Building & Development > Planning Documents

Planning Documents

In the Village of Spring Lake

Planning Documents for the Village of Spring Lake

The Planning and Development Department is dedicated to understanding and reflecting the values of our community in all our plans, policies, and bylaws. We aim to support both the immediate and future development of the Village while helping our residents achieve their development goals and objectives.

We are available to assist you with your development and building plans. Before beginning any project, there are important steps to ensure your development complies with local bylaws and regulations.

Development services are governed by provincial legislation, including the Municipal Government Act, Part 17: Planning and Development, as well as various municipal bylaws, plans, and policies. More details can be found in the Subdivision and Development Regulation: Municipal Government Act - M-26.

Statutory Plans

Statutory plans are legal documents that require three readings and a public hearing before they can be adopted. Once approved, both the Municipality and residents must follow the guidelines set out in the plan.

Non-Statutory Plans

Non-statutory plans are passed through resolution and are designed to guide development or growth in specific areas. These plans help direct future development in a preferred direction but are not legally binding in the same way as statutory plans.

Intermunicipal Development Plans (IDP)

An Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP) is a strategic, high-level land-use plan created through collaboration between two or more municipalities. This plan guides the development and use of land in areas where neighboring municipalities share mutual interests. The IDP between the Village of Spring Lake and Parkland County focuses on areas at their boundary, ensuring coordinated growth and development.

These plans offer clear direction for land use and development, and are adopted through matching bylaws that reflect the goals and values of both communities.

On November 13, 2018, the Village of Spring Lake passed Bylaw #368, formalizing the IDP with Parkland County. This partnership sets the stage for thoughtful and aligned development between the two communities, strengthening their shared vision for the future.

Bylaw #368 IDP between Springlake and Parkland County.pdf • 211 KB

Municipal Development Plan (MDP)

A Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is not just a policy—it's the cornerstone of the Village of Spring Lake’s vision for the future. This essential document acts as a strategic roadmap, outlining the long-term goals for how land within the Village will be used, developed, and preserved. It offers a high-level overview of where we want to go as a community, showcasing the changes expected over time and the vibrant, dynamic Village we aspire to become.

Much like an architect’s blueprint that shapes the construction of a home, the MDP sets the framework for how the Village’s landscape will evolve. It provides clear direction to decision-makers—whether they’re planning infrastructure, zoning, or community development projects—ensuring that every step is aligned with our shared vision for the future.

The land base within the Village is a precious and limited resource. It’s home to every resident and business, and it's expected to support a diverse range of activities—from residential to commercial, recreational to environmental spaces. The MDP ensures that as the Village grows and evolves, we make the most of this land, balancing all the functions it needs to serve. By thoughtfully planning for the future, the MDP helps create a sustainable, cohesive, and thriving community where future generations can thrive.

In short, the MDP is about creating a space that reflects the values of today while laying the groundwork for the future we all want to see—one that’s well-organized, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of its people.

Municipal Development Plan Bylaw #390- October 2021.pdf • 3.4 MB

Land Use Bylaw (LUB)

A Land Use Bylaw (LUB) is a crucial regulatory framework that guides land development within the Village of Spring Lake. It establishes clear rules and regulations that ensure land is developed in a way that aligns with the community’s values, goals, and long-term vision. The LUB provides a structured approach to managing the physical development of the Village, from residential to commercial spaces, and ensures that growth occurs in a sustainable, organized manner.

In addition to setting standards for land use, the LUB also defines the process for evaluating and making decisions regarding development permit applications. This ensures that each proposed project is carefully reviewed to meet the Village’s planning objectives and comply with established regulations. Whether a property owner is looking to build a new structure, renovate an existing building, or change the use of a property, the LUB helps maintain consistency and harmony across the community.

By providing clear guidelines for development, the LUB protects the integrity of the Village’s landscape and ensures that new development enhances, rather than disrupts, the community’s overall aesthetic and functionality. It serves as a tool for both residents and developers, outlining the specific requirements that need to be met for any project to move forward.

Ultimately, the Land Use Bylaw is a vital tool for maintaining order, ensuring sustainable growth, and protecting the character of Spring Lake as it evolves. It balances the needs of growth with the preservation of the community’s unique qualities, making sure that every decision made today contributes to a vibrant, well-planned future for the Village.

Bylaw #391 - Land Use Bylaw 2021.pdf • 7.3 MB

Permit Applications

Municipal Development Permit Application

For any new development or major changes to existing structures within the Village, a development permit is required. Submit your application to the Development Officer for review and approval.

Development Officer: Tony Sonnleitner

Superior Safety Codes Permits

To ensure safe construction practices, all building-related projects require permits from Superior Safety Codes. These include:

Building Permit Application
Electrical Permit Application
Plumbing Permit Application
Gas Permit Application
Private Sewage System Permit Application

Subdivision & Development Appeal Board (SDAB)

The Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) provides an avenue for individuals to appeal decisions related to development and subdivision permits.

SDAB Members & Responsibilities

The SDAB is made up of a group of appointed individuals who are responsible for hearing appeals and making impartial decisions on land use and development matters.

Appeal Process & Requirements

Who Can File an Appeal?
Any affected person, including applicants or those who may be impacted by a development or subdivision, can file an appeal.
Development Permit Appeals
Appeals can be made if a development permit is denied, or if there are concerns about the conditions of approval.
Subdivision Appeals
Appeals can be filed if a subdivision decision is contested.
Appeal Deadlines
Appeals must be filed within the specified timeframe. Be sure to check with the Village for deadlines.

SDAB Meetings & Contact

For more information on SDAB members, their responsibilities, and upcoming meetings, or to file an appeal, please contact the Village Administration at:
Email: villageoffice@springlakealberta.com

Let’s Build a Stronger Future Together
The planning documents and permit processes ensure that Spring Lake continues to grow responsibly while maintaining the unique qualities that make our Village special. For questions or more information, feel free to reach out to the Village Administration.