adjacent to a residential district
(c) Where a property line has been adjusted due to a change
in a natural boundary, the setback shall be applied from
the original property boundary and any development
must be contained within the development area of the
original boundary. The Development Authority may
make an exception where provision has been made for
development on accreted land in a Municipal Development
Plan, an Intermunicipal Development Plan or other local plan
approved by Council.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Accommodation and convention
services
Agri-tourism business
Automotive gas bar
Alternative energy, personal
Campground, major
Campground intermediate
Cannabis retail
Community facility
Eating and drinking establishment
Institutional camp
Marina and/or boat rental
Recreation facilities, indoor
Mobile vendor
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Public use
Tourist information services and
facilities
Public utility
Public utility building
Retail, minor
Security/operator suite
Special event, minor
Wastewater treatment plant for the
Wolf Creek Golf Resort on the lands
legally described as follows: All
that portion of the NW 35-41-26-
W4M which lies northwest of the
northwesterly limit of the road as
shown on Road Plan 4159EU.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 115
Part 7
PR
(3) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height of a building shall be determined by
the Development Authority.
(4) Servicing
Water Servicing
(a) An evaluation by a qualified professional is required to
confirm there is a sufficient groundwater supply available
to meet the needs of the proposed development, and not
interfere with any existing surrounding water users.
Wastewater Servicing
(b) Where a proposed development is located in a lake plan
area and is unable to connect to a municipal or regional
wastewater system, an advanced wastewater treatment
system that complies with the National Sanitation Foundation
International Standard for Wastewater Technology, NSF-40
Standard for Wastewater Treatment Systems or the CAN/BNQ
3680-910 Standard for (Stand Alone) Wastewater Treatment
Systems shall be required. The Development Authority may
require an advanced wastewater treatment system for any
changes or expansion proposed to an existing institutional
camp or recreation facility.
Wastewater Servicing (Sylvan Lake)
(c) Notwithstanding subsection (b), all recreation developments
that were conditionally approved by the County prior to
October 14, 2010 within the plan area of the Sylvan Lake Area
Structure Plan, shall be serviced by only a wastewater holding
tank, unless the development can be connected directly to a
municipal or regional wastewater system.
(i)
If a recreation development was conditionally
approved to be serviced by a wastewater holding tank
as described above, the development can expand up to
25% additional beds (as part of accommodation facilities
with a fixed roof) without requiring connection to the
regional wastewater system. If the expansion results in
greater than 25% additional beds, the development
must connect to the regional wastewater system.
(d) All recreation developments that were conditionally
approved by the County after October 14, 2010 within the
plan area of the Sylvan Lake Area Structure Plan, shall be
serviced by the regional wastewater system.
General Regulations
(e) The Development Authority may require that a caveat be
registered against the title respecting a deferred services
agreement notifying the owner(s) of the development of
the requirement to contribute to the cost of a municipal or
regional water and/or wastewater system and, at their own
cost, connect the development to such system or systems
when such services become available. Such connection
costs may include offsite as well as onsite costs.
(f) Utility rights-of-way and/or easement agreements may
also be required as a condition of development approval to
allow for connection to a municipal or regional water and/or
wastewater system.
Side Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
Rear Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Side Setback
9.14 m (30 ft) if adjacent to
a residential district
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 116
Part 7
PR
(5) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(6) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 118
HAMLET PUBLIC
RECREATION
DISTRICT
PR-H
PR-H
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 119
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 120
Part 7
PR-H
7.9
HAMLET PUBLIC RECREATION DISTRICT (PR-H)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Hamlet Public Recreation 'PR-H' District is to provide
lands for recreational uses and activities within a hamlet or community
scale setting.
2
USES
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Campground, major
Alternative energy, personal
Cemetery
Campground, minor
Community facility
Campground, intermediate
Mobile vendor
Recreation facilities,outdoor
Public use
Trails
Public utility
Public utility building
Recreation facilities,indoor
Special event, minor
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Hamlet Public
Recreation 'PR-H' District, the setback from the right-of-way
and other property lines for all buildings shall be as follows:
Front
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side
3.05 m (10 ft), or as required in the
Alberta Building Code, whichever is
greater
Rear
6.10 m (20 ft)
(2) Building Height Maximum
Main building
12.19 m (40 ft)
Accessory building
6.10 m (20 ft)
Side Setback
or, as required in the
Alberta Building Code,
whichever is greater
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
6.10 m
20 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
or, as required in the
Alberta Building Code,
whichever is greater
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 121
Part 7
PR-H
(3) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(4) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS of the Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 122
RECREATIONAL
VEHICLE RESORT
DISTRICT
R-RVR
R-RVR
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 123
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 124
Part 7
R-RVR
7.10 RECREATIONAL VEHICLE RESORT DISTRICT
(R-RVR)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Recreational Vehicle Resort 'R-RVR' District is to
provide an area that will facilitate recreational vehicle resort uses, and
associated buildings through the bare land condominium tenure
system.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Minimum Condominium Unit Area
(a) Each condominium unit shall be a minimum of 278.72 m2
(3,000 ft2) in area.
(3) Site Coverage
(a) Setback distances for recreational vehicles, including park
models, shall be applied to all tip outs, push outs, pull outs,
additions, covered and/or enclosed decks, porches and/or
verandas.
Condominium Units less than 371.61 m2 (4000 ft2) in size
(b) The area of land covered by structures located at or higher
than 0.91 metres (3 feet) above grade shall not exceed 40%
of the total condominium unit area to a maximum of 134.7
m2 (1,450 ft2). This maximum site coverage shall include all
recreational vehicles, including park models (this includes
all tip outs, push outs, pull outs, additions, covered and/
or enclosed decks, porches verandas), decks, accessory
building, wood storage box, and gazebo.
Condominium Units more than 371.61 m2 (4000 ft2) in size
(c) The area of land covered by structures located at or higher
than 0.91 metres (3 feet) above grade shall not exceed 40%
of the total condominium unit area to a maximum of 148.7
m2 (1,600 ft2). This maximum site coverage shall include all
recreational vehicles, including park models (this includes
all tip outs, push outs, pull outs, additions, covered and/
or enclosed decks, porches verandas), decks, accessory
building, wood storage box, and gazebo.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Automotive gas bar
Amenity building
Alternative energy, personal
Campground intermediate
Campground, major
Home based business, minor
Community facility
One Recreational Vehicle - Motorized
or Towable per condominium unit
Eating and drinking establishment
One Recreational Vehicle - Park
Model
Recreational
Unit
per
condominium unit
Marina and/or boat rental
One Recreational Vehicle - Park
Model Trailer per condominium unit Mobile vendor
One
addition
to
Park
Model
Recreational Unit per condominium
unit
Public use
One addition to Park Model Trailer
per condominium unit
Public utility
Park
Public utility building
Recreation equipment storage
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Show Home
Retail, minor
Security/operator suite
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 125
Part 7
R-RVR
Accessory buildings to recreational vehicles, including park models
Front line
no closer to the front line
boundary than a recreational
vehicle, including park models
Side line
minimum of 0.6 m (2 ft) side yard
on one side and on the opposite
side, the accessory building shall
not be closer than 1.5 m (5 ft) to
the property line
Rear line
0.91 m (3 ft)
Side Setback
or, as required in the
Alberta Building Code,
whichever is greater
Front Setback
no closer than RV or park model
1.5 m
5 ft
0.6 m
2 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
0.91 m
3 ft
(c) Setback distances for recreational vehicles, including park
models, shall be applied to all tip outs, push outs, pull outs,
additions, covered and/or enclosed decks, porches and/or
verandas.
(5) Open Space
(a) A minimum of 20% of the gross condominium unit area shall
be set aside for public or private green space area and no
portion of any condominium unit shall be included in this
open space.
(4) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Setbacks from common property and other property lines
shall be as follows:
All recreational vehicles, including park models
Front line
6.10 m (20 ft)
Side line
minimum of 0.6 m (2 ft) side yard on
one side and on the opposite side,
the recreational vehicle, including
park model, shall not be closer than
1.5 m (5 ft) to the property line. Not
withstanding this, no recreational
vehicle, including park models, shall
be located within 3.05 m (10 ft) of
another
Rear line
1.52 m (5 ft)
Side Setback
or, as required in the
Alberta Building Code,
whichever is greater
Front Setback
6.10 m
20 ft
1.5 m
5 ft
0.6 m
2 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
Separation Distance
(between RV's and park models)
3.05 m
10 ft
1.52 m
5 ft
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 126
Part 7
R-RVR
(6) Site Limitations
(a) Condominium unit development shall be limited to one
recreation vehicle, including park model, and one associated
accessory building.
(b) Condominium unit outdoor storage shall be limited to two
off-road vehicle units, including but not limited to an ATV,
dirt bike, jet ski, golf cart, or snowmobile per condo unit. If
two off-road vehicles are situated on a trailer, the trailer as a
whole shall be considered one unit. Further, off-road vehicles
stored within the confines of enclosed buildings shall not be
considered a unit under this provision. Any off-road vehicles
in excess of the abovementioned provision shall otherwise
be stored in a communal storage area which has been
appropriately situated and screened to the satisfaction of the
Development Authority.
(c) Where a bare land condominium development is located
partially within the 1:100 year flood elevation, no recreational
vehicle, including a park model, or other permanent structure
shall be constructed or located on lands within this area.
(d) With the exception of the use of pilings as a means of
anchoring, recreational vehicles, including park models and
any additions hereto are prohibited from having permanent
foundations or bases extending below the frost level.
(e) Garages, carports, and other structures associated with
vehicle storage are prohibited.
(f) Guesthouses, bunkhouses and any structure other than a
recreational vehicle, including park models, intended to be
used as sleeping accommodations are prohibited.
(g) Only one accessory building permitted per condominium
unit.
(h) In addition to the accessory building permitted in section
(g):
(i)
One wood storage box may be allowed provided it is
no greater than 1.22 m (4 ft) in height and 2.97 m2 (32
ft2) in size.
(ii) One gazebo is permitted per condominium unit,
provided it is no greater in height than the recreational
vehicle, including park model, and no greater than
13.94 m² (150 ft²) in size.
(iii) One covered deck is permitted per condominium
unit. The covered deck must be contiguous with the
recreational vehicle, including park models and can
be no greater in height than the recreational vehicle,
including park models. A covered deck used for a
moveable or towable recreational vehicle cannot be
enclosed by any impermeable material as determined
by the Development Authority.
(7) Servicing
Water Servicing
(a) The proposed development shall be serviced only by a
communal water supply system or alternatively, may be
directly connected to a municipal or regional water system.
(b) Details of the communal water system proposed to service a
development shall be provided to the County to show how
the system will be managed and operated. A communal
system must be designed and built in accordance with
provincial standards, and shall be licensed by the Province
and the County's Standards Manual.
Wastewater Servicing
(c) Where a communal wastewater system is proposed, the
proposed development shall be serviced by a system that
treats effluent to a minimum secondary treatment standard
before dispersal and final treatment in the soil.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 127
Part 7
R-RVR
(d) Notwithstanding subsection (c), all recreational vehicle resort
lots that form part of a subdivision conditionally approved
by the County prior to October 14, 2010 within the plan area
of the Sylvan Lake Area Structure Plan, shall be serviced by
only a communal wastewater holding tank system, unless
the development can be connected directly to a municipal
or regional wastewater system.
