Municipal Development Plan (MDP)

Share Municipal Development Plan (MDP) on Facebook Share Municipal Development Plan (MDP) on Twitter Share Municipal Development Plan (MDP) on Linkedin Email Municipal Development Plan (MDP) link

Consultation has concluded

Municipal Development Plan Approved and In Effect

Following a multi-year collaborative process, including approximately 60 hours of community engagement and 20+ open houses and workshops, Parkland County’s new Municipal Development Plan (MDP) was adopted by Council following its third reading on February 25, 2025.

The new Municipal Development Plan Bylaw 2024-22 is in effect immediately. You may view the updated plan on the County’s website or the project webpage.


How Does the New MDP Affect Existing Planning and Development Applications?

Applications received prior to the new MDP coming into effect will still be subject to the previous MDP.

Thank You!

On behalf of the Project Team, thank you for subscribing to the project webpage and for your involvement in the MDP Project over the past two years. Your input was invaluable in shaping the future of growth and development in the County! Over the next few weeks, the project webpage will be archived. But not to worry! You may still contact the Project Team or Customer Service at 780-968-8888 if you have any questions.

About the Municipal Development Plan

The MDP is a high‑level plan that establishes a clear vision for the County’s growth over the next 30 years. It sets future direction by identifying where different types of growth and development will occur, including residential, employment, recreation, and community service development. It also sets out policies to guide infrastructure, transportation, and environmental protection.

The Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is Parkland County’s long-term plan for growth and development. It provides direction on how land is used, where services go and how communities expand. In order to keep up with the evolving needs of our County and its residents, the MDP must be reviewed and updated.

A Multi-phase, Consultative Process

The updated MDP reflects the outcomes of a Technical Growth Study and external and internal collaboration with the public, industry, agencies, interest groups, community associations and technical experts within Parkland County’s Administration.

In phase one, a Technical Growth Study was conducted to analyze growth scenarios, which offered clear direction on areas of growth and areas of conservation.

In phase two, new policies were developed to streamline processes.

Throughout both phases, extensive engagement was completed to support policy development.

Engagement for the project included the following events and public/industry input opportunities to address topics including growth opportunities, policy gaps and policy support, policy alignment, and policy education:

  • 3 rounds of surveys
  • 16 open house events, including a Cross County Roadshow
  • 3 community workshops
  • 3 industry workshops
  • 4 chat with a planner sessions (virtual)

Development of the draft MDP also coincided with the Land Use Bylaw ReDesign process to review conceptual schemes, master site development plans and redesignation of subdivision development permits, alongside review of applicable policies. 

Key updates to the new MDP

Notable updates to the newly adopted Municipal Development Plan include:

  1. The definition of six Shared Responsibilities that outline how Administration, industry and residents can work together:
    • Build safe and resilient places
    • Protect natural functions
    • Conserve agriculture
    • Manage growth
    • Deliver efficient infrastructure and services
    • Support tourism and recreation
  2. A Decision-Making Framework tool that can be used by Administration and the public to set clear expectations on what is required to progress future proposed developments.
  3. General agriculture policy updates to support the reduction of fragmentation and support diversifying agricultural operations for producers.
  4. Strengthened protections for the County’s natural features and functions.
  5. Alignment to the Land Use Bylaw ReDesign.
  6. Strengthened policies to support economic growth, infrastructure and services to the key industrial and growth areas of Acheson and the Hamlet of Wabamun.

Now adopted, the new MDP will guide growth for Parkland County going forward. 

Click here to read the adopted Municipal Development Plan in full.

Municipal Development Plan Approved and In Effect

Following a multi-year collaborative process, including approximately 60 hours of community engagement and 20+ open houses and workshops, Parkland County’s new Municipal Development Plan (MDP) was adopted by Council following its third reading on February 25, 2025.

The new Municipal Development Plan Bylaw 2024-22 is in effect immediately. You may view the updated plan on the County’s website or the project webpage.


How Does the New MDP Affect Existing Planning and Development Applications?

Applications received prior to the new MDP coming into effect will still be subject to the previous MDP.

Thank You!

On behalf of the Project Team, thank you for subscribing to the project webpage and for your involvement in the MDP Project over the past two years. Your input was invaluable in shaping the future of growth and development in the County! Over the next few weeks, the project webpage will be archived. But not to worry! You may still contact the Project Team or Customer Service at 780-968-8888 if you have any questions.

