Department: City Clerk, Planning and Development
Bylaw Number C-1237
Adopted Date Jan 25 2010
Last Amended Date: Apr 06 2020
CITY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE
OFFICE CONSOLIDATION
BYLAW C-1237
A Bylaw to adopt the
City of Grande Prairie
Municipal Development Plan
(As Amended by Bylaw C-1237A, C-1237B, C-1237C,
C-1237D, C-1237F, C-1237G, C-1237H, C-1237I,
C-1237J, C-1237K, C-1237L, C-1237M, C-1237N, C-1237O and C-1237P)
THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE, IN THE
PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, DULY ASSEMBLED, ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. This Bylaw shall be cited as the “Municipal Development Plan” Bylaw.
2. The Municipal Development Plan attached as “Schedule A” is hereby adopted pursuant to
Section 632 of the Municipal Government Act, RSA 2000, Chapter M-26.
3. Bylaw C-939 and all amendments thereto are repealed.
4. This Bylaw shall take effect on the date it is passed.
READ a first time this 2nd day of November , 2009.
“D. Logan” (signed)
Mayor
“A. Cerny” (signed)
Acting Legislative Services Manager
READ a second time this 25th day of January , 2010.
READ a third time and finally passed this 25th day of January , 2010.
“D. Logan” (signed)
Mayor
“J. Ferguson” (signed)
Legislative Services ManagerTable of Contents
1 Introduction........................................................................................ 1
2 Context and Trends............................................................................4
3 Vision and Guiding Principles ...........................................................7
4 Growth Management..........................................................................9
5 Urban Design ................................................................................... 13
6 Residential Development Neighbourhoods and Housing .............. 20
7 Economic Development................................................................... 26
8 Commercial Development................................................................ 28
9 Industrial Development.................................................................... 30
10 Parks Recreation Community Services and Heritage...................... 33
11 The Natural Environment................................................................ 37
12 Community Mobility ........................................................................ 42
13 Infrastructure.................................................................................... 45
14 Intermunicipal Planning .................................................................. 49
15 Implementation................................................................................ 51
16 A Plan for Action .............................................................................. 57
List of Maps
Map 1 - Regional Context - Bylaw C-1237H (April 4, 2016)
Map 2 - Future Land Use - Bylaw C-1237N (January 28, 2019)
Map 3 - High Visibility Corridors - Bylaw C-1237H (April 4, 2016)
Map 4 - Existing and Future Major Parks - Bylaw C-1237H (April 4, 2016)
Map 5 - Arterial Road Network - Bylaw C-1237H (April 4, 2016)
Map 6 - Rural Service Area - Bylaw C-1237H (April 4, 2016)
Appendix A - Interpretation - Bylaw C-1237H (April 4, 2016)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 1
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Role of the Municipal Development Plan
The Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is a statutory plan required by the Municipal
Government Act that is adopted by City Council as a bylaw. It is the City’s most significant
strategic policy document providing a framework for directing the location and type of
new land uses and development, and considers the many related aspects of City life. The
policies reflect the kind of community City residents wish to see in future, and provides
direction on how this will be achieved. It will direct the built form of the City and promote
orderly, economical and beneficial development while balancing the social and
environmental needs and desires of residents. MDP policies play a very significant role in
helping to maintain a high quality of life in Grande Prairie.
The MDP is a long range planning document that will guide development in Grande
Prairie for the next 20 to 25 years but will need to be periodically updated. Its policies are
interrelated and mutually supportive and, because the MDP is a bylaw with legal status
under the statutes of Alberta, the policies can support other related non-statutory plans.
Also, pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, all other statutory plans such as Area
Structure Plans (ASP) and Area Redevelopment Plans (ARP) must be consistent with the
MDP policies. Similarly, decisions by Council and development and subdivision
authorities must consider MDP policies in making decisions. As well, the MDP provides
direction for the more regulatory Land Use Bylaw (LUB).
The MDP has been prepared in accordance with the Municipal Government Act which
states that it must address:
• The future land uses within the municipality.
• The manner of and the proposals for future development plans.
• The coordination of land use, future growth patterns and other infrastructure with
adjacent municipalities if there is no Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP).
• The provision of required transportation systems either generally or specifically, within
the municipality and in relation to adjacent municipalities, and
• The provision of municipal services and facilities either generally or specifically.
Other items may be addressed at the discretion of the municipality.
The graphic below illustrates the relationship between the MDP, ASP the LUB, Outline
Plans (OP) and Subdivisions. An ASP is also adopted by bylaw to provide a framework
for subdivision and development for a specified area. An OP contains greater detail for a
portion of an ASP area.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 2
1.2 Related Plans and MDP Background Documents
Those City plans that have provided input into the development of MDP policies or are
supported and implemented through the MDP are:
• Transportation Master Plan
• Tree Management Plan
• City Council’s 2007 Strategic Plan
• City of Grande Prairie Growth Study (2008)
• 2006 Recreation Master Plan
• Downtown Enhancement Plan Area Redevelopment Plan
• Muskoseepi Park Master Plan
• Heritage Management Plan
• Transit Master Plan
• City of Grande Prairie Water Distribution Master Plan
• City of Grande Prairie Wastewater System Master Plan
• Construction and Design Manuals
Figure 1 - Hierarchy of PlansMunicipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 3
Background documents prepared as part of and in support of the MDP process are:
• Situational Overview Discussion Paper - This paper provides a summary of all
statutory and related land use and infrastructure planning documents reviewed as part
the MDP update process, and identifies relevant MDP policy implications.
• Issues Compendium Discussion Paper - This paper identifies key issue groupings
that need to be explored as part of the MDP update process, and best practice
approaches being applied in other jurisdictions to better deal with issues. The issues
provide a concise context and potential directions for the key change elements in the
new MDP.
• Policy Framework Discussion Paper - This paper provides context for discussion
of proposed MDP policies, and the land use implications of these policies. It
considers the findings and conclusions of the other two background papers in
proposing new policy directions.
1.3 MDP Interpretation
A complete listing of definitions is provided in Appendix A. In addition, rules of
interpretation in terms of the intent of MDP policies are also listed such that:
• The word shall requires mandatory compliance with a policy except where a variance
has been granted pursuant to the Municipal Government Act or this MDP.
• The words should and will require compliance with a policy but the approach taken and
degree of compliance is at Council’s discretion.
• The word may implies discretionary compliance or a choice in applying a policy.
All other words shall be interpreted as per their usual and customary meaning.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 4
2 CONTEXT AND TRENDS
2.1 Regional Context
The City of Grande Prairie is located in the Peace County of northwest Alberta some 100
kilometres east of the British Columbia border and 450 kilometres northwest of the City
of Edmonton (see Map 1 - Regional Context). It serves as the regional service, shopping
and cultural centre of a population of some 250,000 persons that includes all of north
central and northwest Alberta, northeast British Columbia and parts of the Northwest
Territories. The City is the primary shopping destination for Dawson Creek which is
located just inside the BC border.
Grande Prairie is Alberta’s second fastest growing urban municipality with a population
of just over 50,000. It is the centre of a diversified regional economy responding to the
forestry, agricultural and oil and gas industries. In recent years, Grande Prairie has
assumed the major role as the gateway to the north. Traffic at the Grande Prairie Airport has
grown substantially as is evident from the recently completed and ongoing airport
expansion. The City is well positioned geographically to function as the service centre for
the construction of the proposed Mackenzie Valley and potentially the Alaska pipelines.
2.2 History
Grande Prairie began as a Hudson’s Bay trading post in 1881. It became a village in 1914
and then a town in 1919. According to the City’s Community Profile, a large group of
settlers arrived in the 1930’s as farmers from the drought-stricken southern prairies came
north to farm the moist soils of the Peace. The discovery of oil at Leduc, Alberta in 1947
resulted in a series of explorations leading to the discovery of extensive reserves of oil and
natural gas in the Peace. As the reserves were exploited, the economy expanded and the
region's population increased dramatically.
Grande Prairie was incorporated as a City in 1958. The historic growth trend has
continued such that the City’s population has increased tremendously from a mere 7,000
in 1958 to more than 50,000 fifty years later.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 5
During the fifty years since Grande Prairie became a City, growth has been characterized
by a strong demand for single-family housing. This style and density of development was
made possible because of widespread car ownership, a plentiful supply of cheap land for
new development, and the desire for a suburban lifestyle.
As a result, mature neighbourhoods declined in population and the role of the downtown
as the primary employment and shopping district changed. New commercial growth
followed housing to the suburbs, and thrived at the expense of older commercial areas.
This means that business, employment, housing, service and entertainment areas are
typically oriented towards car users.
Grande Prairie’s current urban form is the result of past decisions that were made to meet
the needs of previous generations. Grande Prairie’s future will continue to be affected by
its past, but it will also be affected by the approach taken to shaping the City’s future
growth and development through this MDP.
2.3 Emerging Trends
The emerging best practice trend in developing communities that is being embraced across
North America is to build sustainable communities that apply the principles of smart
growth. The fundamental principle of sustainable development is that the needs of the
present must be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their
own needs. Such development must be fiscally, socially and environmentally sustainable.
Fiscal sustainability - means that the costs of building, operating and maintaining
communities and their supportive infrastructure and services are affordable, and will not
become a burden on future generations.
Social sustainability - means that communities are diverse with accessibility to affordable
housing, changing lifestyles needs, education, health care, essential goods, and public
amenities.
Environmental sustainability - means that communities are designed to minimize air,
water, and soil pollution, reduce land consumption and waste, and protect natural systems.
0
10
20
30
40
50
1958 1963 1968 1973 1978 1983 1988 1993 1998 2003 2008
Thousands
Figure 2 - Population History 1958 to 2008Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 6
Smart growth is a collection of land use and development principles that aim to enhance
quality of life, preserve the natural environment, and save money over time.
Smart growth principles promote sustainable development that recognizes the
connections between built form and quality of life. It’s a way to grow and develop
communities that are convenient to live in, environmentally friendly and diverse.
The most relevant smart growth principles as they apply to Grande Prairie are:
• Create diverse housing opportunities. People in different family types, life stages and
income levels can afford a home in the neighbourhood of their choice.
• Provide a mix of land uses within or close to neighbourhoods to promote more
walkable and healthy communities.
• Build well-designed attractive neighbourhoods using a modified grid such that people
can easily access daily activities and socially interact.
• Provide a variety of transportation choices and a safe infrastructure for walking,
cycling and transit, in addition to driving.
• Meet a diverse range of recreational needs and encourage social interaction through a
network of parks, open spaces and public squares linked to a multi use trail system.
• Preserve open spaces, natural beauty, and environmentally sensitive areas.
Development that respects natural landscape features has higher aesthetic,
environmental, and financial value.
• Utilize smarter and cheaper infrastructure and green buildings. Green buildings and
other systems can save both money and the environment in the long run.
• Foster a unique neighbourhood identity. Each neighbourhood is unique, vibrant,
diverse, and inclusive.
Many of the principles of sustainability and smart growth have been presented and
discussed with Grande Prairie residents and have been favourably received as a means of
retaining a high quality of life through the built environment. These principles are
reflected in the MDP policies.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 7
3 VISION AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The City of Grande Prairie 2007 Council Strategic Plan contains a vision statement that
was presented to the public as part of the MDP consultation process. This vision is that
of a vibrant community of rapid growth and prosperity in Canada; Grande Prairie is a community of
excellence that embraces challenges and opportunities. The public responded favourably but added
elements that are important to their quality of life and better reflect what they seek. The
recurring themes that are overwhelming supported by the public is that the City needs to
be attractive, safe and green with improved connectivity, a greater sense of community and
improved recreational and cultural facilities. The vision statement presented below reflects
the type of city residents want Grande Prairie to become. The guiding principles also
presented below direct MDP policies such that the vision can be better met. Combined,
the vision and guiding principles support a smart growth sustainable community that
continues to offer a high quality of life to its residents.