(e) All recreational vehicle resort lots that form part of a
subdivision conditionally approved by the County after
October 14, 2010 within the plan area of the Sylvan Lake Area
Structure Plan, shall be serviced by the regional wastewater
system.
General Regulations
(f) Developers of recreational vehicle resort developments may
be required to register against the titled properties a caveat
regarding a deferred services agreement notifying each
bare land condominium unit owner of the requirement to
contribute to the cost of a municipal or regional water and/
or wastewater system and, at their own cost, connect the
unit to such system or systems when such services become
available. Such connection costs may include offsite as well
as onsite costs.
(g) An evaluation by a qualified professional is required to
confirm there is a sufficient groundwater supply available
to meet the needs of the proposed development, and not
interfere with any existing surrounding water users.
(h) Utility rights-of-way and/or easement agreements may also
be required as a condition of approval for a new development
to allow for connection to a municipal or regional water and/
or wastewater system.
(8) Landscaping
(a) Landscaping shall be subject to section 6.14 or as required
by the Development Authority.
(9) Common Storage
(a) A bare land condominium development shall provide
common storage area(s) for the sole use of the condominium
unit owners in the amount of not less than 9.2 m2 (100 ft2)
per unit, landscaped and screened to the satisfaction of the
Development Authority.
(10) Parking and Loading
(a) Off-street parking and/or loading areas for non-residential
uses shall be provided as required by section 6.19 or as
required by the Development Authority.
(b) Each condominium unit must provide a minimum of two (2)
parking stalls.
(c) A bare land condominium development shall provide
one additional parking space for every five (5) bare land
condominium units for guest and overflow parking
requirements.
(11) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height of a Recreational Vehicle, including
Park Model, shall be 5.36 m (17.6 ft) measured from the grade
level to the peak.
(b) The maximum height of an amenity building shall be as
approved by the Development Authority.
(c) Height restrictions for accessory structures are referred to in
PART 6 - GENERAL REGULATIONS.
(12) Keeping of Animals
(a) The keeping of animals, livestock or poultry, with the
exception of dogs, cats and such other domestic pets as are
typically kept indoors, is prohibited.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a condominium unit.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 128
Part 7
R-RVR
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a
condominium unit must be controlled so that they do not
create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
(13) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicles;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structure
(14) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(15) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 129
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 130
HAMLET
DISTRICT
H
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 131
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 132
Part 7
H
7.11 HAMLET DISTRICT (H)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Hamlet 'H' District is to provide for residential uses
with commercial and industrial uses that are compatible in scale and
appearance with surrounding development, to encourage hamlet
growth and development. This District applies to the Hamlets of
Haynes, Joffre, Morningside and Tees, as well as the communities of
Hespero and Rosedale Valley.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) A property that is to be used as a site for a residential dwelling
shall have a minimum area as stipulated in the following
regulations:
Unserviced (private water and wastewater systems)
1,858.06 m2 (20,000 ft2)
2,787.09 m2 (30,000 ft2) in Rosedale Valley
all with a minimum parcel width of 30.48 m (100 ft)
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Agri-commercial
Community facility
Agri-industrial
Dwelling, single detached
Accommodation and convention
services
Home based business, minor
Adult care residence
Protective and emergency services
Alternative energy, personal
Public use
Automotive, farm equipment and
recreational vehicle services
Public utility
Bed and breakfast
Public utility building
Contractor business
Tourist information services and
facilities
Dwelling, apartment
Dwelling, duplex
Dwelling, fourplex
Dwelling,
mobile/manufactured
home
Dwelling, moved-in residence
Dwelling, row housing
Dwelling, secondary suite
Eating and drinking establishment
Government service
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Health service
Home based business, major
Industrial, light manufacturing and
processing
Minor business or trade
Mobile vendor
Neighbourhood convenience store
Office
Personal service establishment
Recreation facilities, indoor
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Recycling depot
Retail, minor
Special event, minor
Tourist home
Veterinary hospital
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 133
Part 7
H
Serviced (municipal water and wastewater systems)
550.45 m2 (5,925 ft2)
with a minimum parcel width of 15.24 m (50 ft)
Licensed wastewater collection system only
1,250.01 m2 (13,455 ft2)
with a minimum parcel width of 30.48 m (100 ft)
Licensed water distribution system only
1,858.06 m2 (20,000 ft2)
with a minimum parcel width of 30.48 m (100 ft)
(b) No dwelling shall be permitted on a property, where the area
or width of which is less than the minimum prescribed for this
District, except that a lot with separate title in the Land Titles
Office may be used at the discretion of the Development
Authority provided that the development complies with all
other requirements of this Bylaw.
(c) Properties that are to be used for non-residential purposes
shall have an area as approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for a dwelling unit shall be not less
than 69.68 m2 (750 ft2). Standards for other uses shall be as
required by the Development Authority.
(3) Site Coverage
(a) The area of land covered by buildings (inc. garages and other
accessory buildings) shall not exceed 30% of the total site
area.
(4) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Hamlet 'H' District, the
setback from the right-of-way and other property lines shall
be as follows:
Detached dwellings
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
1.52 m (5 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right-of-way)
Rear Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Buildings accessory to such dwellings
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
0.91 m (3 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right-of-way
Rear Line
0.91 m (3 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
1.52 m
5 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 134
Part 7
H
All other uses
Front Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Side Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Rear Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Notwithstanding the preceding, any building into which a vehicle
may enter shall have a driveway on the site of not less than 6.10 m
(20 ft) in length in front of the entranceway to the building.
(5) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height of a main building shall be 10.06 m
(33 ft), unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
(6) Placement of Buildings
(a) Buildings shall be located such that the exterior wall is parallel
to the front line of the site or to the chord of the front line
of the site, unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
(7) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on properties in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a property is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a property in this District.
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
0.91 m
3 ft
0.91 m
3 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 135
Part 7
H
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a property in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(8) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) A recreational vehicle shall not be kept on a vacant property,
except as to provide temporary accommodation for
the registered owner(s) of the property or their building
contractor for a period not exceeding one (1) year following
the issue of a development permit for the construction of
a development on the property and where arrangements,
satisfactory to the Development Officer, have been made for
the disposal of wastewater effluent.
(b) If a dwelling already exists on a property, a recreational vehicle
may only be used for living and sleeping accommodation by
visitors on a temporary, short term basis, not exceeding two
(2) weeks.
(c) Not more than one (1) recreational vehicle shall be stored or
parked on a property with a dwelling.
(d) No person shall keep in their yards:
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 136
Part 7
H
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structure.
(9) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(10) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 137
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 138
HAMLET
RESIDENTIAL 1
DISTRICT
H-R1
H-R1
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 139
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 140
Part 7
H-R1
7.12 HAMLET RESIDENTIAL 1 DISTRICT (H-R1)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Hamlet Residential 1 'H-R1' District is to provide
an area for residential development consisting primarily of detached
dwellings with other housing types dispersed throughout the District,
all of which will be connected to municipal systems.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
Single detached dwelling, moved-in residence
549.98 m² (5,920 ft²)
with a minimum parcel width of 15.24 m (50 ft)
Duplex dwelling
274.99 m² (2,960 ft²)
Row housing
Interior parcel
184.96 m² (1,991 ft²)
Corner parcel
274.99 m² (2,960 ft²)
Fourplex
Interior parcel
179.95 m² (1,937 ft²)
Corner parcel
184.96 m² (1,991 ft²)
Apartment
1.3 times the building's total floor area
(2) Floor Area
All dwelling units
minimum 69.68 m2 (750 ft2)
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Adult care residence
Dwelling, single detached
Alternative energy, personal
Home based business, minor
Bed and breakfast
Community facility
Daycare facility
Dwelling, apartment
Dwelling, duplex
Dwelling, fourplex
Dwelling,
mobile/manufactured
home (existing mobile/manufactured
home
on
approved
permanent
foundation)
Dwelling,
mobile/manufactured
home (maximum 10 years old, only as
a replacement for an existing mobile/
manufactured home)
Dwelling, moved-in residence
Dwelling, row housing
Dwelling, secondary suite
Home based business, major
Neighbourhood convenience store
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Park
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 141
Part 7
H-R1
(3) Site Coverage
Single detached dwelling, replacement mobile/manufactured home,
moved-in residence, duplex dwelling, fourplex or row housing
55% (includes garage and accessory buildings)
Apartment
75% (includes accessory buildings)
(4) Setbacks
General Requirements
Single detached dwelling, replacement mobile/manufactured home,
moved-in residence, duplex dwelling, fourplex or row housing
Front
6.10 m (20 ft)
Side
1.52 m (5 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line adjacent
to a street
Rear
6.10 m (20 ft)
Apartment
Front
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side
3.05 m (10 ft)
6.10 m (20 ft) from a side line adjacent to a
street
Rear
9.75 m (32 ft)
Accessory buildings
Front
no closer to the street than the main building
Side
0.91 m (3 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line adjacent to a
street
Rear
0.91 m (3 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
9.75 m
32 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
6.10 m
20 ft
Side Setback
Front Setback
(no closer to street
than main building)
0.91 m
3 ft
0.91 m
3 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 142
Part 7
H-R1
Buildings with Vehicle Access
Any building into which a vehicle may enter shall have a
driveway on the parcel at least 6.10 m (20 ft) in length, ex-
cept where the driveway enters a lane, where it shall be ei-
ther 1.52 m (5 ft) or at least 6.10 m (20 ft).
(5) Existing Mobile/Manufactured Homes
(a) A mobile/manufactured home that exists in the Hamlet
Residential 1 'H-R1' District may be replaced with another
mobile/manufactured home, no older than ten (10) years,
and additions may be permitted at the discretion of the
Development Authority.
(6) Building Height Maximum
Single detached dwelling, replacement mobile/manufactured home,
moved-in residence, duplex dwelling, fourplex or row housing
10.05 m (33 ft)
Apartment
12.19 m (40 ft)
Accessory buildings
6.10 m (20 ft), subject to height not exceeding the height of
the main building
(7) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) No person shall allow a recreational vehicle, bus or large
boat to be stored in any yard abutting a street in a Hamlet
Residential 1 'H-R1' District, except in a rear yard on a corner
parcel where it shall be stored no closer to the street than the
main building.
(b) No person shall allow a vehicle of more than 2,730 kg (6,019
lbs) GVW and/or a length of 6.4 m (21 ft) to be parked or
stored in a Hamlet Residential 1 'H-R1' District property,
except those vehicles described in subsection 7(a).
(c) A recreational vehicle shall not be kept on a vacant property,
except as to provide temporary accommodation for
the registered owner(s) of the property or their building
contractor for a period not exceeding one (1) year following
the issue of a development permit for the construction of
a development on the property and where arrangements,
satisfactory to the Development Officer, have been made for
the disposal of wastewater effluent.
(d) If a dwelling already exists on a property, a recreational vehicle
may only be used for living and sleeping accommodation by
visitors on a temporary, short term basis, not exceeding two
(2) weeks.
(e) Not more than one (1) recreational vehicle shall be stored or
parked on a property with a dwelling.
