Bylaws & Policies

Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw 1580 was adopted in October 2024.

• Dog owners in Whitecourt will no longer be required to purchase an annual dog licence.
• Cat owners are required to care for and control their animals in a manner consistent with that of dogs, including not permitting them to run at large.
• In lieu of licences, dog and cat owners will be required to have their pets wear visible identification tag on a collar or harness. The dog/cat ID must include the owner’s current phone number.

Responsible Pet Ownership

Part of being a caring pet owner, is being a responsible pet owner.  Pet owners are required to follow the regulations outlined in Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw 1580.  The new Bylaw consolidates and replaces a number of previous bylaws.  The new Bylaw provides a consistent approach in how dog and cat owners need to care for and control their pets.

• All dogs and cats (over 6 months of age) must have visible identification tag on their collar or harness that includes the pet owner’s phone number.
• There is a limit of 2 dogs and 2 cats per premises in Whitecourt.
• Regulations are in place to ensure an animal is not subject to abandonment, neglect, or distress.
• Pets are not allowed:
  • On playground structures or apparatus areas,
  • At Graham Acres,
  • At the Spray Park and River Slides at Festival Park,
  • In swimming or pond areas in town.

All other pathways, parks, open spaces and school grounds, with the exception of the Off Leash Dog Park, are on-leash areas.  When out in public, pets must be under the control of a responsible person and on a leash no more than 3 metres long.  This is not only for their safety, but also to ensure they do not create a hazard or become a nuisance or risk to other people and pets.

• Pet owners are required to clean up after their animals in public spaces. Failure to remove droppings can result in a fine.
• The process for deeming a dog as a Dangerous Dog has changed, as well as restrictions and fines related to Dangerous Dogs.
• Livestock (including chickens) and bees are considered prohibited animals.
• There are fines for allowing a dog or cat to run at large, or having a pet that disturbs the peace of others, or is being a public nuisance.

Found a lost or stray pet?

If you found a lost or stray pet that does not have tag identification, contact Municipal Enforcement Services and a Community Peace Officer will pick up the animal and take it to the Whitecourt Pound.

Have a lost pet?

Dogs and cats found loose without visible identification tags will be taken to the Whitecourt Pound operated out of the Whitecourt Veterinary Clinic located at #2 4439 52 Avenue.

If you locate your pet at the shelter, you will be responsible for paying impoundment fees and you may receive a ticket for having an animal at large without proper identification.

There are steps you can take to help prevent your pet from getting lost and, if your pet goes missing, help ensure a safe return home:

• Put a collar or harness on your dog/cat with the required identification tag that includes your phone number.
• Tattoo or microchip your pet and ensure that the contact information is accurate.
• Spay and neuter your pets, as this will diminish their urge to roam.
• If you take your dog or cat outside, it must remain on the owner’s property. Owner’s must ensure pets are properly leashed or in a secured area.

Filing a Complaint

If you would like to file an animal complaint, call 780-778-2273 or email peaceofficer@whitecourt.ca.   For those that lodge a complaint with the Town of Whitecourt regarding an animal disturbance (i.e. barking), you will be required to provide the following:

• Your name and address.
• A phone number
• The address and exact location of the property for which you wish to register a complaint.
• A brief and concise description of the complaint.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw?

The Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw defines the responsibilities of pet owners and identifies regulations for pet owners in Whitecourt. 

What are the responsibilities of cat owners?

Under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, cat owners must ensure:

• Their pet is kept on their property and is not allowed to run free or at large.
• Their cat wears a collar with an identification tag attached that includes the owner’s phone number.

 Why limit the number of dogs and cats per premises?

Limiting the number of pets helps to limit community concerns, including accumulation of pet waste on a property or excessive noise due to barking. 

Does my pet need to wear an identification tag?

Yes, all dogs and cats over the age of six months are required to wear an identification tag that contains the phone number of the pet owner.  The ID tag must be attached to a collar or harness and must be worn by the animal whenever it is off the owner’s property.

An unwanted cat continues to come on my private property.  What can I do?

If an unwanted cat is on your property and you know the cat owner, the recommended first approach is to speak with your neighbour about your concern.

