Encroachments on Reserve Land

County reserve land is intended to remain in its natural state while allowing public access to these natural features. Reserve lands belong to Lacombe County; as such, encroachments without prior approval from the County are considered unauthorized and will need to be removed. The Use and Management of County Reserve Lands Policy provides direction on how the County manages such issues on reserve land. 

The County may take the following action to resolve encroachment issues on reserve lands:

Encroachments on Municipal Reserve Land

• Landowners will be asked to remove unauthorized materials and structures.
• In unusual or extenuating circumstances, the County may consider allowing a structure to remain on reserve lands, with a license agreement.

Encroachments on Environmental Reserve Land

• Landowners will be asked to remove private facilities such as lawns, decks, fire pits, and storage sheds.
• Existing trails, pathways and stairs that have been licensed. 
  • License holders will be required to maintain access facilities in a safe and environmentally responsible manner and provide liability insurance.
  • Stairs must meet building code safety requirements or be certified by a professional engineer.

A Special Use of Reserves Permit (SURP) will need to be completed and submitted to the County for authorization to proceed with the requested activities.