(f) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other that what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(vii) tarp/canvas covered structures.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 143
Part 7
H-R1
(8) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on properties in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a property is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a property in this District.
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a property in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 144
Part 7
H-R1
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(9) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(10) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS of the Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 145
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 146
HAMLET
RESIDENTIAL 2
MOBILE
HOME
DISTRICT
H-R2
H-R2
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 147
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 148
Part 7
H-R2
7.13 HAMLET RESIDENTIAL 2 MOBILE HOME DISTRICT
(H-R2)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Hamlet Residential 2 Mobile Home 'H-R2' District is
to provide for mobile/manufactured homes on subdivided lots, which
will be connected to municipal water and sewer systems.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
Single wide mobile/
370.03 m2 (3,983 ft2) on interior site
manufactured home
419.92 m2 (4,520 ft2) on corner site
Double wide mobile/
470.08 m2 (5,060 ft2) on interior site
manufactured home
510.03 m2 (5,490 ft2) on corner site
(2) Floor Area
All mobile /manufacturedhomes
minimum 69.68 m2 (750 ft2)
(3) Site Coverage
55% (includes garage and accessory buildings)
(4) Setbacks
Mobile/manufactured homes
Front
6.10 m (20 ft)
Side
1.52 m (5 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line adjacent to a
street
Rear
6.10 m (20 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
6.10 m
20 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
1.5 m
5 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
6.10 m
20 ft
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Alternative energy, personal
Dwelling,
mobile/manufactured
home (new)
Community facility
Home based business, minor
Daycare facility
Dwelling,
mobile/manufactured
home (relocated, maximum 10 years
old)
Dwelling, modular home/RTM
Dwelling, single detached (only as
a replacement for an existing single
detached dwelling)
Dwelling, single detached (existing)
Home based business, major
Park
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 149
Part 7
H-R2
Accessory buildings
Front
no closer to the street than the main building
Side
0.91 m (3 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line adjacent to a
street
Rear
0.91 m (3 ft)
Buildings with Vehicle Access
Any building into which a vehicle may enter shall have a
driveway on the parcel at least 6.10 m (20 ft) in length, except
where the driveway enters a lane, where it shall be at least
1.52 m (5 ft).
(5) Existing Detached Dwellings
(a) A single detached dwelling that exists in the Hamlet
Residential 2 'H-R2' District may be replaced with another
single detached dwelling and additions, and structural
alterations to the detached dwelling may be permitted at the
discretion of the Development Authority. When deciding on
an application for a replacement single detached dwelling,
the Development Authority shall apply the regulations
prescribed under the Hamlet Residential 1 'H-R1'District.
Side Setback
Front Setback
(no closer to street
than main building)
3.05 m
10 ft
0.91 m
3 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
0.91 m
3 ft
(6) Building Height Maximum
Mobile/manufactured homes
6.10 m (20 ft)
and attached structures
Existing single detached dwellings
6.10 m (20 ft)
Accessory buildings
6.10 m (20 ft)
(7) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) No person shall allow a recreational vehicle, bus, or large
boat to be stored in any yard abutting a street in the Hamlet
Residential 2 'H-R2' District, except in a rear yard on a corner
parcel where it shall be stored no closer to the street than the
main building.
(b) No person shall allow a vehicle of more than 6,019 lbs.
(2,730 kg) GVW and/or a length of 6.4 m (21 ft) to be parked
or stored in the Hamlet Residential 2 'H-R2' District, except
those vehicles described in subsection 7(a).
(c) A recreational vehicle shall not be kept on a vacant property,
except as to provide temporary accommodation for
the registered owner(s) of the property or their building
contractor for a period not exceeding one (1) year following
the issue of a development permit for the construction or
placement of a development on the property and where
arrangements, satisfactory to the Development Officer, have
been made for the disposal of wastewater effluent.
(d) If a dwelling already exists on a property, a recreational vehicle
may only be used for living and sleeping accommodation by
visitors on a temporary, short term basis, not exceeding two
(2) weeks.
(e) Not more than one (1) recreational vehicle shall be stored or
parked on a property with a dwelling.
(f) No person shall keep in their yards:
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 150
Part 7
H-R2
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other that what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structures.
(8) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on properties in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a property is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a property in this District.
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 151
Part 7
H-R2
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a property in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(9) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(10) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS of the Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 152
HAMLET
RESIDENTIAL 3
DISTRICT
H-R3
H-R3
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 153
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 154
Part 7
H-R3
7.14 HAMLET RESIDENTIAL 3 DISTRICT (H-R3)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Hamlet Residential 3 'H-R3' District is to provide
an area for country residential development that retains the rural
character of the area. This District consists of acreage style lots, which
utilize a communal or municipal water/wastewater system.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) A property that is to be used as a site for residential dwelling
shall have an area of at least 0.2 ha (0.5 ac) but less than 0.40
ha (1.00 ac).
(b) Council may at its discretion reduce the minimum parcel size
requirement if additional open space is provided in excess
of the maximum reserve dedications under the Act. Any
reduction of lot size shall be calculated on the basis that
a decrease of 0.02 ha (0.05 ac) may be permitted for every
additional 1% of the gross developable land which is
provided as open space to the extent that no lot shall be
smaller than 0.1 ha (0.25 ac) in size.
(c) For the purpose of this Bylaw, gross developable land shall be
considered as the land that is available for development after
road widening, environmental reserve (or reserve easement)
and public utility lots are deducted from the titled area.
(d) All proposed parcels shall have an environmentally suitable
developable area of not less than 0.06 ha (0.15 ac).
(e) Properties that are to be used for non-residential purposes
shall have an area as approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for a dwelling unit shall be:
one-storey dwelling
83.61 m2 (900 ft2)
two-storey dwelling
111.48 m2 (1,200 ft2)
(b) Standards for other uses shall be as required by MPC.
(3) Site Coverage
(a) the area of land covered by buildings (includes garage and
accessory buildings) to be a maximum of 55%.
(4) Setbacks
Single detached dwelling or other moved in residence
Front
7.62 m (25 ft)
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the lot shall not exceed
92.90 m² (1,500 ft²)
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the lot exceeds 92.90
m² (1,500 ft²)
Dwelling, single detached
Alternative energy, personal
Dwelling, secondary suite
Bed and breakfast
Home based business, minor
Community facility
Home based business, major
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 155
Part 7
H-R3
Side
1.52 m (5 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line adjacent to a
street
Rear
7.62 m (25 ft)
Accessory buildings
Front
no closer to the street than the main building
Side
0.91 m (3 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line adjacent to a
street
Rear
0.91 m (3 ft)
(5) Building Height Maximum
Principal dwelling
10.06 m (33 ft)
Accessory buildings
6.10 m (20 ft)
(6) Servicing
(a) All parcels in the District shall be serviced by a communal
wastewater system or alternatively, may be directed
connected to a municipal or regional wastewater system.
(b) All parcels in this District shall be serviced by a municipal
water system.
(c) Details shall be provided to the County as to how the system
will be managed and operated. A communal system must be
designed and built in accordance with provincial standards,
and shall be licensed by the Province.
(d) Where a communal wastewater system is required, the
proposed development shall be serviced by a communal
holding tank or a communal tertiary treatment system
that complies with the National Sanitation Foundation
International Standard for Wastewater Technology, NSF-40
Standard for Residential Wastewater Treatment Systems or
the CAN/BNQ 3680-910 Standard for Wastewater Treatment
Systems. Either system must have the ability to connect to
the regional system when it becomes available.
(e) Developers of new multi-lot subdivisions may be required
to register a caveat on each residential parcel regarding a
deferred services agreement notifying each future lot owner
of the requirement to contribute to the cost of a municipal
wastewater system and, at their own cost, connect the lot
to such system or systems when such services become
available. Such connection costs may include offsite as well
as onsite costs.
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
1.52 m
5 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Side Setback
Front Setback
(no closer to street
than main building)
0.91 m
3 ft
0.91 m
3 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 156
Part 7
H-R3
(f) Utility rights-of-way and/or easement agreements may also
be required as a condition of approval for new multi-lot
subdivisions to allow for connection to a municipal water
and/or wastewater system.
(7) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on properties in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a property is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a property in this District.
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a property in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 157
Part 7
H-R3
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(8) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) A recreational vehicle shall not be kept on a vacant property,
except as to provide temporary accommodation for
the registered owner(s) of the property or their building
contractor for a period not exceeding one (1) year following
the issue of a development permit for the construction of
a development on the property and where arrangements,
satisfactory to the Development Officer, have been made for
the disposal of wastewater effluent.
(b) If a dwelling already exists on a property, a recreational vehicle
may only be used for living and sleeping accommodation by
visitors on a temporary, short term basis, not exceeding two
(2) weeks.
(c) Not more than one (1) recreational vehicle shall be stored or
parked on a property with a dwelling.
(d) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structures
(9) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(10) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS of the Bylaw.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 158
COUNTRY
RESIDENTIAL
DISTRICT
R-CR
R-CR
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 159
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 160
Part 7
R-CR
7.15 COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-CR)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Country Residential 'R-CR' District is to generally
permit land of low agricultural value to be developed for multi-lot
residential use.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) A residential dwelling shall be located on a lot that has an
area of at least 1.01 ha (2.50 ac) but less than 1.62 ha (4 ac),
unless the Subdivision Authority has approved a varied
parcel size.
(b) No dwelling shall be permitted on a lot, the area of which is
less than the minimum prescribed for this District, except that
a lot with separate title in the Land Titles Office may be used
at the discretion of the Development Authority provided
that the development complies with all other requirements
of this Bylaw.
(c) Lots that are to be used for non-residential purposes shall
have an area as approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for a dwelling unit shall be:
one-storey dwelling
111.48 m2 (1,200 ft2)
two-storey dwelling
148.64 m2 (1,600 ft2)
(b) Standards for other uses shall be as required by the MPC.
(3) Site Coverage
(a) The area of land covered by buildings (incl. garages and
other accessory buildings) shall not exceed 30% of the total
site area.
(4) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Agricultural operation, minor
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the lot is over 139.35
m² (1,500 ft²)
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the lot is 139.35 m²
(1,500 ft²) or less
Adult care residence
Dwelling, single detached
Alternative energy, personal
Home based business, minor
Bee keeping
Show home
Community facility
Dwelling,
mobile/manufactured
home
Dwelling, moved-in residence
Dwelling, secondary suite
Dwelling, temporary family care
Home based business, major
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Tarp/canvas covered structure
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 161
Part 7
R-CR
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Country Residential
'R-CR' District, the setback from the right-of-way and other
property lines shall be as follows:
Front Line
15.24 m (50 ft)
Side Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
15.24 m (50 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right-of-way other than
a lane
Rear Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
15.24 m
50 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
15.24 m
50 ft
(5) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height for a main building shall be 10.06
m (33 ft), unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
(6) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) The maximum number of livestock permitted on any lot is
up to 10 Livestock Units (LUs) per each full increment of 0.2
ha (0.5 ac)
(f) The number of livestock that constitute a Livestock Unit (LU)
are as follows:
LIVESTOCK UNIT (LUS) BY ANIMAL TYPE
Animal Type
Livestock Units (LUs)
per Animal
Cow
20
Horse/Mule/Donkey
20
Pig
20
Alpaca/Llama
10
Calf (weaned, up to 1 year old)
10
Miniature horse
10
Sheep/Goat
10
Other
10
Calves, foals, lambs, gilts, kids at mothers' side (not weaned) are
not considered to be livestock units
(g) A person may be allowed to keep more livestock than
the specified limit if, in the opinion of the Development
Authority, the site is suitable for such use, and it is considered
that the additional numbers would not create a nuisance for
neighbouring properties.
