Bylaw services / RMWB Peace Officer, image via rmwb.ca
FORT McMURRAY — The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is increasing summer enforcement of its Community Standards Bylaw, with a particular focus on nuisance properties and commercial sites across the region.
Bylaw officers have investigated 843 community standards files so far this year.
The municipality says 44 per cent involved nuisance property concerns, including untidy lots, overgrown grass and weeds, boulevard maintenance, water runoff and other public nuisance violations.
Enforcement activity involving commercial properties has also increased significantly compared with last year.
Bylaw Services has identified 47 commercial properties so far in 2026, issued 45 letters and delivered 12 remedial orders.
During the same campaign period in 2025, officers identified 27 properties, issued 27 letters and delivered 10 remedial orders.
The municipality says the increase represents 74 per cent more enforcement actions than during the same period last year, with officers addressing issues including potholes and untidy properties.
Despite the increase in enforcement, Bylaw Services says voluntary compliance remains its preferred outcome.
“Everyone in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo has a role in keeping their community safe, clean and welcoming for all,” the municipality said.
Thirty-nine of the 47 commercial properties identified this year have already come into compliance, with outreach continuing.
In 2025, 17 of the 27 identified properties came into voluntary compliance.
“Even with the higher volume, voluntary compliance remains Bylaw Services’ top priority and many property owners are stepping up before a formal order is even needed,” the municipality said.
The Community Standards Bylaw requires property owners and occupants to maintain homes, businesses and shared spaces.
Responsibilities include keeping grass and weeds below 15 centimetres, including on boulevard strips between sidewalks and roads.
The bylaw also covers waste management, water runoff and the upkeep of developed and vacant lots.
“Whether you own a home, rent, or run a business in the region, the bylaw applies to you,” the municipality said.
Residents who notice possible bylaw violations can report them through the municipality’s Pulse service online or by calling 780-743-7000.
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