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1. Does my dog need to be licensed?

Yes.  Every dog over the age of three months must have a license. Dog licenses must be renewed by January of each year.

There is no licensing system for cats in Nanton.  Municipal Enforcement | Nanton, AB - Official Website

2. Does my dog need to be on a leash?

Yes, your dog does need to be on a leash. The exception is when in designated off-leash dog area(s). You must be in full control of your dog at all times.

3. What happens if you catch my dog?

If your dog is running at large and we capture your dog, if there is a dog tag we will do everything in our power to contact the owner and return the dog. If the owner cannot be located OR if this is a continuous issue, your dog will be taken to the impound and you will be charged for these services.

4. Do dog owners need to pick up after their dogs?

Yes, All dog owners MUST pick up after their dogs. There are many dog-waste disposal bags located throughout the town. Fines will be issued for all violators! Please remember to be a responsible pet owner and help keep Nanton clean.

5. Will I get issued a ticket?

Generally, the Town believe in compliance through education. Our goal is not to ticket you; it’s to work with you. Re-offenders will be charged.  When it comes to Traffic violations, the town takes a more aggressive stance in order to improve community safety in terms of speeding, etc.

6. Do I need to get a Business License?

Yes. Every business, with some exceptions, must have an annual license. This includes all home businesses, as well as those that solicit door to door. All licenses must be renewed by February 15 of each year.   See this page.

7. What is an unsightly property?

This is generally a property or the outside of a building which is characterized by a lack of general maintenance, repair and upkeep, and does not look neat and tidy in comparison to the surrounding neighbourhood.  The Community Bylaw details more information in this regard.

Community Bylaw

8. What are the rules on surveillance cameras and security lighting?

The Community Bylaw was amended in 2023 to address concerns over excessive use of surveillance cameras and security lighting that invade the privacy of neighbours.  It  is not a blanket ban on either; appropriately protecting your property is supported by the Town.  The basic general diagram here should guide you:

Enforcement, as with other bylaws, is complaint-based.  The Town can only enforce its own bylaws and retains significant discretion on enforcement action that is or is not taken in each and every case.  

Footnote:  The purpose of the 2023 amendment was to introduce an enforceable regulation that addresses 'excessive protective elements" on Land and Premises WITHOUT COMPRIMISING the capability of property owners to surveil their own properties and adjacent public boulevards and laneways.   If you have questions about this, contact the Town and obtain accurate information.

9. Who cleans the sidewalks and roads?

Every property owner and/or tenant is responsible for ensuring that the sidewalk adjacent to their property is free and clear of all debris. Snow must be removed within 24 hours of ANY accumulation to the full width of the sidewalk or it will be cleaned for you and you will be charged for this service. This is a safety issue and we encourage residents to ensure safety for themselves and others.

There is a strict prohibition concerning the deposit of snow, ice or debris on the highway (street) which can potentially result in a  stiff fine.

For more details, you can review section 18 of the Traffic Bylaw.

The Town seasonally cleans the streets in the community, usually after the spring thaw.

10. Are there Noise restrictions?

The Community Bylaw generally addresses “noise” which may be reasonably likely to disturb the peace of others and designates “quiet times”. Our residents should be aware, however, that there may be events which preclude normal circumstances, such as large snowfall events, that may necessitate the use of certain equipment such as snow plows or blowers.

Community Bylaw

11. Can I park my trailer on the street?

No. With the exception of loading and unloading you are not allowed to have a trailer of any type on the street.

12. What are the watering restrictions?

The information on that can be found here.

Lawn Watering Permits for daily irrigation under Section 8 of the Utility Bylaw should be requested through the Town office in advance of re-seeding or turf projects.  These permits are automatically suspended or cancelled if the Town declares restriction levels 2 or 3.

13. How do I file a complaint, and what happens after that?

If you feel that you would like to file a complaint you will need to come into the office and fill out a complaint form. No action will be taken without a written complaint. If you are unable to come into the office then a written letter containing your Name, Address, Concern, and phone number will be accepted. After a complaint is filed the Peace Officer will investigate your concerns and will get back to you and explain what actions or findings have been taken.

Report a Concern:

Form Center • Nanton, AB • CivicEngage