(i)
Anyone wishing to exceed the allowed livestock units
must submit a development permit application.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 162
Part 7
R-CR
(ii) The development permit application shall be
accompanied by a pasture management plan and
manure management plan.
(iii) The development permit application will be considered
a discretionary use, requiring approval from the
Municipal Planning Commission and circulation to
nearby landowners for a 21-day appeal period.
(h) Conditions of keeping livestock:
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) Livestock structures shall follow the same setbacks for
Accessory Buildings.
(iii) Livestock must be housed in clean and sanitary
conditions with adequate space.
(iv) Manure management practices must be in place to
prevent odours, runoff, and potential contamination.
(v) All deceased livestock must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(vi) No livestock are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(i)
The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on any sized lot in this
District is twelve (12).
(j)
A person may be allowed to keep more poultry than
the specified limit if, in the opinion of the Development
Authority, the site is suitable for such use, and it is considered
that the additional numbers would not create a nuisance for
neighbouring properties.
(i)
Anyone wishing to exceed the allowed limit must
submit a development permit application.
(ii) The development permit application will be considered
a discretionary use, requiring approval from the
Municipal Planning Commission and circulation to
nearby landowners for a 21-day appeal period.
(k) No person shall keep a rooster on a lot in this District.
(l)
Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) Poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a coop
with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 163
Part 7
R-CR
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Bee Keeping
(m) The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a lot in this District is two (2).
(n) A person may be allowed to keep more beehives than
the specified limit if, in the opinion of the Development
Authority, the site is suitable for such use, and it is considered
that the additional numbers would not create a nuisance for
neighbouring properties.
(i)
Anyone wishing to exceed the allowed limit must
submit a development permit application.
(ii) The development permit application will be considered
a discretionary use, requiring approval from the
Municipal Planning Commission and circulation to
nearby landowners for a 21-day appeal period.
(o) Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(p) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(q) Conditions of bee keeping:
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(iv) Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(v) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(vi) Beehives or apiaries must be maintained to ensure
that they do not pose a health hazard to residents or
neighbours.
(vii) No beekeeping is to be on a commercial basis.
(7) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) A recreational vehicle shall not be kept on a vacant lot,
except as to provide temporary accommodation for the
registered owner(s) of the lot or their building contractor for
a period not exceeding one (1) year following the issue of a
development permit for the construction of a development
on the lot and where arrangements, satisfactory to the
Development Officer, have been made for the disposal of
wastewater effluent.
(b) If a dwelling already exists on a lot, a recreational vehicle
may only be used for living and sleeping accommodation by
visitors on a temporary, short term basis, not exceeding two
(2) weeks.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 164
Part 7
R-CR
(c) Not more than two (2) recreational vehicles shall be stored or
parked on a lot with a dwelling.
(d) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structure unless it meets Section
6.2(8) of this Bylaw, is site specifically designed and
approved by a professional engineer, and has received
approval from the Development Authority.
(8) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(9) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 165
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 166
COUNTRY
RESIDENTIAL ESTATE
DISTRICT
R-CRE
R-CRE
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 167
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 168
Part 7
R-CRE
7.16 COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL ESTATE DISTRICT (R-CRE)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Country Residential Estate 'R-CRE' District is to
permit lands to be developed for multi-lot residential use at a higher
density than the Country Residential 'R-CR' District.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) A lot that is to be used as a site for a residential dwelling shall
have an area of at least 0.51 ha (1.25 ac) but less than 1.01 ha
(2.50 ac), unless the Subdivision Authority has approved a
varied parcel size.
(b) Council may at its discretion reduce the minimum lot size
requirement if additional open space is provided in excess
of the maximum reserve dedications under the Act. Any
reduction of lot size shall be calculated on the basis that
a decrease of 0.02 ha (0.05 ac) may be permitted for every
additional 1% of the gross developable land which is
provided as open space to the extent that no lot shall be
smaller than 0.30 ha (0.75 ac) in size.
(c) For the purpose of this Bylaw, gross developable land shall be
considered as the land that is available for development after
road widening, environmental reserve (or reserve easement)
and public utility lots are deducted from the titled area.
(d) All proposed lots shall have an environmentally suitable
developable area of not less than 0.20 ha (0.50 ac).
(e) Lots that are to be used for non-residential purposes shall
have an area as approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for a dwelling unit shall be:
one-storey dwelling
111.48 m2 (1,200 ft2)
two-storey dwelling
148.64 m2 (1,600 ft2)
(b) Standards for other uses shall be as required by the MPC.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Dwelling, single detached
Alternative energy, personal
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the lot shall not exceed
111.48 m² (1200 ft²)
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the lot exceeds111.48
m² (1200 ft²)
Home based business, minor
Bee keeping
Show home
Community facility
Dwelling, secondary suite
Home based business, major
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 169
Part 7
R-CRE
(3) Site Coverage
(a) The area of land covered by buildings (incl. garages and
other accessory buildings) shall not exceed 30% of the total
site area.
(4) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Country Residential
Estate 'R-CRE' District, the setback from the right-of-way and
other property lines shall be as follows:
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
3.05 m (10 ft)
7.62 m (25 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right-of-way other than
a lane
Rear Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
(5) Servicing
(a) Unless directed otherwise by an Intermunicipal Development
Plan or local plan, country residential estate lots that are 0.51
ha (1.25 acres) or larger in size may be serviced by individual
water wells. However, smaller sized lots shall be serviced
only by a communal water supply system or alternatively,
may be connected directly to a municipal or regional water
system.
(b) No new multi-lot subdivision will be approved unless an
evaluation by a qualified professional confirms there is a
sufficient groundwater supply available to meet the needs
of the proposed development, and not interfere with any
existing surrounding water users.
(c) Where a communal water system is required to service a
development, details shall be provided to the County as to
how the system will be managed and operated. A communal
system must be designed and built in accordance with
provincial standards, and shall be licensed by the Province
and the County's Standards Manual.
(d) All country residential estate lots that are less than 0.51 ha (1.25
ac) in size shall also be serviced by a communal wastewater
system or alternatively, may be directly connected to a
municipal or regional wastewater system. Larger lots may
have private sewage systems, unless directed otherwise by
an Intermunicipal Development Plan or local plan.
(e) Where a communal wastewater system is required, the
proposed development shall be serviced by a system
that complies with the National Sanitation Foundation
International Standard for Wastewater Technology, NSF-40
Standard for Residential Wastewater Treatment Systems or
the CAN/BNQ 3680-910 Standard for Wastewater Treatment
Systems.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 170
Part 7
R-CRE
(f) Developers of new multi-lot subdivisions may be required to
register a caveat on each residential lot regarding a deferred
services agreement notifying each future lot owner of the
requirement to contribute to the cost of a municipal or
regional water and/or wastewater system and, at their own
cost, connect the lot to such system or systems when such
services become available. Such connection costs may
include offsite as well as onsite costs.
(g) Utility rights-of-way and/or easement agreements may
also be required as a condition of approval for new multi-
lot subdivisions to allow for connection to a municipal or
regional water and/or wastewater system.
(6) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height for a main building shall be 10.06
m (33 ft), unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
(7) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on lots in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a lot is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a lot in this District.
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 171
Part 7
R-CRE
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a lot in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(iii) Beehives or apiaries must be maintained to ensure
that they do not pose a health hazard to residents or
neighbours.
(iv) No beekeeping is to be on a commercial basis.
(8) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) A recreational vehicle shall not be kept on a vacant lot,
except as to provide temporary accommodation for the
registered owner(s) of the lot or their building contractor for
a period not exceeding one (1) year following the issue of a
development permit for the construction of a development
on the lot and where arrangements, satisfactory to the
Development Officer, have been made for the disposal of
wastewater effluent.
(b) If a dwelling already exists on a lot, a recreational vehicle
may only be used for living and sleeping accommodation by
visitors on a temporary, short term basis, not exceeding two
(2) weeks.
(c) Not more than one (1) recreational vehicle shall be stored or
parked on a lot with a dwelling.
(d) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structure.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 172
Part 7
R-CRE
(9) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(10) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 173
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 174
RESIDENTIAL
CONSERVATION
(CLUSTER)
DISTRICT
R-RCC
R-RCC
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 175
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 176
Part 7
R-RCC
7.17 RESIDENTIAL CONSERVATION (CLUSTER)
DISTRICT (R-RCC)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Residential Conservation (Cluster) 'R-RCC' District
is to allow clustering of smaller lots to encourage a developer to pre-
serve ecologically sensitive areas, historic sites, agricultural land or oth-
er unique characteristics of the land being subdivided.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) A lot that is to be used as a site for a residential dwelling
which is not serviced by communal, municipal or regional
water and wastewater systems shall have an area of at least
0.51 ha (1.25 ac) but less than 1.01 ha (2.50 ac), unless the
Subdivision Authority has approved a varied parcel size.
(b) A lot that is to be used as a site for a residential dwelling
which is serviced by communal, municipal or regional water
and wastewater systems shall have an area of at least 0.10 ha
(0.25 ac) but less than 0.51 ha (1.25 ac) , unless the Subdivision
Authority has approved a varied parcel size.
(c) Lots that are to be used for non-residential purposes shall
have an area as approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Density
(a) The allowable density shall be no greater than is permitted
in the Country Residential 'R-CR' District which is 2.5 units per
hectare or 1 unit per acre of the titled area.
(b) Council at its discretion may provide a density bonus if
additional open space is provided in excess of the 10%
municipal reserve dedication provided for in the Act in order
to preserve the primary and secondary conservation areas.
This density bonusing shall be calculated as follows:
(i)
for every 1 ha (2.47 ac) of additional open space beyond
the normal 10% municipal reserve requirement, an
additional two (2) lots will be allowed over the density
limit where the subdivision is not serviced by communal
or municipal water or wastewater systems.
(ii) for every 1 ha (2.47 ac) of additional open space, beyond
the normal 10% municipal reserve requirement, an
additional four (4) lots will be allowed over the density
limit where the subdivision is serviced by communal or
municipal water or wastewater systems.
Typical Development
Cluster Development
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Dwelling, single detached
Alternative energy, personal
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the lot shall not exceed
92.90 m² (1,000 ft²)
Community facility
Home based business, minor
Dwelling, secondary suite
Show home
Home based business, major
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 177
Part 7
R-RCC
(c) The Subdivision Authority may not wish to have all or any of
the additional open space dedicated as municipal reserve.
Where the Subdivision Authority chooses not to do so, the
open space shall be protected in perpetuity from any further
multi-lot subdivision. This may be done by one or more of
the following methods:
(i)
ownership by a condominium or residents association
of the owners of dwelling units within the development
with restrictive covenants on the open space;
(ii) ownership by a condominium or residents association
of the owners of dwelling units within the development
with a conservation easement granted to the County or
a recognized conservation organization; or
(iii) the transfer of the open space, with permanent
restrictions, to a land trust or other recognized
conservation organization acceptable to the County.