Vision
A vibrant and attractive community that provides an exceptional
quality of life to its residents and is the core of a prosperous and
dynamic region.
Guiding Principles
1. Continue our commitment to responsible energy use and climate protection by
promoting energy efficiency, water conservation, the reduction of solid waste and
other environmental initiatives.
2. Ensure our development plans incorporate sustainable community principles that will
result in a high quality of life as measured by a high degree of resident satisfaction and
enjoyment experienced in daily living.
3. Apply best practice approaches in considering new growth and development initiatives
and in managing our resources and infrastructure.
4. Adopt the Triple Bottom Line approach to measuring environment, social and fiscal
sustainability in considering new growth such that growth does not place a burden on
future generations.
5. Enhance and sustain our existing neighbourhoods by promoting redevelopment that
embraces their character and by providing required infrastructure and community
support services.
6. Promote the beautification of Grande Prairie - from the neighbourhood street level,
to comprehensive commercial developments, to parks - by encouraging a high
standard of urban design elements and landscaping.
7. Support the enhancement of our Downtown as an active, inclusive and attractive focal
point for the community to live, work, shop and play.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 8
8. Develop healthy walkable safe neighbourhoods with a sense of place that integrates
uses, increases densities providing a range of housing choice, and applies innovative
compact subdivision and building designs.
9. Manage our new growth and infrastructure to support a sustainable balance between
residential, commercial and industrial uses.
10. Partner in and promote the conservation of our heritage resources and historical
projects and programs as an expression of our community identity.
11. Pursue the development and enhancement of our natural areas to enrich our lives
while preserving open space, natural beauty and significant environmental areas
including aquatic ecosystems and riparian areas in Bear Creek and around wetlands
and lakes.
12. Provide for a connected parks and open space system that links all our
neighbourhoods and Muskoseepi Park.
13. Build a comprehensive efficient transportation system that provides for different
modes of safe and accessible transport for all our residents.
14. Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration in development decisions and
make development decisions predictable, fair and cost-effective.
15. Cooperate with our rural and urban neighbours to build a stronger Region.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 9
4 GROWTH MANAGEMENT
Managing growth requires a strategic approach to directing future land use in a manner
that is efficient and orderly, and supports the development of an attractive sustainable
smart growth community. This means that the required transportation improvements,
infrastructure, and community services also need to be managed to support growth.
Managing growth in a sustainable manner will require reduced dependence on vehicular
traffic, ensuring a balance between residential and non-residential development
opportunities, being environmentally, socially and fiscally responsible, and reinvesting in
the Downtown and in mature neighbourhoods. Striving for a balanced tax assessment
between residential and non-residential uses, particularly industrial assessment, is critical
to the future of the City. An approach for monitoring sustainability, particularly fiscal
sustainability, is an important component of managing growth.
Goal
To manage growth strategically to meet the future needs of a
progressive and sustainable urban environment.
Objectives
• To promote orderly and environmentally responsible development.
• To encourage a compact and efficient urban form that reduces dependence on
the automobile.
• To ensure a balance between an adequate supply of land and the infrastructure
needed to accommodate future growth.
• To identify indicators of fiscal, environmental and social sustainability and to
develop an approach for monitoring fiscal, environmental and social
sustainability.
Policies
Future Land Use Map 4.1 Growth and development shall be directed in accordance
with the generalized Future Land Use - Map 2 as
amended from time to time and in accordance with the
policies of this plan.
Contiguous Development 4.2 Development shall, to the extent possible, take place in a
contiguous manner such that the required transportation
improvements, infrastructure, and community services
are in place to support it. Orderly development shall be
supported through the following requirements:Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 10
Contiguous Development
-continued
4.2 a) prior to the adoption of a required ASP and OP,
subdivision of quarter sections shall be permitted under
the following conditions:
1) the subdivision is for commercial, institutional, or
industrial uses;
2) the total number of subdivisions does not exceed 4
parcels out of a quarter section;
3) the maximum area of a subdivided parcel is 10 acres;
and
4) the applicant provides a Conceptual Shadow Plan,
which meets the requirements of Section 15.15,
demonstrating that the subdivision will not impede
the ability to provide a logical road and
infrastructure network in the area.
b) an ASP and OP are required to the standards established
in Section 15.6 and 15.7 prior to subdivision in excess of
what is permitted under Section 4.2.a; and
c) where adjacent plan or municipal boundaries make it
unfeasible to include more than two (2) quarter sections
in a plan area, the City may accept a single statutory
document that meets the requirements of Sections 16 and
15.7, in lieu of requiring both an ASP and OP prior to
subdivision.
(Bylaw C-1237M - May 7, 2018)
d) for areas designated Residential by ASP’s in the area
identified as “Rural Service Area” on Map 6, a limit of six
(6) lots per quarter section with a maximum cumulative
area of 16 hectare may be subdivided prior to the
preparation of an OP provided that the subdivision
application is accompanied with a Conceptual Shadow
Plan. The details of the Conceptual Shadow Plan under
Section 15.15 will apply if they are not included in the
ASP.
(Bylaw C-1237N - January 28, 2019)
Efficient Use of
Infrastructure
4.3 Council shall give priority to the efficient utilization of
existing and planned capacity in utility and transportation
infrastructure in determining appropriate short-term
growth directions.
Infill Development 4.4 Council supports infill residential and commercial
development where appropriate on vacant or
underutilized parcels of land in established areas,
particularly along transit routes.
Cooperate with Aquatera
Utilities Inc.
4.5 The City shall continue to work cooperatively with
Aquatera to ensure its short and longer term utility
servicing needs are met.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 11
Balance Land Supply 4.6 Council shall take appropriate actions to maintain a land
supply that provides for a balance between residential
and non-residential development as per the
recommendations of the City of Grande Prairie Growth
Study (2008).
Monitor Existing Plans 4.7 Existing ASP’s and ARP’s shall be monitored and
periodically reviewed to:
a) ensure policies are being consistently implemented;
b) identify opportunities for increased intensification; and,
c) identify infrastructure improvements necessary to
support plan amendments.
Triple Bottom Line 4.8 Council will develop and apply a Triple Bottom Line
approach for evaluating new ASP’s and OP’s that
measures the social, fiscal and environmental
sustainability of a statutory plan, OP or development
project. Council shall consider the evaluation in making
decisions regarding proposed plans. Council intends to
solicit input from community stakeholders prior to
adopting the formal Triple Bottom Line methodologies
and Fiscal Impact Model.
Fiscal Impact Model 4.9 Council shall give priority to developing a fiscal impact
model to assess the implications of a development
proposal on long term municipal revenue and operating
costs. This model will be used as the tool to measure the
fiscal sustainability. Council intends to solicit input from
community stakeholders prior to adopting the formal
Triple Bottom Line methodologies and Fiscal Impact
Model.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 12
Downtown Enhancement
Plan
4.10 Council is committed to the implementation of the vision for
the Downtown as stated in the 2004 Downtown
Enhancement Plan and shall review and update the plan in
2010. The preparation of a strategy to implement the action
policies of the plan shall be guided by the following:
a) Downtown is a multi-purpose activity centre;
b) Downtown is a fundamental element of the City and defines
its character; and,
c) Downtown must be able to function as an all-season
environment.
Energy Resources
Conservation Board
4.11 The City shall refer applications for subdivision and
development of land in the vicinity of existing sour gas
facilities to the Energy Resources Conservation Board in
accordance with the Subdivision and Development
Regulation as approved under the Municipal
Government Act.
Protection of Agricultural
Lands
4.12 The City shall limit the premature fragmentation of
agricultural lands in future growth areas to minimize land
use conflicts with existing agricultural operations and
agricultural use of land. Existing agricultural operations
shall be protected until land is required for urban growth
needs.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)
Intensive Agriculture 4.13 The City shall prohibit Confined Feed Lot Operations
(CFOs) as they are incompatible with urban uses.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)
Development Adjacent to
Rail line
4.14 Council shall implement regulations to guide
development approvals for lands adjacent to rail lines.
Setbacks and in some cases mitigation measures will be
required for development adjacent to the rail line right-
of-way. Noise and Vibration Impact Studies may be
required as part of the land development approval
process for some land uses.
(Bylaw C-1237K - September 18, 2017)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 13
5 URBAN DESIGN
Applying smart growth urban design principles to new development will improve the
aesthetics of the City and will encourage a healthier lifestyle and social interaction. Urban
design considers the layout and visual quality of the built environment. Urban design
elements deal with building form and style, views and vistas, open space, and streetscape
treatments to provide an urban context that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Smart growth urban design principles call for creating neighbourhoods with a unique sense
of place and community, that are walkable, that provide live, play and perhaps some work
opportunities, and that include a meaningful choice of housing.
In encouraging walkable interactive neighbourhoods, a human scale focal point within a
neighbourhood is desirable and all roads and pedestrian opportunities should lead to the
focal point as well as to other neighbourhood elements. Modified grid patterns that
encourage interaction along the street are favoured where feasible for improved
connectivity and walkability. The result is an improved quality of life through the creation
of more liveable safe neighbourhoods. Greater emphasis on improving urban design
elements of new commercial and industrial uses and along major highway corridors that
show case the City are also important.
Goals
To apply smart growth urban design principles to neighbourhoods that
encourage healthy lifestyles, social interaction, and improve the
aesthetics of the City.
Objectives
• To define urban design expectations and provide direction for understanding
urban design standards.
• To promote the design of safe and healthy urban environments.
• To establish design guidelines that are based on principles of smart growth.
• To promote a positive impression of the City by applying a high standard of
design guidelines along major commercial corridors.
Policies
Urban Design Tool Kit 5.1 Council prepare an urban design tool kit to provide
guidance on developing attractive and safe business
areas, public spaces, and residential neighbourhoods
that embrace the principles of smart growth. This tool
kit shall be reviewed on an ongoing basis with input
from community and industry stakeholders such as, but
not limited to, the school authority, Urban
Development Institute, FCSS, emergency services and
the City planners.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 14
Smart Growth
Neighbourhood Design
Guidelines
5.2 Council will encourage the application of Smart Growth
Neighbourhood Design Guidelines in preparing new
residential ASP’s and OP’s. The design of residential
neighbourhoods will be encouraged to:
a) include an appropriate mix of housing choices in terms
of form and tenure as a means of meeting the lifecycle
and diverse social and economic needs of the
community;
(Bylaw C-1237J - January 23, 2017)
b) maintain stands of trees, watercourses, wetlands, and
other natural features where recommended based on a
Biophysical Assessment;
c) provide a mixed-use, pedestrian-oriented
neighbourhood activity centre as the neighbourhood
focal point to encourage cohesion, interaction and a
sense of place;
d) create pedestrian street orientation and connectivity
within the neighbourhoods by incorporating design
elements which enhance the quality of the built
environment;
e) apply a modified grid street pattern, to the extent
possible, as the basis of neighbourhood circulation (see
Figure 3);
f) integrate and connect to the city-wide multi use trail
system by linking residential areas with open space and
activity nodes through municipal, school, and
environmental reserves, public utility lots, planned
pathways, and other amenities, and to facilitate planning
for these connections by providing guidelines for
identifying development envelopes for future school
structures in the LUB;
g) provide adequate parks and open space to service the
neighbourhood and consider the function and design of
storm water management facilities as part of the open
space system;
h) locate sites for medium and/or high density residential
in areas where adequate amenities are available nearby;
and,
i) use collector roadways as future transit routes and apply
the standards of the Transit Master Plan in designing
neighbourhoods such that transit service is provided
within reasonable walking distance of most homes.
