FAQs

Raccoons are traditionally found in southeast Alberta. However, they are expanding their territory and are now popping up in Sturgeon County. They can adapt to whatever food source is available, but normally they eat fruits, nuts, berries, insects, and foods that can be found near water: fish, birds, eggs, and frogs. When they are around humans, they will eat whatever we deliberately or unintentionally provide.

Nuisance

They can be a nuisance with the right conditions. If your garbage is poorly secured, they’ll leave a mess after getting inside the container, or they’ll eat vegetables from gardens and scatter whatever they don’t eat. If they’re trying to get into the attic or crawlspace of a house, they might rip at broken shingles, soffits, and fascia boards.

Diseases

Some raccoons in Alberta may be infected with raccoon roundworm, canine distemper, or leptospirosis. Stay away from areas where the raccoons relieve themselves.  If you see unusual behaviour in a raccoon, notify the nearest Fish and Wildlife office. For more information on rabies, please visit this Government of Alberta webpage.

Mice can sometimes be mistaken for Juvenile Rats. There are three common species of mice in Sturgeon County; House Mouse, Field Mouse or Meadow vole, White-footed Mouse or Deer Mouse.
Read more on other rodents commonly mistaken for rats.

As mice populations can expand quickly, it is important to implement control measures immediately if you suspect an infestation.
You can discourage mouse infestation and damage by keeping areas clean and free of debris. Keep grass short around buildings, and seal cracks and holes in foundations and walls with steel wool or wire mesh. Store pet
food, birdseed, and other grains in sealed containers, and mothballs (naphthalene) can be used in confined spaces as a odour deterrent. Cats and dogs will prey on mice, and coyotes, foxes, weasels, hawks, owls, and
snakes are natural predators of mice on larger holdings. Traps and toxicant products can be purchased at farm supply and hardware stores. Please follow label directions for proper use of these products.

If you have an encounter with a rat, or you suspect a rat is present, contact your municipal Agricultural Fieldman, or call the Provincial Ag- Info Centre at 1-866-882-7677. You will be provided with assistance in the identification and control of rats.

The red squirrel is an Alberta native that is very well adapted to living around humans. Houses, garages and sheds are safe, warm, and comfortable living spaces for squirrels. Removing and relocating squirrels is only sufficient if you repair or plug the areas where the squirrels were entering. Without doing this, it only provides room for a new tenant.

To keep squirrels from finding a new home in your yard, make sure food supplies are removed from your yard, like bird feeders. Close and cover garbage cans, and put fences up around gardens and individual plants.

More about Squirrels 

Skunks are members of the weasel family (mustelidae). While there are several species of skunk; the only species that exists in Alberta is the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis).

What you can do about skunks on your property

Skunks adapt well to urban and rural areas, living under sidewalks, decks, buildings and brush piles, which greatly increases their chance of human contact, and the chance of people or pets being sprayed.

To avoid having a skunk move into your yard, keep it tidy and remove any brush and debris piles. Avoid feeding skunks by not leaving pet food or garbage out overnight, and remove fallen fruit from under trees.

Sturgeon County has skunk traps available for rent as a humane method of removal.  Set the trap close to the skunk’s den or near the skunk’s normal line of travel.

• Push in on the springs on the door and lift at the same time. The trap’s trigger mechanism is located on the top of the door and hooks onto the bar connected to the pan in the bottom of the trap.
• The trap will have been checked over prior to its rental, so do not make any adjustments to it. If you feel something is not working properly,
  please contact Sturgeon County Agriculture Services.

More about Skunks

The pocket gopher is commonly called a mole and can be a problem in canola crops, pastures, hay land and acreages throughout Alberta. They also eat garden crops and kill woody plants and shrubs by feeding on the roots. Pocket gopher numbers have been shown to increase as grazing intensity increases.

How To Recognize Their Presence

The most obvious clue that gophers have made a home on your property are the fan shaped mounds and the actual entrance to the burrow is sealed. If there are legumes on your property these mounds will be more prevalent than in grass lands. One animal may make up to 50 mounds per year through its burrowing activity.

Control

In yards, gardens, small fields or along shelterbelts control can be achieved with trapping. There are several types of traps that are presently available; “Victor” easy-set gopher trap, “Guardian” gopher trap, “Convert” gopher trap and “Blackhole” gopher trap. Specific instructions on setting traps and placement of traps are provided with the individual trap.

Read More

Coyotes aren’t all bad! They help keep the rodent population at bay. Remember to be careful around coyotes (like any wild animal); don’t approach them and don’t feed them. They’ve already learnt to  scavenge for food such as garbage, fruit and accessible pet food; all readily available in subdivisions and on acreages and farms. 

What to do about a problem coyote?
If coyotes are disrupting humans and pets contact Alberta Fish and Wildlife. They can assist if there is a sick or injured coyote that can’t move, a coyote that is behaving aggressively toward people, such as nipping or biting, or if you require additional advice for preventing or responding to coyote encounters. If coyotes are found to be disrupting livestock contact Sturgeon County Agriculture Services.

Learn more about coyotes 

Sustainable grazing addresses environmental concerns and provides a balance between forage production and livestock consumption. A grazing area with a well-balanced variety of species and a well-managed grazing schedule produces more grass and creates a sustainable environment for long-term grass production.
Healthy grass cover protects soil from erosion and provides wildlife habitat. Where pastures border on riparian areas, grazing management includes riparian area management. This improves water quality, reduces bank erosion, improves forage production and enhances fish and wildlife habitat.

Nutrient management involves

• the feeding
• storage
• transport
• application and use of nutrients on the farm.

It addresses challenges dealing with odor, surface and groundwater quality and health and safety issues while promoting the concept of manure as a resource.

Integrated management develops tools for management, considering soil, water, air and biodiversity.
Cropping systems may include:

• site-specific management
• crop rotation
• crop diversification
• grassed waterways and
• residue management

These reduce the impacts of crop production on the environment. Having an integrated cropping system enhances the profitability and efficiency of farm operations.

Working Well Resources
Information for private well water owners

Ducks Unlimited Canada 
Works to conserve, restore and manage wetlands and grasslands to benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people.

Land Stewardship Centre
Focuses their efforts in creating stewards: by improving understanding of healthy ecosystems.

Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension Society
Encouraging sustainable forest management on private lands.

Environmental Farm Plan
Helps producers identify their environmental risks and develop plans to mitigate risks.

Agsafe Alberta
Agsafe Alberta develops and delivers farm safety management tools, resources, and programs for Alberta farmers and ranchers

Gateway Research Organization
A non-profit, farmer led, applied agricultural research association.

Alberta Onsite Wastewater Management Association
The provincial not-for profit organization established to educate, train and certify industry professionals.

Soil, forages, and feed testing laboratories
Services for Agri-Processors and Producers

Testing Farm Drinking Water
Online tool to assess quality and suitability of raw water sources for privately owned and operated supplies.

Farm Machinery Cost Calculator
This tool allows you to calculate ownership and operating costs of common farm equipment.

Alberta Seed Guide
Alberta farmers go-to source of variety and performance information.

Forage Seed Mixture Calculator
This calculator will calculate a mix and estimate a seed density for drills or broadcast seedings for any grouping of plant species in the list.

Beef Cow-Calf Manual
This manual sets out the basic principles of beef management.

Alberta Forage Manual
The Alberta Forage Manual, 2nd Edition, offers producers comprehensive information on a range of forage topics.

Agricultural Plastics Recycling Group
The APRG is made up of over 20 organizations representing agricultural producers, retailers, manufacturers, municipalities, non-profits and others.

Alberta Soil Information Viewer
Learn about the soils in Sturgeon County through this free tool.

Alberta Wheat & Barley Seeding Rate Calculator

Establishing a crop with high yield potential and quality requires sowing seed at ideal rates. Use the calculator below to determine appropriate seeding rates based on various agronomic and seed quality factors.

Alberta Farm Safety Programs and Grants
For farm safety awareness, education and programming to be delivered in diverse ways across Alberta to influence behavioral changes on family farms and the agriculture community.

Farm Fresh Producers
Dedicated to supporting the production of farm direct market vegetable crops, fruit, plants, and more.

ProAction
With proAction, dairy farmers offer proof to customers that they work to ensure milk quality and safety, and to continually improve animal health and welfare as well as environmental stewardship.

Verified Beef Production Plus
Enables beef cattle producers to prove to consumers and retailers that they adhere to the highest standards.

CanadaGAP
CanadaGAP is a food safety program for companies that produce, handle and broker fruits and vegetables.

ALUS
ALUS helps support agriculture producers with projects that produce ecosystem services on their land. Sturgeon County is proud to offer the ALUS program to our farming residents. To submit a project, click here.

Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR)
Enables producers to determine priorities and lead agriculture research. The Agriculture Climate Solutions On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) is an initiative to help farmers tackle climate change. Contact Sturgeon County Agriculture Services if you would like assistance in an application.

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a five‐year (2023-2028), $3.5 billion cost-shared federal-provincial investment towards strategic programs and services for the agriculture and agri-food industry in Alberta. Read more about how Sustainable CAP works.

