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MUNICIPAL
DEVELOPMENT
PLAN
Bylaw C-4840-97 Adopted on July 6, 199
MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW NO. 4
Department of Planning and Development & Building Service
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MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW NO. 44
BYLAW C-4840-97
A Bylaw of the Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44 to amend Bylaw C-3894-92.
WHEREAS the Municipal Government Act, being Chapter M-26.1. 1994 and amendments hereto,
provides that a Municipality having a population of 3,500 or more shall, by by-law, adopt aplan for the Municipality to be known as the Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44 Plan;and
WHEREAS pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, the Council of the Municipal District of Rocky
View No. 44 did direct the preparation of a Municipal Development Plan by motion ofCouncil; and
WHEREAS Council did provide opportunity to those persons affected by the Municipal DevelopmentPlan to make suggestions and representations; and
WHEREAS a notice was published in the Calgary Rural Times, a newspaper circulating in the
Municipality advising of the Public Hearing with respect to this By-law; and
WHEREAS Council held a Public Hearing and have given consideration to the representations made toit in accordance with the Municipal Government Act, being Chapter 24 of the RevisedStatutes of Alberta 1995, and all amendments thereto.
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44 enacts the following:
1. This by-law may be cited as the Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44 Municipal
Development Plan.
2. The Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44 Municipal Development Plan being Schedule
A attached hereto and forming part of this by-law is adopted in its entirety.
3. Upon third and final reading of this by-law, By-law C-3894-92 rescinded in its entirety.
4. This by-law shall come into effect upon third and final reading thereof.
File: 601-1
First reading passed in open Council, assembled in the City of Calgary, in the Province of Alberta, on
December 16, 1997, on a motion by Councillor Vincent.
Second reading passed in open Council, assembled in the City of Calgary, in the Province of Alberta, onJuly 6, 1998, on a motion by Councillor Anderson.
Third reading passed in open Council, assembled in the City of Calgary, in the Province of Alberta, on July6, 1998, on a motion by Councillor Vincent.
____________________________
REEVE OR DEPUTY REEVE MUNICIPAL SECRETARY
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MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW No. 44
MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLANBY-LAW C-4840-97
SCHEDULE A
NOTE: This document is an office consolidation. The original By-law may beviewed at the Administration Office of the Municipal District ofRocky View No. 44 and should be consulted for all purposes ofinterpreting and applying the By-law.
Amended June 29, 2010
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents Page
MISSION STATEMENT ................................................................................................................ 1GOALS 1
1.0 INTRODUCTI ON ........................................................................................... 4
1.1 CONTEXT ...................................................................................................................... 41.2 POPULATION GROWTH .................................................................................................. 41.3 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT ................................................................................................... 41.4 MUNICIPAL VISION........................................................................................................ 61.5 PLAN PURPOSE.............................................................................................................. 61.6 PLAN STRUCTURE.......................................................................................................... 71.7 PLAN PHILOSOPHY......................................................................................................... 71.8 PLAN GOALS.................................................................................................................. 9
2.0 LOCAL PLANS AND THE PLANN ING P ROCESS ............................................ 10 2.1 LOCAL PLANS .............................................................................................................. 102.2 THE PLANNING PROCESS ............................................................................................. 112.3 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE PLANNING PROCESS..................................................... 12
3.0 LAND USE STR ATEGY ................................................................................. 14
4.0 AGRICULTUR E ............................................................................................ 15
5.0 RESIDENTIAL ............................................................................................. 21
6.0 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT.......................................................................... 25
6.1 DIVERSIFICATION........................................................................................................ 256.2 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS.......................................................................... 256.3 HOME BASED BUSINESS............................................................................................... 276.4 BUSINESS PARKS......................................................................................................... 276.5 NATURAL RESOURCE EXTRACTION AND DEVELOPMENT................................................. 286.6 OUTDOOR STORAGE.................................................................................................... 29
7.0 HAM LETS .................................................................................................... 30
8.0 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT........................................................................... 32
8.1 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT........................................................................ 328.2 GEOTECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................... 33
8.3 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL CONDITIONS ........................................................ 33 8.4 ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................................... 348.5 SHEPARD SLOUGH COMPLEX........................................................................................ 35
9.0 INFRASTRUCTURE...................................................................................... 37
9.1 ALL INFRASTRUCTURE ................................................................................................. 37 9.2 ROAD SYSTEMS........................................................................................................... 379.3 AIRPORTS ................................................................................................................... 38 9.4 RAILWAYS................................................................................................................... 39
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9.5 WATER, SEWER, AND STORMWATER SERVICING........................................................... 399.6 SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL.............................................................................................. 409.7 PROTECTIVE SERVICES................................................................................................ 41
10.0 OPEN SPACE AND RECR EATION ................................................................. 43
10.1 MUNICIPAL, SCHOOL AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESERVE................................................... 4310.2 RECREATION............................................................................................................... 45
10.3 SCHOOLS .................................................................................................................... 4510.4 TRAILS - REGIONAL AND LOCAL ................................................................................... 45
11.0 INTERM UNICIPAL COOP ERATION ............................................................. 47
11.1 INTERMUNICIPAL COMMITTEES.................................................................................... 4711.2 INTERMUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLANS....................................................................... 4711.3 ANNEXATION............................................................................................................... 48
12.0 IM PLEMEN TATION , REVIEW AND AMENDMEN T ........................................ 49
13.0 AREA STRUCTURE PLAN AND HAM LET PLAN P REPARATION.................... 50
14.0 DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................. 53
Contents Page
FIGURE 1: LOCATION MAP ........................................................................................... 2
FIGURE 2 : MUN ICIPAL MAP ........................................................................................ 3
FIGURE 3: THE PLAN NING PR OCESS ......................................................................... 11
FIGURE 4: AREA STRUCTURE PLAN AREAS ............................................................... 13
FIGURE 5: HAMLETS................................................................................................... 31
FIGURE 6: SHEPARD SLOUGH COMPLEX ................................................................... 36
FIGURE 7: ROAD HI ERARCHY .................................................................................... 42
APPENDI CES .................................................................................................. 53
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MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW NO. 44
MISSION STATEMENT AND STATEMENT OF GOALS
The Municipal District of Rocky Views Mission Statement and Goals was
adopted by Council in October of 1988 and was reviewed in October of 1997 and
represents a commitment by the Council to the Municipal residents. Councilconsiders the Mission Statement and Goals to be as pertinent today as they were
in 1988 when originally adopted and they form the basis on which other
philosophies of the Municipality are built. The Mission Statement and Goals
therefore played an important part in establishing the tone and direction of the
Municipal Development Plans Philosophy and Goals.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44 is dedicated to provide the best quality
municipal services to benefit all Municipal residents, property owners and corporate
citizens.
GOALS
1. Council shall develop policies as required and revise current policies to ensuregood government in the Municipality.
2. The Municipality shall facilitate human settlement patterns as need for thatsettlement occurs, but shall take into account the need to preserve agricultural
lands.
3. The Municipality shall develop and maintain a transportation system whichefficiently serves the people within the Municipality.
4. The Municipality shall employ, train and retain competent staff who will providethe highest level of service.
5. The Municipality shall encourage and promote the development of an acceptablelevel of rural utility services.
6. The Municipality shall encourage the planning and development of appropriateeconomic development initiatives in the Municipality and shall take into account
the need to utilize natural resources.
