Council approved a new comprehensive and updated Land Use Bylaw (LUB) for the Town of Okotoks during the regular meeting June 14.
“This bylaw is a significant step forward in the way the Town regulates the use of land,” said Deputy Mayor Matt Rockley. “It simplifies rules and processes to achieve clarity, simplicity, ease of doing business, and reduces red tape, which will ultimately improve business retention and growth.”
Since receiving first reading, at the May 25 meeting, recommended adjustments were incorporated into the final document based on feedback received from stakeholders and to correct inconsistent wording between sections of the document.
The new bylaw is much more user friendly and visual, reduces the number of land use districts from 33 to nine more inclusive, flexible districts that allow for greater ability to adapt to market changes. It also has a larger focus on pedestrians, bicyclists, and other active transportation users.
The approved LUB implements the long-term vision defined in the Municipal Development Plan for the future growth of Okotoks to ensure that any potential growth supports economic development and a liveable, walkable, and sustainable community.
The previous LUB was adopted in 1998 when the town’s population was under 10,000.
The adopted LUB is available on the Town’s website at okotoks.ca/LUB now that the final adjustments directed by Council are incorporated into the document.