Policies, Standards & Other Documents

Beyond provincial legislation, statutory plans, and the Land Use Bylaw, Northern Sunrise County employs various policies, standards, and other documents when considering applications for development permits and subdivisions. These include:

1. Public Participation Policy 1.31
Adopted by Council in 2018, the Public Participation Policy outlines Northern Sunrise County’s approach to public engagement. It defines the County’s role in informing and involving stakeholders in the municipal decision-making process, ensuring transparency and community input.

2. Top of Bank Study and Regulations
Completed in 2013 by Thurber Engineering Ltd., the Top of Bank Study was conducted to establish safe setback distances for development near key river and creek valleys in Northern Sunrise County. The study defines "Top of Bank" (TOB) as the upper edge of a valley, coulee, ravine, or watercourse, and recommends setbacks based on the depth of these features. Guidelines from the study have been incorporated into the Land Use Bylaw, including requirements for geotechnical studies for certain developments within the setback areas. The County has also prepared a document titled How do the Top of Bank (TOB) Regulations Affect Me? to help property owners understand the implications of these regulations. For assistance, please contact Development Officer Jennifer Regal to discuss your proposed development.

3. Recreational Vehicle Park Guidelines
Developed in 2010, the Recreational Vehicle (RV) Park Guidelines provide direction for the development of private RV parks within the County. These guidelines aim to bridge the gap between developers' interests and the County’s land use planning objectives, encouraging high-quality RV parks and recreational areas. Key issues addressed include site design, parking, grading, utilities, lighting, stormwater management, safety, and amenities. The guidelines also outline the application requirements for new RV parks or expansions of existing ones.

4. Off-Site Levy Bylaw B125/07
Adopted by Council in 2007, the Off-Site Levy Bylaw B125/07 establishes an off-site levy on developable lands within the East Hill Area of Northern Sunrise County, specifically the Sunrise Gateway Business Park. The levy helps recover the cost of new off-site infrastructure through one-time charges on new developments and subdivisions within the defined benefiting area. The Bylaw also allows the County to require Development Agreements that include the collection of off-site levies. This equitable and sustainable funding strategy, in accordance with the Municipal Government Act, supports the cost of growth, such as new or expanded water and wastewater treatment facilities. The levy rates were calculated based on the Proposed Water and Servicing Design Report prepared by Focus Corporation in 2007.

These policies, standards, and bylaws collectively support Northern Sunrise County’s commitment to structured, sustainable, and community-focused land use planning.