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1. When will my garbage / recycling / compost cart be picked up?

Your curbside collection schedule may be found on our website at chestermere.ca/recycle under the collection day and sorting tool. 

How to find your collection day with the collection day and sorting tool:

• Enter your address in the search box. 
• Click search.
• Click the 'Get a calendar' button.
• Choose to have the calendar sent to your preferred digital calendar or print a paper copy.

You may also download the Chestermere Recycles app on either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to find out your collection day. 

• Within the app, you may choose to have notifications sent to you before your collection day. 
• Follow the in-app instructions for details.

 

Did you know your garbage / recycling / compost carts will be picked up a collective total of 117 times in one year!

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

2. Why are curbside collection days changing?

These changes are about improving the reliability and consistency of service for every household. The growth of the City has led to a heavier workload in some areas, making it difficult for the crews to collect all the carts in those areas on the scheduled day.  

The new routes have been planned to ensure crews can collect from each household as efficiently as possible. This update focuses on providing service to 6,899 existing households and includes space for an additional 1,500 new households expected to be built in Chestermere over the next 3 years. As the city grows, there may be changes to your collection day again in future years.

The City recognizes changing collection days is inconvenient for residents, but thanks everyone for their commitment to keeping Chestermere clean and safe.

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

3. Will my curbside collection day change again in the future?

As the city grows, there may be changes to your collection day in future years.

The current collection day schedule was updated in March 2022 and designed to provide service to 6,899 existing households and includes space for an additional 1,500 new households expected to be built in Chestermere over the next 3 years. 

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

4. Why was my garbage / recycling / compost / lake weed cart not picked up?

Below is a listing of the most common reasons why a cart was not picked up:

• The cart was not out by 7 am on collection day and the truck already went by,
• The cart was blocked by a vehicle, placed too close to a vehicle, (remember to leave 1 metre of space around the cart) or, 
• The cart was placed underneath a basketball net or tree and the arm of the truck could not pick it up.

If you received a tag on your cart, the tag will show the reason why the cart was not collected. Call Community Operations at 403-207-2807 for next steps once the issue indicated on the tag is resolved.

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

5. I got a tag on my garbage / recycling / compost / lake weed cart. What do I do?

The tag will indicate what the issue was. Once you have fixed the issue indicated on the tag, call Community Operations at 403-207-2807 and the team will assist you.

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

6. My garbage / recycling / compost / lake weed cart was missed. What do I do?

Contact Community Operations at 403-207-2807 or email curbside@chestermere.ca with your name, address, phone number and which cart was missed. 

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

7. I'm not sure which cart to put an item I want throw out. How do I sort it?

The Sorting Central tool at chestermere.ca/recycle will help you find where to put an item!

You may also download a copy of the Quick Sorting Guide.

If an item cannot go into a cart, it may be accepted at the Eco Centre. 

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

8. Does my garbage / recycling / compost cart get collected on statutory holidays?

Yes, the City's Environmental Services team will pick up carts on all Statutory Holidays, excluding Christmas Day and New Year's Day. 

Holiday collection schedules will be posted annually in December on chestermere.ca/recycle. 

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

9. I just moved to / within Chestermere. How do I get curbside carts?

Please connect with the City's Utilities department to sign up for utility services, including curbside collection. 

You may complete the new utility account application form online here.

Visit the billing and account information page for more information.

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

10. Can I get reminders sent to my phone by notification / text / email before my collection day?

Yes! Please download the Chestermere Recycles app on either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

We also strongly recommend downloading the VoyentAlert! app. This app will be used to communicate with residents in the event of a curbside cart collection service interruption.

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

11. What items are accepted at the Eco Centre?

A listing of items accepted is on the Eco Centre's page. 

Last Updated: February 22, 2022

12. Lake Weeds - Where do collected lake weeds go?

Lake weeds are collected in separate carts from regular organic carts. This allows the City to locally process compost at the Eco Centre.

About the Compost: lake weeds and yard waste is mechanically churned with a tractor and spinner. The process takes place for approximately one year. The larger clumps are screened out and the remaining compost is made available to residents.

Picking Up Compost: Residents must bring their own shovels and bins: these are not provided at the depot. Staff are not available to help load material. Please take only what you need - you cannot take a full truckload. 

