Notice_of_Public_Hearing(1)

Notice of Public Hearing for Bylaw 1331 - Land Use Bylaw Amendment on May 26, 2026



   

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is rezoning?
Rezoning is the process of changing how a specific property can be used, as defined in the Town’s Land Use Bylaw. Each property in town is assigned a “district” (such as R1, R3, R4, etc.), which outlines what types of development and uses are allowed.
A rezoning application asks Council to consider changing that district to allow different types of development.

2. Why is the Town considering this rezoning?
The Town is considering this rezoning because a property owner (the applicant) has formally requested it.
Under the Town’s Land Use Bylaw and the Municipal Government Act, property owners have the right to apply to have their land rezoned. When such an application is received, the Town is required to process it and bring it forward to Council and the public for consideration. It is important for Council must maintain an open-minded approach to request like this to maintain fairness and ensure that each application is considered on its own merits, based on the information presented and public input received.

3. Does this mean the Town supports the rezoning?
Not necessarily. Considering a rezoning application does not mean that Council supports or will approve it.
Council’s role is to review the application, hear public input, and make a decision based on planning considerations, community impact, and applicable policies.

4. What does R1 vs. R4 mean?
  • R1 – Residential: Typically allows for single-family dwellings.
  • R4 – Medium Density Residential: Generally allows for multi-unit housing such as apartments, townhouses, duplexes, or similar developments (specific uses depend on the bylaw).
Rezoning from R1 to R4 would allow for more intensive residential development than is currently permitted.

To learn more about the regulations and permitted uses within each zoning district, please refer to the Land Use Bylaw available here. Specifically, see Schedule 4, Page 9 (PDF Page 75) for R1 zoning and Schedule 4, Page 25 (PDF Page 91) for R4 zoning.

5. Is any development approved if the rezoning passes?
No. Rezoning only changes what could be allowed on the property.
If approved, any future development would still be required to go through the Town’s development permit process, where specific plans are reviewed in detail to determine whether the proposal is a permitted or discretionary use. These plans must be sufficiently detailed for the Development Authority to evaluate and issue a development permit on their own merit.

6. How can residents provide input?
Residents can share their feedback in the following ways:
  • Register for the Public Hearing to speak to Council by calling Carolyn at 403-758-3212
  • Submit written comments before the deadline by emailing Carolyn at carolyn@magrath.ca
All feedback becomes part of the public record and is considered by Council before making a decision.

7. What does Council consider when making a decision?
Council may consider:
  • Compatibility with surrounding land uses
  • Impacts on traffic, infrastructure, and services
  • Alignment with the Municipal Development Plan and Land Use Bylaw
  • Feedback from residents and stakeholders

8. What are the possible outcomes?
After the Public Hearing, Council may:
  • Approve the rezoning
  • Approve it with changes
  • Defeat (deny) the rezoning application

9. Why doesn’t the Town refuse the application before a hearing?
The Town follows a legislated process. When a complete application is submitted, it must be presented to Council and a Public Hearing must be held before a decision is made. This gives the property owner a opportunity to to represent themselves, ensures transparency, and gives the public an opportunity to be heard.