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COVID-19 Updates: Taking steps to return to normal.
Government approval is required before you can build or change a development by a provincial highway.
A permit from Alberta Transportation is required for new or changes to roadside developments within the development control zone, which is:
Permits are subject to:
You cannot start your development project before a permit has been issued to you by Alberta Transportation.
Direct highway access is a potential safety hazard to highway users, so it is only permitted if it is considered essential by Alberta Transportation:
If the proposal includes access to an existing or proposed new or upgraded municipal road intersection with a provincial highway, approval from the local municipality must be provided.
Every proposal is assessed individually. Setbacks are determined after reviewing:
The general minimum setback for all development is 70 metres from the highway centre-line or no closer than 40 metres from the highway right-of-way boundary, except where these distances must be increased to allow for highway widening.
Your site plan must show the:
Building details are not required, but you must provide the proposed development’s:
See an example of a development site plan (PDF, 126 KB).
The plan size should be either 8 ½” x 11” or 11” x 17”. If multiple pages are submitted, the applicant must sign each page.
Placement of any trees, hedges or shrubs within 30 metres from the highway right-of-way boundary, or 60 metres from the centre line of the highway, whichever distance is greater, is prohibited without a permit.
Inform your local municipality about the proposed development, and where it would be situated.
You should also ask your municipality contact to confirm if their written approval is required before you can proceed to step 2.
Download and complete the Roadside Development Application (PDF, 491 KB).
Print your responses and provide all of the information requested, including:
If signage, access, or utility permit is required, please complete and submit the applicable Application form with your roadside development application.
Return your forms to the appropriate Alberta Transportation District Office in person, by mail, or by email (preferred). Fax applications are no longer accepted.
For more information about highway development and permits:
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