Canola Council 4R Advantage:
Canola 4R Advantage offers incentives to help growers initiate or advance 4R Nutrient Stewardship on canola acres over 2 years (2021-2023). Year Two: cover expenses paid by growers between April 1 2023 and March 31, 2024. Expanding the use of 4R Nutrient Stewardship is an important opportunity to improve fertilizer efficiency, which is good for both farm productivity and our environment. Funding for Canola 4R Advantage is provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Agricultural Climate Solutions – On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF).

The market value of your property comes from sales of comparable properties in your neighbourhood. Comparable properties are those that are similar to your house in size, age, house type and other characteristics and are based on the market value as of July 1 of the previous year.

You are required to bring 7 copies of your evidence to the hearing.

The Board may not allow you to use any of your evidence.

Yes, you must provide copies to the ASSESSMENT REVIEW BOARD and to the RESPONDENT by the disclosure deadline. When making its decision, the Board must disregard any materials that were not disclosed to all parties.

You must provide your disclosure package to the Assessment Review Board and the respondent by the disclosure deadline. You can find the deadline on the Notice of Hearing document that we will mail to you. If you miss the disclosure deadline, then the Board may not allow you to present your evidence.

Evidence is whatever you will use to prove your case. Several kinds of evidence can be presented. Here are some examples:

Documents – sales data, repair estimates, assessments and information from other similar properties, appraisals, etc.
Oral testimony – a witness provides information and answers questions in person
Visuals – photographs (inside and out) and maps
Chart that compares characteristics and values from your property with the other properties
Any other documents, pictures or maps (for example, a signed witness statement) that support your position
Affidavits or other statements – a witness’s evidence given to the board in writing. Letters or a statement made under oath or solemn affirmation (affidavit)
Expert evidence – experts have specialized knowledge because of their education or experience. You will need enough evidence to convince the Board that your assessment is not a fair estimate of the market value of your property.
Your assessment should reflect:

What your property may have sold for in an open market on July 1 of the previous year (valuation date)
The condition of your property on December 31 of the previous year (condition date)

A disclosure package is your evidence and it contains all of the documents that you are going to use at the hearing to prove your case

Supplementary assessments provide equity amongst property owners by capturing the increased value of properties that were only partially completed on December 31, of the year prior to the current tax year, and have since become completed or occupied. The value gained is applied on a prorated basis and applies only when new construction is completed, occupied, or when a project begins its operational function during the current tax year.

When new construction is completed or becomes occupied, the owners receive municipal services and the supplementary assessment contributes towards equitable distribution of the costs to provide those services.

An example scenario: the annual assessment for a 60% completed home on December 31 is $100,000 and an assessor inspects on May 15th, determines the home is lived in or completed, and its completed value is $160,000. Then the homeowner will receive a supplementary assessment for $60,000 from June 1 to Dec 31 of the current tax year where the owner would be responsible for a prorated assessment of $35,000 [($60k/12) * (7 months) = $35,000] and would pay taxes on that assessment amount.

Property taxes fund the delivery of most services in a municipality such as protective services, family and community services, transportation (examples: road maintenance and buildings), planning and development, as well as general operations.  In Sturgeon County, one cent of every dollar collected is also directed towards the County’s Seniors Housing Foundation. Municipalities also collect the provincial Education Tax that funds Alberta’s provincial education system.

Breakdown for Every Property Tax Dollar ($1.00)

Tax rates are determined based on the financial budgetary requirements to deliver services for County residents. A simplified tax rate calculation is illustrated as follows:

Budget requirements divided by the assessment base

=

The tax rate.

Your property characteristics are measured against other properties that have sold, to calculate a market value. Characteristics such as location, age, size, quality, and others are all considered. You can confirm your property characteristics or compare other properties, by using our Sturgeon Gateway Property Viewer.

Alternatively, an Assessor is available to answer your questions via phone at 780-939-0601.

Tax rates are set by Council and are applied equally to all properties based on their use (residential, non-residential, machinery and equipment, etc.).

• Assessed values take the age, quality, condition and use of the property into account. Since no two properties are identical, any variance in the above factors will affect how your property is valued and respectively taxed. (R) (S)
• Assessments are based on the available descriptive data of a home. Owners are encouraged to review this information and discuss any discrepancies with assessors. (R) (S)
• Rural properties receive exemptions based on the amount of farmland owned. These exemptions may vary from one parcel to another. It is important to note that exemptions are not automatically applied and should be discussed with your local assessor. (R)
• Buildings on rural parcels are often exempted from taxes if they are being used for farming operations. Farm building exemptions vary between parcels and directly affect how a parcel is taxed. These exemptions are not automatically applied and should be discussed with your local assessor. (R)

Property assessment values are based on market values. Each year, new sales information is added to valuation models. When properties in your neighbourhood or market area sold for higher values than your previous assessment, your new assessment will reflect an increase in value and have a corresponding effect on your taxes.

An increase in taxes is also possible if the general market value has dropped but your neighborhood or your home value has not decreased as much as the average decrease in the County.

Once fibre is installed you have the opportunity to join the Broadband Fibre Network and utilize the benefits of the updated network, you are not obligated nor automatically connected after installation.

If you want to activate and subscribe to the fibre service you can contact one of the Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to begin a subscription, if you are currently subscribed to a provider you will need to contact them to update your service to the new fibre network. They will make arrangements to activate the service and provide you with any hardware you need for your situation. New ISPs are being added, and the website will be updated accordingly.

Installation crews take the fibre from the Drop crews (ran to home/ business exterior on your property) and run it into the interior of your house and terminate the fibre at a small device called an Optical Network Terminal (ONT). The ONT will need to be plugged into a nearby outlet within your home. 

Drop crews take single strands of fibre from the nearest splice point (usually a small pedestal nearby) and bring it onto your property to the outside edge of your home or business, usually near where other utilities enter your building.

They will use a combination of ploughing and horizontal drilling to install the drop fibre efficiently while protecting your property and minimizing damage.

Access teams run fibre within subdivisions, hamlets and industrial parks.

You’ll see them running fibre along the local roads right up near your property. They don’t go onto your property but can get close considering other utilities that are already buried in the area. Access teams will cross a lot of driveways but utilize horizontal drills to go under the driveway to minimize any possible damage.

Transport teams are equipped to run the large fibre cables that connect subdivisions, hamlets and industrial parks together. 

You’ll usually see them ploughing or drilling along county roads or provincial highways. 

Send us an email to discuss how you can have fibre installed to your property.

There was a one-time retrofit program to install fibre to some homes and businesses that is now complete. As that program is over, any new fibre installations are chargeable to the home or business owner.

Expansion of the service in the southwestern portion of the County is not being contemplated at this time.

You can continue to use your current provider in the same manner, or search for other internet service providers in the area. As some residents and businesses move on to the County’s fibre network, this may free up wireless capacity on the existing networks in your area.

Yes, the shared portion of the route will be split between the parties having it installed. Costs will be lowest if it is built at the same time. We encourage you to discuss this option with your neighbours.

Unfortunately, this is not an option available to Sturgeon County under municipal legislation in Alberta.

Unfortunately, this is not an option available to Sturgeon County under municipal legislation in Alberta.

There is currently no provincial or federal government program to help cover the costs.

You can install your own conduit on your property as long as you follow County guidelines. However, on County property, including road allowances, you will have to pay for the installation to be done by Canadian Fibre Optics Corporation.

The County is developing an estimator program to help you decide if it is something you would like to pursue further. More information will be coming out on this soon.

Yes, fibre can be extended to your home or business on a cost-shared basis. The land lowner would be responsible for the conduit, installation and related components and the County would be responsible for providing and lighting up the fibre itself.

You may have to pay for the service to be brought from the edge of your property into your house or business at a later date. We strongly recommend taking advantage of the County provided installation at this time, even if you do not plan to subscribe.

No. You will still have to either switch over to the fibre network with your current provider, or sign up with a new provider who accesses the fibre network.

Disruptions and interruptions to services are not expected during the fibre installation process. There may be a short outage when service is transferred from your current provider to the fibre network. You may have to reboot or restart your devices to pick up the new connection.

If your current internet service provider chooses to be an internet service provider on our network, you can continue your service through them, or you can choose another service provider.

Although the fibre network will be installed to your property, you are not obligated to change your internet service provider.

Your property will be restored to original grade with the addition of topsoil and grass seed as required by the construction company. It will be your responsibility to ensure that it is watered, as required.

There is always a small risk of damage to land or driveway. The crews are committed to doing their best to avoid and minimizing damage to properties. The installation process is minimally invasive as possible.

Only the land owner can sign the access agreement. However, renters and leesees can subscribe to the service once the fibre is in place.

Homeowners and businesses will be notified in writing a couple weeks before project commencement in your area, outlining what to expect.

You will not need to be home for the exterior construction process as long as an access agreement has been signed by the published deadlines (TBD). However, installation crews will need someone home when they bring the line inside the house.

For everyone’s safety, if you have pets or animals, please be sure they are secured, fenced or tied up when crews are working nearby.

You will have to sign an access agreement for construction crews to access your property.

We will continue to update the County website with information on the broadband project including construction timelines and information.

If you have questions about the broadband initiative that are not addressed here, please email us.

Primarily by the most cost-effective way to bring fibre to the subdivisions, businesses and communities, with consideration for environmentally sensitive areas. Where there were two paths to get to the same place, the path with more service locations was chosen.