Last Updated: June 6, 2022

13. Lake Weeds - When will Lake Weed Wednesday cart collection begin?

For 2023, Lake Weed Wednesdays will take place from July 12 to September 27, 2023.

Lake weed carts are only picked up during this 12-week period. 

Tip: only lake weeds can go into the lake weed cart. This is because the lake weeds are locally processed at the Eco Centre.  Excess lake weeds are allowed to go in your organics green cart. Any contaminated carts will be tagged and not collected.

Last Updated: May, 5 - 2023

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1. What is being developed in...?

All current and future development in Chestermere would be best discussed with the project planner for the said project or area. Planners for certain projects may change over time or while the project is still progressing. To ensure you are directed to the planner currently handling the project, call the Development Services Reception Line at (403) 207-7075.

2. Do I need a development permit?

You may access the City of Chestermere Land Use bylaw on the city’s website. Part four of the land use bylaw speaks about development applications and enumerates specific types of work that do not require a development permit.

Land Use Bylaw

3. What are the set-backs / maximum height requirements?

To find out the allowable set-backs for your lot, first off, the land use district would have to be identified. To find out pull up the Chestermere land use map with civic addresses. After identifying the land-use district, you may refer to the land use bylaw for the allowable set-backs and height restrictions for your lot.

4. Can I purchase maps from the City?

Yes, maps are available at the Development & Infrastructure Services front desk on the second floor. Please refer to the City’s fee schedule for pricing details. Also, a variety of maps can be downloaded in PDF format for free from – “add maps list link”

5. I want to know more details about my property, such as size, assessed value, land use etc. Can I access this information online?

Yes, the City has an interactive map called “Munisight ES.” Munisight ES can be accessed from the City’s Map Page or by using the web address: https://webmap.chestermere.ca/
Please note, you must use “Google Chrome” when using Munisight ES.
Chestermere Maps Webpage

6. What do I need to do when I want to tie my infill house or property into the water or sanitary services in the street?

Call CUI – Chestermere Utilities Inc to let them know of your intentions to tie into their infrastructure, they will have a list of requirements for you to address prior to work being carried out. They can be reached at 403-207-7248. Also call the City of Chestermere’s Development and Infrastructure Department to acquire a permit prior to commencement of the work. The city has requirements for doing this that involves traffic accommodations (traffic flow) and other important information you should be aware of.

7. I have broken pavement / concrete in front of my house as a result of construction in the area, who do I call to make the repairs to the pavement and concrete?

Please call the City of Chestermere’s Development and Infrastructure Department to determine if the area is still under warranty by the developer. If it is the City's Engineering staff will consult with the developers staff to have the road and sidewalk repaired. If it is not, the City's Roads department will be in contact with you to repair the damages.

8. I can’t find the water valve in front of my house, who do I call to locate it?

In some cases landscaping and yard maintenance has resulted in the Curb Stop being buried below grade. In a case where the valve head is buried please contact CUI at 403-207-7248 to have the valve located and exposed to surface – a nominal fee may apply.

9. My neighbour’s lot is draining onto my property, what do I do and who do I call to have this situation resolved?

There are some situations where homeowners have completed landscaping on their lots that force water away from their homes onto others property. The City has specific regulations that restrict homeowners from draining their property onto other homeowners yards. Please contact the City of Chestermere’s Development and Infrastructure Department for specific regulations or visit our website at Chestermere.ca.

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1. Why are property owners asked to declare their faith?

The Constitution of Canada guarantees Protestant and Roman Catholic citizen’s minority rights to a separate education system. In those communities where there are separate school jurisdictions, which have opted-out of the ASFF, property owners must declare their religious affiliation to determine what education property tax dollars should be directed to those separate school jurisdictions.

2. Why do I pay for school taxes when I don’t have children going to school?

The prosperity and general well being of society, or the community we live in, is directly related to the education of its people. For this reason, the costs of education are deemed to be the responsibility of all of society. Your education, for example, if received in Canada, was largely paid for by the previous generation of taxpayers.

3. Do seniors have to pay education property taxes?

Yes, seniors who own property must pay education property taxes. In recognition of concerns raised by senior homeowners about year-to-year increases in the education portion of their property taxes, the Education Property Tax Assistance program was introduced. The program provides an annual rebate to senior homeowners who have an increase in the education portion of their property taxes.