(3) Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for a dwelling unit shall be:
one-storey dwelling
111.48 m2 (1,200 ft2)
two-storey dwelling
148.64 m2 (1,600 ft2)
(b) Standards for other uses shall be as required by the
Development Authority
(4) Site Coverage
(a) The area of land covered by buildings (incl. garages and
other accessory buildings) shall not exceed 30% of the total
site area.
(5) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Residential
Conservation (Cluster) 'R-RCC' District, the setback from the
right-of-way and other property lines shall be as follows:
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
1.52 m (5 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right-of-way other than
a lane
Rear Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
(6) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height for a main building shall be 10.06
m (33 ft), unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
1.52
5
3.05
10
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 178
Part 7
R-RCC
(7) Servicing
Water Servicing
(a) Unless directed otherwise by an Intermunicipal Development
Plan or local plan, residential conservation (cluster) lots that
are 0.51 ha (1.25 acres) or larger in size may be serviced by
individual water wells. However, smaller sized lots shall
be serviced only by a communal water supply system or
alternatively, may be connected directly to a municipal or
regional water system.
Wastewater Servicing
(b) All residential conservation (cluster) lots that are less than
0.51 ha (1.25 ac) in size shall also be serviced by a communal
wastewater system or alternatively, may be directly
connected to a municipal or regional wastewater system.
Larger lots may have private sewage systems, unless directed
otherwise by an Intermunicipal Development Plan or local
plan.
(c) Where a communal wastewater system is required, the
proposed development shall be serviced by a system
that complies with the National Sanitation Foundation
International Standard for Wastewater Technology, NSF-40
Standard for Residential Wastewater Treatment Systems or
the CAN/BNQ 3680-910 Standard for Wastewater Treatment
Systems.
Wastewater Servicing (Sylvan Lake)
(d) Notwithstanding subsection (c), all residential conservation
(cluster) lots that form part of a subdivision conditionally
approved by the County prior to October 14, 2010 within
the plan area of the Sylvan Lake Area Structure Plan, shall
be serviced by only a communal wastewater holding tank
system, unless the development can be connected directly
to a municipal or regional wastewater system.
(e) All residential conservation (cluster) lots that form part of
a subdivision conditionally approved by the County after
October 14, 2010 within the plan area of the Sylvan Lake Area
Structure Plan, shall be serviced by the regional wastewater
system.
General Regulations
(f) Where a communal water system is required to service a
development, details shall be provided to the County as to
how the system will be managed and operated. A communal
system must be designed and built in accordance with
provincial standards, and shall be licensed by the Province.
(g) No new multi-lot subdivision will be approved unless an
evaluation by a qualified professional confirms there is a
sufficient groundwater supply available to meet the needs
of the proposed development, and not interfere with any
existing surrounding water users.
(h) Developers of new multi-lot subdivisions may be required to
register a caveat on each residential lot regarding a deferred
services agreement notifying each future lot owner of the
requirement to contribute to the cost of a municipal or
regional water and/or wastewater system and, at their own
cost, connect the lot to such system or systems when such
services become available. Such connection costs may
include offsite as well as onsite costs.
(i)
Utility rights-of-way and/or easement agreements may
also be required as a condition of approval for new multi-
lot subdivisions to allow for connection to a municipal or
regional water and/or wastewater system.
(8) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 179
Part 7
R-RCC
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on lots in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a lot is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a lot in this District.
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a lot in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 180
Part 7
R-RCC
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(iii) Beehives or apiaries must be maintained to ensure
that they do not pose a health hazard to residents or
neighbours.
(iv) No beekeeping is to be on a commercial basis.
(9) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) A recreational vehicle shall not be kept on a vacant lot,
except as to provide temporary accommodation for the
registered owner(s) of the lot or their building contractor for
a period not exceeding one (1) year following the issue of a
development permit for the construction of a development
on the lot and where arrangements, satisfactory to the
Development Officer, have been made for the disposal of
wastewater effluent.
(b) If a dwelling already exists on a lot, a recreational vehicle
may only be used for living and sleeping accommodation by
visitors on a temporary, short term basis, not exceeding two
(2) weeks.
(c) Not more than one (1) recreational vehicle shall be stored or
parked on a lot with a dwelling.
(d) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structure.
(10) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(11) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 181
Part 7
R-RCC
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 182
RESIDENTIAL
LAKE AREA
DISTRICT
R-RLA
R-RLA
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 183
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 184
Part 7
R-RLA
7.18 RESIDENTIAL LAKE AREA DISTRICT (R-RLA)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Residential Lake Area 'R-RLA' District is to provide an
area for the development of residential land uses in proximity to a lake.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) A lot that is to be used as a site for a residential dwelling shall
have an area of at least 0.51 ha (1.25 ac) but less than 1.01 ha
(2.50 ac), unless the Subdivision Authority has approved a
varied parcel size.
(b) Council may at its discretion reduce the minimum lot size
requirement if additional open space is provided in excess
of the maximum reserve dedications under the Act. Any
reduction of lot size shall be calculated on the basis that
a decrease of 0.02 ha (0.05 ac) may be permitted for every
additional 1% of the gross developable land which is
provided as open space to the extent that no lot shall be
smaller than 0.30 ha (0.75 ac) in size.
(c) For the purpose of this Bylaw, gross developable land shall
be considered as the land that is available for development
after road widening; environmental reserve (or reserve
easement) and public utility lots are deducted from the titled
area.
(d) All proposed lots shall have an environmentally suitable
developable area of not less than 0.20 ha (0.50 ac).
(e) Boundary adjustments or the re-subdivision of lots created
prior to June 1, 2002 may be allowed at the discretion of
Council.
(f) No dwelling shall be permitted on a lot the area of which is
less than the minimum prescribed for this District, except that
a lot with separate title in the Land Titles Office may be used
at the discretion of the Development Authority provided
that the development complies with all other requirements
of this Bylaw.
(g) Lots that are to be used for non-residential purposes shall
have an area as approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2) Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for a dwelling unit shall be not less
than 83.61 m2 (900 ft2).
(b) Standards for other uses shall be as required by the
Development Authority.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the parcel is 111.48 m²
(1,200 ft²) or less
Accessory building and use where
the total building area for all such
buildings on the parcel is over 111.48
m² (1,200 ft²)
Dwelling, single detached
Alternative energy, personal
Guest house
Bed and breakfast
Home based business, minor
Community facility
Show home
Dwelling,
mobile/manufactured
home
Dwelling, moved-in residence
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 185
Part 7
R-RLA
Accessory buildings to such dwellings
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
0.91 m (3 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right of-way
Rear Line
0.91 m (3 ft)
Side Setback
0.91 m
3 ft
0.91 m
3 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
All other uses
Front Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Side Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Rear Line
As required by the Development
Authority
(c) Notwithstanding the preceding, any building into which a
vehicle may enter shall have a driveway on the lot of not less
than 6.10 m (20 ft) in length in front of the entranceway to
the building.
(3) Site Coverage
(a) The area of land covered by buildings (inc. garages and other
accessory buildings) shall not exceed 30% of the total site
area.
(4) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Residential Lake Area
'R-RLA' District, the setback from the right-of-way and other
property lines shall be as follows:
All dwellings
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
1.52 m (5 ft)
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right of-way
Rear line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
1.52 m
5 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 186
Part 7
R-RLA
(d) Where a property line has been adjusted due to a change
in a natural boundary, the setback shall be applied from
the original property boundary and any development
must be contained within the development area of the
original boundary. The Development Authority may
make an exception where provision has been made for
development on accreted land in a Municipal Development
Plan, an Intermunicipal Development Plan or other local plan
approved by Council.
(5) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height for a main building shall be 10.06
m (33 ft), unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
(6) Servicing
Water Servicing
(a) Residential lake area lots may be serviced by individual water
wells. However, if the lot is part of a subdivision conditionally
approved by the County after May 11, 2004, the lot shall
be serviced only by a communal water supply system or
alternatively, may be connected directly to a municipal or
regional water system.
Wastewater Servicing (Gull Lake)
(b) The Development Authority may approve at their discretion
the use of individual, onsite advanced wastewater treatment
systems that comply with the National Sanitation Foundation
International Standard for Wastewater Technology, NSF-
40 Standard for Residential Wastewater Treatment Systems
or the CAN/BNQ 3680-910 Standard for Stand Alone
Wastewater Treatment Systems for developments in the Gull
Lake Intermunicipal Development Plan boundaries that were
given first reading prior to June 30, 2004.
(c) Subject to clause (i), in other residential area lake subdivisions
that were conditionally approved by the County before
March 11, 2004, individual, onsite advanced wastewater
treatment systems that comply with the National Sanitation
Foundation
International
Standard
for
Wastewater
Technology, NSF-40 Standard for Residential Wastewater
Treatment Systems or the CAN/BNQ 3680-910 Standard
for Stand Alone Wastewater Treatment Systems shall be
required where a detached dwelling, mobile/manufactured
home or moved-in residence is proposed to be built or
located on a lot, or any addition to an existing dwelling as
the Development Authority may direct.
(i)
The Development Authority may allow a holding tank
to be used on a lot within a residential lake area subdivi-
sion that was conditionally approved by the County be-
fore March 11, 2004 if it is satisfied that site conditions
require an alternate method of sewage treatment and
disposal.
Wastewater Servicing (Sylvan Lake)
(d) All residential lake area lots that form part of a subdivision
conditionally approved by the County prior to October 14,
2010 within the plan area of the Sylvan Lake Area Structure
Plan, shall be serviced by only a communal wastewater
holding tank system, unless the development can be
connected directly to a municipal or regional wastewater
system.
(e) Notwithstanding subsection (d), all residential lake area lots
that form part of a subdivision as described in the Sylvan Lake
Communal Sewage Bylaw shall be serviced by a municipal
wastewater system, as described by the bylaw.
(f) All residential lake area lots that form part of a subdivision
conditionally approved by the County after October 14, 2010
within the plan area of the Sylvan Lake Area Structure Plan
shall be serviced by the regional wastewater system.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 187
Part 7
R-RLA
General Regulations
(g) Where a communal wastewater system is required, the
County will require an evaluation by a qualified professional
that confirms the proposed system is capable of servicing
the development, and would not adversely affect the lake
or other water sources. Details must also be provided
describing how the system will be managed and operated.
The system must be designed and built in accordance with
provincial standards, and shall be licensed by the Province.
(i)
Where a communal water system is required to service a
development, details shall be provided to the County as to
how the system will be managed and operated. A communal
system must be designed and built in accordance with
provincial standards, and shall be licensed by the Province
and the County's Standards Manual.
(j)
No new multi-lot subdivision will be approved unless an
evaluation by a qualified professional confirms there is a
sufficient groundwater supply available to meet the needs
of the proposed development, and not interfere with any
existing surrounding water users.
(k) Developers of new multi-lot subdivisions will be required to
register a caveat on each residential lot regarding a deferred
services agreement notifying each future lot owner of the
requirement to contribute to the cost of a municipal or
regional water and/or wastewater system and, at their own
cost, connect the lot to such system or systems when such
services become available. Such connection costs may
include offsite as well as onsite costs.