The County is investing $7.55 million in phase 1. A second phase that includes the rest of the County will be considered by Council in 2022.

The County will receive a portion of subscription fees, but the main focus for the County is to improve quality of life for residents and create a more competitive business environment.

Starlink is a great option for many residents, but it has limitations.

• It requires a significant up-front investment and is costly to subscribe.
• Starlink cannot offer the speed and reliability of fibre.
• Starlink is not a permanent solution to address broadband in the County due to its portability (e.g. you can move and take the equipment with you.

The County will own the fibre line.

The following internet service providers will have access to the County’s network. You can choose to sign up with any one of them.

Northern Lights

Clearwave

Albertacom

Please note:Sturgeon County is not affiliated, associated, endorsed, sponsored, or officially connected with the brands featured, mentioned, or referenced in the Internet Service Providers listings. All brands represented are the registered trademarks of their respective owners. The use of any name is for identification and reference purposes only and does not imply an association with the brand. Sturgeon County does not endorse any of their products or services.

If you have any concerns, please contact us via email.

A conduit will be installed underground using a combination of ploughing, narrow trenching and Horizontal Directional Drilling, depending on the type of terrain or obstacle encountered.

After the conduit is coupled and is one continuous run, a fibre optic line will be blown through the conduit, which will then be spliced together to create one continuous fibre optic line. Most construction will occur on County or Provincial road rights-of-way, only drops to homes will go on private property.

Please be patient with the equipment and crew, as they are doing their best to work as quickly as possible while respecting the land and residents.

Yes, fibre optic networks are more secure than other services.

• Traditional copper wire emits electrical signals that can be picked up with special listening equipment.
• Wifi signals can also be compromised.

Optical fibre is immune to electrical interference and has zero electrical emissions. A fibre connection must be interrupted to intercept a signal, which is easily detectable.

Fibre can consistently handle more users and more data at higher speeds than other broadband services. In the future, fibre will be able to hit speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second. Fibre is also more reliable than other broadband services.

To bring fast, reliable internet service to residents and businesses of the County.

Please submit Special Event Licence applications to our FCSS Department at least 90 days prior to the event date to allow for processing of your application. This will allow the County to assess the requirements, risk and circulate to and notify other departments and agencies.

If planning an event in Sturgeon County, you may require a Special Event Licence or other approval if:

• An event is being planned in Sturgeon County that expects 500 or more people to be in attendance including staff, volunteer and contractors.
• An event of any size is planned to take place on Sturgeon County owned land such as parks, trails, natural areas, roadways, etc.

Note: For events under 500 people in Cardiff Park, you don’t need a Special Events Licence but may require other approvals. Refer to Bylaw 842/97 – Regulations for Use of Cardiff park.

You cannot burn any flammable waste that, when burned, may result in the release of toxic substances into the atmosphere. This includes but is not limited to the following:

• animal carcass and manure
• non-wooden material
• waste material from building or construction sites
• wood products containing substances for the purpose of preserving wood
• combustible material
• tires
• rubber or plastic
• used motor oil

Residents are permitted to operate Off Highway Vehicles on local Sturgeon County roadways provided they follow certain regulations, such as wearing a helmet and ensuring their vehicles are registered and insured. For a full list of the rules and regulations on Sturgeon County’s Off Highway Vehicle Bylaw 

No.

Noise provisions are referred to in Part IV of the Community Standards Bylaw

You can contact Sturgeon County Enforcement Services Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at 780-939-8418. For after-hours assistance, you may call 780-939-4321

Community Peace Officers (CPO’S) are given specific powers and authorities from the Solicitor General of Alberta, to uphold and enforce certain Provincial Laws and Municipal Bylaws within Sturgeon County. CPO’s must not be confused with the RCMP or other Police Agencies, who have a much broader range of authority. The two groups collaborate to ensure a safe community.

Sturgeon County Emergency Services conducts annual recruitment activities every September. Details can be found here.  Applications can be submitted to any Sturgeon County District Fire Hall (Bon Accord, Calahoo, Legal, Namao, and Redwater). Those who have submitted their forms will be interviewed at the beginning of October. Successful applicants will be brought onto their respective department no later than mid October and commence a three (3)-month probationary period.

You need approval to burn derelict buildings on your property. Contact Planning and Development to confirm if a demolition permit is needed. You can then apply for a large brush pile fire permit. A member of Sturgeon County Emergency Services may issue this fire permit after a mandatory site visit to confirm what will be burned and that it is safe to proceed.

You can only burn Class A materials, including but not limited to the following:

• wood
• branches
• grass
• leaves
• paper
• cardboard

You do not need a fire permit for an attended fire that is lit in an approved fire pit for recreation, cooking, or warming purposes. However, you should use caution and make sure fires are completely put out when you are done.

Sturgeon County has an after-hours answering service that is open from 4:30 pm and 8:30 am.
This allows residents to report after-hours concerns to Enforcement, Transportation or Utilities.
Please call 780-939-4321 or toll free at 1-866-939-9303.

Sturgeon County Animal Control is here to help you with these situations. We have bylaws that deal with domestic animals, cats and dogs. If you have a service request concerning wild animals, please contact Agriculture Services. If there is roadkill on Sturgeon County roads, please contact Transportation Services 780-939-8252

An animal attack resulting in a serious injury would constitute an emergency.

A dog at large or one that is barking would not be considered an emergency.

If you find and choose to contain an animal after hours, be prepared to either transport it to the Edmonton Humane Society or house it until Animal Control reopens.

The contact number for Animal Control is 780-939-8419. The hours for Animal Control Bylaw are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.

The Sturgeon County Protective Services Building is located at 54509 Range 252.
The building is South of Highway 37 on Range Road 252. It is home to Enforcement Services, Animal Control, Emergency Services, and the District of Namao Fire Department.

Sustainable grazing addresses environmental concerns and provides a balance between forage production and livestock consumption. A grazing area with a well-balanced variety of species and a well-managed grazing schedule produces more grass and creates a sustainable environment for long-term grass production.
Healthy grass cover protects soil from erosion and provides wildlife habitat. Where pastures border on riparian areas, grazing management includes riparian area management. This improves water quality, reduces bank erosion, improves forage production and enhances fish and wildlife habitat.

Nutrient management involves

• the feeding
• storage
• transport
• application and use of nutrients on the farm.

It addresses challenges dealing with odor, surface and groundwater quality and health and safety issues while promoting the concept of manure as a resource.

Integrated management develops tools for management, considering soil, water, air and biodiversity.
Cropping systems may include:

• site-specific management
• crop rotation
• crop diversification
• grassed waterways and
• residue management

These reduce the impacts of crop production on the environment. Having an integrated cropping system enhances the profitability and efficiency of farm operations.

Preparedness is different for every pet. The below list includes basic supplies; adapt the list to meet the needs of your pet(s).

• leash, collar or harness
• travel cage/carrier
• food for a minimum of three days
• water (minimum of one gallon per day is recommended per animal)
• medications
• dishes for food and water
• pet bed, blanket or towel
• familiar toys
• plastic bags, newspaper, cleaner or disinfectant
• current photo of each animal, a description of any unique markings should be noted on the back of the photo if printed
• paperwork (licensing, vaccination records, insurance information)
• emergency contact information, and list of contacts (vet, previous kennel, friends and family in case you are unable to be reached)

Tip: store your pet items in the carrier or crate to make it easy to find and grab.

Non-government organizations, such as the Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance and The Salvation Army, play an important role in emergency management, including disaster prevention/mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.

Federal departments and agencies support provincial and/or territorial emergency management organizations. They also manage emergencies that involve areas of federal jurisdiction, such as nuclear safety, national defence and border security.

In Alberta, the Alberta Emergency Management Agency is the coordinating agency for emergency management activities and initiatives. It monitors the province for potential emergencies and disasters on a 24/7 basis.

Local governments are responsible for making sure their communities are prepared for emergencies. The Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership (SREMP) is a partnership between Sturgeon County, Morinville, Gibbons, Redwater, Bon Accord and Legal. These municipalities work together to coordinate emergency preparedness, response and recovery from disasters.

A regional approach means we have more resources and expertise to keep you safe when faced with a significant emergency in our area.

View the Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Plan

First responders, such as police, paramedics and firefighters, are normally the first to respond to an emergency. They, in conjunction with local municipalities, are responsible for managing most local emergencies.

Individuals and families should be prepared to take care of themselves for a minimum of 72 hours during an emergency and should also understand the basic principles of first aid and safety.

• If the threat is visible far in the distance, you may be able to avoid it by moving at right angles to its path. Otherwise, seek shelter in a solid building immediately.
• If the threat is near and shelter is not available, get out of the vehicle and take cover in a ditch, culvert or low-lying area away from the vehicle. Cover your head for protection, beware of flooding from downpours, and be prepared to move.
• Never try to outrun a nearby tornado.
• Avoid sheltering under bridges and overpasses where wind speeds can increase.

Mobile homes and vehicles are not safe during tornadoes and extreme windstorms.