If you do not know the cat’s owner, a humane cat trap could be put out to catch the cat.

• Whitecourt rents out cat traps between April 1 and September 30 of each year.
• Upon catching any cat, you must contact Whitecourt Municipal Enforcement (780-778-2273) or the Whitecourt Pound (780-778-5767).
• It is illegal to put any animal in distress. You will need to check the trap frequently and will have to provide food, water, and shelter for the trapped cat until it is turned over to a Whitecourt Peace Officer or the Whitecourt Pound.

What is a Dangerous Dog?

A dog deemed to be a Dangerous Dog is one that has attacked, bit or injured a human or another animal, and represents a threat to public safety.    Either through observation or investigation, a Peace Officer will determine if a dog is deemed dangerous, and the owner will be informed in writing of the designation and provided with requirements for keeping a Dangerous Dog at their premises.  Under the Bylaw, only one Dangerous Dog is permitted to live at a premises.

How will this Bylaw be enforced?

Peace Officers investigate bylaw complaints on a case-by-case basis.  A number of factors and criteria are considered to determine if an offence has occurred and what steps need to be taken.

Animal Adoption

Adoptions can be made through the Whitecourt Veterinary Clinic at #2, 4439A 52 Avenue.  Contact the Clinic at 780-778-5767 or www.whitecourtvet.com.

You can adopt a pet through the Edmonton SPCA.  

Animal Cruelty

If you witness cruelty or neglect to animals you can contact the SPCA at 1-800-455-9003 or the local RCMP Detachment at 780-778-5454.

Per the Municipal Government Act, municipalities can develop notification tools that will best meet the needs of their community.  Advertising Bylaw 1555 allows the Town of Whitecourt to streamline content published in local newspapers and provide enhanced information on important community issues and decisions on this website.  Copies of all public notices can be provided in hard copy at the Town Office upon request.

• Advertising Bylaw 1555

Invite your neighbours to a Block Party!  The Town allows the closure of streets for neighbourhood block parties provided the proper procedures and guidelines are followed.  The Town of Whitecourt may provide a subsidy of up to $500 per party to assist with the purchase of party supplies, which may include prizes, food, and/or miscellaneous supplies.

• Block Party Guide

The Town of Whitecourt requires residents and commercial businesses to obtain permits prior to burning any clean brush and other vegetation that may have accumulated on the property and for all outdoor fire pits.

Burning Permit

The Town of Whitecourt requires residential and industrial customers to obtain a Burning Permit prior to burning any clean brush or other vegetation that may have accumulated on the property. For more information contact the Town Office. Temporary Burn Permits cost $20.00. Time restrictions and other permit guidelines will be imposed by the Fire Department on a case-by-case basis.

Temporary Burn Permit Application Form

Fire Pit Permit

The Town of Whitecourt requires residents to apply for a permit for all outdoor fire pits.

Fire Pit Permits cost $20.00

Fire Pit Permits are issued to the property; so if ownership changes, the new residents are not required to re-apply.

Permits are only issued to property owners, or to renter who have the owner's written consent.

Once you have constructed/installed a fire pit on your property, visit the Town Office to apply for a permit. You will be required to pay a one-time $20.00 administration fee and complete an application form. The Fire Department will do a physical inspection of the fire pit installation and issue a permit if the device or pit meets the guidelines.

Fire Pit Permit Application Form

Fire Pit Guidelines:

• Only clean fuel (wood) is to be burned. The burning of grass, yard waste, treated or painted wood, garbage, etc. is not allowed. Fires must be attended at all times. Fires must be completely extinguished at the end of each use.
• The burn pit/barbecue is to be located at least 3.05 m (10ft) from any combustibles, i.e. buildings, fences, trees, tree overhangs, etc.
• The burn pit/barbecue shall be located on a non-combustible base.
• The burn pit/barbecue shall have non-combustible sides with a minimum height of 30 cm (12 in.) above ground level.
• A screen with openings of no more than 1/2" square shall be placed over the pit and must be used at all times.
• The cooking surface may not exceed 3,871cm2 (600 sq. in.).
• Freestanding fireplaces will be evaluated on an individual basis with regards to these regulations.
• Failure to adhere to these regulations may result in the permit being revoked. Operation without a valid permit may result in a fine of $100.