About the Municipal Development Plan

The MDP is a high‑level plan that establishes a clear vision for the County’s growth over the next 30 years. It sets future direction by identifying where different types of growth and development will occur, including residential, employment, recreation, and community service development. It also sets out policies to guide infrastructure, transportation, and environmental protection.

The Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is Parkland County’s long-term plan for growth and development. It provides direction on how land is used, where services go and how communities expand. In order to keep up with the evolving needs of our County and its residents, the MDP must be reviewed and updated.

A Multi-phase, Consultative Process

The updated MDP reflects the outcomes of a Technical Growth Study and external and internal collaboration with the public, industry, agencies, interest groups, community associations and technical experts within Parkland County’s Administration.

In phase one, a Technical Growth Study was conducted to analyze growth scenarios, which offered clear direction on areas of growth and areas of conservation.

In phase two, new policies were developed to streamline processes.

Throughout both phases, extensive engagement was completed to support policy development.

Engagement for the project included the following events and public/industry input opportunities to address topics including growth opportunities, policy gaps and policy support, policy alignment, and policy education:

  • 3 rounds of surveys
  • 16 open house events, including a Cross County Roadshow
  • 3 community workshops
  • 3 industry workshops
  • 4 chat with a planner sessions (virtual)

Development of the draft MDP also coincided with the Land Use Bylaw ReDesign process to review conceptual schemes, master site development plans and redesignation of subdivision development permits, alongside review of applicable policies. 

Key updates to the new MDP

Notable updates to the newly adopted Municipal Development Plan include:

  1. The definition of six Shared Responsibilities that outline how Administration, industry and residents can work together:
    • Build safe and resilient places
    • Protect natural functions
    • Conserve agriculture
    • Manage growth
    • Deliver efficient infrastructure and services
    • Support tourism and recreation
  2. A Decision-Making Framework tool that can be used by Administration and the public to set clear expectations on what is required to progress future proposed developments.
  3. General agriculture policy updates to support the reduction of fragmentation and support diversifying agricultural operations for producers.
  4. Strengthened protections for the County’s natural features and functions.
  5. Alignment to the Land Use Bylaw ReDesign.
  6. Strengthened policies to support economic growth, infrastructure and services to the key industrial and growth areas of Acheson and the Hamlet of Wabamun.

Now adopted, the new MDP will guide growth for Parkland County going forward. 

Click here to read the adopted Municipal Development Plan in full.

Consultation has concluded

  • November 26th Public Hearing and Proposed Bylaw

    Share November 26th Public Hearing and Proposed Bylaw on Facebook Share November 26th Public Hearing and Proposed Bylaw on Twitter Share November 26th Public Hearing and Proposed Bylaw on Linkedin Email November 26th Public Hearing and Proposed Bylaw link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    Public Hearing Date is Set!

    The Public Hearing date is set for:

    Public Hearing: 2:00pm Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

    Deadline for registration to speak: 4:00pm Friday, November 22nd, 2024

    Deadline for written submissions and presentations: 4:00pm Friday, November 22nd, 2024

    To register to speak or to submit written comment or presentations, please email governanceagendas@parklandcounty.com

    Council advises that the Public Hearing is the last chance to comment on the proposed Bylaw, as Council cannot receive more submissions after the Public Hearing is closed.

    View the Proposed Bylaw Here!

    The proposed Municipal Development Plan Bylaw (Bylaw #2024-22) is now available under the Project Documents section of the project webpage.

  • Find Out More About the Bylaw Approvals Process!

    Share Find Out More About the Bylaw Approvals Process! on Facebook Share Find Out More About the Bylaw Approvals Process! on Twitter Share Find Out More About the Bylaw Approvals Process! on Linkedin Email Find Out More About the Bylaw Approvals Process! link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    The Municipal Development Project is now moving into the Public Hearing and Approvals Stage. This process involves three readings at Parkland County Council and one public hearing.

    Members of the public will have an opportunity to register to speak at the public hearing before Council prior to a decision on the adoption of the bylaw. The date and time of the public hearing will be confirmed once the Municipal Development Plan Bylaw has passed First Reading at Council. The purpose of First Reading is to introduce the bylaw, and confirm the date and time of public hearing. First Reading is tentatively scheduled for the October 22nd, 2024 Council meeting.