Figure 3 - Modified GridMunicipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 15
Comprehensively Designed
Developments
5.3 Council shall amend the LUB to include the proposed
design guidelines for comprehensively designed
developments. The intent of the design guidelines is to
include residential, commercial, industrial, institutional
and other land uses of a sufficient scale, mix or intensity
to merit a comprehensive design approach.
Comprehensively designed developments are planned
and designed as one unit and can include commercial
business centres and campuses, and parks and
residential apartment complexes.
Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design
(CPTED)
5.4 Council shall include provisions in the Urban Design
Tool Kit as provided for in Policy 5.1 and Policy 16.3 to
develop and promote the application of Crime
Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED)
principles to new development. These principles shall
be applied:
a) to all municipal buildings and development projects;
b) in the design and construction of private development
projects; and,
c) to all ASP’s, ARP’s and OP’s.
Improve Connectivity 5.5 Council shall develop a strategy through the
Transportation Master Plan for improving connectivity
within and between new and existing neighbourhoods,
major public places and employments areas to promote
a healthy lifestyle, clean air and reduced greenhouse
emissions. Key priorities are:
a) continued development of a City wide barrier free
commuter system for bicycles and pedestrians that links
major public places, employments areas as well as
neighbourhoods, and that contributes to a healthy
community;
b) development of design guidelines and standards for
pedestrian and bicycle paths and lanes; and,
c) integration of transit system stops and pedestrian and
bicycles facilities.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 16
High Visibility Corridor
Overlay
5.6 It is Council’s intention to establish a positive visual
impression on major arterial corridors that supports the
City’s vision of an attractive community. To implement
this policy, a High Visibility Corridor Overlay will be
included in the LUB, and the overlay guidelines and
standards shall be applied to all new developments
located along gateway and entranceway corridors as
identified by Map 3 - High Visibility Corridors.
Entrance Features 5.7 In 2012, Council adopted a policy for entrance features
on public lands.
In 2013, amendments to the LUB were undertaken to
address siting of entrance features on private lands and
to ensure consistency with the policy direction.
Council recognises that entrance features can visually
enhance a subdivision and the general amenities of the
area. It is Council’s intention to encourage low
maintenance entrance features to be located on public
lands, while ensuring that they are attractive, safe and
can be maintained in perpetuity.
Council expects that Developers will generally address at
the OP stage:
a) Confirmation whether proposed siting of entrance
features will be on public or private lands;
b) The number, size and location of entrance features
required to identify the subdivision;Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 17
c) General details of design, construction materials,
landscaping and associated features to determine whether
the entrance feature is deemed to be of low maintenance
design;
d) Potential interference issues with vehicle sight lines or
conflict with surface improvements or underground
utilities.
The LUB regulations are intended to allow sufficient
discretion of the Development Authority to consider
and approve entrance features for residential,
commercial and industrial subdivisions on private lands
with this Policy, in consultation, where required, with the
City’s Planning, Engineering Services and Facilities
Maintenance departments.
(Bylaw C-1237C - April 15, 2013)
School Site Location and
Design Guidelines
5.8 When determining site location and design the following
should be considered:
a) schools should be centrally located within
neighbourhoods for maximum walkability. By locating
schools in the centres of neighbourhoods the greatest
number of students should be able to walk to school, and
the walking distance can be minimized. It should be
noted that the centre of an OP area is not necessarily the
centre of the school catchment area;
b) school sites should have pedestrian access from all sides.
To achieve this connect school sites to the surrounding
residential area with walkways and shortcuts to adjacent
residential streets;
c) in order to ensure that school bus and passenger vehicle
traffic can be accommodated around schools, school sites
should front on to at least two (2) streets, with at least
one (1) being a collector road. Ideally school sites should
be corner lots;
d) on dual-school sites there should be enough street
frontage to accommodate separate bus loops and
passenger drop-off loops for each school;
e) high school sites should be located close to an arterial
road due to the amount of bus and passenger vehicle
traffic they generate;Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 18
f) the design of the neighbourhood street pattern, and the
proposed lot layout adjacent to the school site, should be
considered carefully to so as not to have driveways
accessing onto the street across the road from a school
site. The preferred configuration can be a combination
of lots backing directly onto the school site, lots fronting
on the shared street having rear lane access, and flanking
(side) yards abutting the shared street; and
g) restricting or prohibiting on-street parking in the vicinity
of schools should be considered. A safety assessment of
on-street parking should be done, and on-street parking
prohibited or restricted where and when appropriate.
(Bylaw C-1237P - April 6, 2020)
School Building Location 5.9 When determining school building location the
following should be considered:
a) minimize the distance that schools are setback from the
street so they integrate into the neighbourhood;
b) staff parking should be located at the side of the building,
not between the building and street;Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 19
c) provide separate bus loop and passenger drop-off areas,
ideally on different sides of the building/school site;
d) the bus loop should be located on the site, not on the
road, and separate from passenger drop-off and staff
parking areas. A single site access that then splits on site
into separate bus and passenger drop-off loops may also
be appropriate if it is designed so students do not need to
walk across either vehicle drive aisle; and
e) where practical site access driveways should line up with
intersections.
(Bylaw C-1237P - April 6, 2020)
_______________________________________________________________________________________________Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 20
6 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT NEIGHBOURHOODS AND
HOUSING
Smart growth urban design principles focus primarily on residential neighbourhoods
where quality of life measures are most significant for most people. These principles allow
neighbourhoods to be more sustainable and inclusive by encouraging housing diversity to
meet different life cycle and income needs. Well designed sustainable neighbourhoods are
better able to adapt to change over time because of this diversity. Redeveloping
neighbourhoods will also benefit from smart growth urban design principles. The
emphasis on enduring aesthetic design elements including a high standard of architecture
and landscaping will result in a more attractive city.
Goal
To create liveable neighbourhoods that provide for a variety of
lifestyles.
Objectives
• To encourage intensification and infill in mature neighbourhoods.
• To provide for a mix of housing types to meet a variety of life cycle demands
and market preferences.
• To encourage the development of affordable housing.
• To promote the efficient utilization of land by achieving increased densities.
Policies
Residential Infill in Established
Neighbourhoods
6.1 It is Council’s intention to encourage residential
infill and intensification in established
neighbourhoods pursuant to a Direct Control
District process. In considering such proposals,
Council shall have regard for the following:
a) sufficiency of infrastructure capacity;
b) compatibility in height, scale, and design of other
buildings in the neighbourhood;
c) respectful of continuity with the streetscape;
d) compatibility with surrounding land uses;
e) appropriately landscaped;
f) adequacy of parking;
g) respectful of historical or architectural significance
of buildings; and,
h) consideration of the interest of the public.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 21
Mixed Use Infill in Established
Neighbourhoods
6.2 It is Council’s intention to consider mixed use infill
and intensification in established neighbourhoods
pursuant to a Direct Control District process. In
considering such proposals, Council shall have
regard for the following:
a) sufficiency of infrastructure capacity;
b) compatibility in height, scale, and design of other
buildings in the neighbourhood;
c) applying guidelines for comprehensively designed
developments;
d) respectful of continuity with the streetscape;
e) compatibility with surrounding land uses
including hours of operation;
f) appropriately landscaped;
g) adequate provisions for parking, signage, lighting,
and fencing;
h) respectful of historical or architectural
significance of buildings; and,
i) consideration of the interest of the public.
Area Redevelopment Plans 6.3 Where an ARP is deemed appropriate, Council
shall require that Terms of Reference be prepared
for an ARP specific to a mature neighbourhood
that is sensitive to and recognizes the character and
unique needs of each neighbourhood. Council
expects each ARP, as a community-based planning
process, to consider the opportunities and
potential for infill and intensification. The ARP
shall comply with the requirements of the
Municipal Government Act and the Terms of
Reference described in Policy 15.8 of this Plan. An
ARP will generally address:
a) vision and neighbourhood character;
b) proposed land uses and densities;
c) development standards;
d) architectural design standards;
e) parks, open space and landscaping;
f) circulation and streetscape;
g) infrastructure and community service capacities;
and,
h) redevelopment levies.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 22
Area Redevelopment Plan Review 6.4 It is Council’s intention that a review of each ARP
is initiated within five (5) years of adoption.
Area Structure Plans 6.5 As a prerequisite to an OP pursuant to Policy 15.7,
Council shall require the adoption of an ASP for a
new residential growth area that complies with the
requirements of the Municipal Government Act
and the Terms of Reference for ASP as described
in Policy 15.6.
Smart Growth Principles 6.6 Council supports the application of sustainable
smart growth principles and the design guidelines
listed in Policy 5.2 in new residential growth areas
that result in attractive, inclusive neighbourhoods
with a sense of place, a pedestrian orientation and
a focus on public transit.
Small Lot Residential District 6.7 Council shall require that the Small Lot Residential
(RS) District be limited to no more than twenty-
five (25) percent of the net developable area of any
individual OP. Council intends, as an incentive to
more affordable housing options, to set minimum
lot width in the RS District at a minimum of 10.36
metres. Additional LUB standards will ensure that
driveways, entrances to dwelling units and other
site and architectural design features are functional
and foster overall compatibility with adjacent uses.
Notwithstanding the above provision, as a means
to allow developers an opportunity to
accommodate current market needs, starting in the
spring of 2019 until May 31, 2021, Council is
supportive of a limited and temporary relaxation of
the restriction on the RS District. LandMunicipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 23
Small Lot Residential District-
continued
Developers are able to apply for amendments to
OP’s and the LUB that may result in a plan area
exceeding the twenty-five (25) percent limit on RS
development. Proposed amendments will be
reviewed based on the following considerations:
a) the overall layout of the proposed area with
respect to transportation network, the
availability of on-street parking, presence of
lanes, and proximity to parcels designated as
Municipal Reserve or Public Utility Lots;
b) the size of the subject area will not exceed 4.0
ha;
c) the subject area must be the next phase of the
subject development; and
d) the subject area must be readily available for
subdivision and development in terms of water
and sanitary servicing, all utilities, and
transportation.
In the interim, the City will conduct an in-depth
review of overall neighbourhood design and site
standards as they relate to RS development.
(Bylaw C-1237O - June 4, 2019)
Residential Front Yards 6.8 Council will examine seasonal on-street parking
issues, residential out-door storage of RV’s,
campers and other similar items, unapproved
driveway widening and related issues which have
been identified as opportunities to reduce conflicts
in existing and future small-lot and other
neighbourhoods.
Lot Size Diversity 6.9 Council shall review the residential districts of the
LUB to ensure that greater diversity in single
family lot sizes such that meaningful choices are
provided to meet the varied and unique lot size
needs of residents.
Home Occupation 6.10 Council shall continue to support home
occupations as an acceptable use in residential
areas in accordance with the provisions of the
LUB. The LUB provisions regulating home
occupations shall be reviewed and amended to
ensure that neighbourhood integrity is not
compromised.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 24
High Density Regulation 6.11 Council may undertake a review of the locational
criteria for high density residential development,
and develop suitable regulations and design
guidelines for its development. A definition for
high density, as distinguished from medium
density residential, should be developed as part of
this review.