The possession, sale and consumption of cannabis for recreational use is now legalized and regulated throughout Canada.  

The Land Use Bylaw has been amended to allow for the sale of cannabis in specific land use districts. 

The Town of Whitecourt has amended Community Standards Bylaw 1475 to include rules and restrictions on  consumption of cannabis for recreational purposes in our community.  Recreational use of cannabis, per Bylaw 1475, is limited to residences and private property (with owner's consent) within the Town of Whitecourt.

WHAT IS CANNABIS?

Cannabis refers to products made from the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant.  It is also referred to as marijuana or pot.   It can be consumed by smoking, vaporizing, eating in food, drinking, dabbing, putting drops under the tongue, or applying it directly to the skin in a lotion.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT?

The following is a breakdown of the jurisdictional responsibilities among the three levels of government.

Federal Government:

Responsible for: possession limits, new criminal offences, advertising, impaired driving, medical cannabis, production, public health, education, taxation, home cultivation, regulatory compliance.

Provincial Government:

Responsible for: impaired driving, public health, education, taxation, workplace safety, distribution/wholesaling, retail model, retail locations and rules, regulatory compliance, public consumption.

Town of Whitecourt:

Responsible for: retail locations and rules, public consumption, land use zoning, education.

RETAIL CANNABIS STORE LICENCING

Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) is responsible for regulating private retail cannabis licensing, the distribution of cannabis and operation of the online cannabis store on behalf of the Alberta government.  For more information visit: https://aglc.ca/cannabis/retail-cannabis-store-licences

Public Health Inspectors with Alberta Health Services are responsible for completing inspections of tobacco and vaping product retailers to ensure they are aware of, and are in compliance with, the Tobacco, Smoking and Vaping Reduction Act.  Those retailers that are thinking of opening a new store in Whitecourt should work with AHS to ensure obligations under this Act can be met.

WHITECOURT LAND USE REGULATIONS

All cannabis stores located within the Town of Whitecourt must have a municipal Development Permit.  A Building Permit may also be required per the Alberta Building Code and/or if there are any renovations that affect the structure of the building.

The Land Use Bylaw includes the word “cannabis” in the definitions for “Retail – General” and “Retail – Hilltop Commercial”.  This allows retail cannabis stores to be allowed in the following land use districts:

A map showing the permitted and discretionary use areas within Whitecourt for retail cannabis stores can be found here:

• Land Use Bylaw - Map Showing Areas of Permitted and Discretionary Use for Cannabis Sales

It should also be noted that the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) requires all private cannabis retail stores to be set-back a minimum of 100m from schools and provincial health care facilities.  These setbacks must be considered in any proposed store location.

The Town of Whitecourt is currently accepting applications for permits for the sale of cannabis.  Standard fees and permit processes apply.  For more informaiton please see our Construction and Permitting page on our website, or contact our Planning and Development Department at 780-778-2273 or planning@whitecourt.ca.

CONSUMPTION OF CANNABIS

Community Standards Bylaw 1475 includes prohibitions and provisions for the consumption of cannabis.   The Bylaw expands upon provincial regulations regarding consumption in public places, and prohibits recreational use in all public places, limiting consumption to residences and private property. 

• Bylaw 1475 Community Standards Bylaw - Consolidated Version

ALBERTA RULES REGARDING RECREATIONAL USE OF CANNABIS

The following rules apply across Alberta.

• You must be 18 years old to use cannabis.

• You must purchase it from licenced stores or www.albertacannabis.org (Alberta’s only legal, recreational online cannabis store)

• 30 grams is the most you can buy or carry at a time.

• Driving high is illegal.

• Cannabis may not be within reach of anyone in a vehicle.

• Only 4 plants can be grown per household.

• Edibles are not yet legal to sell.

• Kids cannot enter cannabis stores.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

Government of Canada – What you need to know about cannabis in Canada

Government of Alberta - Cannabis Legalization in Alberta

Alberta Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety - Workplace Strategies: Risk of Impairment from Cannabis

If you have questions regarding new land use regulations regarding the sale of cannabis please contact the Planning & Development Department at 780-778-2273.