(l)
Utility rights-of-way and/or easement agreements may
also be required as a condition of approval for new multi-
lot subdivisions to allow for connection to a municipal or
regional water and/or wastewater system.
(7) Guest Houses
(a) Not more than one guest house per parcel shall be permitted.
(b) Sleeping accommodation above a detached garage shall be
deemed to be a guest house.
(8) Placement of Buildings
(a) Buildings shall be located such that the exterior wall is parallel
to the front line of the site or to the chord of the front line
of the site, unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
(9) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on lots in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a lot is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a lot in this District.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 188
Part 7
R-RLA
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a lot in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(iii) Beehives or apiaries must be maintained to ensure
that they do not pose a health hazard to residents or
neighbours.
(iv) No beekeeping is to be on a commercial basis.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 189
Part 7
R-RLA
(10) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) A recreational vehicle shall not be kept on a vacant lot,
except as to provide temporary accommodation for the
registered owner(s) of the lot or their building contractor for
a period not exceeding one (1) year following the issue of a
development permit for the construction of a development
on the lot and where arrangements, satisfactory to the
Development Officer, have been made for the disposal of
wastewater effluent.
(b) If a dwelling already exists on a lot, a recreational vehicle
may only be used for living and sleeping accommodation by
visitors on a temporary, short term basis, not exceeding two
(2) weeks.
(c) Not more than two (2) recreational vehicles shall be stored or
parked on a lot with a dwelling.
(d) No person shall keep in their yards
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(i)
any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structure.
(11) Basement Development
(a) Development
below
grade,
including
basement
development but, excluding footings, pilings and crawl
spaces is prohibited in the Birch Bay Subdivision.
(12) Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(13) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 190
HIGHER DENSITY
RESIDENTIAL
DISTRICT
R-HDR
R-HDR
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 191
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 192
Part 7
R-HDR
7.19 HIGHER DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-HDR)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Higher Density Residential 'R-HDR' District is to allow
for higher density, multi-unit housing with associated commercial
uses, in return for the dedication of publicly accessible open space.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1)
Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Subdivision Authority.
(2)
Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for non-residential uses shall be as
required by the Development Authority.
(3) Residential Density
(a) The basic allowable density shall be no greater than 2.5 units
per hectare or 1 unit per acre of the titled area.
(b) A density transfer/bonus system shall be used to provide
additional publicly accessible open space in excess of the
10% municipal reserve dedication provided for in the Act. If
the subject lands are adjacent to the lakeshore then the open
space must be allocated along the lakeshore in addition to
the municipal reserve. This density transfer/bonusing shall
be calculated as follows:
(i)
for every 1 ha (2.47 ac) provided as publicly accessible
open space, 20 additional dwelling units will be allowed
as illustrated below.
(4)
Site Coverage
(a) The area of land covered by buildings (incl. garages and
other accessory buildings) shall be at the discretion of the
County.
8 ha
9 ha
10%
20%
10 ha parcel with 10% open space
25 units
10 ha parcel with 20% open space
45 units
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Accommodation and convention
services
Dwelling, apartment
Alternative energy, personal
Dwelling, duplex
Bed and breakfast
Dwelling, fourplex
Community facility
Dwelling, row housing
Eating and drinking establishment
Home based business, minor
Marina and/or boat rental
Show home
Park
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Recreation facilities, indoor
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 193
Part 7
R-HDR
(5)
Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Higher Density
Residential 'R-HDR' District, the setback from the right-of-way
and other property lines shall be as follows:
Row Housing, Duplex, Fourplex
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
1.52 m (5 ft) without a side entrance
2.44 m (8 ft) with side entrance
3.05 m (10 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right of way
Rear Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
1.52 m
5 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
2.44 m (8 ft) with
side entrance
3.05 m
10 ft
Apartment
Front Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Line
0.91 m (3 ft) for each storey or partial
storey, but not less than 3.05 m (10 ft)
Rear Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Accessory buildings to such dwellings
Front Line
no closer to the street than the main
building
Side Line
0.91 m (3 ft) for each storey or partial
storey, but not less than 3.05 m (10 ft)
Rear Line
0.91 m (3 ft) for each storey or partial
storey, but not less than 3.05 m (10 ft)
Side Setback
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
3.05 m
10 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 194
Part 7
R-HDR
Side Setback
Front Setback
(no closer to street
than main building)
0.91 m
3 ft
0.91 m
3 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
All other uses
Front Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Side Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Rear Line
As required by the Development
Authority
(c) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Higher Density
Residential 'R-HDR' District, the setback from the right-of-way
and other property lines for all other non-residential uses
shall be as required by the Development Authority.
(d) Notwithstanding the preceding, any building into which a
vehicle may enter shall have a driveway on the lot of not less
than 6.10 m (20 ft) in length in front of the entranceway to
the building.
(6)
Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height for row housing shall be 10.06 m (33 ft),
unless otherwise approved by the Development Authority.
(b) The maximum height for an apartment shall be 4 storeys
(15.24 m/50 ft), and 6.10 m (20 ft) for an accessory building,
unless otherwise approved by the Development Authority.
(7)
Servicing
Water Servicing
(a) A Higher Density Residential development shall be serviced
only by a communal water supply system or alternatively,
may be directly connected to a municipal or regional water
system.
(b) Details of the communal water system proposed to service a
development shall be provided to the County to show how
the system will be managed and operated. A communal
system must be designed and built in accordance with
provincial standards, the County's Standards Manual, and
shall be licensed by the Province.
Wastewater Servicing
(c) The proposed development shall be serviced by a communal
wastewater holding tank system or alternatively, may be
connected directly to a municipal or regional wastewater
system.
Wastewater Servicing (Sylvan Lake)
(d) All higher density residential lots that form part of a
subdivision conditionally approved by the County after
October 14, 2010, within the plan area of the Sylvan Lake Area
Structure Plan, shall be serviced by the regional wastewater
system.
General Regulations
(e) No development will be approved unless an evaluation
by a qualified professional confirms there is sufficient
groundwater supply available to meet the needs of the
proposed development, and not interfere with any existing
surrounding water users.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 195
Part 7
R-HDR
(f) Developers will be required to register a caveat on each
lot regarding a deferred services agreement notifying the
lot owner of the requirement to contribute to the cost of a
municipal or regional water and/or wastewater system and,
at their own cost, connect the lot to such system or systems
when such services become available. Such connection
costs may include offsite as well as onsite costs.
(g) Utility rights-of-way and/or easement agreements may also
be required as a condition of approval for the development
to allow for connection to a municipal or regional water and/
or wastewater system.
(8)
Parking and Loading
(a) Off-street parking and/or loading areas for residential uses
shall either be underground or screened from view of the
lake and adjacent roadways and shall be provided as required
by the Development Authority.
(b) Off-street parking and/or loading areas for non-residential
uses shall be either be underground or screened from view
of the lake and adjacent roadways and shall be provided as
required by the Development Authority.
(9)
Design, Character and Appearance of Buildings
(a) Buildings shall be of new construction unless otherwise
approved by the Development Authority.
(b) The architectural treatment shall be of high quality with
regard to architectural detailing, use of materials and colours
and the Development Authority shall be satisfied that the
design, finish and appearance of a building have regard for
the amenities and character of existing development in the
surrounding area. The building should include the following
design elements to reduce the perceived mass and add
architectural interest:
(i)
articulation of the façade and a variety of building
elevations;
(i)
creation of architectural pattern;
(ii) the use of recessions and projections such as porches,
bay windows, and entrances features; and
(iii) the use of exterior wall finishing materials, predominantly
comprised of muted colours, with strong colours limited
to use of accents.
(c) Monotonous building facades that lack human scale
proportions, large expanses of flat wall plains, and tall
building foundation walls that are exposed above ground
shall be avoided.
(d) Garages/car ports should be designed to minimize adverse
visual impacts on the site and streetscape and should reflect
the design, materials and colours of the principal buildings.
(e) Building materials should be durable, require low
maintenance, and relate a sense of quality and permanence.
(f) Development in this District should utilize infrastructure
and building practices, and site designs that reduce the
consumption of water, energy and materials.
(10)
Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 196
Part 7
R-HDR
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on lots in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a lot is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a lot in this District.
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a lot in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 197
Part 7
R-HDR
(iii) Beehives or apiaries must be maintained to ensure
that they do not pose a health hazard to residents or
neighbours.
(iv) No beekeeping is to be on a commercial basis.
(11)
Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) No person shall keep any recreational vehicle(s) stored or
parked on a lot.
(b) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structure.
(12)
Unsightly Premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(13)
Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 198
URBAN FRINGE
RESIDENTIAL
DISTRICT
R-UFR
R-UFR
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 199
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 200
Part 7
R-UFR
7.20 URBAN FRINGE RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-UFR)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Urban Fringe Residential 'R-UFR' District is to
allow for higher density, single family and multi-unit housing which
may include commercial uses in areas identified in an Intermunicipal
Development Plan for such purpose.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) A lot to be used for a site of a residential dwelling shall have
an area of at least 0.07 ha (0.18 ac) in interior parcels and
0.08 ha (0.2 ac) on corner parcels, unless the Subdivision
Authority has approved a varied parcel size.
(b) No lot shall have an area greater than 0.10 ha (0.25 ac), unless
the Subdivision Authority has approved a varied parcel size.
(c) Within the area identified as the Barnett Lands in the Lacombe
Intermunicipal Development Plan the basic allowable density
shall be 15 units per hectare or six (6) units per acre.
(2) Floor Area
(a) The minimum floor area for non-residential uses shall be as
required by the Development Authority.
(3) Site Coverage
(a) The area of land covered by buildings (incl. garages and
other accessory buildings) shall be at the discretion of the
County.
(4) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines adjoining a right-of-way
shall be in accordance with the District in which the right-of-
way is located.
(b) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Urban Fringe
Residential 'R-UFR' District, the setback from the right-of-way
and other property lines shall be as follows:
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Accessory building and use
Alternative energy, personal
Dwelling, single detached
Bed and breakfast
Dwelling, duplex
Community facility
Dwelling, fourplex
Daycare facility
Home based business, minor
Dwelling unit above the ground
floor
Show home
Eating and drinking establishment
Neighbourhood convenience store
Park
Personal service establishment
Public use
Public utility
Public utility building
Recreation facilities, indoor
Recreation facilities, outdoor
Tourist home
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 201
Part 7
R-UFR
All dwellings, including, Row Housing, Duplex, Fourplex
Front Line
7.6 m (25 ft)
Side Line
1.5 m (5 ft)
2.44 m (8 ft) with side entrance
2.75 m (10 ft) from a side line
adjacent to a right of way
Rear Line
7.62 m (25 ft)
Side Setback
1.52 m
5 ft
7.62 m
25 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
Front Setback
7.62 m
25 ft
Accessory buildings to such dwellings
Front Line
no accessory building is permitted
in the front yard
Side Line
0.91 m (3 ft)
Rear Line
0.91 m (3 ft)
Side Setback
0.91 m
3 ft
0.91 m
3 ft
Rear Setback
Side Setback
3.05 m
10 ft
All other uses
Front Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Side Line
As required by the Development
Authority
Rear Line
As required by the Development
Authority
(c) Where a right-of-way is situated in the Urban Fringe
Residential 'R-UFR' District, the setback from the right-of-way
and other property lines for all other non-residential uses
shall be as required by the Development Authority.