• If you know severe weather is approaching and do not have safe shelter, leave the area well in advance and seek shelter in a building (preferably with a solid foundation). If it is too late to leave the area by vehicle, seek shelter in a nearby solid building immediately.
• If there is no solid building near you, take shelter in a ditch, culvert or low-lying area away from vehicles and mobile homes. Cover your head for protection, beware of flooding from downpours, and be prepared to move.

Buildings such as an arena or shopping mall may collapse if a tornado hits.

• If possible, find shelter in another building.
• If trapped inside, take cover under a sturdy object such as a table or desk.If

• Take shelter in an inner hallway or room, ideally in the basement or on the ground floor.
• Do not use the elevator.
• Stay away from windows.

• Bring all household members, including pets, to the basement or underground shelter, if available. Otherwise, take shelter in a small interior ground floor room such as a bathroom, closet or hallway.
• Make sure windows and doors are closed and secured, and then stay away from them.
• Do not try to rescue or shelter livestock unless you feel it is safe to do so.

• Bring all household members, including pets, to the basement or underground shelter, if available. Otherwise, take shelter in a small interior ground floor room such as a bathroom, closet or hallway.
• Make sure windows and doors are closed and secured, and then stay away from them.

• Speak to an insurance agent about your specific needs.
• Know your insurance options and policy limits. Make sure your home, vehicle, business and belongings are protected. Talk to your insurance agent to learn about what is not covered in your insurance policy.
• If possible, consider an emergency savings account to cover temporary expenses while you are out of your home.
• If you can, keep emergency cash handy in case banking services are unavailable.
• If you are evacuated, keep all receipts for additional expenses.
• Prepare a detailed list of all your belongings. For more information, see Home Inventory.
• Know the 7 steps for making a home insurance claim. For more information, see Claims Management.
• The Disaster Recovery Program may provide assistance for uninsurable loss and damage.

Authorities may give specific instructions for things you need to do when you return home. Below is a list of possible actions you could take:

• Work with your insurance company to make informed decisions about your home and needed repairs.
• Have your home inspected to ensure power, water and gas have been restored and there are no leaks.
• Have your home inspected for safety if the emergency was severe, since structural damage may not be visible.
• Keep fridges and deep freezes sealed if power was off during an evacuation. Follow instructions of authorities and/or your insurance company for removal and disposal.
• In case of flooding, ensure proper ventilation in case of water damage inside your walls.
• Do not put yourself at risk by moving heavy items without help or by overworking to get things done.
• Seek medical help immediately if you become overwhelmed or stressed by your tasks ahead.

Specific actions are needed after a flood. Learn what steps you need to take when returning home after a flood.

Evacuation alerts warn the public of a potential or current threat. Evacuation ordersare mandatory and issued for public safety.

• If an order is issued, leave your location as soon as authorities tell you to.
• Avoid low-lying areas, such as ravines or underpasses that could flood quickly.
• If you are caught in fast-rising waters and your vehicle stalls, abandon it to save yourself and your passengers.
• Follow evacuation routes specified by authorities. Do not take shortcuts.
• Drive carefully with headlights on. Make way for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.

• Consult your electricity or fuel supplier for instructions on how to safeguard electrical, natural gas or propane equipment.
• Do not shut off electricity if any water is present.
• Move furniture, electrical appliances and other belongings to floors above ground level.
• Remove toxic substances such as pesticides and insecticides from the flood area to prevent pollution.
• Disconnect eavestroughs if they are connected to the house sewer.
• Properties can be protected with sandbags or other barriers. This approach requires specific instructions from authorities

Have a plan in case of evacuation. Include where your pets will go and how they will get there safely

• Use weather protection sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors.
• Ensure downspout drainage moves water away from the property.
• Install a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in basement floor drains if possible.

• Download the Alberta Rivers: Data and Advisories app or visit Alberta River Basins for more information.
• Maintain an emergency kit stocked with supplies such as water, food, battery-powered or crank radio and flashlight, extra batteries or Weatheradio.
• Store important documents such as passports, birth certificates, banking information and insurance papers in a safe place in an above ground location.
• If you have a vehicle, keep the tank full in case fuel stations lose power or close down.

• Grab your emergency kit and bring it with you.
• If time permits, leave a note in your mailbox letting authorities know where you are going and how you can be reached.
• Leave your location as soon as authorities tell you to.
• Avoid low-lying areas such as ravines or underpasses that could flood quickly.
• If you are caught in fast-rising waters and your vehicle stalls, abandon it to save yourself and your passengers.
• Follow evacuation routes specified by authorities. Do not take shortcuts.
• Drive carefully with headlights on. Make way for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.

• Grab your emergency kit and bring it with you.
• In some cases, authorities will give instructions on how to protect your home. They may ask you to shut off water, electricity or gas. Do not shut off your utilities unless directed to do so.

If time permits, consider the following:

• • Gather valuables and cherished items to bring with you.
  • Remove all ornaments and suspended items like wind chimes or bird feeders from trees
  • Bring all yard furnishings, bikes, trash cans, toys and outside items into the house.
  • Empty fridges and deep freezes of their contents and prop open the doors/lids.
  • Close and lock all windows.
  • Move furniture, electrical appliances and other belongings to floors above ground level, or elevate them off the floor if possible.
  • Wrap electronics in layers of protective plastic wrap and tape to prevent water from getting inside.
  • Lock all doors and remove any “emergency keys” you have hidden outside.
  • Let your out-of-town contact know what is happening in case you are separated from loved ones.

If you have severe allergies, dietary restrictions, chronic medical conditions or other medical needs, you will want to include the necessary supplies. For example, if you have diabetes you will want to include:

• MedicAlert bracelet or identification
• extra supply of insulin or oral agent
• pump supplies, syringes, needles and insulin pens
• small container for storing used syringes and/or needles
• blood glucose testing kit, spare batteries and record book
• supply of blood glucose and urine ketone testing strips and fast acting insulin for high blood glucose, if needed
• fast acting sugar for low blood glucose
• extra food to cover delayed meals
• ice packs and thermal bag to store insulin
• additional snacks to maintain blood glucose

Talk to your healthcare professional for advice.

If you have mobility needs you will want to include additional supports. For example, if you use a wheelchair you may want to include:

• tire patch kit or can of seal-in-air product to repair flat tires on your wheelchair or scooter
• supply of inner tubes
• pair of heavy gloves to protect your hands while wheeling over glass or other sharp debris
• latex-free gloves for anyone providing personal care to you
• spare deep-cycle battery for a motorized wheelchair or scooter
• a lightweight, manual wheelchair as a backup to a motorized wheelchair, if possible
• spare catheters, if needed
• your power outage backup emergency plan

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have infant children you will want to include:

• feeding items:
  • breastfeeding aides, such as a breast pump and nursing bra
  • formula
  • bottles
  • extra water
• diapers, wipes and extra clothes
• prenatal vitamins, ointments and medications for mom and child (over-the-counter and prescription)

Pocket Gopher Trap
$12.00 each

Magpie Trap
$84.00 each

Topsoil Removal
Application fee – $50.00
Performance Bond – $500.00

Mileage – third party provider
Kilometres

Administrative Fee for Enforcement Under Weed Control Act is 10% of total cost (max. $260.00).
Note: If vegetation management is requested/voluntary (on private property), no enforcement fee will be applied. Requested service is subject to crew availability.

Equipment Deposit (or as noted) ** $300.00**

Quad Sprayer 10 & 25 Gallon 
$30.00 per day

Estate Sprayer 25 Gallon
$30.00 per day

Backpack Sprayer 2 Gallon 
$20.00 per day

Skid Mounted Sprayer 60 Gallon 
$30.00 per day

Water Well Shocking Tank (Hose Not Included) 
$10.00 per day

Solar Water Demo Unit
Free Rental
Deposit: $3,500.00

Seeder For Quad
$20.00 per day

 Tree Seedling Planter 
$30.00 per day
Deposit: $1,000.00

Plastic Mulch Applicator
$30.00 per day
Deposit: $1,000.00

RFID Tag Reader Day
Free Rental
Deposit: $1,500.00

Cleaning of Other Equipment $50.00

Cleaning of Spray Equipment $100.00

Large Animal

$10.00 per week
Deposit: $150.00

Medium Animal

$10.00 per week
Deposit: $125.00

Small Animal

$10.00 per week
Deposit: $75.00

*Failure to clean an animal trap will result in a charge of $50.00*

2022

2023

2023

2022

2023

2022 

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022 

2023

• 2022
• 2021
• 2020

• 2021
• 2020
• 2019

If you require any documents past 2019, please contact Financial Services via email.

There is no application fee for a personal request.
You must pay a $25 application fee for a general request. Work will not start on your request until you have paid the fee.
If you do not know if your request is general or personal, please contact the Access and Privacy Officer at email or call 780-939-1312.

Sturgeon County has 30 days to respond to FOIP requests. However, days spent clarifying the scope of the request or awaiting payment of fees will extend the 30-calendar day response time. The County may take an additional 30 days if the scope of the request is large or if we need to consult with a third party about the records.

Any other extensions of time must be approved by the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner. You will be advised if a time extension is required for your request.

The FOIP Act states if in the opinion of the head of the public body it is in the public’s interest to release records, the public body may excuse the applicant from paying all or part of a fee for services. If you believe your request for information is in the public interest, please raise this with the Access and Privacy Officer.