Bylaw 1475 regulates community nuisance, safety and livability issues for the benefit of all citizens of the Town. Ultimately, this bylaw governs how we live together; and as such we like to think of it as a "good neighbour" bylaw.

• Bylaw 1475 - Consolidated Version

Bylaw 1475 was amended in September 2018 to include regulations for the recreational use of cannabis throughout the community.   

• Recreational consumption of cannabis is prohibited in all public areas.  Public areas include: parks, recreation facilities, municipal roads, sidewalks, and pedestrian walkways.
• Recreational use of cannabis is limited to residences and private property (with owner's consent) within the Town of Whitecourt.
• Town of Whitecourt Peace Officers and the RCMP may issue a violation ticket for a fine of $300.00 (for first offences) to those who fail to follow the regulations outlined in Community Standards Bylaw.
• The bylaw does not apply to those with a medical cannabis licence.  These individuals must provide proof of licence upon request by an officer. Those with medical cannabis licences will still have to follow the provincial consumption regulations.

Bylaw 1551 establishes fees, rates and charges for all municipal services.

• Bylaw 1551-12 - Fees, Rates and Charges

A person or business that does not have a permanent place of business or solicits door to door to carry on any business, trade, or occupation is subject to the fees and licence requirements under the Hawkers and Pedlars Bylaw.

• Hawkers and Pedlars Bylaw

The Town's Land Use Bylaw regulates how land and buildings are used, the location of the buildings, site coverage, building heights, and other provisions to ensure proper development.  The Land Use Bylaw impacts everyone in Whitecourt at some point and to varying degrees - whether you are building a fence or deck, or starting a new business.

• Land Use Bylaw Map - Districts and Overlays
• Land Use Bylaw 1577

Bylaw 1406 outlines user fees charged for police and fire responses to false alarms. The Bylaw stipulates that a fee of $200.00 will be charged for the second and subsequent false alarm responses from either emergency service department.

• Bylaw 1406

Bylaw 1464 regulates residential solid waste management within the Town of Whitecourt.  It details legislation regarding curbside waste and recycling collection.

• Bylaw 1464
• Bylaw 1464-9

Highlights include:

• Single-family households are provided with rolling waste carts that allow for mechanical collection.  Only waste contained within the waste cart will be collected.  If households have excess waste that does not fit in the waste cart securely, it will have to be put aside for pickup the following week or disposed of by the resident at the Whitecourt Transfer Station or Whitecourt Regional Landfill.
• The lid of the waste cart must remain closed except while being filled or empty.
• The waste cart must be placed curbside for collection by 7am on the designated collection day and must be placed 1.0 metres from obstacles on all sides.
• Waste carts must be returned to their regular storage location no later than 11pm on collection day.
• Recyclables are collected weekly and items must be placed at the curb by 7am on the designated collection day.  Items for collection must be contained securely in a blue bag for collection.  

For more information on waste and recycling services, including designated collection days, click here.

Fines for violations of these regulations may be imposed.

The Town of Whitecourt reminds residents that Land Use Bylaw 1506 and Community Standards Bylaw 1475 outline guidelines and regulations for the parking of recreational vehicles (RVs) on residential properties and streets.  Below are some frequently asked questions regarding RV parking.  For more information, contact the Planning & Development Department at 780-778-2273.

What vehicles are considered RVs?

Motor homes, travel trailers, fifth wheel trailers, and holiday trailers are all considered recreational vehicles under Land Use Bylaw 1506.

Where can residents park their RVs during the summer?

Between April 1 and October 31, one RV may be parked on a driveway in the front yard, or for corner lots in a side yard.  The RV must be located so that no portion of the recreational vehicle projects onto or over the interior edge of the sidewalk, or curb if there is no sidewalk.  

Where can residents park their RVs during the winter?

From November 1 to March 31, on a residential site, one recreational vehicle may be stored on site provided that no portion of the recreational vehicle is located any further forward than the front of your home (minimum of 6.1m from the front property line).

Can an RV or utility trailer be parked on a residential street or roadway?

RVs can be parked on a residential street or roadway for no more than 72 consecutive hours.

Can residents park unattached trailers on a local street?