Rental Accommodation 6.12 Council will encourage, through the application of
smart growth principles, the provision of an
adequate supply of rental accommodation for
different socio-economic groups in all parts of the
city as a means of providing consumer choice and
affordable housing options.
Social Housing Partnership 6.13 Council through FCSS shall strive to create formal
partnerships between Provincial housing officials
who control funds for social housing projects,
special needs groups such as disabled persons,
seniors that require housing and the private sector
that builds and operates facilities.
Community Housing Integration 6.14 Council shall review and identify locational
guidelines for integrating community housing
projects in existing and developing
neighbourhoods. The Affordable Housing Master
Plan will be considered in the review process.
Density Bonusing 6.15 Council shall investigate density bonusing guidelines
and shall amend the LUB to encourage developers to
provide affordable housing units and/or other
amenities as part of development projects.
Secondary Suites 6.16 Council supports secondary suites and shall amend the
provisions of the LUB to ensure compatibility and to
protect the integrity of the neighbourhood through
adequate on-site parking amongst other factors.
Unique Sites and Structures 6.17 In considering an application for a new or amended
Direct Control District to facilitate re-use or
redevelopment, Council shall have regard for relevant
planning considerations, which may include the following:
a) the site or structure was legally in existence prior to
adoption or revision of the current LUB;
b) the subject parcel or structure has site or structural
limitations or a combination of site and structural
features from the previous use which limits the
development potential for uses intended within the
planning area context and current District;
c) the previous non-residential use has ceased to exist;Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 25
Unique Sites and Structures-
continued
d) the proposed use did not exceed or extend beyond the
property lines at the time the use became non-
conforming;
e) the proposed use will not adversely affect adjacent land
uses;
f) adequacy of infrastructure capacity;
g) satisfactory provision for solid waste disposal;
h) architectural compatibility of any alterations,
renovations or additions, including but not limited to:
provisions for maximum height and floor area of main
and accessory buildings and associated structures;
i) changes to existing development should not exceed:
1) an increase in lot coverage of more than twenty (20)
percent to a total maximum lot coverage of thirty-
five (35) percent; and,
2) the height of the existing structure.
j) provision has been made for adequate parking,
signage, lighting, fencing and landscaping;
k) conformity with all relevant requirements of the LUB
and statutory plans, recognizing that Council may
provide for unique land uses and regulations within
Direct Control Districts where sites or proposals are
unique or complex, as determined in Council’s sole
discretion; and
l) relevant professional studies or reports (e.g. parking
studies, environmental impact assessment, specialized
services needs, etc.) or the absence thereof.
(Bylaw C-1237F - December 14, 2015)
Farmstead Separation 6.18 In the area identified as “Rural Service Area” on
Map 6, the subdivision of one (1) parcel of land
(with or without a farmstead) from an un-
subdivided quarter section in use for farming
purposes is supported by the City.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)
Mix of Housing Choices 6.19 The City will strive to maintain a mix of housing
choices in form, tenure, and affordability. In order
to achieve this, the City aims to maintain twenty-
five (25) percent of dwelling units as multi-family
(three (3) unit developments and up).
(Bylaw C-1237J - January 23, 2017)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 26
7 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Economic development is an important element of fiscal sustainability. By attracting
business investment, local employment opportunities are increased and the City’s
assessment base is expanded to offset residential assessment base. This means that the
City can provide more of the amenities that result in a high quality of life. Existing
residents will benefit over time from an improved quality of life and the City will be better
positioned to attract and retain a professional and skilled labour force.
Goal
To cultivate an innovative and diverse business environment that
encourages sustainable economic development.
Objectives
• To support business retention and expansion activities.
• To develop a market-targeted economic development assessment.
• To provide a vehicle for local governments to partner with economic
development stakeholders.
• To promote a collaborative approach to regional economic development.
Policies
20 Year Economic
Development Strategy
7.1 Council may develop a 20 year economic development
strategy that will:
a) promote the municipality as an attractive place to locate new
businesses and industries;
b) support the retention and expansion of existing businesses
and industries;
c) support local and regional economic development through
strategic collaboration with County of Grande Prairie No. 1;
d) encourage environmentally sustainable businesses and
industries;
e) encourage value-added businesses and industries;
f) ensure that municipal programs and services enhance the
local business climate;
g) create jobs within the City for City workers; and,
h) support community self-reliance by promoting business
growth and development from within the community and
nurturing small business.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 27
Market Assessment 7.2 The City may undertake a market assessment that will
support the economic development strategy by:
a) determining the market demand for the types of businesses
that could be attracted to Grande Prairie;
b) providing basic information required to attract businesses to
Grande Prairie; and,
c) developing targeted marketing tools.
Growth Study 7.3 Council shall maintain an adequate supply of industrial,
commercial and residential land by annexing additional
lands as required in accordance with the recommendations
of the City of Grande Prairie Growth Study (2008).
Quality of Life 7.4 The City shall continue to maintain a high quality of life to
attract a skilled labour force by providing:
a) a variety of recreation and open space opportunities,
b) cultural and community services and amenities;
c) an enhanced Downtown;
d) attractive neighbourhoods;
e) a diverse choice of housing; and,
f) a range of transportation options.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 28
8 COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
The City provides for a range of service and retail commercial opportunities. These
opportunities not only meet the needs of residents but also provide local employment.
Once the focus of commercial development, the Downtown and shopping malls have
become marginalized by power centres such as Gateway, that are particularly popular with
consumers. Power centres focus on destination shopping. Arterial commercial
development is a second form of commercial development that mirrors power centres to
some extent. However, in the context of smart growth, commercial opportunities replicate
the village centre and are at street level to encourage walking and social interaction. Also,
smart growth encourages reverting back to ground level commercial with residential over
top. This type of mixed use development may be particularly suitable for neighbourhood
activity centres and the Downtown. Underutilized shopping malls and commercial strips
provide opportunities for mixed use intensification nodes to replicate village centres.
Examples of potential intensification nodes are Gateway, the Community Knowledge
Campus, the Downtown and Grande Prairie Regional College. These opportunities are
recognized by the MDP policies.
Goal
To support a diverse commercial sector that serves both local and
regional residents.
Objectives
• To support the commercial role of the Downtown.
• To recognize emerging trends in retailing and commercial land use, including
the creation of mixed use intensification nodes.
• To provide commercial development opportunities that support a complete
range of commercial choices.
Policies
Downtown Business
Association
8.1 Council shall partner with the Downtown Business
Association to update and implement the policies of the
Downtown Enhancement Plan.
Downtown Office
Focus
8.2 Council shall promote the Downtown as the primary location
for office space by actively encouraging other levels of
government to regard Downtown as the focus of their
activities.
Relevant Commercial
Districts
8.3 Council shall review the commercial districts of the LUB to
ensure that the districts remain relevant and continue to
provide for a complete range of commercial opportunities for
City residents.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 29
Convenience
Commercial
Development
8.4 Council will encourage convenience commercial development
to locate in neighbourhood activity centres or on the
periphery of neighbourhoods along arterial or major collector
roads. Land use conflicts with nearby residential properties
will be minimized while still providing convenient access to
residents.
Intensification Nodes 8.5 Council may promote the redevelopment of mixed use
intensification nodes. The intensification nodes will serve a
larger sector of the City, function as town centres, focus on
major transportation intersections and include existing
employment nodes and institutional uses. The intensification
nodes may:
a) contain significant amounts of higher density housing and
commercial or institutional development;
b) include mixed use commercial/residential buildings;
c) have strong pedestrian oriented streetscape elements;
d) be well served by public transit; and,
e) include community elements such as recreation facilities or
gathering places.
Commercial Infill 8.6 It is Council’s intention to support intensification of
commercial districts where lands are vacant or underutilized
and infrastructure capacity is sufficient to accommodate such
development. To support this objective, Council will explore
mechanisms such as, but not limited to, tax incentives and
development fee reductions.
Pedestrian Mobility in
Commercial Districts
8.7 In keeping with smart growth principles, and to encourage
and facilitate walking, Council will ensure urban design criteria
and standards are applied in all commercial districts to foster
pedestrian environments that appeal to users and are designed
to accommodate a variety of ability levels.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 30
9 INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
Industrial development is an important contributor to the economic well being and fiscal
sustainability of the City. It provides local employment and supplements residential tax
assessment to provide services and facilities that enhance the quality of life of City
residents. Being able to compete with its municipal neighbours through different servicing
approaches as well as maintaining an adequate supply of industrial land is important.
In terms of best practise approaches to industrial development, brownfield development
is becoming increasingly popular for accommodating industrial growth because of the
efficiencies of using existing infrastructure. Brownfield development is the practice of
redeveloping, expanding, or reusing a property which may be compromised by the
presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.
A campus approach to developing business industrial parks is also becoming increasingly
popular in some markets. These parks display a high standard of design and architectural
elements and offer an attractive employment environment. Municipal Reserve is taken as
land to allow for parks.
Another emerging best practice in business industrial park development is the eco-
industrial park. Eco-industrial parks are made up of industries which support each other
by increasing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. MDP policies need
to support existing industrial uses while allowing for new and emerging trends in industrial
development.
Goal
To provide sufficient industrial capacity to attract future opportunities.
Objectives
• To direct intense industrial developments to existing industrial/business areas
and away from predominantly residential areas.
• To provide a wide variety of industrial land types (business, light, general,
heavy).
• To encourage eco-industrial parks and green initiatives in considering
industrial development.
Policies
Area Structure Plan Required 9.1 Council shall require the adoption of an ASP for a new
industrial growth area that complies with the
requirements of the Municipal Government Act and
the Terms of Reference for ASP as described in Policy
15.6.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 31
Orderly Development 9.2 Industrial development, to the extent possible, will
occur in an orderly manner extending from existing
development as per approved ASP with existing
serviced lands being developed prior to new
unserviced areas.
Direct Control 9.3 The City may utilize direct control districts in the area
identified as “Rural Service Area” on Map 6 to
accommodate developments that are unique and not
explicitly defined in the LUB. Examples of such uses
may include large resource based developments
including gas plants, pulp mills and other heavy
industrial type uses.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)
Road Standard Review 9.4 Council shall review the City’s road standards in the
Construction and Design Manuals to allow for a rural
cross section standard of road in new appropriately
located industrial subdivision as a means of reducing
development costs and attracting a broader spectrum
of industrial uses.
Develop Brownfield Sites 9.5 The City will identify opportunities for brownfield
development and encourage such development where
infrastructure capacity exists.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 32
Consider Heavy Industrial
Area
9.6 The City shall undertake a study to consider the
feasibility of designating an area for heavy industrial
development that is environmentally sustainable and
compatible with other industrial uses.
Eco-Industrial Business Park 9.7 The City may support and facilitate the development
of a privately initiated eco-industrial business park by
offering incentives such as reduced off-site levies or
reduced taxes for a period of time.
Municipal Reserve as Land 9.8 Council may require that Municipal Reserve in new
industrial subdivisions be dedicated as land instead of
cash-in-lieu of land.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 33
10 PARKS RECREATION COMMUNITY SERVICES AND
HERITAGE
Parks and recreation facilities and services are valued by Grande Prairie residents and
considered to be major contributors to a high quality of life. Recreational trail systems in
particular as well as facilities such as indoor swimming pools are important to residents.
Cultural and heritage facilities are also important for encouraging a cosmopolitan
experience and for attracting and retaining professionals and a skilled labour force.