Seniors can contact Alberta Seniors and Community Support toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or the Ministry’s website for more information on:
•Education Property Tax Assistance for Seniors program
•The Alberta Seniors Benefit
•Other provincial programs and services for seniors
Ministry Website

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1. Can I go swimming in the Lake?

Yes, users may swim in the lake. However, the Province is currently advising that COVID-19 transmission through water is currently unknown, and people entering the water do so at their own risk.

Buoys are placed near the parks during the summer (Anniversary and John Peake Park) that mark shoreline areas that can be used for swimming.

Please be advised that you swim at your own risk. There are no lifeguards on duty.

Last Updated: July 21, 2020

2. Is lake water quality tested?

Yes. Guided by the Alberta Safe Beach Protocol, the City tests water quality at the Beaches once weekly in partnership with AHS.

Last Updated: May 20, 2021

3. Are the beaches open?

Yes. 

Lakeside parks will have new maximum capacity limits to ensure that visitors can effectively distance from each other.

The maximum limit at Anniversary Park is 615 people (115 on the beach), the maximum limit at Cove Beach is 205 (39 on the beach) and the maximum at Sunset Park is 483. If overcrowding continues to be a problem, the City may further limit or close beaches.

If visitors come to the park and it is at capacity, they will need to wait or come back later. There will not be a time limit on how long visitors can stay at the park once admitted.

Details and a beach visitor checklist can be found at www.chestermere.ca/beaches 

Last Updated May 21, 2021

Beaches & Lakeside Parks Information

4. Can I use the Boat Launch?

Yes. More details about the boat launch are available at www.chestermere.ca/boats.

Last Updated July 21, 2020

5. Can I use a kayak or other non-motorized vessel on the lake?

Yes.

Last Updated June 17, 2020

6. Why don't you permit BBQs or tents on the beach?

Due to fire hazard and safety issues, BBQs are not permitted in any Chestermere park or beach. Permanent City BBQs are provided at Sunset Park for public use. 

Only umbrellas and sunshades that don’t require extensive securing into the ground are permitted in the beach areas. Securing a larger tent with stakes, etc. can puncture a protective liner installed under the sand, causing damage. Tents larger than 10x10 are permitted, but only in grassy areas, and they must be properly secured, as to not fly away should the wind pick up.

Last Updated: May 20, 2021

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1. Can my passengers or I consume liquor on a boat?

No. Alcohol consumption on a vessel is prohibited unless it was manufactured with sleeping quarters, meal preparation area (galley), a built in lavatory/washroom, and is moored for the evening.

2. If I consume liquor while operating a vessel, can I be charged with impaired operation?

Yes. Impaired driving laws under the Criminal Code extend to vessels in waterways, train operation, and aircraft operation. Possession of liquor in a vessel is also prohibited and subject to seizure and a fine under the Gaming and Liquor Act.

3. Is there a speed limit on Chestermere Lake?

Yes. The portion of the lake North of the causeway has a speed limit of 12km/hr. The remainder of the lake has a 10km/hr speed limit within 30 meters of shore.

4. If the police request an inspection of my vessel, am I obligated to cooperate?

Yes. You are obligated to provide proof of operator competency (pleasure craft operator license), proof of ownership (vessel licencing), and must produce all required safety equipment. If you refuse to cooperate, the police may board your vessel to check for these items and if required order you to leave the lake. Violations for non compliance may also result in a court appearance and fines.

5. Can I waterski or go tubing after dark?

No. You cannot tow a person after dark.

6. How many people can I have on my vessel?

You may only have as many people as you have seats which does not exceed the recommended weight for your vessel. This includes any persons towed by your vessel.

7. Can I tow a person on a tube with my Personal Watercraft (PWC)?

Yes, as long as you have a spotter on your PWC and an additional seat for each towed person.

8. What are the age restrictions for operating a pleasure craft?

** All persons who operate a pleasure craft regardless of age require a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, or in the case of a rental has received appropriate instruction **

Under 12 years of age with no direct supervision: May operate a boat up to 10hp (7.5kW) engine power.

Ages 12 to under 16 with no direct supervision: May operate a boat up to 40hp (30kW) engine power.