7. The Municipality shall control, administer, and dispose of public lands in amanner most beneficial to the municipal residents, property owners and corporate
citizens.
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CALGARY
EDMONTON
LOCATION MAP
MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW No.44MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW No.44
N
January 2003
Municipal Development Plan Page 2
CALGARY
EDMONTON
LOCATION MAP
Figure 1: Location Map
N
January 2003
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Figure 2: Municipal Map
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1.0 Introduction
1.1 CONTEXT
The Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44 encompasses approximately a millionacres of land containing many diverse land uses. This diversity can be attributed to
the Municipalitys geographic location and its proximity to the City of Calgary. The
Municipality is located in a transition zone between the prairies and the Rocky
Mountains resulting in a wide range of agricultural and resource extractive activities.
Favourable soils for crop and forage production, good rangelands and abundant oil
and gas reserves have drawn people to the area leading to an extensive settlement
pattern. In concert with the growth opportunities in the agricultural and energy
sectors, growth of the urban centers in the region has had a significant impact on the
Municipality. In particular, the growth of the City of Calgary has influenced the
intensity of residential development in Rocky View, creating the need for a more
comprehensive approach to planning at the local level.
1.2 POPULATION GROWTH
During the past 15 years, the population of the Municipality has increased from
17,362 persons in 1981, to a total of 23,326 in 1996, which is a 34% increase. The
nature of the Provincial economy, local job opportunities and the projected growth of
the City of Calgary contribute to anticipated growth in Rocky View and increasingdevelopment pressures.
1.3 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
In response to development demands placed upon the Municipality, and its continued
attractiveness for growth, the Council of the Municipal District of Rocky View No.
44 is committed to managing growth in a responsible, effective and economic
manner. Sound land use planning is key to this commitment and the adoption of a
Municipal Development Plan, in conformance with the requirements of the Municipal
Government Act, is central to creating the necessary foundation upon which a strong
future for the Municipality can be built.
To undertake this important task, a Municipal Development Plan and Land Use By-
law Steering Committee was established to provide input during plan preparation.
The Committee, which was comprised of three (3) Councillors, and two (2) members
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of the public, was charged with ensuring that the Plan addressed the publics views
on the planning issues.
With public participation in the preparation of the Municipal Development Plan as a
key objective of the Municipality, four (4) open houses were held throughout the
Municipality during the month of June 1996. These open houses afforded residents,
Steering Committee members, Council and Staff the opportunity to discuss future
land use and development in the Municipal District. The following is a summary of
the public input collected during the open houses.
a) The very thing that makes Rocky View attractive to residents - its rural
setting, natural beauty, farmland and close proximity to the City of
Calgary - can also be the source of its problems as more and more people
are attracted to living in the area. The demand for residential
development competes with the desire to maintain a rural setting and
protect agricultural lands.
b) What emerges is a group of residents who value their Municipalitys
uniqueness, honour its farming roots and express a strong desire to
maintain a good quality of life. These residents are concerned about the
impacts of development on water resources, the environment,
preservation of wildlife habitat, and the disappearance of the family
farm.
c) At the same time, residents recognized that growth is a fact of life. While
being concerned about the growth of residential development, residents
expressed a strong desire for future planning that eliminates, as much as
possible, ambiguity in rezoning land or approving subdivisions.
d) There is a desire for clear policies that are adhered to.
With a range of public issues identified, a Draft Municipal Development Plan was
prepared.
In June of 1997, an additional six (6) open houses were held throughout the
Municipality providing the opportunity for public comment on the Draft Municipal
Development Plan. Comments received were as follows:
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a) Protect unsubdivided areas of Rocky View to maintain their potential for
agricultural land use.
b) Direct new residential development to be concentrated in areas where
subdivision has previously occurred.
c) Provide for detailed planning to take place in localized areas where
development pressure is anticipated to be the most intense.
Following consideration of this input, the Municipal Development Plan was prepared.
Through the work of the Steering Committee and the implementation of the public
participation program, it is the Municipalitys belief that the Plan reflects public
input.
This input formed the basis upon which the Plans Vision Statement and its overall
Philosophy and Goals were developed to guide the Municipality in its land use
planning.
1.4 MUNICIPAL VISION
That the Municipality continues to be a major agricultural force in the region. And,
although certain sectors of the Municipality have evolved from agriculturally - based
communities to predominately country residential - based neighborhoods, further
such erosion of the agricultural landbase is not desirable. The Municipal District ofRocky View seeks to be a fiscally balanced rural Municipality that also considers the
importance of transportation and other infrastructure servicing, environmental, and
quality of life issues in its decision-making.
1.5 PLAN PURPOSE
In September of 1995, the Provincial Government repealed the Planning Act and
inserted the relevant planning legislation into the Municipal Government Act. In this
process, the Province renamed General Municipal Plans to Municipal Development
Plans and changed the scope of the documents from regulatory to philosophical in
nature. Section 707 of the Municipal Government Act requires that a Municipality
amend its General Municipal Plan before September 1, 1998 to ensure that the
matters referred to in Section 632 of the Act are provided for. It is on that basis
therefore, that the Municipality undertook to review its General Municipal Plan.
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In accordance with the Municipal Government Act, Statutes of Alberta, 1994, Section
632 as amended, a Council of a Municipality having a population of 3,500 or more
must, by bylaw, adopt a Municipal Development Plan for the Municipality.
The Municipal Development Plans philosophy, land use strategy and planning
policies provide a means for the Municipality to shape its future and improve the
quality of life for Municipal residents while optimizing opportunities.
1.6 PLAN STRUCTURE
The Municipal Development Plan expresses the Municipalitys vision for the future
and describes the means by which the vision will be realized. In accordance with
Section 632 of the Municipal Government Act this Plan describes the Municipal
philosophy regarding the use of land for agriculture, residential, business, resource or
other purposes. It provides direction regarding the Provincial/Municipaltransportation system and the provision of services to residents.
Policy respecting open space, recreation, the natural environment and non-renewable
resources are also included. The Municipal Development Plan provides for the
preparation of a series of more detailed statutory planning documents to guide growth
in those areas of the Municipality experiencing development pressures. The Plan also
provides a Land Use Strategy for other areas of the Municipality.
1.7 PLAN PHILOSOPHY
The Municipality believes that land within its jurisdiction is a valuable resource,
which must be managed and protected through sound land use planning. The
Municipal Development Plan is designed pursuant to Section 617 of the Municipal
Government Act, which states:
The purpose of this Part and the regulations and bylaws under this Part is to provide
means whereby plans and related matters may be prepared and adopted:
to achieve the orderly, economical and beneficial development, use of landand patterns of human settlement, and
to maintain and improve the quality of the physical environment within whichpatterns of human settlement are situated in Alberta,
without infringing on the rights of individuals for any public interest except to the
extent that is necessary for the overall greater public interest.
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Through this commitment the Municipality strives to be a vibrant and desirable
community in which to live and conduct business.
This Plan is designed to assist decision-makers in evaluating the long-term effect of
decisions made today regarding land use planning and supports and encourages
decision-making that anticipates future consequences.