Opportunities for social interaction, holistic health and wellness and a diversity of interests
and needs are required. MDP policies must ensure that this diversity is recognized and, in
particular, that Municipal Reserve is used effectively to the benefit of all. Existing and
Future Parks are shown on Map 4.
Goal
To manage parks, public open spaces, recreation, community and
heritage resources and facilities to enhance the quality of life of all City
residents.
Objectives
• To ensure that all City residents enjoy the full benefits of the dedication and
distribution of Municipal Reserve lands.
• To encourage environmental management and stewardship of all public open
spaces.
• To improve the quality of life and range of amenities for City residents.
• To respond to the long term needs of a changing demographic community.
Policies
Recreation Master Plan 10.1 Council shall review and implement the key
recommendations of the 2006 Recreation Master Plan that
remain valid.
Neighbourhood,
Community, District
and Regional Parks
10.2 Council shall require that the four levels of park facilities
recognized by the 2006 Recreation Master Plan which
include neighbourhood, community, district and regional
parks be considered and rationalized by all ASPs. Where
required, land assembly strategies will be considered.
Municipal Reserve
Dedication
10.3 Council shall require that at the time of subdivision, ten (10)
percent of the developable land be dedicated as Municipal
Reserve. Portions of the subject site dedicated as
Environmental Reserve are exempt from the calculation of
developable land.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 34
Municipal Reserve
Allocation
10.4 Municipal Reserve dedication shall be taken as land for all
types of ASP’s including industrial plan areas. Cash-in-lieu
of Municipal Reserve may be considered at the discretion of
Council.
Muskoseepi Park
Master Plan
10.5 Council shall collaborate with landowners when amending
the Muskoseepi Park Master Plan to extend Muskoseepi Park
to the north, adjacent to Bear Creek, into the area identified
as “Rural Service Area” on Map 6. The aim will be to prevent
encroachment into the valley and identify the appropriate
land base to meet future public open space requirements.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)
Lands Surrounding
Stormwater
Management Facilities
10.6 The City may consider Municipal Reserve credit for storm
water management facilities for land above the 1:100 year
flood line provided that the land has an active recreation
capability and the following conditions are met:
a) the school, neighbourhood park, tot-lot and
pedestrian/bicycle network needs of the neighbourhood
have already been met or adequate provision has been made
to meet these needs in the future; and,
b) the storm water management facility meets the design
criteria and standards of both recreation areas and storm
water management facilities and contributes to the above.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 35
Storm Pond Area Use 10.7 Sufficient detail demonstrating that the use of the storm
pond area for Municipal Reserve purposes is compatible with
the storm water management function and high quality
recreation space shall be included in the OP, the storm water
design report and the detailed engineering drawings. The
amount of Municipal Reserve credit to be assigned shall be
determined at the time of OP approval.
Storm Pond Frontage
Road
10.8 Council shall require a minimum of thirty (30) percent of
continuous road frontage be applied to storm pond Public
Utility Lots or a minimum of sixty (60) percent continuous
trails and park furniture for a parkway that is integrated into
the neighbourhood trail and open space system.
Municipal Reserve
Landscaping
Guidelines
10.9 Council shall prepare landscaping and improvement
standards to be applied to Municipal Reserve lands that are
consistent with the City’s Design Manual.
Municipal Reserve as
Useable Space
10.10 All Municipal Reserve dedicated shall be developed as
useable park space in new neighbourhoods including sites
designated for schools by an ASP.
Municipal Reserve
Ownership
10.11 The City shall retain ownership of Municipal Reserve sites
until such time as a site is required for the construction of a
school.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 36
Regional Parks Strategy 10.12 The City will partner with the County of Grande Prairie No.
1 in developing and implementing a regional park and
recreational facilities strategy that benefits and improves the
quality of life of both City and County residents.
Heritage Management
Plan
10.13 Council shall support the implementation of the Heritage
Management Plan. All ARP’s shall be required to consider
historic resources as determined by the heritage inventory
and heritage survey, and shall preserve the integrity of these
resources. Planning initiatives for protecting historic
resources as suggested by the Heritage Master Plan shall be
investigated. Suggested planning initiatives include Heritage
Conservation Areas, transitional zoning, neighbourhood and
infill design guidelines, and variances for preservation of
historic resources.
Public Service Facilities 10.14 Council shall facilitate the provision of required sites for
public service facilities such as emergency medical services,
police and fire stations, and hospitals.
Emergency and
Protective Services
10.15 Council shall ensure the provision of emergency and
protective services to accommodate a growing and changing
population.
Regional College 10.16 The City shall continue to partner with and support Grande
Prairie Regional College in initiatives that sustain the College
and its long term viability.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 37
11 THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Preserving the natural environment to the extent possible is a guiding principle of this
MDP and is very important to Grande Prairie residents. It also promotes environmental
sustainability by preserving natural systems that extend beyond the City’s boundary.
Natural areas particularly along Bear Creek are especially valued by residents who consider
this feature to be the City’s greatest amenity. Placing a high value on retaining and
managing natural areas in urban areas reflects a growing trend of urbanites to maintain
some connection with nature. Integrating natural areas into the open space system and as
green infrastructure in managing stormwater results in an attractive green community and
significantly enhances the quality of life of City residents.
Goals
To embrace opportunities for protecting the natural environment in the
urban context.
Objectives
• To protect and enhance significant natural areas.
• To conserve environmentally sensitive areas such as the escarpment and
floodplain of Bear Creek and its tributaries.
• To reduce the impact of development on the natural environment.
• To apply Environmental Reserve and other provisions to protect
environmentally significant natural areas and hazard lands from development.
• To protect water quality and quantity through effective subdivision design.
Policies
Muskoseepi Park Master
Plan
11.1 Council shall preserve and protect the Bear Creek Valley
in accordance with the Muskoseepi Park Master Plan.
Significant Natural Areas
Inventory
11.2 Council may undertake an inventory of significant
natural areas to ensure that these areas are recognized
and considered in new ASP’s.
Environmental Reserve
Setbacks
11.3 As part of an ASP and/or OP, Environmental Reserve
setback shall be required from either the top of the Bear
Creek Valley, tributary watercourses and valleys, or the
high water mark of a Crown-owned body of water.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 38
Environmental Reserve
Setbacks Recommendations
11.4 Council shall apply the minimum Environmental
Reserve widths as contained in Sustainable Resource
Development (SRD) Recommendations to Municipal
Subdivision Referrals 2007. For Bear Creek and its
tributaries, the minimum Environmental Reserve width
shall be fifteen (15) metres from the top of bank or as
recommended by a geotechnical report that considers
slope stability and rate of erosion, amongst other factors,
acceptable to the City as per the (SRD) guidelines. The
Factor of Safety used to determine setbacks from the top
of bank shall be 1.5.
Setback Assessment Matrix 11.5 The City shall prepare a general assessment guidance
document that will provide a minimum setback distance
assessment matrix from top of bank and other slopes
based on a combination of slope angle and slope height,
assuming a 1.5 Factor of Safety. The assessment matrix
will both enable the City to objectively evaluate
development applications and guide developers with
respect to the City’s expectations. The assessment
matrix will replace the SRD setback recommendations
pursuant to policy 11.4 as it relates to slopes and the top
of the bank of Bear Creek and its tributaries.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 39
Ecosystem Management 11.6 Water bodies such as Crystal Lake, the Reservoir, O’Brien
Lake, and other urban wetlands shall be preserved as natural
areas subject to the following aquatic and riparian ecosystem
management objectives:
a) in accordance with the 2007 Municipal Government Board
ruling, future subdivision and development on lands
adjacent to the remaining undeveloped portion of the
eastern shore of Crystal Lake shall be subject to a thirty
(30) metre ER setback;
b) elsewhere, unless an Environmental Reserve setback
greater than fifteen (15) metres is prescribed based on a
biophysical assessment or directed by the provincial or
other authority having jurisdiction, a minimum fifteen (15)
metre ER setback shall be required from the high water
mark along crown owned lakes, and wetlands;
c) recreational use of Crystal Lake and lakeshore shall be
restricted to wildlife observation. Except for periodic
monitoring and maintenance by the City, watercraft use is
prohibited.
Hazard Lands 11.7 It is Council’s intention that no permanent habitable
structures shall be permitted within the 1:100 year floodplain
of any river, stream or lake shore.
Environmental Open Space
Land Use Bylaw Provisions
11.8 Council intends to amend the LUB such that clear cutting and
removal of native plant species and the disturbance of the soil
mantle is prohibited within fifteen (15) metres from either the
top of the Bear Creek Valley or its tributaries or the high
water mark of a Crown owned body of water.
Environmental Reserve in
Natural State
11.9 Environmental Reserve lands shall remain in their natural
state but may be integrated into the City`s comprehensive
parks open space and trail systems. Required crossings of
Environmental Reserve land shall be as unintrusive as
possible.
Top of Bank Road 11.10 A frontage road extending along thirty-five (35) percent of
the length of the top of the bank of Bear Creek or its
tributaries or the high water mark of a Crown owned body of
water shall be required in new development areas to
maximize public access and views into the Bear Creek Valley
as a natural amenity, visual resource and public open space
valued by the community at large.
Biophysical Assessment 11.11 Council shall require that a Biophysical Assessment be
undertaken for a site proposed for a multi-parcel subdivision
or a major development if the site contains natural features
such as sloughs or extensive tree cover. The biophysical
assessment will identify and evaluate the environmental
significance, sensitivity and ongoing sustainability of existing
vegetation, wetlands, other water features, wildlife habitat and
unique physical features, and will recommend appropriate
measures for protecting significant features.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 40
Conserve Existing Wetlands 11.12 Notwithstanding Council’s desire to protect wetlands
for their value as natural habitat and ecosystem
functions, where appropriate, the City shall promote the
conservation and use of existing wetlands for the natural
stormwater management they can provide as a means of
incorporating green infrastructure into the urban
environment.
Conserve Natural Features 11.13 In addition to Environmental Reserve dedication,
Council may consider conserving significant natural
features through a variety of strategies that may include,
but not be limited to, acquisition through purchase or
land trade, donations and bequests, Environmental
Reserve Easements, Municipal Reserve dedication, and
conservation easements.
Land Trust 11.14 Council may support the establishment of a natural land
trust fund through public and private sources for the
acquisition of significant natural areas that cannot be
preserved through other means.
Tree Management Plan 11.15 Council intends to implement the recommendations of
the Tree Management Plan to beautify the City, to
improve the quality of life of residents and to create an
urban forest legacy for future generations to enjoy.
Conservation Exclusion 11.16 The City shall exclude land dedicated under a
conservation easement from the calculation of
Municipal Reserve dedication.
Environmental Site
Assessment
11.17 The City may require the completion of a Phase 1
Environmental Site Assessment, as defined by the
Canadian Standards Association, by a qualified
professional in accordance with generally accepted geo-
environmental engineering practices prior to subdivision
and/or development.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 41
Trumpeter Swan Breeding
Lakes
11.18 Valuable bodies of water for trumpeter swan nesting and
breeding are located within the City Boundary. They
include Hughes Lake, Hermit Lake, Flyingshot Lake,
Flyingshot Marsh, Crystal Lake and Wood Lake. The
City will work with landowners and developers in
consultation with Alberta Environment and Parks
(AEP) to establish workable development setbacks at
the time of the proposed subdivision.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 42
12 COMMUNITY MOBILITY
Smart growth principles support healthy environmentally friendly transportation modes
on a city wide basis. Bicycle trails for example, either as an exclusive lane located within
or along a road or as multi-use trails, should form part of a comprehensive transportation
system that connects residential neighbourhoods to employment centres, major
institutional facilities, the Downtown and other employment and shopping areas.