Under 16 years of age, regardless of supervision: May not operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC)

16 years of age or older: No horsepower restrictions.

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1. How do I apply for a job?

Visit our employment page and view the listings currently available. If you wish to submit an application for any of the available jobs, send your resume and cover letter to the address listed in the job posting. Employment

2. How can I read the last meeting’s Council minutes?

Under the Council tab, you will find a link to minutes under Council Meetings. This page gives you a list of the most recent minutes approved by Council.

Council Minutes

3. Where can I find past news releases?

You can find that on our Civic Alerts page

City Civic Alerts

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1. When does my garbage get picked up?

Download the Chestermere Recycles App or view our PDF map for the garbage pickup schedule. 

Curbside Waste Collection Information

2. Are there community programs available for my family?

Yes! Our Community Services Department offers a variety of programming opportunities for everyone from infants to seniors. Please call 403-207-7060 for the latest available programs or check out our Community Services webpage.

Community Services Programs

3. Can I recycle in Chestermere?

Yes. Download the Chestermere Recycles App to find out what goes in your Blue Bin or can be dropped off at the Eco Centre. 

Waste & Recycling Information

4. What are my responsibilities for snow removal?

As per our Snow Removal Bylaw, you are responsible to clear the snow from the sidewalks running past your property within 48 hours of snowfall. Please remember that you may not shovel snow onto the road. Snow Removal Bylaw

5. How do I pay my taxes?

You can pay in person at the Municipal Office, at your bank or you can set up preauthorized payments. Learn more about the Tax Installment Payment Program on the TIPPs webpage.

6. Is there an off-leash dog park in Chestermere?

Yes. The off-leash areas is at the north end of the lake and starts in front of the Library. Please remember that you still need to pick up after your dog in the off-leash area. Map of off-leash area

7. Do I have to pay to use the lake?

No. Residents can launch boats for free but you need to apply for a boat decal. You will need to fill out an application form, show proof of residency and present your boat licence permit before you will be issued a decal. Please note that you use the lake at your own risk. Boat Licence Information

8. How do I pay my utility bill?

The City issues utility bills for water, wastewater (sewage), garbage & recycling services every month. You can pay through pre-authorized payments, through online/telephone banking, mail or credit card online. Visit our utilities billing & account page to learn more. 

City Utility Payment Options

9. If I want to renovate my house, do I need a permit?

Yes. Permits are issued through the Development Services Department. Visit their webpage to learn more about the permits you will need to do any construction on your home.

Development Services

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1. When are the pathways in the city cleared?

The pathways will be cleared within 48 hours of the last snowfall during normal business operation hours. They will not be cleared on Sundays or Statutory Holidays. The City does not salt or sand as it is not economical or environmentally friendly. If you see a pathway that may have been missed please call the Parks Department at (403) 207-2807.

2. Who do I contact if I see damaged or broken playground equipment.

Please contact the Parks Department at (403) 207-2807 to report any damaged playground equipment.

3. Who is responsible for maintaining the wood fence I share with the city?

When a wood fence is shared by a homeowner and the city, the homeowner is responsible for the painting/maintenance of the inside of the fence and the city is responsible for the side facing out.

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1. When will I receive my assessment notice?

Assessment notices are mailed in March. If you have not received your notice by the end of March, please contact the City of Chestermere by calling (403) 207-7050. Assessment reports are also be available on the City’s website (www.chestermere.ca/webmap). Please review your notice carefully once you receive it. If you have general questions, call the City at (403) 207-7050. If you have detailed questions about your property, call the Assessor at 1-877-438-2305.

Webmap Link

2. What does my assessment mean?

Your assessment is an evaluation of the market value of your property on July 1st of last year.

Market value is defined as the price a property might reasonably sell for after adequate time and exposure to an open market when sold by a willing seller to a willing buyer.

3. Why is my property assessed?

In Alberta, the amount of tax a property owner pays is according to the value of the property (your assessment). 

4. Who assesses my property?

Assessments for all types of property are prepared by professional, certified assessors. Assessors receive training in a variety of areas including property valuation techniques, legislation, and quality assurance. Assessors must hold a designation and follow the assessment regulations set out in the Municipal Government Act. Assessors are also audited by the provincial government.

