Does a Land Use Bylaw Update Include Public Engagement?
- The Municipal Government Act requires that (at minimum) a public hearing be held prior to the adoption of any amendment or changes to a Land Use Bylaw by Council.
- Anyone impacted by a proposed change to a Land Use Bylaw can speak at (or provide a written submission) the public hearing, where the Council must consider the input prior to their consideration of the bylaw for adoption.
- Municipalities must provide notice of the public hearing. The notice must be consistent with the requirements of the Municipal Government Act and the municipality’s public notification bylaw/policy (if one exists).
- Major Land Use Bylaw update projects typically include a public engagement program that includes in-person and/or virtual open houses, workshops, surveys, social media postings, and newsletters. These engagement tools will be used for the Smoky Lake County Land Use Bylaw update project.