Similarly, a pedestrian system that allows for wider, safer sidewalks that create a pleasant
walking experience may encourage more walking. A City wide cohesive pedestrian and
cycling system with uniform standards and connectivity is needed. Public transit also
needs to be encouraged.
Goal
To improve the health of City residents and air quality by providing
community mobility options that reduce dependence on the
automobile.
To ensure that all persons with disabilities have barrier-free access to
City services and facilities.
(Bylaw C-1237B - June 11, 2012)
Objectives
• To promote connectivity through a variety of mobility and transportation
modes.
• To provide a cohesive network of trails and sidewalks that serve as a practical
alternative to vehicle use for moving people of all abilities around the City.
• To better integrate road, trail and transit infrastructure.
Policies
Bicycle and Pedestrian
Trails
12.1 Council shall implement the cohesive network of bicycle
and pedestrian trail network as recommended by the
Transportation Master Plan. Capital funding shall be made
available to undertake an annual work program to
systematically upgrade and extend linkages for bicycles and
pedestrians across the City.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 43
Pedestrian and Cycling
Trail Master Plan
12.2 Council shall develop a detailed Pedestrian and Cycling Trail
Master Plan. The Pedestrian and Cycling Trail Master Plan
shall be used to systematically and consistently implement
the comprehensive network of bicycle and pedestrian trails.
Developers Install Trails 12.3 Developers in new areas shall be required to install bicycle
and pedestrian trails concurrent with development in
accordance with the recommendations and standards of the
Transportation Master Plan, the Pedestrian and Cycling
Trail Master Plan and the Design and Construction
Manuals.
Transit Master Plan 12.4 Council shall require that the recommendations of the
Transit Master Plan be implemented to support public
transit as a way to reduce dependency on the private
automobile and to improve air quality and reduce green
house emissions.
Transit Guidelines
Considered
12.5 The Subdivision Development Design Guidelines for transit
shall be incorporated into the Design Manual and be
considered by developers in preparing OP’s and in designing
new subdivisions.
Reduce Auto Use 12.6 In addition to the initiatives recommended by the
Transportation Master Plan, the City will continue to
research and strongly support any initiatives that reduce
auto use in favour of transit, walking, cycling, increased auto
occupancy, reduced trip frequencies, reduced greenhouse
gas emissions and reduced trips made at peak periods.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 44
Trails Focus Downtown 12.7 In recognition of the Downtown as a major destination, the
City shall implement the bike lane, pedestrian crossing,
sidewalk construction and sidewalk rehabilitation design
elements proposed by the updated Downtown
Enhancement Plan to encourage walking within and to the
Downtown.
Pedestrian Design
Principles
12.8 The City shall initiate a review of the existing pedestrian
related design principles and guidelines to ensure consistent
integration into all relevant plans including the
Transportation Master Plan, ASP’s, ARP’s and OP’s. The
review will consider opportunities to achieving a safer, more
efficient and more attractive pedestrian system by applying
measures such as wider sidewalks, enhanced landscaping
and narrower pavements, and incorporating barrier free
design principles.
Trails on Public Utility
Lots
12.9 The City will investigate the feasibility of developing
pedestrian/cycling trails along Public Utility Lots in central
neighbourhoods.
Barrier-Free Access 12.10 The City will establish a process to identify the barriers that
prevent equal access to existing City services and facilities;
continually improve the accessibility of City services and
facilities; and actively encourage input from all segments of
the community in the design and operation of all new and
renovated City services and facilities.
(Bylaw C-1237B - June 11, 2012)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 45
13 INFRASTRUCTURE
The City’s infrastructure systems are essential to growth and for sustaining existing
development. A major component of Grande Prairie’s municipal revenue is directed
towards operating and maintaining these systems that include transportation, and
stormwater management. Map 5 shows the City’s arterial road network.
Treated water, waste water and solid waste services are provided within the City and
beyond by Aquatera. Aquatera is a utility corporation owned and operated by three
corporate shareholders: the City of Grande Prairie; the County of Grande Prairie No. 1;
and the Town of Sexsmith.
Best practices in terms of infrastructure focus on environmentally sustainable approaches
such as improved energy efficiency and solid waste management. The City is taking a lead
role in promoting these green initiatives.
Goals
To protect the integrity and ensure the sustainability of the City’s
transportation and utility systems.
Objectives
• To operate transportation and utilities systems safely and effectively.
• To plan for the long term extension of infrastructure systems that will keep pace
with the growth needs of the City.
• To be a leader in applying alternative energy sources and undertaking green
initiatives.
Policies
Planning Cooperatively
With Aquatera
13.1 The City, through Aquatera, shall periodically update its
Water and Wastewater Master Plans to ensure the growth
needs of the City are being efficiently met. The 50 year
population projections and future growth directions
recommended by the City of Grande Prairie Growth Study
(2008) will be considered by Master Plan updates. The
Master Plan updates shall consider stormwater management
requirements.
Water and Wastewater
Master Plans
13.2 The City shall support the recommendations of the Water
and Wastewater Master Plans so that services can be
extended to new development areas in a logical and
economic manner having regard for the available capacity in
the overall system and portions of the system.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 46
Long Term Utility Plans 13.3 The City shall partner with Aquatera and other government
agencies to maintain, fund and implement a comprehensive
long term plan for its utility infrastructure and establish
budget priorities based on the premise that investment in
infrastructure maintenance is a necessary annual investment.
Developer Finance
Utility
Extensions/Expansion
13.4 Council shall require that the cost of expanding municipal
infrastructure be financed to the extent possible through
developer obligations under development agreements.
Paving of Lanes 13.5 Council shall review the Design and Construction Manuals
to adopt policies and design criteria for paving of lanes
particularly in terms of lanes in the Low Density Residential
(RL) District of the LUB.
City Traffic Bylaw 13.6 Council shall review Traffic Bylaw C-1166 to prescribe on‐
street parking restrictions including the posting of
permanent short‐term wintertime parking bans to allow safe
and consistent access for street maintenance vehicles,
amongst other matters.
Stormwater
Management
13.7 The City shall prepare and periodically update a Stormwater
Management Master Plan to consider stormwater
management requirements and to promote stormwater
management principles that preserve wetlands and support
best practice approaches in managing urban drainage,
including flood storage and water quality.
Infrastructure Standards
Review
13.8 The City shall undertake a comprehensive review of its
current infrastructure standards in the Design and
Construction Manuals to facilitate energy efficiency
resulting in more sustainable land use.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 47
Alternative Energy 13.9 The City will partner with the private sector in encouraging
the use of alternative renewable energy sources such as wind
turbines and shall make provision for new alternatives in the
LUB. Alternative energy sources will be considered for all
City projects.
LEED and Built Green 13.10 The City shall continue to apply LEED, Built Green or
other environmentally sustainable building principles to all
municipal structures.
Reduce Reuse Recycle 13.11 The City in cooperation with Aquatera will initiate a
program to promote solid waste reduction, reuse measures
and recycling of materials with its own operations and with
businesses and residents.
Water Conservation 13.12 The City in cooperation with Aquatera will initiate a
program to promote water conservation and reuse measures
and will investigate the feasibility of implementing such
measures at the development and building permitting stage.
Road Classification 13.13 The City shall apply the road classification and network
recommendations of the Transportation Master Plan for
determining the future transportation network and
improvements required as the City continues to grow. The
recommendations shall be applied to all future ASP’s.
Protect for Future
Roadways
13.14 The City shall protect the required rights-of-way to allow for
the implementation of the recommended road network
contained in the Transportation Master Plan, as amended
from time to time.
Protect for Future
Municipal Utilities
13.15 The City shall protect the required rights-of-way to allow for
the implementation of the systems recommended by the
Water and Wastewater, Parks and Trails Master Plans, as
amended from time to time.
Transportation Master
Plan Update
13.16 The Transportation Master Plan shall be reviewed and
updated at regular five year intervals.
Train Crossing
Improvements
13.17 The City may investigate the feasibility of undertaking a
program of train crossing improvements such that trains will
not be required to use their whistles at those crossing which
may create a nuisance for residential neighbourhoods.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 48
Private Infrastructure 13.18 The City may explore alternative urban water and sanitary
servicing methods and design standards in the area
identified as “Rural Service Area” on Map 6, for Residential,
Commercial, Industrial or Public Service uses. These
systems must be approved by the appropriate government
departments and conform to Aquatera policies. When an
OP is required such developments may be designed with a
future urban servicing overlay showing that the parcels can
be readily connected to urban servicing upgrades once
available in the area.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 49
14 INTERMUNICIPAL PLANNING
The City of Grande Prairie and it municipal neighbour County of Grande Prairie No. 1
have historically collaborated on planning issues that affect the economic well being and
quality of life of both communities. This collaborative approach should continue to be
encouraged in future to the mutual benefit of the municipalities and their residents.
Goal
To promote joint planning and communication initiatives in the fringe
area.
Objectives
• To establish reciprocal planning frameworks and land use patterns that respect
the interests of both the City and the County.
• To promote compatible land use patterns in fringe areas.
• To cooperate in undertaking regional initiatives that benefit City and regional
residents.
• To protect the City’s interest in maintaining a 30 year supply of land.
Policies
Intermunicipal
Development Plan (IDP)
14.1 Council shall cooperate with the County of Grande Prairie
No. 1 in preparing and periodically updating an IDP that
reflects the growth aspiration of both municipalities and will
effectively coordinate land uses and transportation systems.
The IDP shall include, but not be limited to, referral and
dispute resolution policies, and a process for annexation.
30 Year Land Supply 14.2 In keeping with the intent of the IDP and this MDP, Council
applied in November 2010 to the Municipal Government
Board to annex the area identified in the IDP as the Short
Term Annexation Area to provide the City with a 30 year land
supply. As the City continues to grow, Council will evaluate
the need to annex further lands to maintain a 30 year land
supply in accordance with the policies in the IDP.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 50
Regional Environmental
Protection
14.3 The City will cooperate with County of Grande Prairie No.
1 in developing a strategy to protect environmentally
significant features that are important to both municipalities
including, but not limited to, Bear Creek, the Dunes and
Trumpeter Swan habitat lakes.
Provincial Land Use
Framework
14.4 The City will be an active participant in undertaking a
regional plan for the Upper Peace Region pursuant to the
Alberta’s Land Use Framework and the Alberta Land
Stewardship Act.
Regional Recreation and
Community Services
14.5 The City will continue to cooperate with the County of
Grande Prairie No. 1 and other municipalities and agencies
to explore cost-effective ways for delivering community and
recreational services to the region and the development of
recreational facilities that benefit ratepayers.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 51
15 IMPLEMENTATION
Clear consistent direction for implementation of the MDP policies is required for the City
to achieve its vision. The MDP can be implemented through statutory plans, OP’s and
the LUB. By consistently applying MDP policies in preparing these plans, Council, City
Administration, the development industry and the public can all assume responsibility for
implementing the MDP over time.
Goal
To provide for the implementation and amendment of the Municipal
Development Plan.
Objectives
• To convey to the public the intent of the MDP policies.
• To ensure consistency between the MDP and other statutory and non-statutory
documents.
• To provide clear direction on the requirements for preparing statutory and non-
statutory plans.
