An updated draft Land Use Bylaw is expected to be available by mid-November before it is presented to Council. (Photo: LNN)

By Joel Mendelson

Public feedback sought on proposed changes to Lethbridge County Land Use Bylaw

Oct 18, 2023 | 12:00 PM

LETHBRIDGE COUNTY, AB – Lethbridge County administration is reviewing the Land Use Bylaw, and it wants feedback from the public on the proposed changes.

This bylaw regulates how land is zoned and developed, as well as the permitting process. The bylaw has not been reviewed since 2013.

Lethbridge County CAO Cole Beck said, “While overall there are no proposed large-scale changes, we still want to hear from the public to ensure that we have a document that makes sense for the community.”

He continued, “We encourage people to read the articles, ask questions, and share their thoughts throughout the process.”

Some of the proposed changes include:

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• Removing the “developments not requiring a permit” section and adding it as its own distinct section of the Land Use Bylaw. This will make it easier for users to find what developments do or do not require a permit.
• Removing the requirement for solar collectors mounted on roofs or walls to have a development permit. This change will streamline the process for residents and businesses looking to install solar panels on their home or business.
• Relocating the section on the number of dwellings allowed on a parcel to be included with each individual land use district. This will provide clarity within each district on the number of dwellings that are permitted.
• Aligning languages to provincial requirements with regard to incomplete applications.
• Adding a section to clarify requirements when applying for a development that is a change of use (i.e. where no new building is being constructed)
• Expanding the validity period of a development permit from 12 months to 24 months. This would apply to most of the development permits within the County.
• Expanding the validity period of a development permit for large-scale industrial and commercial renewable energy projects from 12 months to 48 months. This would apply to a small number of development permits but allows industry and renewable energy projects more time to complete without having to reapply for a new development permit.
• Adding a new section outlining the process for withdrawing a development permit. The c Land Use Bylaw does not currently have a process for withdrawal and there is a lack of clarity on how a permit holder can do so.
• Adding a new section for some variances (i.e. changes) to an issued development permit. This would allow for minor siting changes without requiring a new development permit application.

Over the next month, updates will be posted at the Lethbridge County website. Information will also be available at the Lethbridge administration office (#100, 905 4 Avenue South) or by calling 403-328-5525.

An updated draft Land Use Bylaw is expected to be available by mid-November before it is presented to council.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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