The City of Chestermere contracts Accurate Assessment Group Ltd. to provide assessments for our community. This company comes to Chestermere each year (usually in the spring/summer) to complete the City’s assessment.

5. How is my assessment determined?

Factors that are taken into consideration when determining the assessed value of a specific property include the size, type, and age of your property, as well as its location, style, condition, upgrades, and lot size. The selling prices of similar properties in the same neighbourhood or similar areas are also considered.

Properties in Alberta are assessed using a ‘mass appraisal’ method, which is the process of valuing a group of properties as of a given date using common data, mathematical models, and statistical tests. Information is collected by gathering data from on-site visits (as described above), real estate Multiple Listing Services (MLS), Alberta Land Titles, and financial institutions.

6. I believe my assessment does not accurately reflect the condition of my property. What should I do?

If you would like detailed information in how your valuation was determined, you can call the City’s assessor, Accurate Assessment Group Ltd. at 1-877-438-2305 or you can arrange to meet with them when they are in Chestermere (call 403-207-7050 to book an appointment). If you still disagree with the Assessor’s evaluation after contacting them, you can file an official complaint and appeal. Information about the appeal process is available at www.chestermere.ca/assessment.

7. Where can I find more information about this process?

-You can look up more information about your property at www.chestermere.ca/webmap. -If you have questions about your specific property evaluation, contact Accurate Assessment Group Ltd. at 1-877-438-2305 or email bob@aag-gis.com. -If you would like more information about the assessment process in Chestermere, visit www.chestermere.ca/assessment or call the City at (403) 207-7050. -If you would like to know more about the provincial regulations and guidelines for the assessment process, click the link below:

Provincial Assessment Regulations

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1. Where can I find the signed Road Ban order?

Click here to read the signed Road Ban order.

Last Updated: March 23, 2021

2. Do I need a permit if my load is divisible?

No.

Loads that are divisible do not require permits. However, all road bans must still be obeyed.

Current road bans may be found on the Road Weight Restrictions page.

Last Updated: March 12, 2021

3. Does the City issue email permits or annual permits anymore?

No.

Permits may be obtained through Roadata Serivces Ltd. Please contact them by phone at 1-888-444-9288 or visit their website for all inquires about overweight/over-dimensional permits.

Last Updated: March 12, 2021

4. Does the City issue Annual Tridem Axle-Configuration (TAC) Permits anymore?

No.

The Government of Alberta changed the Commercial Vehicle Dimension and Weight Regulation 315/2002 effective January 1, 2021.

Carrier are allowed to haul 21,000kg - 24,000kg max (depending on axle spread) on Tridem Drive Axles. 

Single Trip permits are still required for overweight and/or over-dimensional loads which cannot be broken down to meet road bans.

Permits are available through Roadata Service Ltd. 

Last Updated: March 12, 2021

5. How much can I haul on a 75%, 90%, or 100% road?

Weight Calculators are provided by Alberta Transportation (scroll to the bottom of the page - under Weight Calculator Section).

*These calculators are based on legal axle weights, not seasonal axle weights.

Roadata Services Ltd. provides weight charts on their website (click ALBERTA HEAVY HAUL TRAILER AND DRIVE WEIGHTS).

Last Updated: March 12, 2021

6. What does CS1, CS2, and CS3 mean for bridge weight restrictions?

Alberta Transportation’s Bridge Load Evaluation Manual v. 1.1 has more information. The following is from pages 25-26 in the manual:

"The single unit truck (single-unit vehicle) designation (CS1) applies to: 

• a single unit truck; and 
• a truck tractor and a semi-trailer, in the case where the inter-axle spacing between the truck tractor and the semi-trailer is less than 4.5 metres. 

The semi-trailer truck (two-unit vehicle) designation (CS2) applies to: 

• a truck and a trailer; 
• a truck tractor and semi-trailer, in the case where the inter-axle spacing between the truck tractor and the semi-trailer is 4.5 metres or more;
• a mobile crane with a boom dolly;
• a truck tractor in combination with a single axle semi-trailer and a semi-trailer;
• a truck tractor in combination with a single axle semi-trailer and a pole trailer; and
• a truck or truck tractor in combination with a pole trailer. 