There are some instances where fees can be reduced or waived entirely. The Access and Privacy Officer can assist you in narrowing the scope of your request and provide other suggestions to reduce the costs. The Access and Privacy Officer can also accept written requests with supporting documentation to be considered for a fee waiver.

Fees for processing general and personal requests are calculated differently as required by the FOIP Act.

Personal Requests

Fees for processing a personal request are only charged if the cost of producing the records (photocopying) is more than $10 (approx. 40+ pages). If that estimate is above the $10, you will be provided with a fee estimate.

General Requests

Fees for general requests are charged only if the cost of processing (search time, applying exceptions to disclosure, photocopying) is more than $150. If the cost is estimated to be more than $150 you will receive a fee estimate.

For both types of requests, if a fee estimate is supplied, you are required to pay a deposit of 50% of the estimated cost of processing your request before work on your request will begin.

Payment can be made by cheque or credit card, please do not mail cash.
Cheques
Must be payable to Sturgeon County. Mail cheques to:
Access and Privacy Officer
c/o Sturgeon County
9613-100 Street
Morinville, AB T8R 1L9
Credit Card
Call the Sturgeon County Office reception telephone line at:
780-939-4321 from Monday – Friday, 8am-4:30pm (excluding statutory holidays)
Or
Call the Access and Privacy Officer directly at: 780-939-1312

Information will only be withheld from you if an exception to disclosure identified in the FOIP Act applies to the information.

A personal information request is a request for records that are about you. Examples of a personal information request include:

• Records of employment with the County.
• Bylaw complaints you have made or complaints against your property.

If you are requesting personal information about a person other than yourself, and that person has given you permission to make this request, you must provide proof of that permission. Use the Authorization of Representative Form to document the permission. When submitting your FOIP request form, please include this form.

A general request for information is any request from an individual or entity that requests access to information that is recorded in any form by the County in relation to all business operations, services and activities conducted by the County.

Examples of general request include:

• Requests for County reports.
• Request for County agreements/contracts.

The diversified agriculture bylaw does not apply to farmers who only cultivate crops or raise livestock, or those with valid development permits. Those operations will continue to farm without any changes.

The County gives public notice on our website and through newspaper ads when a rezoning application is received. You can provide input on that application at a public hearing. Landowners are also notified if a nearby property is approved for the development of an event venue, and can appeal that approval.

You will not be notified if a landowner applies to develop another agribusiness and agritourism operation, since these are allowed in both the agriculture and agriculture 2 land use districts.

The diversified agriculture bylaw does not impact landowners’ ability to hold a private event, like a family wedding or reunion, on their property.

The primary purpose of an event venue is to hold events for entertainment, public assembly, and/or the preparation of food and beverage services. Weddings, corporate retreats, large dinners, and parties are common events that could happen in such venues.

Bed and breakfasts, recreation facilities, visitor accommodation and home-based businesses are not considered event venues.

• Prior years: Sturgeon County requested Prairie Gardens address permit and infrastructure concerns related to land use, building safety codes, parking, access and intersections, and related public safety issues. Numerous safety and nuisance complaints were received and investigated over time.
• October 15, 2021: As a result of the validated complaints, the County issued a stop order. Instead of enforcing the stop order, the County entered into a legal agreement – a forbearance agreement – with Prairie Gardens so they could continue operating while taking steps to address the public safety and permitting issues. The forbearance agreement set daily vehicle and visitor limits, outlined necessary safety measures and detailed information submission requirements.
• November 23, 2021: Prairie Gardens appealed the stop order with the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB).
• December 3, 2021: The SDAB issued its decision to uphold the stop order and the terms of the forbearance agreement, and set the deadline to comply with conditions to Oct. 22, 2022.
• August 13 and 14, 2022: Sturgeon County received new complaints related to safety and nuisance issues. Through the investigation of these concerns, the County verified that Prairie Gardens did not comply with the conditions of the forbearance agreement. It did not comply with the daily vehicle and visitor limits, measures to address pedestrian and vehicle safety, and submission-related conditions.
• August 17, 2022: Sturgeon County served notice to Prairie Gardens that the stop order issued in October 2021 would be enforced because Prairie Gardens breached conditions of the forbearance agreement. Instead of imposing a full closure of public-facing services, Sturgeon County expanded conditions, imposing a daily limit of 100 visitors between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
• August 2022: After being notified that Sturgeon County would enforce the stop order, Prairie Gardens announced its intention to stop operations.
• September 23, 2022: Prairie Gardens submitted information requested over several months, and Sturgeon County quickly reached an agreement so Prairie Gardens can resume its operations for the rest of the 2022 season. For 2023, intersection and parking upgrades that will ensure the safety of the public are required.  

Most existing agribusiness and agritourism operations are not impacted by the diversified agriculture bylaw, as they already comply with the Land Use Bylaw. For event venues and diversified agriculture operations without existing approvals, these changes provide an opportunity for operators to come into compliance with the Land Use Bylaw. The County will work with these operators to get appropriate permits and/or rezoning.

Diversified agriculture is an agricultural use that brings more traffic and has more impact to the land compared to traditional agricultural activities.

It includes value-added agricultural processing, retail sales of agricultural products, and commercial experiences related to farming or farm life. It does not include events that are not primarily agricultural in nature, such as weddings, retreats, ceremonies and corporate functions.

Traffic improvements are the responsibility of business owners when their business is the source of increased traffic. Traffic improvements can include road and parking upgrades to meet the demand their business is creating. For example, if a business expects a lot of vehicles coming to and from their business throughout the day, they may be required to pay for a new turning lane so vehicles can access the property safely.

For clarity, farmers who have traditional agricultural activities would likely not have to provide for these types of improvements as their operations generally do not generate significant visits from the public. It is only when the activities move beyond traditional farming and attracts hundreds of visitors a day would this become a consideration, and when these activities need to be considered in terms of neighbour quality of life.

Sturgeon County worked with Prairie Gardens for years to assist them in resolving permit and public safety issues. Even after issuing the stop order in fall 2021, the County entered into a legal agreement with Prairie Gardens that would allow them to continue operations while taking the necessary steps to address public safety issues and permitting requirements.

Prairie Gardens can accommodate parking for roughly 100 vehicles (50 at its main entrance and 50 in its overflow parking area). This did not provide enough parking space for visitors, especially at peak times.

When there wasn’t available parking space in these lots, visitors often parked along Lily Lake Road – a single-lane highway with narrow shoulders. To reach the main entrance, those parking in the overflow area or on the road had to walk along Lily Lake Road for more than five minutes, or nearly half a mile. The shoulders of the road are narrow and there is limited space for pedestrians and vehicles to share the road safely.

Parking on Lily Lake Road is not allowed according to section 43(2) of the Traffic Safety Act, which is provincial legislation.

Sturgeon County received multiple complaints in recent years related to Prairie Gardens including, but not limited to, the following:

• noise from the property
• high volumes of traffic accessing and leaving the site, at times in an unsafe manner
• trespassing by visitors and guests onto neighbouring properties
• vehicle and pedestrian traffic issues, including pedestrians walking and/or vehicles parking on the highway
• failure to meet Alberta Safety Codes requirements to ensure public safety

Sturgeon County had been working with Prairie Gardens for years to help them resolve permit and public safety issues. Even after issuing the stop order in fall 2021, the County entered into an agreement with Prairie Gardens that would allow them to continue operations while taking the necessary steps to address the public safety issues and permitting requirements.

Alberta Industrial Heartland – Sturgeon Portion
Calahoo – Villeneuve Sand & Gravel Extraction Area
Legal Crossroads
Northern Lights Estates
Riverside Springs
Sierra Ridge
Sturgeon Valley South ASP
Sturgeon Valley Core ASP
Villeneuve-Calahoo Gravel Extraction Area 2019 Groundwater Monitoring Report

A Land Use Bylaw Amendment Application requires:

• A completed application form
• Preliminary consultation
• Land title certificate search
• Landowner authorization (if applicant is not the registered landowner)
• $3,000 Land Use Bylaw Amendment Application Fee
• Right of entry authorization
• Presence or absence of abandoned oil and gas wells
• Any additional information

In addition to your land use district’s regulations, many types of development have additional regulations described under ‘General Regulations’ (Part 5), ‘Special Regulations’ (Part 6), ‘Signs’ (Part 7), ‘Landscaping’ (Part 8) and ‘Parking’ (Part 9).

Where the potential exists for hazards or other land use conflicts, ‘Overlay’ regulations may apply to certain areas as well (Part 17) – such as properties in close proximity to heavy industry, gravel extraction operations, floodplains, abandoned coal mines, landfills or the Town of Morinville.

Each district contains a list of permitted and discretionary uses – each of which are defined in Part 18.
• A ‘permitted use’ is a development opportunity that’s generally allowed on your property if it satisfies the regulations of your district found in Parts 11 to 16 (e.g. property line setbacks, building height, etc).
• A ‘discretionary use’ is a development opportunity that might be considered on certain properties, based upon merit (plus satisfying the regulations of your district). Neighbours may appeal any application for a discretionary use they believe interferes with neighbourhood amenities or their property enjoyment.
• If your desired development isn’t listed as either a permitted or a discretionary use, you may have to:

1.  change the size or nature of your proposal so that it does align with a definition for a listed use
2.  find property elsewhere in another district where your desired development is a listed use
3.  if your proposal contributes to the County’s long-range growth goals, and is supported by the public and a consultant’s technical expertise, a redistricting application may be considered by Council.
4.  In addition to development opportunities, some properties may also be eligible for subdivision –the process of creating two or more smaller properties from a single property. Check your district regulations.

