Residential Lot Grading

Request #

IR-26-24

That Administration provide information regarding the City’s current approach to residential lot grading, including:

The rationale for requiring rough grade approval but not final grade approval for residential properties.

The measures in place to ensure that finished landscaping, including topsoil placement and compaction, maintains the approved drainage design after rough grade approval has been issued.

The recourse available to homeowners when drainage issues arise as a result of neighbouring properties that have not been landscaped or graded in accordance with the approved lot grading plan, including the City's authority to investigate and enforce compliance.

A comparison of St. Albert’s residential lot grading requirements with those of comparable Alberta municipalities, including whether they require final grade approval.

The number, nature, and outcomes of residential drainage complaints related to lot grading or landscaping received by the City over the past five years.

Whether Administration has previously considered implementing a mandatory final residential lot grading approval process, and if so, the rationale for maintaining the current approach.

The operational, financial, and regulatory implications of implementing a mandatory final residential lot grading approval process for new residential developments, including any required amendments to City bylaws, policies, or standards.

Requested by Councillor Hughes on July 15, 2026

Administrative Response

Upon receiving an IR, Administration is tasked with providing the requested information in a templated report within 30 days.

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