Unattached trailers cannot be parked on town streets at any time including (but not limited to) tent trailers, travel trailers, fifth wheel trailers, boat trailers, utility trailers, campers not mounted on truck, etc. 

Can an RV parked on a local street be utilized for sleeping?

An RV parked on a highway or local street cannot be occupied as a temporary dwelling.

Can an RV parked on private property be utilized for sleeping?

An RV on private property cannot be occupied as a temporary dwelling.

What are the fines for the improper parking of a RV and utility vehicle?

Fines can be issued according to Town Bylaws and Provincial Legislation.

• Parking RVs in prohibited areas - $250 fine for first offence under Land Use Bylaw 1506.  Subsequent fines will apply for non-compliance.

• Unattached Trailers - $100 fine under Traffic Bylaw 1573

• Parked over 72 hours – up to a $310 penalty plus towing cost under the Traffic Safety Act

For more information contact the Town of Whitecourt at 780-778-2273

The Town of Whitecourt utilizes a variety of snow clearing and ice control methods to keep Whitecourt roads and walkways safe.

For current road plowing schedules and information go to our Facebook page.

The Town's initial action is to spread sand at intersections and slippery locations.  This is following by clearing (plowing), and removal of snow in limited areas.  These activities take place seven days a week, at all hours that staff and equipment are available.

Road and sidewalks are done in a priority order to maximize safe travel for the greatest number of users.

• Major arterial roads and collector roadways, to give good access to within a few blocks of most areas and allow school bus operations.
• Downtown business district, to allow owners time in advance to clean adjacent sidewalks.
• Residential or local roadways.
• Industrial roads.

For information on the current snow removal schedule and priorities visit the Road & Street Maintenance page. 

Sidewalk Clearing Responsibilities

All property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from public sidewalks adjacent to their property before the first residential plowing by Town forces.

Once plowing begins, Town crews will plow snow onto sidewalks.  If Town forces place snow on sidewalks adjacent to your property, you are not required to clear it.  If you live in a cul-de-sac or an area where there are only sidewalks on one side of the street, you may be required to clear snow every year.  Check with the Infrastructure Services Department to find out if you have to clear your sidewalk this winter season.

Sidewalks must be cleared within 24 hours of the end of a snowfall.   Sidewalks should normally be cleared of snow and ice for the entire finished width, to the finished surface.  Please note that Community Standards Bylaw 1475 prohibits the use of snow-clearing devices powered by an engine in residential areas before 6:00 a.m. on weekdays or Saturdays, and before 9:00 a.m. on Sundays or statutory holidays.

Become A Snow Star

'Tis the season for snow and snow removal.  Many of our neighbours have difficulty removing the snow from their driveways and sidewalks.

If you would like to help a senior or an individual with physical difficulties, become a Snow Star! Call Community Services at 780-778-6300.

If you NEED this service please call Community Services, 780-778-6300, to have your name placed on our registry.

Bylaw 1573 regulates and controls vehicle and pedestrian traffic within the Town of Whitecourt.

• Traffic Bylaw 1573
• Bylaw 1573 Information Sheet

Off Highway Vehicles

Whitecourt is one of a limited number of communities that allows for seasonal operation of off-highway vehicles in public areas throughout town. The OHV Bylaw governs the use of recreational vehicles (such as snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, etc.) within Town limits.

• Bylaw 1573 allows for the seasonal use of OHVs within Town limits.
• OHV use is permitted between December 1 and March 31 annually. Use between 10pm and 7am is prohibited.
• Operators are permitted to use various streets, alleys and designated trails provided they are the most direct route from where the vehicle is normally stored to the nearest location where OHVs are permitted to operate. All operators should be familiar with the prohibited areas and respect these sites.
• The maximum speed of operation for an OHV within Town limits is 20km/hour. It is important to know that Centennial Park is within Town limits.
• OHV operators are required to carry a Certificate of Registration and a Certificate of Insurance. Those under the age of 14 are prohibited from operating an OHV unless accompanied by, or are in close proximity to, an adult who is giving instruction.
• Approved safety helmets are required to be worn by drivers and passengers.
• Highway 43, Highway 32, Dahl Drive and Festival Park are prohibited areas. Unmarked areas are generally private property and can only be used with the owner’s permission. Use only designated OHV trails.