Agriculture and related service industries are the primary economic forces in the
Municipality. This Plan envisions and encourages a strong, viable agricultural
industry, protected from incompatible or competing land uses. The Municipality
believes there are opportunities and appropriate areas within the M.D. for business
development. The diversification of the economic base is important to its economic
well-being. Council is therefore committed to promoting and facilitating business
opportunities that enhance and strengthen the economy of the Municipality. Thus,
business development will be encouraged to locate in areas where the proposed
business is complementary to surrounding land uses.
The MD of Rocky View is also a very desirable place to live, providing alternative
residential lifestyles to those typically found in urban centers. Varied landscapes,
mountain views, and efficient transportation networks to nearby employment have
resulted in certain areas of the Municipality emerging as the areas of choice for
country residential living. Residential land use, in keeping with the rural character of
the M.D., may continue to be supported in areas of the Municipality where residential
development is already concentrated and the land base has been fragmented. More
urban types of residential development will be directed to locate in hamlets.
Protection of the natural environment, maintenance and improvement of the
transportation network and other infrastructure contribute to a high standard of living
for Municipal residents. The Municipality therefore encourages the efficient and
economic provision of appropriate hard and soft services. In this respect, Council
adheres to the principle of user pay
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1.8 PLAN GOALS
The following statements provide the focus for the Municipal Development Plan and
its policies as they relate to development of the Municipality. The goals are not
ranked by priority but collectively represent the future aspirations of the Municipality
and build on the Mission Statement and Goals. They are also based on publiccomment and opinion received from M.D. residents while preparing the Plan.
The main goals of the Plan are as follows:
To accommodate growth and change in the Municipality in accordance with
sound land use planning.
To preserve the agricultural land base of the Municipality.
To facilitate and enhance agriculture and agricultural related industries in the
Municipality.
To facilitate residential developments which create safe and livable environments.
To encourage and facilitate appropriately-located business development, which
contributes to the economy of the Municipality.
To encourage and facilitate the development, maintenance and expansion of a
sound and economical transportation and utility infrastructure.
To support the availability of affordable and effective community services in
order to maintain and improve quality of life.
To facilitate appropriately located institutional developments which serve
Municipal residents and enhance their quality of life.
To facilitate the growth of certain hamlets in accordance with sound land use
planning.
To facilitate the preservation and/or conservation of significant and/or sensitive
natural environments.
To facilitate communication and cooperation between the Municipality and
neighbouring municipalities.
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2.0 Local Plans and the Planning Process
2.1 LOCAL PLANS
Future development will be controlled by Council through the consideration of landuse redesignation and subdivision applications made by individual landowners.
However, these redesignation and subdivision applications need to be reviewed in the
context of existing land use plans (i.e. Area Structure Plans or Area Redevelopment
or Hamlet Plans) developed with public input by the Municipal District of Rocky
View; plans which have been prepared to protect the greater public interest.
There is a need to plan for new development based on the interrelationships with
existing developments. In other words, How does this new proposal fit with the
local areas land use strategy?
To allow Administration and Council to successfully answer this question, the
following planning documents and processes will be utilized to guide future land use
and development decisions in Rocky View.
A. The Municipal Development Plan
Addresses the future land use within the Municipality, through a broad
statement of general objectives, which are long range in nature.
B. The Land Use By-law
Implements the Municipal Development Plan and deals with current
conditions regulating and controlling the use and development of land and
buildings; and
Contains Land Use Districts and maps, which establish the uses that may be
undertaken on each parcel of land and the standards that must be followed in
undertaking the uses and development.
C. The Area Structure Plan or Area Redevelopment Plan or Hamlet Plan
Provides a more detailed framework than the Municipal Development Plan for
subsequent subdivision, development or redevelopment of an area of land.
D. The Conceptual Scheme (Adopted by By-law)
Relates the proposal to future subdivision and development of adjacent areas.
E. Land Use Redesignation
Changes the designation of land from one Land Use District to another to
reflect a change in approved uses for a site.
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F. Subdivision
Divides land into further developable lots which are smaller than the parent
parcel.
2.2 THE PLANNING PROCESS
The documents and processes previously described are part of a public planningprocess, which is illustrated as follows:
Figure 3: The Planning Process
Municipal Development Plan
Land Use By-law
or
Area Structure Plan/Area
Redevelopment Plan
Hamlet Plan
Conceptual Scheme
Conceptual Scheme, to form
part of Area Structure Planor Area Redevelopment Plan
Land Use Redesignation
Land Use Redesignation Subdivision
Subdivision
Note: Intermunicipal Development Plans are developed and adopted in conjunction
with adjacent municipalities as part of the planning process and contains policies
which coordinate land use and development for lands which are of common interest
to adjacent municipalities.
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Two separate processes are described in the Planning Process. Not all the areas of
Rocky View will be subject to the same development pressure or the same conflict
among competing land uses. A program of Area Structure Plans or Area
Redevelopment Plans will be initiated, as time permits, and directed by the Municipal
District of Rocky View, as the primary planning tools for managing, in a more
detailed fashion, land use for those areas which are anticipated to be or presently are
subject to the majority of development pressure. This is shown on the left side of the
Planning Process.
Current areas experiencing the majority of development pressure are North and South
Springbank, Balzac, Langdon, Shepard, West Bragg Creek, Bearspaw (Area Structure
Plan Review), and Cochrane Lake as shown on Figure 4, Suggested and Approved
Area Structure Plans. These areas do not represent a complete list, and should be
reviewed on a regular basis by Council, based upon subdivision and redesignationactivity. Long term planning for these areas will follow a process as prescribed by
Council and should include considerable public involvement through open houses
and/or volunteer Steering Committees as may be appropriate to the circumstances.
Areas which do not require Area Structure Plans or Area Redevelopment Plans may
require a Conceptual Scheme to be prepared and processed concurrently with land
use redesignation and subdivision applications. This is shown on the right side of the
Planning Process.
2.3 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE PLANNING PROCESS
Prior to the adoption of any statutory plan; a bylaw (or amendment); or decision on a
subdivision application, the Planning Process provides opportunities for person(s) to
make suggestions and representations to Council.
The Municipal Government Act requires that a Council must hold a public hearing
before giving second reading to any bylaw adopting a proposed statutory plan, land
use bylaw or amendment to any of these. This is the publics opportunity to express
its views to Council, prior to a decision being made on the bylaw. The Council, in
turn, takes into consideration the suggestions and representations made to it when
considering adoption of the proposed plan, bylaw or amendment. It may then either
adopt the bylaw as presented; make changes to the bylaw; or, rescind the bylaw. In
rendering a decision on a subdivision application, Council as Subdivision Authority,
considers the views of adjacent landowners.
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Figure 4: Area Structure Plan Areas
AREA STRUCTURE PLANS(EXISTING OR BEING PREPARED)
AREAS UNDER DEVELOPMENT PRESSURE
MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW No.44SUGGESTED AND APPROVED AREA STRUCTURE PLANS
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3.0 Land Use Strategy
The Land Use Strategy provides a guide for growth and change in the Municipality in
accordance with sound land use planning principles. It does so for those regions of
the Municipality where more detailed planning has not occurred. Where additional
planning detail is required, conceptual schemes, hamlet plans and/or area structure
plans may be pursued.
Therefore, except where an area structure plan, an area redevelopment plan or a
conceptual scheme has been approved for lands in the Municipal District of Rocky
View, the following Land Use Strategy will be used to provide general direction
regarding future land use and development.
1) Predominantly Unsubdivided Areas with an Agricultural Land Use
Designation hold the lowest potential for future non-agricultural development. In
order to prevent fragmentation of the agricultural land base, and preserve the
viability of the agricultural industry, non-agricultural land uses, excepting natural
resource based developments and, at the discretion of Council, first-parcel-out
subdivisions, will be discouraged in these areas.
2) Isolated Areas of Designated and Subdivided Lands hold a moderate potential
for non-agricultural subdivision and development through infilling in keeping
with the nature of the immediate area. Expansion of these areas onto adjacent
unsubdivided land will not be encouraged.
3) Concentrated Areas of Designated and Subdivided Lands hold the highest
potential for non-agricultural subdivision and development due to transportation
and servicing efficiencies that can be achieved. In addition, opportunities for
maximizing use of the land base through in-filling are available. Moreover
expansion onto adjacent lands where agricultural practices are impacted by such
non-agricultural uses may be considered.
In each of these cases Council may still require the developer to prepare an area
structure plan, area redevelopment plan or conceptual scheme, to be adopted by by-
law, to support an application for non-agricultural subdivision or development.
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4.0 Agriculture
Existing agricultural land uses and new and emerging agricultural endeavours should
be recognized and protected. The use of the agricultural land base for agricultural
purposes should be maximized and its subdivision and use for non-agricultural
purposes should be minimized.
GOAL:
To preserve the agricultural land base and protect the viability of the agricultural
industry in the Municipality from incompatible and non-agricultural land uses.
POLICIES:
4.1 Preserve existing agricultural land.
4.2 Discourage intrusive and/or incompatible land uses in predominantly
agricultural areas of the Municipality in order to allow agricultural activity
to continue with a minimum of land use conflict.
4.3 The quarter section as the basic agricultural land unit is encouraged, and
subdivision of this land unit will be discouraged, except where supported by
this Plan.
4.4 Facilitate growth opportunities for agricultural uses in the Municipality by
encouraging the development of a wide range of agricultural land uses, uses
which service or are related to the agricultural industry, and are compatible
with the character of the area.
4.5 New or Expanded Agricultural Operations
The following policies aim to provide for a variety of parcel sizes to
accommodate a wide range of agricultural pursuits by acknowledging thatemerging trends in agricultural uses may be successfully developed on
smaller parcels of land.
4.5.1 Redesignation and subdivision for agricultural purposes may be
considered if the intent of the proposal is to create a new or
expanded agricultural operation. New agricultural operations are
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distinctly different from the existing use of the land and/or
buildings. Expanded agricultural operations are those in which the
intensity of an existing operation is enhanced. Proposals will be
assessed according to information provided by the Applicant, and
will include the following criteria:
a. Planning rationale exclusive of estate planning or personal
financial considerations that adequately justifies why the
existing land use and parcel area requires either land use
redesignation or subdivision in order to accommodate the
new or expanded agricultural operation;
b. Assessment of the land, demonstrating it is capable of
supporting the proposed new or expanded agricultural
operation including:
i) The proposed land use and subdivision design
relative to the attributes of the proposed new or
expanded agricultural operation;
ii) The land base required to support the proposed
agricultural operation relative to the area proposed
for redesignation and subdivision;
iii) The suitability of the sites soil characteristics,
topography, and surface and groundwater
hydrology with respect to the proposed new or
expanded agricultural operation;
c. The impact that the proposed new or expanded agricultural
operation may have on the parent parcel and adjacent lands,
and the compatibility of the operation with adjacent lands.
d. The suitability and adequacy of the supporting municipal
infrastructure for the proposal and the expected impacts on
the municipal infrastructure resulting from the proposed
new or expanded agricultural operation;
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e. The suitability and adequacy of supporting on-site and/or
communal infrastructure for the proposed new or expanded
agricultural operation including, but not limited to, water
and/or irrigation infrastructure, private access, and
sewage/manure management infrastructure; and
f. The impact the proposal may have on the environment
including air quality, surface and ground water hydrology
in accordance with Municipal and Provincial policies.
4.6 The approval of local livestock operation and their proximity to residences
will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Land Use Bylaw
and the following criteria, prior to any approval or permit being granted:
a) The location and design of the proposed facility and impact on adjacent
properties;
b) The proposed manure management plan;
c) The possible environmental impact of the proposed facility on:
i) air quality;ii) surface and groundwater hydrology;
a) The impact the proposed facility may have on the existing road network;
and;
b) Any comments received from adjacent municipalities or referral
agencies.
4.7 Where a local livestock operation is proposed in proximity to existing
residences, the proposed facility should be sited in accordance with the
calculation of a separation distance utilizing the Minimum DistanceSeparation (MDS).
4.8 The Municipality may require studies, reports and/or tests to be submitted
respecting the above, in support of any application for a local livestock
operation.
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4.9 Minimum Distance Separation (MDS) Formula - The calculation identified
in the Standards & Administration Regulations of the Agricultural
Operation Practices Act (AOPA)" which defines the setbacks of various
livestock operations from residential development.
4.10 Where the Municipality considers a proposed horticultural development to
have the potential for conflict with adjacent land uses due to traffic, odour,
waste management practices or other characteristics specific to the
horticultural development, the Municipality may require a minimum
separation distance.
4.11 The creation of a Farmstead requires the redesignation of the subject lands
to the Farmstead District as contained in the Land Use By-law and will be
reviewed in accordance with the following criteria:
a) demonstration that the Farmstead satisfies the definition of a Farmstead
as contained in this Plan, when the Farmstead is part of an active
farming operation;
b) the proposed parcel is a single parcel created from a previously
unsubdivided quarter section;
c) the proposed parcel is limited in size to the original farmstead as defined
by physical site characteristics, vegetation and shelter belts and suchother land as required to provide physical access to the site to a
minimum of 1.6 hectares (4 acres);
d) access to the proposed parcel is available by direct access or easement to
a developed public roadway acceptable to the Municipality; and
e) the balance of the quarter section is maintained as an agricultural land
use.
4.12 The creation of a single residential parcel from a previously unsubdivided
quarter section (first parcel out subdivision) requires the redesignation of the
subject lands to a residential Land Use District and shall be reviewed in
accordance with the criteria of the Residential Policies (Section 5.0)
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4.13 The Municipalitys recommendations on proposed confined feeding
operation siting will be evaluated on the following criteria:
a) Their proximity to existing residential development, or residential land
uses,
b) Their size and proximity to any urban center and statutory planning area
which accommodates non-agricultural land uses in the future, whereby
i) Registration-sized operations as defined in the AgriculturalOperations Practice Act, may be considered, and
ii) Approval-sized operations as defined in the AgriculturalOperations Practice Act, shall be excluded,
a) The location, design, the number of buildings, their size and
architecture, and the staging of the proposed facility and its impact on
adjacent properties, including adjacent agricultural operations;
b) The inclusion of a nutrient management plan which identifies all manure
spreading sites, both owned and leased, and a mechanism to amend
those sites overtime with adjacent landowner consultation;
c) The environmental impact on:
i) Surface and groundwater including availability to adjacentowners and operations, the quality and the quantity;
ii) Air quality;f) The inclusion of a decommission and reclamation plan;
g) The impact on the existing transportation infrastructure; and the
necessary upgrades and/or maintenance considerations through financial
arrangements such as hauling agreements, dust control agreements,
Transportation Levy, etc.
4.14 An applicant for a proposed confined feeding operation is required to hold
an open house for area landowners providing technical information and
overview of the project
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4.15 The Municipality may require studies, reports and/or tests in support of any
application for a confined feeding operation as outlined in # 4.13.
4.16 A variance to the Minimum Distance Separation formula (MDS) may be
considered for the expansion of an existing confined feeding operation or a
local livestock operation, if extenuating circumstances exists, including:
a) minimal impact on differing land uses;
b) the buffering effect of topography;
c) the buffering effect of visual screening;
d) the effectiveness of management practices;
e) a unique use not covered by the MDS formula; and;
f) any other factor that the Municipality deems appropriate.
4.17 Approval-sized Confined Feeding Operations should be excluded from
locating within identified Intermunicipal Development Plans/Notification
Zones of urban centers, Statutory planning areas, and in proximity to
hamlets and residential developments. Consideration should be given to
approval-sized Confined Feeding Operations in proximity to adjacent rural
Municipalities.
4.18 An approval of a Confined Feeding Operation should include the following
management considerations:
a) Noise control and mitigation measures;
b) Animal health, welfare and disposal management planning; and
c) Emergency Response, Disaster and Fire Management Planning
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5.0 Residential
Over the past several years the Municipality has experienced increasing demands for
country residential living. This trend is expected to continue. In addition, some
hamlets are also experiencing growth pressures as they offer a unique blend of urbanlifestyle in a country setting. The Municipality must therefore continue to effectively
manage the location and form of residential growth.
Developments that are complementary to the rural character of the Municipality will
therefore be encouraged.
GOAL:
Residential land use should contribute to an orderly settlement pattern. Residential
land use should be compatible with the natural environment. Therefore, a variety ofresidential land uses should be provided that would accommodate a range of lifestyle
opportunities for Municipal residents.
POLICIES:
5.1 In accordance with the Land Use Strategy proposals for country residential
land use and subdivision will primarily be directed to the existing areas of
concentrated country residential development where the land base has already
been fragmented. All applications for country residential land use andsubdivision shall be evaluated in accordance with the following criteria:
1. the consistency of the proposed residential development with any area
structure plan or conceptual scheme that has been adopted;
2. the capability of the land to support the proposed residential development
including the identification and evaluation of any on-site hazards,
geotechnical, archaeological and/or cultural features;
3. the impact the proposed residential development will have on adjacent
lands, the natural environment, the local road system and its compatibility
with the surrounding area and the rural character of the Municipality;
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4. the availability and adequacy of potable water supply and sewage disposal
systems necessary to support the proposed residential development and
the management of stormwater;
5. comprehensive subdivision design principles that result in innovative
communities, efficient use of the land base, municipal infrastructure,
public and private utility systems and on-site development opportunities.
5.2 FIRST PARCEL OUT SUBDIVISIONS
Notwithstanding any other policy of this Municipal Development Plan, first-
parcel-out subdivision applications may be approved, at the discretion of
Council, in accordance with Sections 5.1 and 5.2.
5.2.1 As a prerequisite for first-parcel-out subdivision approval, theproposed parcel shall:
a) constitute a single parcel created from a previously un-
subdivided quarter section, as defined by Policy 14.10;
b) be designated as a residential land use district, and comply with
the provisions of the Land Use Bylaw.
5.2.2 First-parcel-out subdivisions shall:
a) be located at least 300 metres (1000 feet) from the right-of-way
of a highway, or as otherwise specified by the Province or
Municipality;
b) have direct access to a developed public roadway;
c) be four (4) acres in size, unless a larger parcel is required in
order to accommodate:
i. a small agricultural use, in accordance with the Land Use
Bylaw, or
ii. an existing residential site that does not qualify for
Farmstead status, or
iii. a fragmented or isolated portion of land;
however, no first-parcel-out subdivision shall exceed 19.9 acres
in size.
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5.2.3 First-parcel-out subdivisions shall be optimally located on the parent
quarter section by minimizing, to the greatest extent possible:
a) potential conflict with adjacent agricultural operations;
b) the loss and fragmentation of agricultural land;
c) disturbance to environmentally sensitive features, such as
wetlands, natural drainage courses and tree stands;
d) the need for new public infrastructure.
5.2.4 In order to meet the objectives identified in Policy 5.2.3, the proposed
first-parcel-out subdivision should be located, where possible,
adjacent, or in close proximity, to an existing residential site in order
to minimize cumulative impact on agricultural operations and to take
maximum advantage of existing public infrastructure, unless analternate site is deemed to be more practical.
5.2.5 Further subdivision of first-parcel-out sites shall not be allowed, unless
authorized by Area Structure Plan or Conceptual Scheme policy, and
further, that the balance of the lands be maintained in agricultural land
use.
5.3 Proposals for residential expansion in hamlets will be considered in
accordance with Section 7.2 and conformity with other provisions of this
Plan.
5.4 Area structure plans and area redevelopment plans may be initiated by
Council to provide a framework with which to guide future growth and
change in areas of the Municipality where residential development is the
emerging dominant land use. And where such areas are experiencing on-
going growth pressures and therefore, require a more localized and
integrated approach to land use planning and development.
5.5 Council may require a landowner to prepare a conceptual scheme in support
of a residential redesignation or subdivision application and to encourage
collaboration between landowners to achieve an economical and orderly
settlement pattern.
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5.6 Any residential land uses or development should not be located within the
separation distances calculated utilizing the Minimum Distance Separation
(MDS) formula for a confined feeding operation or a local livestock
operation. Impacts should also be considered to CFOs and LLOs in the
general vicinity.
5.7 The density of any residential development shall be directly related to the
following:
a) the carrying capacity of the lands proposed for development having
regard to site conditions, environmental considerations and impacts,
and other factors that may have been considered in the design of the
proposal;
b) the suitability and availability of municipal and private services and
infrastructure necessary to support the proposal;
c) the compatibility of the proposed density with that of the surrounding
area and the rural character of the Municipality and consistency with
the provisions of any area structure plan containing the subject lands.
5.8 In support of diverse communities, a variety of housing forms are
encouraged to provide a range of affordability and lifestyle opportunities for
Municipal residents.
5.9 Accessory Dwelling Units are dwelling units that are located on the same
parcel as a principal dwelling, and are considered accessory and subordinate
to that principal dwelling. They may share servicing arrangements with the
principal dwelling unit, such as road approaches, water and wastewater
services, and should be designed to reflect similar architectural character of
the principal dwelling.
5.10 Accessory Dwelling Units may increase the opportunity for affordableforms of housing, financial support for the landowner, and supportive living
arrangements and lifestyle choices for a variety of community members
while at the same time promoting the efficient use of existing and future
infrastructure.
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c) the compatibility of the proposed business with adjacent land uses and
the impacts that may result from such an introduction into the area;
d) the availability and adequacy of municipal services and/or private
utilities necessary to support the proposed business ;
e) the availability of access to the subject lands and the adequacy of the
Municipal road system to accommodate traffic generated from the
proposed business;
f) the trade area and economic benefits to the community that may be
realized through the introduction of the proposed business;
g) the potential impacts the proposed business may have on the natural
environment;
h) the provisions of any area structure plan and the Land Use Bylaw that
may have been adopted for the area containing the subject lands;
i) the nature of any on-site or off-site engineering works that may be
required to support the proposed business;
j) any on-site or off-site natural or man-made hazards that may impact
the proposed business;
k) the potential for the area to support natural resource utilization;
l) any other matters the Municipality deems appropriate.
6.2.2 The Municipality may require studies, reports and tests to be submitted
respecting the above, in support of any application for business
development.
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6.3 HOME BASED BUSINESS
Uses that are accessory to a residential use (Home Based Business) are
considered appropriate uses in the Municipality provided they are developed
in accordance with this Plan, any applicable area structure plan or area
redevelopment plan adopted for an area of the Municipality and theprovisions of the Land Use By-law.
6.4 BUSINESS PARKS
6.4.1 Businesses, which are not natural resource dependent or hazardous, are
encouraged to locate in hamlets and business parks wherever possible in the
Municipality.
6.4.2 Proposed business parks should locate in proximity to primary or secondary
highways, or in hamlets, near rail serviced areas having due regard for the
safe operation of these transportation routes.
6.4.3 Business parks should be located in such a manner as to minimize conflict
between the range of uses planned for the business park and adjacent land
uses.
6.4.4 The location of business parks and the design of the lots should be such that
each lot has a suitable building site and direct access to the municipal road
network.
6.4.5 When considering proposals for business parks the following shall be
reviewed by the Municipality:
a) safe access and egress from highways or roads shall be provided and thevisual appearance shall not impair the safety and function of the
highway or roads;
b) demonstration to the satisfaction of the Municipality, the existence of aproven water supply and waste disposal capacity adequate to meet
Provincial regulations;c) property landscaping, berming and distance separation from land uses
shall be accounted for to minimize negative visual impact and provide
sufficient noise abatement measures;
d) the development of servicing requirements (i.e. roads, domestic watersupply, sewage and fire protection) of the Municipality;
e) the sensitivity of the surrounding land uses to such a proposal;
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f) the need for an area structure plan; and
g) the need for an emergency response plan developed in conjunction withthe Municipalitys Protective Services.
6.4.6 Council may require a landowner to prepare a conceptual scheme in support
of a business redesignation or subdivision application.
6.5 NATURAL RESOURCE EXTRACTION AND DEVELOPMENT
6.5.1 The Municipality should consider known potential natural resources when
evaluating proposals for redesignation, subdivision and development.
6.5.2 The Municipality should refer proposals for subdivision and development to
the appropriate Provincial and/or referral agencies to assist in identifying
potential natural resources, and/or required setbacks.
6.5.3 Area structure plans should identify areas of known potential natural
resources and establish land use planning strategies for the subdivision and
development of lands containing or in proximity to these resources.
6.5.4 When considering a proposal for natural resource use, the Municipality shall
review the:
a) surrounding land uses and the possible impact which may result from
the extraction of a natural resource;
b) balance of social and economic benefits to the community resulting from
the proposed development;
c) accessibility of the subject lands and the adequacy of the Municipal road
system to accommodate traffic generated considering the safety of the
road system;
d) reclamation plan for the lands;
e) comments received from Provincial and/or referral agencies;
f) management plan for the handling and storage of hazardous or otherwaste materials, to be generated or stored on site;
g) stormwater management; and
h) additional information the Municipality may deem appropriate.
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6.6 OUTDOOR STORAGE
6.6.1 When considering the location of proposals for outdoor storage as a
primary use, the following shall be reviewed to minimize the need for
costly road infrastructure, reduce the visual impact and help reduce the
extent of intrusion and conflict with adjacent land uses:
a) Direct access to a road;
b) Public roads should be paved up to the property line where access to the
outdoor storage site is gained;
c) An analysis of the public road network to ensure appropriate
intersection improvements and road upgrade requirements that meet or
exceed Municipal standards;
d) Every attempt should be made to reduce the visual impact of outdoorstorage on highways;
e) safe access and egress from highways or roads should be provided and
the visual appearance should not impair the safety and function of the
highway or roads;
f) Be located in such a way as to minimize conflicts with adjacent or
proximal land uses. Consideration will be given to traffic, dust and
visual impact; and,
g) Be located to utilize any existing landscaping or other desirable
elements for screening.
6.6.2 When designing a site for outdoor storage, the following shall be
considered in order to minimize the visual impact on adjacent uses and
reduce possible environmental impacts:
a) Appropriate screening elements around the perimeter of the storage area
including landscaping, fencing, buildings, or similar materials and/or
structures;
b) Utilize existing landscaping or other screening elements where possible;
and,
c) A management plan for the handling and storage of waste materials
including leakage from vehicles or other items.
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7.0 Hamlets
Hamlets are an integral part of the municipal settlement pattern, and serve as a
community focus for rural residents. It is important, therefore, to ensure that hamlets
maintain their status as service centers with potential to offer a wide range ofcommunity facilities for surrounding residents.
GOAL:
The necessary planning framework to guide subdivision, development, expansion or
elimination of individual hamlets should be provided through a hamlet study
undertaken by the Municipal District of Rocky View. A review of the Municipal
Districts hamlets and their opportunities and constraints for future development, will
provide the necessary framework to guide their future growth.
POLICIES:
7.1 The Municipality may undertake a review of its hamlets, as time permits, in
order to assess the constraints and opportunities to growth for each hamlet.
7.2 A proposed hamlet expansion area or new hamlet shall require an area
structure plan in accordance with Section 13 of the Plan and:
a) not be greater than that required to accommodate a proposed subdivision
or development;
b) not utilize agriculturally designated land unless no other alternative is
available;
c) be compatible with adjacent land uses;
d) be serviced by municipal or private services; and
e) in the case of hamlet expansion conform with any hamlet plan, area
structure plan or area redevelopment plan that has been previously
adopted for the hamlet .
7.3 Council may require a landowner to prepare a conceptual scheme in support
of a redesignation or subdivision application within or adjacent to a hamlet.
7.4 The Municipality shall notify any adjacent affected municipalities of a
redesignation proposal for the creation of a new hamlet or the expansion of
an existing hamlet boundary.
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BALZAC
MADDEN
BOTTREL
LAKECOCHRANE
CREEKBRAGG
DALEMEAD
INDUS
LANGDONSHEPARD
JANET
CONRICH
DALROY
DELACOUR
KEOMA
KATHYRN
RESERVE No.145
IR
CHESTERMERE
No.142,143,144RESERVE
STONEY INDIAN
TSUU T'INA NATION
COCHRANE
CROSSFIELD
AIRDRIE
CALGARY
CITY OF
22
1A
1
A
1
22
8
22X
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72
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2
2A
72
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M.D.OFBIGHORN
COUNTY OF MOUNTAINVIEW
M.D. OF FOOTHILLS
Figure 5: Hamlets
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8.0 Natural Environment
The protection and management of environmental resources is important to quality of life.
The biophysical characteristics and environmental significance of lands should be considered
in land use decisions. The conservation of environmentally significant areas should be
encouraged, including unique vegetation, riparian areas, topography and fish and wildlife
habitat. The presence of significant archaeological and historical sites should be considered
in the Municipalitys land use planning decisions.
GOAL:
To facilitate the preservation of significant and/or sensitive natural environments in the
development process.
POLICIES:
8.1 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
8.1.1 When considering a proposal for redesignation, subdivision or development
regardless of the proposed use, the Municipality may at its discretion, determine
that the proposal has environmental consequences on the subject lands or adjacent
lands. In such instances, the Municipality shall require the developer at their sole
expense, to prepare and submit an environmental impact assessment prepared by a
qualified professional, which is satisfactory in form and content to the Municipality.
8.1.2 An environmental impact assessment comprises:
a) a biophysical analysis of the subject lands or other affected lands and riparian
areas that may include an evaluation of the following factors:
i) topography;
ii) soil;
iii) flora and fauna recognized as important in the natural system;
iv) surface and groundwater hydrology;
v) natural drainage systems;
vi) lands prone to flooding, erosion or subsidence or other natural
occurring hazard;
vii) wildlife migration routes;
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viii) any other factor deemed appropriate by the Municipality;
b) an evaluation of the environmental significance of the lands that are the subjectof the assessment;
c) an evaluation of any potential impact the proposal may have on the natural
systems found on the subject lands and/or other affected lands;d) measures that would avoid and/or mitigate any detrimental environmental
consequences that may have been identified; and
e) any other matter deemed appropriate by the Municipality.
8.2 GEOTECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
8.2.1 When considering a proposal for redesignation, subdivision or development, the
Municipality may, at its discretion, require a geotechnical report at the developers
expense prepared by a qualified professional, satisfactory in form and content to the
Municipality, and in accordance with all pertinent Alberta EnvironmentalProtection Guidelines, as amended.
8.2.2 The geotechnical report should include:
a) a general description of the topography, surficial, bedrock geology and
hydrological conditions on the subject and/or affected lands;
b) a description of the field investigation program undertaken on the subject and/or
affected lands;
c) a description of soil characteristics present on the subject and/or affected lands;
d) a stability assessment of terrain configurations present on the subject and/or
affected lands;
e) an assessment of any existing or potential hazardous conditions present on the
subject and/or affected lands;
f) measures that would avoid and/or mitigate any existing or potential hazardous
condition that may have been identified on the subject and/or affected lands;
and
g) any other matter deemed appropriate by the Municipality.
8.3 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL CONDITIONS8.3.1 When considering the potential impacts of development on archaeological and
historical resources: redesignation; subdivision; and development proposals should
be referred by the Municipality to the appropriate Provincial department for
comments and recommendations.
8.3.2 When considering a proposal for redesignation, subdivision or development, the
Municipality may require, at the developers sole expense, the preparation of a
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historical impact assessment, prepared by a qualified professional, in form and
substance satisfactory to the requirements of the PROVINCIAL department, all to
the satisfaction of the Municipality.
8.4 ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
8.4.1 Where the Municipality has required the preparation of an environmental
assessment, geotechnical report and/or historical impact assessment contemplated
by this Plan, the Municipality at its sole discretion may, and at the developers
expense:
a) require further evaluation of the subject and/or affected lands;
b) require the preparation of an area structure plan;
c) impose conditions of approval, where applicable with respect to:
i) the regulation of development in proximity to water bodies, unstable or
eroded slopes or other natural features that in the opinion of the
Municipality, will serve to mitigate or avoid potential environmental
consequences and potential hazards to proposed development;
ii) the retention of vegetation adjacent to water bodies and/or on slopes;
iii) the protection of fish and wildlife habitat;
iv) the protection of archaeological or historical sites;
v) the preparation of a storm water management plan for the proposed
development;
vi) the preparation of a chemical management plan for fertilizers, herbicides,
pesticides and irrigation facilities associated with the proposed
development; and
vii) the preparation of a construction management plan for the proposed
development.
d) require the dedication of environmental reserve, where appropriate;
e) require subdivisions be designed to minimize detrimental impacts on adjacent
water features, optimizing the use of the land base and provide community
and public access to the water body; and
f) require any other mitigative measures deemed appropriate by the
Municipality.
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8.5 SHEPARD SLOUGH COMPLEX
The Shepard Slough Complex Area is located in the eastern portion of the Municipality. The
catchment area generally comprises a strip of land approximately 4 miles wide and 20 miles
long. It extends from the Bow River in the south to approximately 3 miles north of the
Hamlet of Conrich (see Figure 5).
Alberta Environmental Protection owns and operates the Western Headworks Canal which
diverts water from the Bow River, inside the City of Calgary into the Western Irrigation
District canal system at the Chestermere Lake headworks. Alberta Environmental
Protections interest in the Shepard Slough Complex area is two fold: to maintain water
quality in the Western Headworks Canal as it enters the Chestermere Lake reservoir and
conveys water to downstream users and; to provide mitigation for the potential for flooding
in the Western Headworks Canal and Chestermere Lake.
To accomplish this, Alberta Environmental Protection has announced a drainage solution
program to address the water quantity and quality issues. Alberta Environmental Protection
proposes to develop partnerships with the Municipalities and users of the system with the
aim of developing long term solutions to ensure the long term viability of the Western
Headworks Canal and the Shepard Slough Complex and ditch to the Bow River, which are
critical components in the overall drainage of the Western Headworks Canal and Shepard
Slough watershed.
GOAL:
The Municipality recognizes the importance of the Western Headworks Canal, Shepard
Slough Complex and Drain to the Bow River and will cooperate with municipal ratepayers,
Alberta Environmental Protection, the City of Calgary, and other affected parties toward the
long term protection and development of this important system.
POLICIES:
8.5.1 The Municipality will work with Alberta Environmental Protection with regard to
future programs relating to the protection and development of the Western
Headworks, Shepard Slough Complex area and Drain.
8.5.2 The Municipality will inform Alberta Environmental Protection, the City of Calgary,
and other affected parties of applications for redesignation, subdivision and
development within the Shepard Slough Complex area.
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N
January 2003
MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW No. 44
SHEPARD SLOUGH COMPLEX
Figure 6: Shepard Slough Complex
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9.0 Infrastructure
The provision and maintenance of infrastructure in the Municipality improves the quality of
life in the Municipality. The road network and the operation of airports and rail lines should
not be compromised by adjacent development. Water systems and solid waste managementsystems should be facilitated that do not negatively impact the natural environment or pose
hazards to Municipal residents. The communitys need for police/fire/ambulance service
shall be considered in the Municipalitys land use planning decisions.
GOAL:
To encourage and facilitate the development and maintenance of an efficient infrastructure
that is supportive of planned growth.
POLICIES:
9.1 ALL INFRASTRUCTURE
When considering subdivision and development proposals, the Municipality may require an
assessment of the infrastructure necessary to access and service the proposed subdivision or
development and may require the upgrading or a contribution towards future upgrading of
required infrastructure.
9.2 ROAD SYSTEMS
9.2.1 The function, safety and construction standards of the Provincial and Municipal
road system should not be compromised by any redesignation, subdivision and
development regardless of the proposed use. Figure 7 illustrates the
Provincial/Municipal transportation system and its relation to the urban centers
within the Municipality.
9.2.2 It shall be the policy of the Municipality, to examine criteria such as traffic
volumes, traffic flow characteristics, design speed and/or other factors associated
with roadway safety by considering:
a) limiting the number and type of access onto primary and secondary highways
and/or municipal roadways;
b) requiring proposals for subdivision and/or development to provide:
i) service roads;
ii) shared access points; and
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(iii) access via local roads or cul-de-sacs.
c) imposing additional conditions of subdivision and/or development approval
deemed appropriate by the Municipality.
9.2.3 Road approaches proposed to provide access to public roadways from a proposed
subdivision shall be constructed at the applicants expense in accordance with theMunicipalitys adopted road standards.
9.2.4 When considering proposals for subdivision and development, it shall be the policy
of the Municipality to consider:
a) the provisions of this Plan;
b) the future expansion and/or upgrading of existing roadways;
c) entering into agreements with developers regarding existing or new roadway
construction which may include joint ventures, pro-rated costs etc.;
d) the Municipal Pavement Management Program;
e) any development standards, area structure plans, area redevelopment plans,
hamlet plans and conceptual schemes adopted by the Municipality; and
f) comments and requirements received from Provincial Departments
9.2.5 The Municipality will negotiate as deemed necessary with urban centers in the
protection of important transportation, utility and service corridors.
9.2.6 The Municipality shall consider the following measures to mitigate traffic noise
associated with high traffic volume roads:
a) noise attenuation barriers to be incorporated into subdivision proposals at thecost of the developer;
b) future road alignments are to take into consideration the impact on residential
development; and
c) the type of pavement used should be commensurate with the adjacent land use
and type and volume of traffic expected to utilize the road.
9.3 AIRPORTS
9.3.1 Airport Districts within the Municipality should provide land uses which are
compatible with adjacent lands, the aviation industry and the traveling public andare supportive of business and institutional uses.
9.3.2 Prior to any redesignation to Airport District, an area structure plan shall be adopted
which describes:
a) the sequence of development proposed for the site;
b) the land uses proposed for the site;
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c) an emergency plan; and
d) contain such other matters as the Municipality considers necessary.
9.3.3 Proposals for redesignation, subdivision and development in proximity to an airport
should be compatible with the safe and efficient operation of the airport.
Accordingly, the following land uses may be considered:
a) general agricultural operations;
b) business uses complementary to the function of an airport;
c) uses not negatively affected by an airport operation;
d) recreational land uses, i.e. golf courses, soccer pitches, baseball diamonds,
pathways, etc.; or
e) any land use considered appropriate by the Municipality.
9.4 RAILWAYS
9.4.1 Area structure plans, area redevelopment plans and conceptual schemes shall
provide minimum setbacks and/or buffering requirements for developments
proposed in close proximity to active rail lines.
9.4.2 The Municipality should consider lands adjacent to rail lines as areas where
agricultural, business, airport or hamlet industrial land uses would benefit from
access to such a transportation network.
9.4.3 Abandoned railway corridors should be considered for incorporation, following anenvironmental assessment, into a linear open space system or consolidation with
adjacent lands.
9.5 WATER, SEWER, AND STORMWATER SERVICING
9.5.1 It shall be the policy of the Municipality to consider:
a) a range of water, sewer and stormwater servicing options acceptable to the
Municipality for lots proposed to be created through subdivision;
b) requiring water conservation measures attendant to the range of water servicingoptions;
c) any testing requirements, municipal standards and/or engineering specifications
deemed by the Municipality to be appropriate to the water, sewer and
stormwater systems;
d) reports, permits, licences and other documentation that may be required by
Provincial authorities respecting water, sewer and stormwater systems;
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e) implementation procedures to ensure the provision of water, sewer and
stormwater systems to lots proposed for subdivision are in accordance with
Municipal policy;
f) any water metering requirements deemed appropriate by the Municipality; and
g) any other matters deemed appropriate by the Municipality.
9.5.2 The Municipality may, at the time of consideration of subdivision proposals,
impose conditions necessary to ensure the provisions of the Municipal water,
sewer, and stormwater servicing policy contemplated by Policy 9.5.1 are complied
with.
9.5.3 Water cooperatives and private water suppliers in the Municipality are encouraged
to coordinate their efforts to enable the potential for linkage of these water supply
systems.
9.5.4 The Municipality supports the development of sewer systems that do not negatively
impact or cause deterioration of surface and/or groundwater quality.
9.5.5 The Municipality supports stormwater management plans which incorporate the use
of wetlands as stormwater retention areas in the design of subdivisions.
9.6 SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL
9.6.1 The Municipality should consider coordinating its solid waste disposal systems
with those of urban centres, where possible, so that the needs of growth and the
protection of the environment are accommodated.
9.6.2 When considering the site of a new landfill facility or transfer station, the
Municipality may consider the preparation of a comprehensive municipal landfill
study in accordance with the applicable Provincial guidelines.
9.6.3 A comprehensive municipal landfill study is required by Provincial legislation for
the construction and operation of a municipal landfill and should address the
following criteria:
a) a needs assessment for a landfill facility;
b) the development of landfill alternatives that may include:
i) recycling programs;
ii) solid waste reduction programs;
iii) composting.
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c) assessment of potential service area and appropriate sites for a landfill facility;
d) cost-benefit analysis of the potential landfill facility;
e) evaluation of any potential impacts on existing or proposed land uses in
proximity to the landfill facility;
f) evaluation of the accessibility of the potential site;
g) environmental impact assessment; and
h) any other matter deemed appropriate by the Municipality, and/or required by
Provincial statute or authority.
9.7 PROTECTIVE SERVICES
9.7.1 Proposals for redesignation, subdivision and development shall accommodate
design elements that consider safety factors and facilitate accessibility by police,
fire and ambulance services.
9.7.2 When considering proposals for subdivision or development, the Municipality shall
require the developer to seek appropriate measures to provide the proposed
development with fire protection.
9.7.3 Water suppliers operating in the Municipality will be encouraged to construct
distribution systems designed for the suppression of fire.
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MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF ROCKY VIEW No.44
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10.0 Open Space and Recreation
Recreational and open space opportunities are important lifestyle components for rural
residents. The creation of an integrated open space system throughout the Municipal
District, which provides for active and passive recreational opportunities, should be
accommodated through the consideration of open space issues at the time of area structure
plan, conceptual scheme and/or hamlet plan preparation or redesignation and subdivision
application. Land use planning decisions regarding open space should be facilitated through
a review of existing recreation master plans, the use of environmental easements and liaison
with local School Boards.
GOAL:
To support the retention and enhancement of open spaces and recreational facilities in the
Municipality.
POLICIES:
10.1 MUNICIPAL, SCHOOL AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESERVE
10.1.1 When considering proposals for subdivision, the Municipality may require the
registered owners to provide Municipal and/or School Reserve, in accordance with
the provisions of the Municipal Government Act. This shall be in the form of:
a) land;
b) money in place of land; or
c) a combination of land and money.
10.1.2 When considering proposals for subdivision, the Municipality may defer the
provision of Municipal and/or School Reserve by registering a deferred reserve
caveat against the balance of the subject lands.
10.1.3 Pursuant to Policy 10.1.2, the Municipality may consider deferral of Municipal or
School Reserve when the:
a) proposed subdivision is to accommodate an agricultural use and reserve could
be provided through future subdivision, to the satisfaction of the Municipality;
b) proposed subdivision comprises a portion of the titled lands proposed for
subdivision and reserve could be provided through future subdivision, to the
satisfaction of the Municipality;
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c) proposed subdivision is part of a phased proposal involving a number of parcels
and Municipal and/or School Reserve could be provided in a subsequent phase,
to the satisfaction of the Municipality; or
d) Municipality deems it appropriate.
10.1.4 When considering proposals for subdivision, the Municipality should require that
the amount, type, location and shape of Municipal and/or School Reserve land is
suitable for the intended use and the needs o