Determine your property’s land use district.

For clearest detail, view our interactive Land Use Bylaw map.

Alternatively, view the ‘Schedule 1’ map located at the back of the printed version of the Land Use Bylaw.
View the ‘permitted’ and ‘discretionary’ uses listed in your district.

The first step to subdivision is finding the Land Use District, or Zoning, of your property by checking the address against the Land Use map, at the back of the Land Use Bylaw and you will find the subdivision regulations that apply to you. The bylaw states the minimum width, depth and area for lots. You will also find other rules on density, site coverage, height, setbacks, etc. to help you plan your subdivision. Where technical feasibility needs to be demonstrated (for example, a servicing concept) you will probably have to hire a specialized consultant.

Bear in mind that subdivision is “discretionary” i.e.; it is up to you to convince the Subdivision Authority that the subdivision is feasible, will not adversely affect neighbouring properties etc.

Should you require any clarification, arrange a meeting with the County’s Planning Technician (by emailing Planning & Development Services or phoning 780-939-8275), who can provide additional guidance which can prevent surprises and save you time, money and effort!

Ready to apply? Complete and submit your application package, ensuring you enclose all items referenced in the Checklist.

Land cannot be subdivided without the permission of the registered landowner(s). The registered landowner(s) may appoint an authorized agent to act on their behalf. The authorized agent may be someone familiar with the planning process such as a land use planning consultant or land surveyor.

When considering a subdivision application, the Subdivision Authority takes into consideration the policies of the Municipal Development Plan, in conjunction with the policies of any other statutory plan (such as an area structure plan or intermunicipal development plan) that applies to the parcel. The Land Use Bylaw also provides for subdivision regulations.

Learn more about planning documents and studies

Subdivision application fee (paid when submitting your application)

• Fee to subdivide one parcel: $1,175
• Fee per additional subdivided parcel: $200 per additional parcel

Fees and deposits (paid after approval)

• Endorsement fee: $250
• Refundable gravel approach upgrade deposit: $2,000 each, if required
• Refundable paved approach upgrade deposit: $8,000 each, if required
• Approach re-inspection fee (charged if more than two approach inspections are necessary): $200, if required
• New parcel fee (note: also applies to property line adjustments): $600 for each new parcel
• Property taxes: any outstanding arrears
• Money in lieu of municipal reserve: 10 per cent of assessed value

Additional fees (if applicable)

• Variance application fee (for any existing structures which do not meet current regulations): generally between $200 and $400
• Private sewage inspection fee (after a septic system has been replaced/relocated): call Superior Safety Codes a 780-939-8276
• Fee to appeal to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board: $100
• Fee to appeal to the Municipal Government Board: no charge
• Application amendment fee: $250

Note: other fees will be incurred from surveyors and/or provincial agencies in relation to completing this process. Depending on the proposal, your survey fees could vary between ±$3,000 and ±$7,000 (or more).

A building permit is your formal permission to begin a construction, demolition, addition or renovation project on your property. Building permits are required for: new buildings.

Building Permit
Development Permit
Abandoned Oil Well Declaration Form and Map
Mobile /Manufactured Homes Application Form
Water / Wastewater Permit Application
Plumbing Permit Application
Private Sewage Permit Application
Gas Permit Application
Electrical Permit Application
Farm Building Confirmation
Home Based Business Application
Variance Request Application

Third parties are not affiliated with Sturgeon County, and it is the responsibility of the taxpayer to understand and decide to accept or reject service fees and processing timelines to ensure Sturgeon County receives the payment by the due date.

Payments can be made in person or online through most financial institutions (banks, trusts, credit unions, etc.) and at Canada Post locations. It is the responsibility of the taxpayer to understand and decide to accept or reject service fees and processing timelines to ensure Sturgeon County receives the payment by the due date.

Property tax payments can be made through most chartered banks, trust companies, credit unions, and Alberta Treasury Branches. Know your bank’s policies regarding the effective date of payment. It’s important to pay at least three business days prior to the property tax payment due date to meet the payment deadline and avoid a late payment penalty. Please keep in mind that most bank transactions are based on Eastern Standard Time.

Add Sturgeon County as a payee

Search keywords: “Sturgeon County” and select the payee name closest to “Sturgeon County, tax”

Can’t find Sturgeon County as a payee or are unsure which payee to select? Contact your bank for more information.

The account number is the roll number on your property tax bill entered without spaces or dashes.

​Mail your cheque or money order to:

9613-100 Street
Morinville, Alberta
T8R 1L9

• Do not send cash in the mail
• Make cheque or money order payable to Sturgeon County
• Sign and accurately complete your cheque, as Sturgeon County is not responsible for errors and/or omissions
• Enclose the remittance portion of your bill(s) and write the property roll number(s) on your cheque.
• The effective date of mailed payments received after the due date will be the date of the Canada Post postmark. The Canada Post postmark must be dated on or before the due date to avoid late payment penalties. If the Canada Post postmark is absent or illegible, the effective date of payment will be the date received.
• The imprint of a postage meter is not accepted as proof of the mail date.

Located in front of Sturgeon County Centre
9613-100 Street
Morinville, Alberta
T8R 1L9

Deposit payment prior to midnight of the due date to meet the payment deadline.
Do not deposit cash.
Make cheque or money order payable to Sturgeon County.
Cheques (including post‑dated cheques) must be dated for the due date or earlier to avoid penalty.
Sign and accurately complete your cheque, as Sturgeon County is not responsible for errors and/or omissions.
Enclose the remittance portion of your bill(s) and write the property roll number(s) on your cheque.

Pay in person at County Centre:

9613-100 Street
Morinville, Alberta
T8R 1L9

Payment methods accepted:

✔️Cash
✔️ Cheque or money order

• Make cheque or money order payable to Sturgeon County
• Sign and accurately complete your cheque, as Sturgeon County is not responsible for errors and/or omissions.
• Post‑dated cheques must be dated by the due date or earlier to avoid penalty.

✔️ Debit card

The Tax Installment Payment Plan allows property owners in Sturgeon County to pay their property tax in monthly installments rather than a single payment.

The Canadian Fire Insurance Grading Index set the rates. Most insurance companies consult this index to see if home owners qualify for reduced rates. The insurance companies must subscribe to the Fire Underwriters Survey to pass along the fire insurance rate reduction to the home owner. The Fire Underwriters Survey awarded the accreditation to Sturgeon County Protective Services to deliver superior tanker shuttle service. Requirements for this accreditation are rigorous and confirm that Sturgeon County Protective Services can deliver the minimum accepted water flow to an expanded area around District of Namao Fire Department to single detached homes in the event of a fire.

Sturgeon County Protective Services applied for this accreditation through a rigorous testing process that measures the requirements for hydrant protection, as set out by the insurance industry. The Superior Tanker Shuttle Service enables emergency responders to extinguish a fire at a faster rate. Sturgeon County is the second municipality in Alberta to receive this accreditation.

STSS Accreditation is a recognized equivalency to hydrant protection. To be accredited, fire departments must commit to maintaining a high standard of organization, and practice delivering the service regularly.

Sturgeon County has an annual program that monitors the groundwater levels and quality surrounding gravel extraction activities. Proposed bylaw enhancements include more comprehensive reporting and assessment of potential impacts.

A copy of the existing operations report can be located here: 2019 Villeneuve-Calahoo Gravel Extration Area 2019 Groundwater Monitoring Report

This map shows the existing deposit areas within Sturgeon County.

Note: it is not possible to know where all deposits are until exploration is conducted on-site. Some deposits may exist outside of this area, and some areas indicated on the map may have very scarce deposits. Many areas where deposits are indicated and exist are not feasible to develop.

The Resource Extraction Regulatory Review does not focus on a specific project or extraction area. Instead, the review is a County-wide review of the rules that govern resource extraction operations. While these rules apply across the County, they will only be applied when there is an application for a new sand and gravel extraction site or if there is an application by an operator to change/expand operations.

Mineral Oil used as a dust suppressant,

• Repels water off the road surface.
• Does not combine with water. It is not calcium or salt based.
• Applied as a thin film on top of gravel and takes 24-hours to settle. The road is drivable during this time.
  Requires annual application.
• Applied once during the spring, it can be graded lightly to maintain a good driving surface during the season.

Maintenance or re-application is done at the discretion of the County.

2023 resident cost

• $1097 for the first 100m.
• $187.20/10m for additional length up to 100m.
• $100 late fee is added to orders received between April 17 – May 17.

Calcium Chloride used as a dust suppressant,

• Applied by blending into the surface gravel.
• Combines with water to suppress dust.
• There is no guarantee as to the level of dust suppression or lifespan.

This product is maintained at the discretion of the County, during the current season of the application.
It is the resident’s responsibility to contact the County if the calcium requires attention. Please request maintenance using the Report a Road Concern webpage or on the Sturgeon County app.