• To ensure the validity and effectiveness of the MDP over time.
Policies
Public Consultation 15.1 Council may prepare a standardized public consultation
process tool kit to increase public involvement in planning
and development decisions as a means of promoting more
informed decision making, and greater public understanding
and acceptance.
Consistency with Land
Use Bylaw
15.2 Deleted by Bylaw C-1237F - December 14, 2015.
Compliance with
Municipal Development
Plan
15.3 Proposed statutory plans or statutory plan amendments shall
include a statement addressing compliance with the MDP.
(Bylaw C-1237F - December 14, 2015)
Subdivision and
Development Appeal
Board
15.4 The Subdivision and Development Appeal Board shall have
regard to the policies of the MDP in making its subdivision
and development decisions.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 52
Additional Evaluation
Documents
15.5 The following documents shall be appended to the MDP to be
used by developers and City Administration in preparing and
evaluating statutory plans, OP’s and development proposals:
a) Triple Bottom Line criteria to be prepared pursuant to Policy
4.8 for measuring the social, fiscal and environmental
sustainability of a statutory plan, OP or development project;
b) the urban design tool kit to be prepared pursuant to Policy 5.1;
c) the CPTED principles to be prepared pursuant to Policy 5.4;
d) the Pedestrian and Cycling Trail Master Plan to be prepared
pursuant to Policy 12.2 that should be used in conjunction
with the Transportation Master Plan; and,
e) the public consultation process manual prepared pursuant to
Policy 15.1.
Area Structure Plan
Requirements
15.6 Prior to adoption of new ASP’s or ASP amendments, Council
shall, among other things, have consideration for the following:
a) future residential (low density and high density), commercial
and industrial nodes;
b) existing land uses and previous subdivision activity;
c) site conditions and topography;
d) approximate location and size of school sites and major
parks;
e) pedestrian and cycling trail system and integration with the
City’s comprehensive system;
f) projected population;
g) archaeologically sensitive areas as determined by a Historic
Resources Overview;
h) arterial and collector roadways;
i) provision of public transit service;
j) evaluation of the need for noise attenuation for major arterial
roadways or railways adjacent to residential areas;
k) ties to existing sanitary facilities, lift station and proposed
trunk main locations;
l) ties to existing water supplies and proposed trunk main
locations;
m) a detailed statement addressing compliance with the MDP;
n) Triple Bottom Line sustainability evaluation;
o) conformance with Smart Growth Neighbourhood Design
Guidelines pursuant to Policy 5.2;
p) public consultation input;
q) rationale for amendments to existing ASP;
r) approximate boundaries and phasing of future OP areas;
s) other topics deemed appropriate by the Development
Authority, and
t) train noise and vibration impacts on residential uses,
institutional uses, child care facilities, educational facilities
and hotels adjacent to the rail line right-of-way.
(C-1237K - September 18, 2017)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 53
Outline Plan
Requirements
15.7 Where not currently in place, OP’s are required as a prerequisite
to the commencement of development at the quarter section
level and shall be consistent with an approved ASP and
Engineering Design reports. Preparation of an OP may be
supported by the City if the area that is the subject of the Plan
is contained in an approved ASP, and is located in an area that
is contiguous with existing development and/or in close
proximity to existing municipal services. All OP’s shall include:
a) a statement of compliance with the MDP and applicable
ASP, and identification of amendment requirements if
applicable;
b) all supporting engineering investigations and reports as
required by the City;
c) proposed land use districting including districts in the vicinity
of arterial roadways as provided under the LUB;
d) an examination of existing land uses and physical features,
including vegetation, wetlands and dugouts, watercourses
and topographic information (one (1) meter contours);
e) measures for the protection of significant natural areas as
recommended by a Biophysical Assessment;
f) regard to the effect of existing roadways, pipelines, utilities or
existing industrial activity;
g) a detailed land use plan illustrating all industrial and
commercial areas by type and location, and residential areas
by location, type and density;
h) public consultation input prior to the adoption of new OP’s
or OP amendments as well as a summary of land use areas,
population and student generation in tabular form;
(Bylaw C-1237L - September 18, 2017)
i) arterial, collector and local road alignments;
j) proposed sanitary sewer, storm drainage, and water
distribution facilities, alignments and locations;
k) public and separate school sites (areas and locations);
l) public utility lots and easement locations;
m) the location of all playgrounds, linear parks, and walkways,
and integration with the City’s overall pedestrian and cycling
trail system;
n) proposed transit routes and bus stops;
o) location of proposed noise attenuation measures;
p) surface drainage patterns including catchment areas and sub-
basins, storm pond and outfall locations, and proposed trunk
mains;
q) subdivision phasing plan based on the logical extension of
infrastructure;
r) proposed shallow utility networks;
s) truck routes and dangerous goods routes;
t) energy and water conservation measures;
u) the provision for safe roadway access, and safe and
convenient roadway crossings for pedestrians and bicycles;Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 54
Outline Plan
Requirements-continued
v) measures to mitigate noise impacts on residential uses,
institutional uses, child care facilities, educational facilities
and hotels adjacent to the rail line right-of-way as
recommended by a Noise Impact Study; and
w) the possibility of including a Vibration Impact Study. If a
Vibration Impact Study is included, then measures to
mitigate potential vibration impacts on residential uses,
institutional uses, child care facilities, educational facilities
and hotels adjacent to the rail line right-of-way as
recommended by the Vibration Impact Study may be
required.
(Bylaw C-1237K - September 18, 2017)
Adoption of Outline Plan 15.7.1 Council intends to convert all existing OP’s to statutory plans
and adopting all future OP’s as statutory plans which shall be
adopted by bylaw in accordance with Section 633 of the
Municipal Government Act. OP’s are required as a prerequisite
to the commencement of development, generally at the quarter
section level and shall be consistent with an approved ASP and
Engineering Design reports.
(Bylaw C-1237A - September 19, 2011)
Area Redevelopment
Plan Requirements
15.8 ARP’s may be prepared on as determined by Council. All
ARP’s and ARP amendments shall include, amongst other
items:
a) neighbourhood public participation;
b) transportation, including noise attenuation requirements;
c) provision of public transit service;
d) servicing infrastructure and capacities;
e) recreation and open space;
f) redevelopment levies;
g) architectural controls;
h) neighbourhood population and housing types;
i) schools and school population;
j) the identification and protection of sustainable locally
significant natural areas;
k) the identification of heritage sites and resources and a
strategy to deal with the heritage features;
l) a detailed statement addressing compliance with the MDP;
m) rationale for amendments to existing ARP’s; and,
n) other topics deemed appropriate by the Approving
Authority.
Development
Agreements
15.9 When land development or redevelopment is proposed, the
City shall require the developer to enter into a development
agreement. Generally the agreement shall set out:
a) the obligations of the developer and the City with respect to
the provision, construction, installation, operation, repair and
maintenance of specified work;Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 55
b) construction standards to be developed and complied with;
c) the manner in which the costs of the developer’s obligation
are to be met and recovered; and,
d) the periods of time within which specified items of
construction or installation are to be completed in relation to
the general development of the subdivision.
Development Agreement
Specifics
15.10 More specifically, the agreement shall set out the
responsibilities of the City and the developer with respect to
any or all of the following:
a) provision of water and sewer utilities;
b) provision and development of roadways, sidewalks, parking
facilities, pedestrian walkways, and access to the land;
c) provision of storm water management through grading,
storm sewers, ponds, drainage ditches, bridges, culverts,
dykes and land fill where necessary;
d) provision of easements required for construction,
maintenance and improvement of existing and proposed
utilities;
e) design and timing/staging for the construction of
infrastructure and utilities as per City standards;
f) landscaping and improvements for Municipal Reserve sites;
g) payment of off-site levies, redevelopment levies endeavours
and/or charges against the land; and,
h) provision of security with the City for recovery and
compliance should a default occur.
Plan Amendment 15.11 The City or a landowner may initiate an amendment to this
Plan. An application to amend the MDP shall address:
a) the nature and purpose of the amendment;
b) proposed wording and/or mapping for the amendment;
c) forecast data and other relevant statistical information;
d) effect of the proposed amendment on adjacent land uses;
and,
e) effect of proposed amendment on municipal infrastructure
and services.
Monitor Plan Progress 15.12 Council shall monitor ongoing progress related to the MDP.
An annual report will be prepared that shall address the
following questions:
a) How close is the City to achieving the policy objectives?
b) Which policies have been used?
c) Have the policies been effective in achieving the targets? If
not, why not?
d) What changes should be made to policy or the
implementation of policy?
e) Other questions as required.
Plan Review 15.13 The MDP will be reviewed every five years to ensure it
remains current.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 56
Municipal Planning
Commission
15.14 Council will explore the feasibility and implications of
establishing a Municipal Planning Commission as the
authority for subdivision, and various approval functions
under the LUB.
Conceptual Shadow Plan 15.15 In order to accommodate subdivision prior to the approval
of an ASP and OP under Section 4.2, a Conceptual Shadow
Plan for the quarter section must be provided demonstrating
the following:
a) potential lot layout;
b) if unserviced lots are proposed, include delineation of
potential resubdivisions to a serviced lot size;
c) potential location of stormponds;
d) potential location of Municipal Reserve lands,
Environmental Reserve lands, and appropriate buffers; and
e) potential road network and access locations.
(Bylaw C-1237M - May 7, 2018)Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 57
16 A PLAN FOR ACTION
The following policies require immediate action by Council:
Fiscal Impact Model 16.1 Council shall give priority to developing a fiscal impact
model to assess the implications of a development proposal
on long term municipal revenue and operating costs. This
model will be used as the tool to measure the fiscal
sustainability.
Urban Design Tool Kit 16.2 Council shall prepare an urban design tool kit to provide
guidance on developing attractive and safe business areas,
public spaces, and residential neighbourhoods that embrace
the principles of smart growth. This tool kit shall be
reviewed on an ongoing basis with input from community
and industry stakeholders such as, but not limited to, the
school authority, the Urban Development Institute, FCSS,
emergency services and the City’s parks and recreation
facility planners.
Crime Prevention
Through Environmental
Design
16.3 Council shall include CPTED principles in the urban design
tool kit as provided for in Policies 5.1 and 5.4 of this plan.
Land Use Bylaw
Amendments
16.4 The LUB shall be amended to ensure consistency with the
MDP in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal
Government Act. Specific amendment required to comply
with the MDP are as follows:
a) include proposed design guidelines for comprehensively
designed developments;
b) review the residential districts to encourage greater diversity
in single family lot sizes;
c) review home occupations regulations to ensure that the
integrity of the neighbourhood is not compromised;
d) consider density bonusing to encourage developers to
provide affordable housing units;
e) review secondary suite regulations to ensure the integrity of
the neighbourhood is protected;
f) review the commercial districts to ensure the districts remain
relevant and a range of commercial opportunities is
provided; and,
g) review the LUB such that clear cutting and removal of native
plant species and the disturbance of the soil mantle is
prohibited within fifteen (15) metres of the top of the Bear
Creek Valley or its tributaries or the high water mark of a
Crown owned body.Municipal Development Plan
City of Grande Prairie Page 58
Location of Community
Housing
16.5 Council shall review and identify locational guidelines for
integrating community housing projects in existing and
developing neighbourhoods. The Affordable Housing
Master Plan will be considered in the review process.
Downtown
Enhancement Plan
16.6 Council shall partner with the Downtown Business
Association to update and implement the policies of the
Downtown Enhancement Plan.