    Want to Know More?

    Be sure to check out this helpful video on Public Hearing and Approvals process.


  • Stage 3 Engagement Summary Now Live!

    Share Stage 3 Engagement Summary Now Live! on Facebook Share Stage 3 Engagement Summary Now Live! on Twitter Share Stage 3 Engagement Summary Now Live! on Linkedin Email Stage 3 Engagement Summary Now Live! link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.
    supporting image

    The Stage 3 Public Engagement Summary has been completed and is now live under the Project Documents tab of the Project Webpage.

    Missed Stage 3 Engagement? Not to worry! All Stage 3 materials are posted on the project webpage under Project Documents. You can find the Project's Public Engagement Plan here as well.

  • Chat with a Planner- September

    Share Chat with a Planner- September on Facebook Share Chat with a Planner- September on Twitter Share Chat with a Planner- September on Linkedin Email Chat with a Planner- September link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    September 18th Chat with a Planner

    Join the Municipal Development Plan Project and Land Use Bylaw ReDesign Teams virtually on Wednesday, September 18th, 2024, and Chat with a Planner. The virtual session will occur between 5-7pm.

    The session will provide the public with an opportunity to speak with Project Team members and ask questions regarding the Municipal Development Plan formal approvals process that will be occurring later this year, and general questions about the Land Use Bylaw ReDesign Project.

    If you would like to register to attend the Chat with a Planner virtual session, please email buildingparkland@parklandcounty.com. A team member will respond to your email and provide a link to the Zoom call by end of day Tuesday, September 17th, 2024. We look forward to chatting with you!

    Chat with a Planner Date and Details

  • Stage 3 Engagement is Now Complete!

    Share Stage 3 Engagement is Now Complete! on Facebook Share Stage 3 Engagement is Now Complete! on Twitter Share Stage 3 Engagement is Now Complete! on Linkedin Email Stage 3 Engagement is Now Complete! link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    Stage 3 Engagement is Now Complete!

    Thank you to everyone who participated in Stage 3 Engagement! Feedback for this engagement stage closed August 14th. This feedback will be used to refine the draft Municipal Development Plan, including the draft Development Concept and Decision-Making Framework. A What We Heard Report will be shared soon.

  • Chat with a Planner and Last Chance to Complete Stage 3 Survey and Q&A!

    Share Chat with a Planner and Last Chance to Complete Stage 3 Survey and Q&A! on Facebook Share Chat with a Planner and Last Chance to Complete Stage 3 Survey and Q&A! on Twitter Share Chat with a Planner and Last Chance to Complete Stage 3 Survey and Q&A! on Linkedin Email Chat with a Planner and Last Chance to Complete Stage 3 Survey and Q&A! link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    August 14th Chat with a Planner

    Join the Municipal Development Plan Project and Land Use Bylaw ReDesign Teams virtually on Wednesday, August 14th, 2024, and Chat with a Planner. The virtual session will occur between 5-7pm.

    The session will provide the public with an opportunity to speak with Project Team members and ask questions regarding the draft Municipal Development Plan, the Project in general, and the Land Use Bylaw ReDesign Project. If you would like to register to attend the Chat with a Planner virtual session, please email buildingparkland@parklandcounty.com. A team member will respond to your email and provide a link to the Zoom call by end of day Tuesday August 13th, 2024. We look forward to chatting with you!

    Chat with a Planner Date and Details


    Survey and Q&A Open Until August 14th!

    Online Survey: https://www.research.net/r/ParklandMDP_Stage3_Survey  

    When: July 17 to August 14, 2024

    Where: YourParkland.ca/mdp, OR complete a written copy of the survey at Parkland County Centre or the Entwistle Rec Centre anytime during the survey’s open period (July 17– August 14, 2024). 

    YourParkland Interactive Question and Answer

    When: July 17 to August 14, 2024

    Where: Use the Question and Answer tool on yourparkland.ca/mdp to ask any questions you may have after reviewing the draft Municipal Development Plan materials and participating in any of the above Stage 3 Engagement events. The Project Team is happy to answer them!

