Parkland County eyes options to strengthen regulations for unsightly properties

PARKLAND COUNTY -- Parkland County is seeking options to strengthen regulations and enforcement for unsightly properties.

This comes as a motion was unanimously passed by Parkland County Council at their regular meeting on Sept. 8, 2026, to direct administration to draft possible options to establish clear and defined regulations and enforcement standards throughout the county. The motion was brought forward by Councillor John McNab, who believes this would create a better understanding of expectations for residents and industry. 

"The goal of this motion is to provide guidance and clarity to all, including our peace officers, and current and future residents," said McNab. "Administration should consider how any proposed approach can recognize the different character, density, impacts, and property considerations and conditions within hamlets, and higher-density residential communities." 

The motion directs administration to review Parkland County's Community Standards Bylaw, in conjunction with the Land Use Bylaw, and report back to council with options to enhance the regulation and enforcement of unsightly properties and property maintenance standards. It also directs Parkland County staff to conduct a review of approaches used by comparable Alberta rural municipalities.

"Options for establishing clear and more objective standards, related to matters such as property maintenance, construction sites, buildings and fences, outdoor storage, and derelict vehicles and equipment," said McNab.

The matter is expected to be brought back before Parkland County Council at a later date.