2023 resident cost

• $405 for the first 100m.
• $118/10m for additional length up to 100m.
• $100 late fee is added to orders received between April 17 – May 17.

Preparedness is different for every pet. The below list includes basic supplies; adapt the list to meet the needs of your pet(s).

• leash, collar or harness
• travel cage/carrier
• food for a minimum of three days
• water (minimum of one gallon per day is recommended per animal)
• medications
• dishes for food and water
• pet bed, blanket or towel
• familiar toys
• plastic bags, newspaper, cleaner or disinfectant
• current photo of each animal, a description of any unique markings should be noted on the back of the photo if printed
• paperwork (licensing, vaccination records, insurance information)
• emergency contact information, and list of contacts (vet, previous kennel, friends and family in case you are unable to be reached)

Tip: store your pet items in the carrier or crate to make it easy to find and grab.

Non-government organizations, such as the Canadian Red Cross, St. John Ambulance and The Salvation Army, play an important role in emergency management, including disaster prevention/mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.

Federal departments and agencies support provincial and/or territorial emergency management organizations. They also manage emergencies that involve areas of federal jurisdiction, such as nuclear safety, national defence and border security.

In Alberta, the Alberta Emergency Management Agency is the coordinating agency for emergency management activities and initiatives. It monitors the province for potential emergencies and disasters on a 24/7 basis.

Local governments are responsible for making sure their communities are prepared for emergencies. The Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership (SREMP) is a partnership between Sturgeon County, Morinville, Gibbons, Redwater, Bon Accord and Legal. These municipalities work together to coordinate emergency preparedness, response and recovery from disasters.

A regional approach means we have more resources and expertise to keep you safe when faced with a significant emergency in our area.

View the Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Plan

First responders, such as police, paramedics and firefighters, are normally the first to respond to an emergency. They, in conjunction with local municipalities, are responsible for managing most local emergencies.

Individuals and families should be prepared to take care of themselves for a minimum of 72 hours during an emergency and should also understand the basic principles of first aid and safety.

• If the threat is visible far in the distance, you may be able to avoid it by moving at right angles to its path. Otherwise, seek shelter in a solid building immediately.
• If the threat is near and shelter is not available, get out of the vehicle and take cover in a ditch, culvert or low-lying area away from the vehicle. Cover your head for protection, beware of flooding from downpours, and be prepared to move.
• Never try to outrun a nearby tornado.
• Avoid sheltering under bridges and overpasses where wind speeds can increase.

Mobile homes and vehicles are not safe during tornadoes and extreme windstorms.

• If you know severe weather is approaching and do not have safe shelter, leave the area well in advance and seek shelter in a building (preferably with a solid foundation). If it is too late to leave the area by vehicle, seek shelter in a nearby solid building immediately.
• If there is no solid building near you, take shelter in a ditch, culvert or low-lying area away from vehicles and mobile homes. Cover your head for protection, beware of flooding from downpours, and be prepared to move.

Buildings such as an arena or shopping mall may collapse if a tornado hits.

• If possible, find shelter in another building.
• If trapped inside, take cover under a sturdy object such as a table or desk.If

• Take shelter in an inner hallway or room, ideally in the basement or on the ground floor.
• Do not use the elevator.
• Stay away from windows.

• Bring all household members, including pets, to the basement or underground shelter, if available. Otherwise, take shelter in a small interior ground floor room such as a bathroom, closet or hallway.
• Make sure windows and doors are closed and secured, and then stay away from them.
• Do not try to rescue or shelter livestock unless you feel it is safe to do so.

• Bring all household members, including pets, to the basement or underground shelter, if available. Otherwise, take shelter in a small interior ground floor room such as a bathroom, closet or hallway.
• Make sure windows and doors are closed and secured, and then stay away from them.

• Speak to an insurance agent about your specific needs.
• Know your insurance options and policy limits. Make sure your home, vehicle, business and belongings are protected. Talk to your insurance agent to learn about what is not covered in your insurance policy.
• If possible, consider an emergency savings account to cover temporary expenses while you are out of your home.
• If you can, keep emergency cash handy in case banking services are unavailable.
• If you are evacuated, keep all receipts for additional expenses.
• Prepare a detailed list of all your belongings. For more information, see Home Inventory.
• Know the 7 steps for making a home insurance claim. For more information, see Claims Management.
• The Disaster Recovery Program may provide assistance for uninsurable loss and damage.

Authorities may give specific instructions for things you need to do when you return home. Below is a list of possible actions you could take:

• Work with your insurance company to make informed decisions about your home and needed repairs.
• Have your home inspected to ensure power, water and gas have been restored and there are no leaks.
• Have your home inspected for safety if the emergency was severe, since structural damage may not be visible.
• Keep fridges and deep freezes sealed if power was off during an evacuation. Follow instructions of authorities and/or your insurance company for removal and disposal.
• In case of flooding, ensure proper ventilation in case of water damage inside your walls.
• Do not put yourself at risk by moving heavy items without help or by overworking to get things done.
• Seek medical help immediately if you become overwhelmed or stressed by your tasks ahead.

Specific actions are needed after a flood. Learn what steps you need to take when returning home after a flood.

Evacuation alerts warn the public of a potential or current threat. Evacuation ordersare mandatory and issued for public safety.

• If an order is issued, leave your location as soon as authorities tell you to.
• Avoid low-lying areas, such as ravines or underpasses that could flood quickly.
• If you are caught in fast-rising waters and your vehicle stalls, abandon it to save yourself and your passengers.
• Follow evacuation routes specified by authorities. Do not take shortcuts.
• Drive carefully with headlights on. Make way for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.

• Consult your electricity or fuel supplier for instructions on how to safeguard electrical, natural gas or propane equipment.
• Do not shut off electricity if any water is present.
• Move furniture, electrical appliances and other belongings to floors above ground level.
• Remove toxic substances such as pesticides and insecticides from the flood area to prevent pollution.
• Disconnect eavestroughs if they are connected to the house sewer.
• Properties can be protected with sandbags or other barriers. This approach requires specific instructions from authorities

Have a plan in case of evacuation. Include where your pets will go and how they will get there safely

• Use weather protection sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors.
• Ensure downspout drainage moves water away from the property.
• Install a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in basement floor drains if possible.

• Download the Alberta Rivers: Data and Advisories app or visit Alberta River Basins for more information.
• Maintain an emergency kit stocked with supplies such as water, food, battery-powered or crank radio and flashlight, extra batteries or Weatheradio.
• Store important documents such as passports, birth certificates, banking information and insurance papers in a safe place in an above ground location.
• If you have a vehicle, keep the tank full in case fuel stations lose power or close down.

• Grab your emergency kit and bring it with you.
• If time permits, leave a note in your mailbox letting authorities know where you are going and how you can be reached.
• Leave your location as soon as authorities tell you to.
• Avoid low-lying areas such as ravines or underpasses that could flood quickly.
• If you are caught in fast-rising waters and your vehicle stalls, abandon it to save yourself and your passengers.
• Follow evacuation routes specified by authorities. Do not take shortcuts.
• Drive carefully with headlights on. Make way for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.

• Grab your emergency kit and bring it with you.
• In some cases, authorities will give instructions on how to protect your home. They may ask you to shut off water, electricity or gas. Do not shut off your utilities unless directed to do so.

If time permits, consider the following:

• • Gather valuables and cherished items to bring with you.
  • Remove all ornaments and suspended items like wind chimes or bird feeders from trees
  • Bring all yard furnishings, bikes, trash cans, toys and outside items into the house.
  • Empty fridges and deep freezes of their contents and prop open the doors/lids.
  • Close and lock all windows.
  • Move furniture, electrical appliances and other belongings to floors above ground level, or elevate them off the floor if possible.
  • Wrap electronics in layers of protective plastic wrap and tape to prevent water from getting inside.
  • Lock all doors and remove any “emergency keys” you have hidden outside.
  • Let your out-of-town contact know what is happening in case you are separated from loved ones.

If you have severe allergies, dietary restrictions, chronic medical conditions or other medical needs, you will want to include the necessary supplies. For example, if you have diabetes you will want to include:

• MedicAlert bracelet or identification
• extra supply of insulin or oral agent
• pump supplies, syringes, needles and insulin pens
• small container for storing used syringes and/or needles
• blood glucose testing kit, spare batteries and record book
• supply of blood glucose and urine ketone testing strips and fast acting insulin for high blood glucose, if needed
• fast acting sugar for low blood glucose
• extra food to cover delayed meals
• ice packs and thermal bag to store insulin
• additional snacks to maintain blood glucose

Talk to your healthcare professional for advice.

If you have mobility needs you will want to include additional supports. For example, if you use a wheelchair you may want to include:

• tire patch kit or can of seal-in-air product to repair flat tires on your wheelchair or scooter
• supply of inner tubes
• pair of heavy gloves to protect your hands while wheeling over glass or other sharp debris
• latex-free gloves for anyone providing personal care to you
• spare deep-cycle battery for a motorized wheelchair or scooter
• a lightweight, manual wheelchair as a backup to a motorized wheelchair, if possible
• spare catheters, if needed
• your power outage backup emergency plan

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have infant children you will want to include:

• feeding items:
  • breastfeeding aides, such as a breast pump and nursing bra
  • formula
  • bottles
  • extra water
• diapers, wipes and extra clothes
• prenatal vitamins, ointments and medications for mom and child (over-the-counter and prescription)

Mineral Oil used as a dust suppressant,

• Repels water off the road surface.
• Does not combine with water. It is not calcium or salt based.
• Applied as a thin film on top of gravel and takes 24-hours to settle. The road is drivable during this time.
  Requires annual application.
• Applied once during the spring, it can be graded lightly to maintain a good driving surface during the season.

