Alberta government orders Edmonton to reverse zoning bylaw changes

The Alberta provincial government has ordered the City of Edmonton to amend its zoning bylaw, specifically requiring the restoration of minimum on-site parking requirements. This directive aims to address criticisms of infill housing development in established neighborhoods.

Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack expressed surprise at the decision, stating it would impact housing choices and “create chaos in investment attraction and retention.” The move has also drawn criticism from Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas, who argued that provincial intervention undermines local democracy and sets a precedent for influencing municipal council votes.

The provincial mandate requires a rollback of key aspects of the zoning rules that have been in place since 2024, which were originally designed to encourage higher-density housing through infill development.