    Draft Municipal Development Plan Materials

    The draft Municipal Development Plan, Development Concept, and Decision-Making Framework are available through the Project Documents tab on yourparkland.ca/mdp.


  • Stage 3 Survey and Q&A Extended to August 14

    Share Stage 3 Survey and Q&A Extended to August 14 on Facebook Share Stage 3 Survey and Q&A Extended to August 14 on Twitter Share Stage 3 Survey and Q&A Extended to August 14 on Linkedin Email Stage 3 Survey and Q&A Extended to August 14 link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    The Stage 3 Engagement Survey and online Question and Answer tool is being extended one week until August 14th!

    Online Survey: https://www.research.net/r/ParklandMDP_Stage3_Survey  

    When: July 17 to August 14, 2024

    Where: YourParkland.ca/mdp, OR complete a written copy of the survey at Parkland County Centre or the Entwistle Rec Centre anytime during the survey’s open period (July 17– August 14, 2024). 

    YourParkland Interactive Question and Answer

    When: July 17 to August 14, 2024

    Where: Use the Question and Answer tool on yourparkland.ca/mdp to ask any questions you may have after reviewing the draft Municipal Development Plan materials and participating in any of the above Stage 3 Engagement events. The Project Team is happy to answer them!

    Draft Municipal Development Plan Materials

    The draft Municipal Development Plan, Development Concept, and Decision-Making Framework are available through the Project Documents tab on yourparkland.ca/mdp.

  • Stage 3 Engagement Now Live!

    Share Stage 3 Engagement Now Live! on Facebook Share Stage 3 Engagement Now Live! on Twitter Share Stage 3 Engagement Now Live! on Linkedin Email Stage 3 Engagement Now Live! link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    Stage 3 Engagement is Now Live!

    Stage 3 Engagement has officially launched! Check out the following events to view the draft Municipal Development Plan policies and Decision-Making Framework:

    Open House 

    When: July 23, 2024. Drop in anytime from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

    Where: Parkland County Centre, 53109A Hwy 779, Parkland County, AB 


    Online Survey: https://www.research.net/r/ParklandMDP_Stage3_Survey  

    When: July 17 to August 7, 2024

    Where: YourParkland.ca/mdp, OR complete a written copy of the survey at Parkland County Centre or the Entwistle Rec Centre anytime during the survey’s open period (July 17– August 7, 2024). 

    YourParkland Interactive Question and Answer

    When: July 17 to August 7, 2024

    Where: Use the Question and Answer tool on yourparkland.ca/mdp to ask any questions you may have after reviewing the draft Municipal Development Plan materials and participating in any of the above Stage 3 Engagement events. The Project Team is happy to answer them! Questions and Answers that may be helpful to others may be posted publicly on the webpage. Questions and answers regarding personal or identifiable information will be kept private.

  • Roadshow Summary Now Live!

    Share Roadshow Summary Now Live! on Facebook Share Roadshow Summary Now Live! on Twitter Share Roadshow Summary Now Live! on Linkedin Email Roadshow Summary Now Live! link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.
    supporting image

    Roadshow Summary Now Live!

    Thank you for participating in the County Roadshow! A summary outlining the key themes and findings, as well as the content displayed during the Roadshow, are now available under the Project Documents tab.

  • Stage 3 Engagement Coming Soon!

    Share Stage 3 Engagement Coming Soon! on Facebook Share Stage 3 Engagement Coming Soon! on Twitter Share Stage 3 Engagement Coming Soon! on Linkedin Email Stage 3 Engagement Coming Soon! link
    CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

    Stage 3 Public Engagement Coming Soon!

    This engagement stage is seeking community input on the draft updated Municipal Development Plan (MDP).

    There will be several ways to get involved in Stage 3, which is occurring from July to August, 2024:

    • Attend the Chat with a Planner online session on July 17, 2024 from 5-7pm*
    • Attend the Open House on July 23, 2024 from 5-8pm at Parkland County Centre
    • Online or hardcopy survey, available to fill out from July 17 - August 7, 2024

    *If you would like to register to attend the Chat with a Planner virtual session, please email buildingparkland@parklandcounty.com(External link). A team member will respond to your email and provide a link to the Zoom call by end of day Tuesday, July 16, 2024. No registration is required for the Open House or the survey.