Maintenance or re-application is done at the discretion of the County.

2023 resident cost

• $1097 for the first 100m.
• $187.20/10m for additional length up to 100m.
• $100 late fee is added to orders received between April 17 – May 17.

Calcium Chloride used as a dust suppressant,

• Applied by blending into the surface gravel.
• Combines with water to suppress dust.
• There is no guarantee as to the level of dust suppression or lifespan.

This product is maintained at the discretion of the County, during the current season of the application.
It is the resident’s responsibility to contact the County if the calcium requires attention. Please request maintenance using the Report a Road Concern webpage or on the Sturgeon County app.

2023 resident cost

• $405 for the first 100m.
• $118/10m for additional length up to 100m.
• $100 late fee is added to orders received between April 17 – May 17.

Yes! The Sturgeon County app links to web-based existing systems, including Sturgeon Services. To access these services, simply log-in using your existing account information. If you don’t have an account already, simply follow the instructions to set one up.

You can set up pre-authorized withdrawals from your bank account. The amount will fluctuate each billing period depending on your usage, the amount owing will appear on each Sturgeon County Utility statement.
A cheque from the account you wish to have your payment withdrawn from must be marked “VOID” and attached to the authorization form.
Read and complete the pre-authorization debit form, then send it to Sturgeon County. The County must receive your application form at least two weeks in advance of your first payment date.

Status: Open

50mm (2″) Hose “Barrel Fill”

100mm (4″) Hose “Truck Fill”

Alcomdale Waterline 

You can set up online payments through online banking, or visiting your bank. If setting up online payments through your bank, search “Sturgeon County” and select “Sturgeon County – Utilities”.  You will need to enter your utility account number (located on your water bill). Some banks may not accept the decimal in the account number, but as long as we have the whole account number it will be good.

There maybe an number of reasons as to why your water bill might be abnormally high but a main contributor is leaky plumbing or faulty irrigation systems. These can lead to major water loss, which could lead to a high water bill. Keep an eye on your water meter, if it continuously registering flow or spinning, this might indicate that you have a leak. If you need assistance understanding your utility bill, or have questions, please contact Utility Services at 780-939-8291.

• Flushing of the sanitary sewer system in Cardiff and Sturgeon Valley takes place annually, usually starting in June and continuing for 1-2 months.
• Sturgeon County has a variety of methods to notify area residents which may include a notice in your utility bill, a message on our mobile app, social media and/or neighbourhood signs.

It is sometimes necessary that Sturgeon County employ water demand measures to conserve water for essential use (i.e. drinking water). Odd and Even watering refers to non-essential water (like watering your lawn) when your house number aligns with the particular day (i.e. if you have an address with an even number) you would be able to water your lawn on an even day.

Sturgeon County will locate your water and sewer valve on your property, but we are unable to locate utility lines on private property.

Your water meter is typically located in the basement, usually found in the utility room or near your hot water tank.
Some rural residents may have a meter vault that is located on or near your property where the water meter is housed.
The water meter transmitter is located on the exterior of your home / building that the water meter is located within.

Status: Open

50mm (2″) Hose “Barrel Fill”

Status: Open

50mm (2″) “Barrel Fill” 
100mm (4″) Hose “Truck Fill”

Status: Open.

50mm (4″) Hose “Barrel Fill”
(with reducer for a 2″ hose)

Status: Summerbrook is now closed until December 15.

50mm (2″) Hose “Barrel Fill”
100mm (4″) Hose “Truck Fill”

Status: Open

 50mm (2″) “Barrel Fill”
19mm (3/4″) “Bucket Fill” (Coin Only)

Status: Open.

50mm (2″) “Barrel Fill”
75mm (3″) Hose Truck Fill

Status: Open

50mm (2″) Hose “Barrel Fill”

100mm (4″) Hose “Truck Fill”

Raccoons are traditionally found in southeast Alberta. However, they are expanding their territory and are now popping up in Sturgeon County. They can adapt to whatever food source is available, but normally they eat fruits, nuts, berries, insects, and foods that can be found near water: fish, birds, eggs, and frogs. When they are around humans, they will eat whatever we deliberately or unintentionally provide.

Nuisance

They can be a nuisance with the right conditions. If your garbage is poorly secured, they’ll leave a mess after getting inside the container, or they’ll eat vegetables from gardens and scatter whatever they don’t eat. If they’re trying to get into the attic or crawlspace of a house, they might rip at broken shingles, soffits, and fascia boards.

Diseases

Some raccoons in Alberta may be infected with raccoon roundworm, canine distemper, or leptospirosis. Stay away from areas where the raccoons relieve themselves.  If you see unusual behaviour in a raccoon, notify the nearest Fish and Wildlife office. For more information on rabies, please visit this Government of Alberta webpage.

Mice can sometimes be mistaken for Juvenile Rats. There are three common species of mice in Sturgeon County; House Mouse, Field Mouse or Meadow vole, White-footed Mouse or Deer Mouse.
Read more on other rodents commonly mistaken for rats.

As mice populations can expand quickly, it is important to implement control measures immediately if you suspect an infestation.
You can discourage mouse infestation and damage by keeping areas clean and free of debris. Keep grass short around buildings, and seal cracks and holes in foundations and walls with steel wool or wire mesh. Store pet
food, birdseed, and other grains in sealed containers, and mothballs (naphthalene) can be used in confined spaces as a odour deterrent. Cats and dogs will prey on mice, and coyotes, foxes, weasels, hawks, owls, and
snakes are natural predators of mice on larger holdings. Traps and toxicant products can be purchased at farm supply and hardware stores. Please follow label directions for proper use of these products.

If you have an encounter with a rat, or you suspect a rat is present, contact your municipal Agricultural Fieldman, or call the Provincial Ag- Info Centre at 1-866-882-7677. You will be provided with assistance in the identification and control of rats.

The red squirrel is an Alberta native that is very well adapted to living around humans. Houses, garages and sheds are safe, warm, and comfortable living spaces for squirrels. Removing and relocating squirrels is only sufficient if you repair or plug the areas where the squirrels were entering. Without doing this, it only provides room for a new tenant.

To keep squirrels from finding a new home in your yard, make sure food supplies are removed from your yard, like bird feeders. Close and cover garbage cans, and put fences up around gardens and individual plants.

More about Squirrels 

Skunks are members of the weasel family (mustelidae). While there are several species of skunk; the only species that exists in Alberta is the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis).

What you can do about skunks on your property

Skunks adapt well to urban and rural areas, living under sidewalks, decks, buildings and brush piles, which greatly increases their chance of human contact, and the chance of people or pets being sprayed.

To avoid having a skunk move into your yard, keep it tidy and remove any brush and debris piles. Avoid feeding skunks by not leaving pet food or garbage out overnight, and remove fallen fruit from under trees.

Sturgeon County has skunk traps available for rent as a humane method of removal.  Set the trap close to the skunk’s den or near the skunk’s normal line of travel.

• Push in on the springs on the door and lift at the same time. The trap’s trigger mechanism is located on the top of the door and hooks onto the bar connected to the pan in the bottom of the trap.
• The trap will have been checked over prior to its rental, so do not make any adjustments to it. If you feel something is not working properly,
  please contact Sturgeon County Agriculture Services.

More about Skunks

The pocket gopher is commonly called a mole and can be a problem in canola crops, pastures, hay land and acreages throughout Alberta. They also eat garden crops and kill woody plants and shrubs by feeding on the roots. Pocket gopher numbers have been shown to increase as grazing intensity increases.

How To Recognize Their Presence

The most obvious clue that gophers have made a home on your property are the fan shaped mounds and the actual entrance to the burrow is sealed. If there are legumes on your property these mounds will be more prevalent than in grass lands. One animal may make up to 50 mounds per year through its burrowing activity.

Control

In yards, gardens, small fields or along shelterbelts control can be achieved with trapping. There are several types of traps that are presently available; “Victor” easy-set gopher trap, “Guardian” gopher trap, “Convert” gopher trap and “Blackhole” gopher trap. Specific instructions on setting traps and placement of traps are provided with the individual trap.

Read More

Coyotes aren’t all bad! They help keep the rodent population at bay. Remember to be careful around coyotes (like any wild animal); don’t approach them and don’t feed them. They’ve already learnt to  scavenge for food such as garbage, fruit and accessible pet food; all readily available in subdivisions and on acreages and farms. 

What to do about a problem coyote?
If coyotes are disrupting humans and pets contact Alberta Fish and Wildlife. They can assist if there is a sick or injured coyote that can’t move, a coyote that is behaving aggressively toward people, such as nipping or biting, or if you require additional advice for preventing or responding to coyote encounters. If coyotes are found to be disrupting livestock contact Sturgeon County Agriculture Services.

Learn more about coyotes