(5) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height of a principal building shall be 6 m
(33 ft), unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
(b) The maximum height of an accessory building shall be 4.6
m (20 ft), unless otherwise approved by the Development
Authority.
(6) Servicing
Water Servicing
(a) An Urban Fringe Residential development shall be serviced
only by a communal water supply system where identified
in an Intermunicippal Development Plan or alternatively,
must be directly connected to a municipal or regional water
system.
(b) Details of the communal water system proposed to service a
development shall be provided to the County to show how
the system will be managed and operated. A communal
system must be designed and built in accordance with
provincial standards, and shall be licensed by the Province
and the County's Standards Manual.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 202
Part 7
R-UFR
Wastewater Servicing
(c) The proposed development shall be serviced by a communal
wastewater holding tank system where identified in an
Intermunicipal Development Plan or alternatively, must be
connected directly to a municipal or regional wastewater
system.
General Regulations
(d) Developers will be required to register a caveat on each
lot regarding a deferred services agreement notifying the
lot owner of the requirement to contribute to the cost of a
municipal or regional water and/or wastewater system and,
at their own cost, connect the lot to such system or systems
when such services become available. Such connection
costs may include offsite as well as onsite costs.
(e) No development will be approved unless an evaluation
by a qualified professional confirms there is sufficient
groundwater supply available to meet the needs of the
proposed development, and not interfere with any existing
surrounding water users.
(f) Utility rights-of-way and/or easement agreements may also
be required as a condition of approval for the development
to allow for connection to a municipal or regional water and/
or wastewater system.
(7) Parking and Loading
(a) Off-street parking and/or loading areas for residential uses
shall be screened from view of the adjacent roadways and
shall be provided as required by the Development Authority.
(b) Off-street parking and/or loading areas for non-residential
uses shall be either be underground or screened from view
and adjacent roadways and shall be provided as required by
the Development Authority.
(8) Design, Character and Appearance of Buildings
(a) Buildings shall be of new construction unless otherwise
approved by the Development Authority.
(b) The architectural treatment shall be of high quality with
regard to architectural detailing, use of materials and colours
and the Development Authority shall be satisfied that the
design, finish and appearance of a building have regard for
the amenities and character of existing development in the
surrounding area. The building should include the following
design elements to reduce the perceived mass and add
architectural interest:
(i)
articulation of the façade and a variety of building
elevations;
(i)
creation of architectural pattern;
(ii) the use of recessions and projections such as porches,
bay windows, and entrances features; and
(iii) the use of exterior wall finishing materials, predominantly
comprised of muted colours, with strong colours limited
to use of accents.
(c) Monotonous building facades that lack human scale
proportions, large expanses of flat wall plains, and tall
building foundation walls that are exposed above ground
shall be avoided.
(d) Garages/car ports should be designed to minimize adverse
visual impacts on the site and streetscape and should reflect
the design, materials and colours of the principal buildings.
(e) Building materials should be durable, require low
maintenance, and relate a sense of quality and permanence.
(f) Development in this District should utilize infrastructure
and building practices, and site designs that reduce the
consumption of water, energy and materials.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 203
Part 7
R-UFR
(9) Keeping of Animals
Domestic Pets
(a) The keeping of domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and others
as are typically kept indoors, is allowed.
(b) Not more than two (2) dogs, excluding unweaned pups,
shall be kept on a lot in this District.
(c) Any dogs, cats and other domestic animals kept on a lot
must be controlled so that they do not create a nuisance.
(d) No pets or domestic animals are to be kept on a commercial
basis.
Livestock
(e) No livestock are allowed on lots in this District.
Chickens (or Other Poultry)
(f) The maximum number of poultry (hens, ducks, turkeys,
pheasants, geese or similar fowl at the Development
Authority's discretion) permitted on a lot is six (6)
(g) No person shall keep a rooster on a lot in this District.
(h) Conditions of keeping chickens (or other poultry):
(i)
A person must register with the Province and obtain
a Premise Identification Number (PID) and abide by
any Provincial or Federal regulations or legislation. This
includes, but is not limited to, following the regulations
as required under the Alberta Animal Health Act and
Animal Protection Act.
(ii) A
person
must
follow
biosecurity
procedures
recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency to reduce potential for disease outbreak.
(iii) All poultry must be housed in a secure enclosure (a
coop with outdoor enclosure) to prevent predation and
escape; no chickens or poultry are permitted to be at
large.
(iv) Coops shall follow the same setbacks for Accessory
Buildings.
(v) Coops must be maintained in good repair and sanitary
condition, with waste managed to prevent odors and
pests.
(vi) A person must provide food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and
roosting, all sufficient to maintain the poultry in good
health.
(vii) All deceased poultry must be removed from the
property and disposed of in accordance with Alberta's
Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.
(viii) No poultry are to be kept on a commercial basis.
Bee Keeping
(i)
The maximum number of beehives or apiaries permitted on
a lot in this District is one (1)
(j)
Beehives or apiaries must be located:
(i)
in the rear yard of the property;
(ii) at least 9.14 m (30 ft) from any dwelling; and
(iii) at least 3.05 m (10 ft) from any property boundaries.
(k) Beehive or apiary entrances must be directed away from
adjacent residential properties.
(l)
Conditions of bee keeping:
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 204
Part 7
R-UFR
(i)
A person must abide by any Provincial or Federal
regulations or legislation. This includes, but is not
limited to, following the regulations as required under
the Alberta Bee Act and the Animal Health Act.
(ii) A person must register with the Province through the
Premise Identification Number (PID) program.
(iii) A person must register annually with the Provincial
Apiculturist as required under the Alberta Bee Act.
(i)
Beekeepers must maintain the bees in such a condition
so as to reasonably prevent undue swarming or
aggressive behavior by bees; and ensure that the bees
are requeened if they are subject to undue swarming or
aggressive behavior.
(ii) Beekeepers must provide water sources for bees.
(10) Objects Prohibited or Restricted in Yards
(a) No person shall keep any recreational vehicle(s) stored or
parked on a lot.
(b) No person shall keep in their yards:
(i)
any unlicensed, dismantled, wrecked or dilapidated
vehicle, unless it is suitably housed or screened from
view to the satisfaction of the Development Officer;
(ii) any object or chattel which, in the opinion of the
Development Officer, is unsightly or tends to adversely
affect the amenities of the area;
(iii) building materials or supplies other than what the
Development Officer considers is necessary for the
completion of construction work on the site;
(iv) sea containers (sea-can); or
(v) tarp/canvas covered structure.
(11) Unsightly premises
(a) No person shall keep an unsightly property to the extent
that it would detrimentally affect the repose, amenities, use,
value or enjoyment of the surrounding lands in reasonable
proximity to the unsightly premises, or is otherwise
detrimental to the surrounding area or in an unsightly
condition as defined by the Municipal Government Act.
(12) Additional Regulations
(a) Permitted and discretionary uses shall adhere to PART 6 -
GENERAL REGULATIONS.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 205
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 206
PART 8
OVERLAY
AND DIRECT
CONTROL
DISTRICTS
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 207
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 208
SPECIFIC -
DIRECT
CONTROL
DISTRICT
DC
DC
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 209
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 210
Part 8
DC
8.1
SPECIFIC - DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICT (DC)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Direct Control 'DC' District is to provide for specific
developments that, due to unique characteristics, innovative ideas
or unusual site constraints, require specific regulations unavailable in
other land use districts. This District is not intended as a substitution for
any other land use district in the Bylaw that could be used to achieve
the same result.
2
DISTRICT BOUNDARIES
(1) This District shall apply only where all the following conditions are
met:
(a) That the proposed development is considered in the opinion
of Council appropriate for the site having regard to this
Bylaw, the Municipal Development Plan, other applicable
statutory plans, and the scale and character of the proposed
development in relation to the surrounding area; and
(b) That the application be initiated through a bylaw amendment
procedure outlined in Part 5 of the Bylaw.
3
REGULATIONS
(1) In considering a request for a Direct Control 'DC' District, staff
will prepare a tentative new District with subdivision and/or
development regulations for review by Council.
(2) All DC land use rezoning and development permit applications
shall be evaluated on their own merits by Council which will
establish the appropriate development standards with regard to
Part 6 of the Bylaw.
(3) Each new Direct Control 'DC' District will be identified by DC after
it is adopted by bylaw by Council.
(4) A development permit may only be issued for those uses
prescribed in the Direct Control 'DC' District applicable to the site.
4
ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS
(1) Lands may be designated as Direct Control 'DC' District with or
without having attached thereto a set of additional regulations
unless otherwise prescribed in the Direct Control 'DC' District,
permitted and discretionary land uses shall adhere to the general
regulations in Part 6 of this Bylaw.
5
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
(1) Where Council deems that there are sufficient and appropriate
regulations within a Direct Control 'DC' District, authority to
approve development permit applications within the Direct
Control 'DC' District may be delegated to the Development
Officer and/or the MPC.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 211
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 212
SANDY POINT -
DIRECT
CONTROL
DISTRICT
DC-1
DC-1
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 213
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 214
Part 8
DC-1
8.2
SANDY POINT - DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICT
(DC-1)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Direct Control 'DC-1' District is to provide
direction for the use of those lands within the Sandy Point RV Resort
development, which lie below the 1:100 year flood elevation, to
protect the environmentally sensitive and ecologically important area
in perpetuity.
2
DISTRICT BOUNDARIES
(1) This District shall apply to approximately 55 hectares (137 acres)
of land, as outlined in '7 - Context Map'.
3
USES
4
REGULATIONS
(1) Minimum Site Area
(a) All of the land contained in the existing titled area, unless
otherwise approved by the Development Authority.
(2) Setbacks
(a) The setback from property lines shall be determined by the
Development Authority.
(3) Height of Buildings
(a) The maximum height of a building shall be determined by
the Development Authority.
(4) Servicing
(a) Any development will be required to connect to the
communal water and wastewater facilities on the site.
5
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
(1) An evaluation of the proposed development and construction
management plan prepared by a qualified professional is required
to confirm that all aspects of the development can be undertaken
in a manner that protects the environmental sensitivity of the
lands.
(2) Permanent structures in this District shall not be developed unless
suitable flood proofing techniques are employed to permanently
protect new developments from damage
(3) Structures shall be evaluated relative to their perceived massing,
articulated building facades and rooflines and effective use of
colour and finishing materials. Specified construction methods,
consistent with an architectural theme may be required.
(4) Screening may be required as a condition of development, which
may include landscaping and/or fencing.
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Day use area
Automotive gas bar
Naturalized walking trails
Marina and/or boat rental
Open space
Park
Public utility
Recreation equipment storage
Sign
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 215
Part 8
DC-1
(5) Vegetative alterations will require the issuance of a development
permit. A landscaping plan shall be submitted detailing all aspects
of hard and soft landscape features, including but not limited
to trails, boardwalks, viewing platforms and signage. Natural
features of the site shall be maintained or enhanced wherever
reasonable to do so. Exterior lighting may be allowed to provide
security provided it does not interfere or detract from the natural
setting. Only vegetative materials, including but not limited to
aquatic plants, semi-aquatic plants, field layer plants including
grasses and herbaceous plants, shrubs and trees native to the site
shall be used.