Appropriate Rural Road
Standards
16.7 Council shall review the City’s road standards in the
Construction and Design Manuals to allow for a rural cross
section standard of road in new appropriately located
industrial subdivision as a means of reducing development
costs and attracting a broader spectrum of industrial uses.
Recreation Master Plan 16.8 Council shall review and implement the key
recommendations of the 2006 Recreation Master Plan that
remain valid.
Municipal Reserve
Landscaping Guideline
16.9 Council review and implement landscaping and
improvement standards to be applied to Municipal Reserve
lands that are consistent with the City’s Design Manual.
Tree Management Plan 16.10 Council intends to implement the recommendations of the
Tree Management Plan shall be implemented to beautify the
City, to improve the quality of life of City residents and to
create an urban forest legacy for future generations to enjoy.
Pedestrian and Cycling
Trail Master Plan
16.11 Council shall develop a detailed Pedestrian and Cycling Trail
Master Plan in support of the recommendations of the
Transportation Master Plan.
Community Partners 16.12 The City will partner with local institutional, government
and/or private sector organizations to achieve social or
cultural objectives or to construct infrastructure to the
benefit of the citizens of Grande Prairie.
Efficiency Driven
Infrastructure Standards
Review
16.13 The City shall undertake a comprehensive review in the
Design and Construction Manuals of its current
infrastructure standards to facilitate energy efficiency
resulting in more sustainable land use.
Maintain 30 Year Land
Supply
16.14 Council shall periodically review the process and procedures
for development applications to streamline the system and
reduce or eliminate red tape wherever possible.Municipal Development Plan
APPENDIX A - INTERPRETATION
Rules of Interpretation
1. Words used in the present tense include the other tenses and derivative forms. Words used
in the singular include the plural and vice versa. Words have the same meaning whether they
are capitalized or not.
2. The word shall requires mandatory compliance except where a variance has been granted
pursuant to the Municipal Government Act or this Plan.
3. The words should or will require some degree of compliance at Council’s discretion.
4. The word may implies a policy may be applied at the discretion of Council.
5. Words, phrases, and terms not defined in this part may be given their definition in existing
legislation and regulations, such as the Municipal Government Act. Other words shall be
given their usual and customary meaning.
6. Where a regulation involves two or more conditions or provisions connected by the
conjunction and means all the connected items shall apply in combination.
Definitions
Area Structure Plan (ASP) - means a
statutory plan prepared pursuant to Section
638 of the Municipal Government Act, that
applies to a ¼ section or more of land that
provides a framework for more detailed
subdivision and development. Staging of
development, land uses, densities and
infrastructure matters must be considered.
The ASP is adopted by bylaw.
Area Redevelopment Plan (ARP) - means a
statutory plan prepared pursuant to Section
634 of the Municipal Government Act which
provides a framework for future development
in an already developed area. The ARP is
adopted by bylaw.
Barrier Free - means structural or
architectural design that does not impede use
by individuals with special physical needs.
Biophysical Assessment - means a review of
an area defined as Environmentally Sensitive
Area (ESA) by the Environmental
Conservation Plan or an area proposed for
subdivision contains natural features. The
review must be prepared by an environmental
scientist that identifies and assesses the
environmental significance and sensitivity of existing
vegetation, wetlands and other water features, wildlife
habitat and unique physical features.
Recommendations regarding the protection of
significant or sensitive features should be provided.
Specific requirements of a biophysical assessment are as
follows:
a) study Area Location (in context of surrounding
landscape);
b) climate (average precipitation, seasonal temperatures);
c) physiographic Description (in context of Natural
Regions and Sub-regions of Alberta);
d) historical Air Photos (dating to 1950, focus on surface
water, wetlands, land use changes);
e) field Reconnaissance, Sampling and Surveys (landscape
characteristics, species lists, plant community mapping);
f) topography (landform classification);
g) geology (surficial geology classification);
h) hydrology;
i) vegetation (vegetation community classification, species
list, exotic species);
j) wildlife (species list of direct and indirect observations);
k) conservation recommendations that include:Municipal Development Plan
1. Environmental Reserve and/or
Environmental Reserve Easement;
2. Municipal Reserve; and,
3. Conservation Easement.
Brownfield Development - means
development of sites formerly used for
industrial activities such as railroads, gas
stations, oil refineries, truck terminals, wood
treatment facilities, dry cleaners,
liquid/chemical storage facilities, steel and
heavy manufacturing plants. Typically these
sites are contaminated and require
remediation before redevelopment can occur.
Built Green - is an industry driven voluntary
program that promotes "green" building
practices to reduce the impact that building
has on the environment. It benefits the
homebuyer, the community and the
environment and is an opportunity for
everyone to choose a "green" future.
Members and home buyers have the flexibility
of choosing their level of participation,
thereby offering broader appeal. Bronze
represents the minimum of achievement level,
Silver is the intermediate level, and Gold is the
maximum level of recognition.
Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design (CPTED) - means
applying urban design and other principles to
create cues in the physical environment that
can prompt or prevent undesirable or criminal
behaviours.
Community Housing - means a range of
community-based housing forms that cater to
accommodate the homeless, the hard to
house, transitional housing and/or individuals
that cannot afford market accommodation.
Comprehensively Designed
Developments - means developments that
are planned and designed as one unit and can
include commercial business centres, business
campuses and parks and residential
complexes.
Conceptual Shadow Plan - means a
conceptual plan for an area indicating a
potential future lot layout with road network
and access locations.
(Bylaw C-1237M -May 7, 2018)
Confined Feeding Operation (CFO) means an
agricultural operation where poultry or livestock are
confined for the purposes of growing, finishing or
sustaining by means other than grazing and does not
include a breeding herd.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)
Conservation Easement - means an agreement
registered against a title whereby a landowner grants to
another person or organization provisions for the
protection, conservation and enhancement of a natural
feature considered to be of value.
Development Authority - means City Administration
or City Council as the case may be.
Eco-Industrial Parks - means the groupings of diverse
industries that benefit mutually by exchanging waste heat,
light or by products with their neighbours. This concept
incorporates the following principles to create targeted
business synergies within a sustainable, environmental
friendly industrial park:
a) targeted economic development strategies that seek to
attract similar businesses or industry grouping to fill
product or service niches;
b) by product synergy whereby businesses cycle materials
and energy, increasing efficiency and reducing
environmental impact;
c) ecological design through development of green
buildings and sites designed to minimize resource use
such that green spaces and ecologically sensitive areas
are preserved and integrated within the site;
d) green infrastructure wherein traditional infrastructure is
replaced with concepts like natural stormwater
management or alternative energy systems;
e) networking around services is designed so that business
share services, such as marketing, transportation,
research, and monitoring services wherever possible.
Environmental Reserve - means land dedicated to a
municipality in accordance with Section 664 of the
Municipal Government Act at the time of subdivision that
is considered undevelopable for environmental reasons
and may include areas such as wetlands, ravines, drainage
courses and steep slopes.
Farmstead means any dwelling unit associated with an
agricultural operation or intensive livestock operation
where the owner or owners of the operation normally
reside. Farmstead also includes the well, sewage disposal
system, and shelterbelt and only applies to an un-
subdivided quarter section.
(Bylaw C-1237H - April 4, 2016)Municipal Development Plan
Green Infrastructure - as defined by both
Agriculture Canada and the USDA, means a
wide range of natural and constructed landscape
elements including natural areas; public and
private conservation lands; over ground storm
water systems; recreation areas (e.g. golf
courses); and trail networks. Green
infrastructure may be incorporated into
engineering standards such as the use of
landscaped drainage swales along roads as
opposed to curb and gutter with piped storm
drainage systems. Typically, green infrastructure
is a permanent land use.
High Visibility Corridor - means high
visibility transportation corridors that carry
large volumes of traffic and may result in a
significant impression of the City. Highway
43, Wapiti Road and Resources Road are high
visibility corridors.
Heavy Industrial - means large scale
industrial uses that may result in some
nuisance effects on adjacent sites.
Home Occupation - means the secondary
use of a principal dwelling in a residential
neighbourhood to conduct a business activity.
LEED - refers to the Leadership in Energy
and Environmental Design Green Building
Rating System for the design, construction,
and operation of high performance green
buildings. LEED promotes a whole-building
approach to sustainability by recognizing
performance in five key areas of human and
environmental health: sustainable site
development, water savings, energy efficiency,
materials selection, and indoor environmental
quality.
Modified Grid Street Pattern - means an
interconnected network of streets surrounding
generally regular rectangles, with
modifications to allow for terrain or
environmental considerations, such as
occasional curves or diagonally directed
streets. The gridiron-like layout and shorter
blocks typical of the modified grid street
pattern allow for multiple travel routes,
dispersing vehicular traffic within a
geographic area, and encouraging pedestrian
activity.
Municipal Reserve - means land required in accordance
with Section 666 of the Municipal Government Act at the
time of subdivision for park and/or school purposes.
When subdividing an area larger than two acres, up to a
ten (10) percent reserve dedication is required. Cash-in-
lieu of Municipal Reserve land may be considered.
Neighbourhood - typically refers to a mainly residential
area that is designed as a comprehensive unit containing a
variety of housing types, community services and parks
that meet the needs of the neighbourhood population.
Outline Plan (OP) - means a statutory plan, prepared
to a professional standard, generally encompassing an
entire ¼ section, that is contained within an approved
ASP. An OP provides more detailed information
specific to the rezoning and subdivision of the ¼
section.
(Bylaw C-1237A - September 19, 2011)
Park Facility Levels - means a hierarchy of parks
serving increasingly larger populations and includes:
a) neighbourhood level that are intended to serve the
needs of an individual neighbourhood;
b) community level that are intended to serve the needs
of a cluster of neighbourhoods;
c) district level that are intended to serve a wide level of
needs and often include community centres and
playfields; and,
d) regional level that are intended to serve the regional
population with facilities that are not duplicated
elsewhere.
Secondary Suite - means a self contained accessory
dwelling unit located within a residential dwelling,
garage or accessory building.
Smart Growth - means development principles that
promote enhanced quality of life, efficient use of land
to preserve the natural environment to the extent
possible, and that result in healthy, sustainable
communities that are fiscally responsible.
Triple Bottom Line - means a method for assessing a
planning and development initiative by identifying
relevant criteria to measure the sustainability of relevant
economic, environmental and social factors. Triple
Bottom Line is considered a real attempt to promote
the implementation of sustainability principles in a
tangible way.
Urban Design - means planning and architecture that
gives regard to design elements such as building form
and style, views and vistas, open space, and streetscape
treatments to provide an urban context that is both
functional and aesthetically pleasing.43
(394.80
5814
NY)
Bank
of
River
AIRPO
RT
100 ST
FLYINGSHOT
LAKE
CRYSTAL
LAKE
HUGHES
LAKE
BEAR
LAKE
LAKE
HERMIT
CLAIRMONT
LAKE
WOOD
LAKE
43
40
40
43
43
84
AVE
43
43
RESOURCES RD
132
AVE
140
AVE
68
AVE
84 ST
116 ST
124 ST
100
AVE
116
AVE
CITY
OF
GRANDE
PRAIRIE
MUNICIPAL
DEVELOPMENT
PLAN
Bylaw
C-1237N
January
28,
2019
MAP
2
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FUTURE
LAND
USE
RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
CENTRAL
BUSINESS
DISTRICT
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL
INDUSTRIAL
RECREATIONAL
OPEN
SPACE
PUBLIC
SERVICE
/
INSTITUTIONAL
AIRPORT
LEGEND: