Planning & Land Use

Planning in Westlock is about more than maps and bylaws—it’s about people. Our planning documents are designed to support thoughtful, sustainable growth that reflects the needs, values, and aspirations of our community.

From long-term visioning to day-to-day land use decisions, these documents guide how we shape our neighbourhoods, protect our natural and built environment, and ensure that Westlock remains a vibrant, welcoming place to live, work, and invest.

Planning Documents

These documents form the foundation for land use, development, and community growth in Westlock and help inform planning & development decisions:

Municipal Development Plan (MDP)

The MDP sets out the high-level vision for the Town’s future growth and development. It outlines long-range policies on land use, transportation, infrastructure, housing, environment, and economic development.

Adopted October 2024 – includes enhanced focus on housing diversity and complete neighbourhoods.

View or download Municipal Development Plan Bylaw 2024-16

Land Use Bylaw

The LUB regulates how land and buildings can be used within Town boundaries. It includes zoning districts, permitted and discretionary uses, development standards, and application procedures.

Amendments to the LUB are made regularly to remove barriers, improve clarity, and support innovation.

View or download Consolidated Land Use Bylaw 2022-12

Area Structure Plans (ASPs)

ASPs provide a more detailed land use and servicing framework for specific areas of Town, guiding the development in new neighbourhoods.

View or download Greenfield and Westgate Area Structure Plan

Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP)

This regional document supports cooperation between the Town and County of Westlock on matters such as infrastructure, land use, and economic development near municipal boundaries.

View or download Intermunicipal Development Plan Bylaw 2019-12

Supporting Policies & Bylaws

From off-site levies and design guidelines to infrastructure and public art master plans—they help translate vision into reality.

Offsite Levy Bylaw

Sets out developer-paid fees to help fund infrastructure expansions necessitated by new development.

View or download Offsite Levy Bylaw 2023-10

Compliance Certificates Policy

Details the process and criteria for issuing certificates affirming a property’s compliance with municipal land-use regulations.

View or download the Compliance Certificates Policy P-97-2023

Securities for Subdivision & Development Policy

Outlines the requirements, forms, and management of financial securities provided by developers to ensure the completion of municipal infrastructure and landscaping obligations.

View or download Securities on Subdivision and Development Policy P-107-2024

Land Management Policy

Provides guidance on acquisition, use, leasing, and disposal of municipal land to align with strategic planning goals.

View or download Land Management Policy P-104-2024

Public Art Policy

Defines the framework for selecting, installing, and maintaining public art to enhance community spaces and cultural identity.

View or download Public Art Policy P-105-2024

Public Art Master Plan

Lays out a long-term vision and strategy for the integration and placement of public art across municipal areas.

View or download the Public Art Master Plan

Procedures and Design Standards for Development

Prescribes technical standards and procedural steps that developers must follow during planning and construction.

View or download the Procedures and Design Standards for Development

Stormwater Master Plan

Outlines strategies to manage stormwater drainage, mitigate flooding, and address future infrastructure needs.

View or download the Stormwater Master Plan

Transportation Master Plan

Establishes a comprehensive plan for current and future transportation system needs, including roads, active travel, and transit.

View or download the Transportation Master Plan

Sanitary Sewer Master Plan

Examines the capacity and condition of the sewer system and recommends improvements to accommodate growth.

View or download the Sanitary Sewer Master Plan

Water Master Plan

Evaluates water supply, treatment, and distribution systems and establishes strategies for sustainable service delivery.

View or Download the Water Master Plan

Planning & Land Use Hierarchy in Alberta

Within Alberta, the Province of Alberta regulates planning and development through the Municipal Government Act (MGA). In effect, the MGA provides legislative authority to municipalities to make land use planning and development decisions. Municipalities must follow statutory plans at both the provincial and municipal level of government. All planning and land use decisions must be made in consideration with the hierarchy of statutory plans.

The planning hierarchy diagram outlines the relationship of different levels of land use legislation.

Our Approach to Planning

The Planning & Development Department works closely with residents, landowners, developers, and regional partners to manage growth in a way that supports our community’s long-term goals. We review and update key planning documents in accordance with provincial legislation, and we ensure that development decisions align with the Town’s vision for a connected, complete community.

Planning is a collaborative process. When updates to major documents are underway, we engage the public, hold open houses, and seek feedback to ensure that our plans reflect local voices and shared priorities.

Stay Informed & Get Involved

Planning shapes the places we call home. Your input helps ensure we’re growing in a way that supports current and future generations.

Town of Westlock

Planning & Development

10003–106 Street,
Westlock, AB T7P 2K3

Phone: 780‑349‑4444

Email us: planning@westlock.ca