(6) Unless otherwise authorized by a development permit, outdoor
storage is prohibited in this District.
6
ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS
(1) Unless otherwise directed in this District, permitted and
discretionary land uses shall adhere to the general regulations in
Part 6 of the Bylaw.
(2) Permission from the County for any change of use or other
improvements on lands in this District does not relieve
responsibility from complying with any other municipal, provincial
and federal statute, regulation or bylaw, which may affect the use
or development.
7
CONTEXT MAP
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 216
HIGHWAYS & COUNTY
MAIN ROADS
OVERLAY
DISTRICT
OD-1
OD-1
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 217
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 218
Part 8
OD-1
8.3
HIGHWAYS AND COUNTY MAIN ROADS OVERLAY
DISTRICT (OD-1)
1
PURPOSE
To establish a positive visual impression of commercial and industrial
developments adjacent to the Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Highway and
Highway 2A corridor as well as other highways and county main roads
in Lacombe County.
2
APPLICATION
(1) The Overlay 'OD-1' District generally applies to the development
or redevelopment of lands that are used or are proposed to be
used for industrial or commercial purposes (excluding home
based businesses and bed and breakfasts), visible from a highway
or a county main road and located within 0.80 km (0.50 mi) of the
right of way of the Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Highway or Highway
2A and within 0.40 km (0.25 mi) of other highways and county
main roads within Lacombe County.
(2) The Overlay 'OD-1' District regulations are to be satisfied as a
condition of development approval.
(3) The Overlay 'OD-1' District applies to the redevelopment of
existing buildings and facilities as well as all new development.
(4) Wherever possible, trees existing on the site shall be preserved
and protected or replaced. Notwithstanding the status of
existing vegetation, landscaping of the site shall be subject to the
provisions of the Overlay 'OD-1' District.
(5) Where the provisions of the Overlay 'OD-1' District conflict with
other regulations of this Bylaw, the more restrictive provisions
shall take precedence.
3
GENERAL LANDSCAPING
(1) Where applicable, a development permit application shall be
accompanied by a landscaping plan completed by a landscape
architect or another person qualified to perform such work. No
development permit shall be issued prior to the approval of the
required landscaping plan.
(2) All required yards and all open spaces on the site, driveways,
outdoor storage and service areas, shall be landscaped in
accordance with the approved landscaping plan. The landscaping
plan shall include the following:
(a) boundaries and dimensions of the subject site;
(b) location and dimensions of all the buildings;
(c) location of parking areas, driveways and entrances;
(d) location of all exterior lights on the site and their projected
light patterns in relation to adjacent public roadways and
developments;
(e) location of existing plant materials to be retained;
(f) location of new plant materials;
(g) plant material list identifying the name, quantity and size of
plant material;
(h) all other physical features, existing or proposed, including
berms, walls, fences, outdoor furniture, lighting and
decorative paving; and
(i)
a location plan showing the proposed development and
landscaping relative to the landscaping and improvements
on adjacent properties.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 219
Part 8
OD-1
(3) Landscaping may include hard elements such as decorative rock,
brick, ceramic, wood and/or concrete; as well as soft elements
grass, trees, shrubs and/or flower gardens. Earthen berms, ponds,
ornaments, decorative walls, and fences may also be incorporated
into landscaping designs.
4
PLANTING STANDARDS
(1) Trees and shrub species are to follow the Lacombe County
Guide to Suitable Landscaping Species. All species used must be
capable of healthy growth in Lacombe County and be resilient to
the specific site location factors present (ie. sun, excessive wind,
shade, gravel and reasonable maintenance practices).
(2) Trees or shrubs should be clustered or arranged in planting beds
within the site.
(3) Trees and shrubs shall be evenly placed at regular intervals when
used for screening.
(4) Each planting bed shall consist of an odd number of trees mixed
50% coniferous and 50% deciduous with shrubs in a mulched
medium such as bark, chips, rocks or similar materials. Mulch shall
not be used as a substitute for plant materials.
(5) As required by the Development Authority, the undeveloped
portion of the site must be graded, contoured and seeded, if not
utilized for other purposes.
(6) The following planting requirements shall be met in all landscaped
areas:
(a) a tree mix of approximately 50% coniferous and 50%
deciduous shall be provided to provide year round colour
and interest;
(b) 50% of required deciduous trees shall be at least 65 mm
(2.5 in) calliper and 50% shall be a minimum of 76 mm (3 in)
calliper above the root ball;
(c) 75% of coniferous trees shall be a minimum of 2.5 m (8.2 ft)
in height and 25% shall be a minimum of 3.5 m (11.5 ft) in
height above the root ball;
(d) coniferous shrubs must be a minimum spread of 450 mm
(17.7 in) at the time of planting; and
(e) deciduous shrubs must be a minimum height of 450 mm
(17.7 in) at the time of planting.
(7) Tree or shrub counts shall be provided in required front, side or
rear yards determined on the following basis:
(a) one (1) tree for every 3.05 m (10 ft) and one (1) shrub for each
1.83 m (6 ft) of linear frontage abutting the right-of-way shall
be required;
(b) one (1) tree for every 3.05 m (10 ft) and one (1) shrub for each
1.83 m (6 ft) of linear side or rear yard may be required; and
(c) at a minimum, a planting bed shall be composed of a mix
of three (3) coniferous trees and two (2) deciduous trees or
shrubs.
(8) On the advice of a qualified landscape architect or arborist only,
planting standards may be altered to suit unique site topography,
soils or micro-climatic conditions.
5
LANDSCAPE ISLANDS WITHIN PARKING AREAS
(1) Landscape islands shall be required within at-grade parking areas
with a capacity of twenty-five (25) or more vehicles:
(a) Must be provided at a ratio of 2.0 m2 (21 ft2) of landscaped
island for every parking stall provided.
(2) Tree or shrub counts shall be provided in required parking area
islands determined on the following basis:
(a) One (1) tree for each 15 m2 (162 ft2) and one (1) shrub for
each 10 m2 (107 ft2) of required parking area islands.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 220
Part 8
OD-1
(b) In no case shall there be less than one (1) tree per required
parking area island.
(3) Parking islands shall be placed to provide visual relief and to
organize large areas of parking into smaller cells. The number of
islands provided shall be to the satisfaction of the Development
Authority.
6
SECURITY
(1) The owner of the property, or his/her successor or assignees,
shall be responsible for landscaping and proper maintenance.
As a condition of a development permit, an irrevocable letter of
credit shall be required, up to a value of the estimated cost of the
proposed landscaping/planting to ensure that such landscaping/
planting is carried out with reasonable diligence. The conditions
of the security being that:
(a) if the landscaping is not completed in accordance with
this Bylaw and the landscaping plan within one year after
occupying the building or site, then the County shall use the
security to complete the approved landscape development;
(b) if the landscaping does not survive a two-year maintenance
period, the applicant must replace it with a similar type of
species and with a similar calliper width or forfeit the portion
of the amount fixed equal to the cost of replacing the
affected landscaping materials; and
(c) the letter of credit will be released when the landscaping
and other improvements have been completed to the
satisfaction of the Development Authority and the two-year
maintenance period has expired.
7
ADDITIONAL AESTHETIC REGULATIONS
(1) Additional landscaping may be required, if in the opinion of the
Development Authority:
(a) there is a likelihood that the proposed development will
generate undesirable impacts on surrounding sites, such as
poor appearance, excessive noise, light, odours, traffic, litter,
or dust; or
(b) there is a likelihood that undesirable impacts may be
generated on the site, and cause conflicts with other
businesses within the development.
(2) The additional landscaping that may be required at the discretion
of the Development Authority may include, but is not limited to,
the following:
(a) additional separation space between incompatible use
classes;
(b) the use of trees, shrubs, fences, walls, and berms to buffer or
screen uses of negative impact; and
(c) the use of trees, shrubs, planting beds, street furniture and
surface treatments to enhance the appearance of a proposed
development.
8
SIGNS & LIGHTING
(1) Refer to Part 6, Section 15 and 23.
9
ACCESS
(1) Vehicular entrances and exits, as well as on-site pedestrian and
vehicular routes, shall be designed in a manner that provides a
safe and clearly defined circulation pattern.
(2) Loading bays shall be located in such a manner as to not impede
the efficient flow of traffic and pedestrian movement and to
minimize impacts on adjacent land uses.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 221
Part 8
OD-1
(3) To provide opportunities for convenient and free flowing traffic
movements between lots, development on adjoining lots may be
integrated by direct on site access connections.
10
ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES
(1) All buildings on a site shall follow the same theme and exhibit
a high standard of appearance. Exceptions may be made to
accommodate corporate images.
(2) Rooflines and facades of large buildings with a single wall greater
than 29.87 m (98 ft) in length shall be designed to reduce the
perceived mass by the inclusion of design elements, such as
arches, columns or gables with exterior finish materials composed
of predominantly muted colours.
(3) Mechanical
equipment
(including
roof
top
mechanical
equipment) shall be screened from view. Screening should be
compatible with the theme and character of the site.
(4) All waste collection areas, visible from the corridor, shall be
screened. Screening shall take the form of berming, landscaping
or solid fencing or any combination of the foregoing.
11
BUILDING SETBACK
(1) Development setbacks will be established with input from
Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors as part of an
outline plan or area structure plan, or at the time of subdivision or
development.
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 222
HISTORICAL
PRESERVATION
OVERLAY
DISTRICT
OD-2
OD-2
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 223
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 224
Part 8
OD-2
8.4
HISTORICAL PRESERVATION OVERLAY DISTRICT
(OD-2)
1
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Historical Preservation Overlay 'OD-2' District is to
maintain the historical character of the designated Municipal Historic
Resource in terms of building appearance, and to ensure the use of the
site would not be incompatible with its historical preservation.
2
USES
3
REGULATIONS
(1) In accordance with the Alberta Historical Resources Act, no person
shall destroy, disturb, alter, restore, or repair a building or structure
on a site that has been designated:
(a) a Municipal Historic Resource without written approval
from the Development Officer in consultation with relevant
experts;
(b) a Provincial Historic Resource without written approval from
the Minister responsible for the Alberta Historical Resources
Act;
(2) Any development or the carrying out of works of maintenance or
repair on a designated Municipal Historic Resource must respect
the historic character of the regulated portions of the resource
outlined in the Statement of Significance and conform to the
Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in
Canada.
4
HISTORICAL PRESERVATION BUILDINGS AND
SITES
The buildings and/or sites, which are included in this District, are listed
as the following:
PERMITTED
DISCRETIONARY
Those uses listed as permitted in the
underlying land use district
The uses listed as discretionary in the
underlying land use district, which
in the opinion of the Development
Authority, will maintain and achieve
the general purpose of the District
HISTORICAL SITE
DESIGNATION BUILDING
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
St. Monica's Anglican Church
Hamlet of Mirror
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 225
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 226
PART 9
LAND USE
DISTRICT MAPS
PART 9 IS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD AT
WWW.LACOMBECOUNTY.COM
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 227
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 228
Lacombe County Land Use Bylaw
Date Updated: April 9, 2026
Page 229
www.lacombecounty.com
(403) 782-8389
planning@lacombecounty.com