The Planning and Development department manages land and building development, building permits, subdivision planning and other land matters in Thorhild County.  Land use planning processes are guided by plans and documents at both the provincial and municipal level.

Development in Thorhild County is guided by the following statutory documents:

The Municipal Development Plan is a high-level vision planning document that outlines how the Council sees future growth and land use in the community. Under the Municipal Government Act, every municipality is required to adopt a municipal development plan.

It is appropriate to consider amending Municipal Development Plans (MDP) every five to ten years to ensure that the most current direction stemming current trends including provincial directions and policies are considered.  Updating the existing information within an MDP and consistency with the “must address” requirements under the Municipal Government Act helps provide guidance with planning objectives for the community.   With this in mind, County Council has directed County Administration to begin the process of amending the current MDP.

On November 30, 2023, Thorhild County submitted a Request for Proposal (RFP) to the Alberta Purchasing Connection (APC) for the purpose of looking for qualified consultants, experienced in implementing land use planning and policy support for the review and process of undertaking a new Municipal Development Plan (MDP).    The APC is an easy use tool that lets public and private sector users manage, advertise, distribute, and download public purchasing opportunities for goods, services, and construction in Alberta.   Upon selection of a qualified consultant, undertaking the review and processes for a new MDP will begin early in 2024.

In addition to the existing MDP, linked above, more information on the “must and may address” provisions for MDPs can be found here: Municipal Government Act Section 632.

The Land Use Bylaw identifies where specific development types can take place and outlines the regulations influencing that development. Under the Municipal Government Act, every municipality is required to adopt a land use bylaw.

We encourage you to talk with us prior to any development, land use changes, and for subdivision applications. We are here to assist you through all the processes required. Explore our policies, bylaws and forms that may be required before you commence any project.