OHV Bylaw - Information Sheet

OHV Map

Road Bans

We need weight restrictions to prevent damage to the Town of Whitecourt roads.

In the spring, frozen roads start to thaw. During spring, roads are weakened by excess water in the road base and can be damaged by heavy vehicles. The thawing water may not drain out of the gravel that is under the pavement. This is because the surrounding soil may be frozen or too solid. The water will soak into the gravel. When the water is absorbed, the road will temporarily lose strength. When this happens, the road cannot support heavier vehicles. Gravel roads are more vulnerable or susceptible to damage.

When road bans are in effect, vehicle loads are restricted to 75% per axle weights in accordance with the provisions of the Town of Whitecourt Bylaw 1573. Please watch for and obey signage.

Road ban start and end dates

Road bans are put into effect on our designated streets each year from the end of March to the beginning of June depends on weather. The actual end date will be determined following reviews of road and weather conditions toward the end of the road ban season.

Road Use Permit Application (Fillable)

Do you have questions about the road ban and/or road use permits? Contact the Director of Infrastructure Services at 780-778-2273 ext. 120 or administration@whitecourt.ca.

School Zone Speed Limit Times

Between 8:00am and 4:30 p.m., on days that school is in session, the school zone speed limit is 30 kilometres per hour.   School zone speed limits are not in effect on weekends, summer holidays, and other days that students are not in session.

The speed limit times accurately reflects the fact that children are coming and going from schools throughout the day which will enhance safety for our youth, and the times are also consistent and easy to remember for motorists.

Truck Route

Below is a map of the designated truck route within the Town of Whitecourt.

• Whitecourt Heavy Vehicle Route Map

Please be aware that there are certain areas along the designated route that pass through school zones and areas which are busier during specific times. As such, it advised that trucking through the community between the following hours to avoid are:

• 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.
• 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m.
• 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. 

If you are planning on bringing large loads, making multiple trips, requiring any lane closures or temporary traffic controls; you will need to contact the Planning & Development Department at 780-778-2273 or planning@whitecourt.ca.

Utility Bylaw 1511 was developed through extensive research and review of industry best practices; and the new bylaw will address evolving needs of our community.  The Bylaw includes regulations for Whitecourt utility services and systems, which include water, wastewater, and stormwater; and aims to protect not only the environment, but also municipal infrastructure and interests.

The following amendments have been made to Bylaw 1511, and must be referred to when reading the regulations:

• Bylaw 1511-1
• Bylaw 1511-2

Bylaw Highlights

• To improve management practices, utility accounts currently in the tenant’s name will be transitioned to the property owner’s name.  To ensure service is not interrupted, the property owner must transfer the account at the Town Office by December 31, 2020.  There is no cost to transfer the account, and a Utility Account Application Agreement Form must be completed.  Accounts not transferred by December 31, 2020 will default to the registered property owner(s) on January 1, 2021.
• Tenants with a utility account in their name will be responsible for the utility bill until the account is transitioned.
• Once the account is transitioned to the property owner’s name, the property owner will be responsible for all utility bills, and can determine how best to transfer that cost to their tenants through rental agreements.  If requested (by completing the Duplicate Bill Request Form), the Town of Whitecourt will mail an additional copy of the utility bill to the tenant at the service address.
• Accounts that remain in the tenant’s name on December 31, 2020 will either:
  • be closed and transitioned to the property owner’s name; or
  • be disconnected by the Town, with a fee of $40 for disconnection and an additional fee of $40 for reconnection charged to the property owner.

Timeline to add outstanding utility balance to property account

The timeline for adding outstanding utility balances to the property tax account has changed to 90 days.

New industrial wastewater sampling and monitoring practices

New testing and monitoring practices will be implemented to help protect waterways and municipal infrastructure. Continued collaboration between the Town of Whitecourt, developers and industrial customers will help ensure prohibited substances are not introduced into the wastewater system, which has the potential to increase maintenance costs and cause other environmental concerns.

For more information on Bylaw 1511 visit the Water & Sewer page on this site.