The truck train (vehicle train) designation (CS3) applies to:

• a truck tractor in combination with 2 or more trailers;
• a truck and a full trailer with 2 tandem axles, in the case where the inter-axle spacing between the tandem axle groups is 5.0 metres or more;
• a truck tractor in combination with a tandem axle semi-trailer and a semi-trailer; and
• a truck tractor in combination with a tandem axle semi-trailer and a pole trailer."

Last Updated: March 12, 2021

7. Where can I find more information about oversize/over-dimensional and overweight permits?

Information on oversize and overweight permits from Alberta Transportation.

Check Roadata Services Ltd.’s weight charts page.

Last Updated: March 12, 2021

8. Where can I find information about road conditions in Alberta?

Alberta Motor Association provides road report information through their website.

511 Alberta provides province-wide updates about roads in Alberta.

Last Updated: March 12, 2021

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1. Where do I put the snow from my sidewalk and driveway?

As per Snow Removal Bylaw 018-11, any ice or snow removed from private property cannot be placed on the roadway or boulevard of a street. Please shovel the snow and ice onto your property.

Keeping extra snow off the roads mitigates three common issues:

1. Limits water pooling and ice build up during the freeze/thaw cycle from Chinooks.

2. Helps the storm water system absorb both melting snow and rainfall more efficiently in the spring.

3. Makes street sweeping in the spring easier. Larger piles of snow and ice take longer to melt. They are a safety hazard for crews and can cause damage to street sweeping equipment.

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1. What time of year does street sweeping start? How long will it take?

The official start date changes every year depending on the weather.

It typically beings in mid to late April after all the snow/ice has melted and temperatures stay above 0 degrees Celsius.

Additionally, schedules also consider time for equipment maintenance and weather delays (rain and/or snow events).

Chestermere has over 110 kilometres of roadways. For comparison – that is roughly the same distance as driving between Chestermere and Canmore. Considering both sides of the road will be swept, this doubles the length to over 220 kilometres!

It takes about 9 weeks to sweep both directions of the roadway and all curbs, gutters, and medians.

Check the City’s website at chestermere.ca/sweeping and follow the City’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages for street sweeping updates.

Last updated: March 18, 2021

2. Where can I find the street sweeping zone map?

The street sweeping zone map may be viewed on chestermere.ca/sweeping under the ‘Street Sweeping Map’ tab.

Click here for the full sized PDF map.

Last Updated: April 6, 2023

3. I saw the sweepers working on my street even though it is not our scheduled week, why?

Sweepers may visit an area prior to their scheduled dates, often to get a head start on large material (gravel) bulk sweeping.

This is done to remove material from high traffic areas, the middle of the street, along curbs/gutters, and around medians.

Doing so limits traffic interruptions, and increases cost and operational efficiency.

You are not required to move your vehicle unless signage is posted and it is your area’s scheduled week for sweeping.

Last updated: March 18, 2021 

4. Why is one zone scheduled ahead of another zone?

Street sweeping schedules are reviewed and adjusted as needed. If a zone was last for a couple years, it may get moved ahead in future years.

Chestermere Blvd and the commercial areas are usually completed first as these are our highest traffic and most visible areas. The team often works evenings and weekends to limit traffic interruptions in these areas when they are being completed.

Additionally, schedules also consider time for equipment maintenance and weather delays (rain and/or snow events).

Last Updated: March 18, 2021

5. I live in a new community. Why has my street not been swept?

Communities that are new construction are the responsibility of the developer to maintain.

The street sweeping zone map has areas under developer control labeled.

Please contact the developer for your area for all roads-related inquires, including street sweeping. 

Last updated: April 22, 2021

6. My curbside collection for blue, green, and/or black bin is scheduled for the same time as street sweeping, what do I do?

Please continue to put your bins out on their regularly scheduled day.

Roads and Environmental Services teams are coordinating to limit sweeping in your area on collection days.

Find out more about curbside collection at chestermere.ca/recycle.

Last updated: March 18, 2021

7. What time of day do sweepers operate?

Street sweepers operate Monday – Friday from 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM, excluding holidays.

Crews may operate in the evening to complete major roadways and commercials areas. This is done to limit traffic disruptions and increase operational efficiency. 

Last Updated: March 18, 2021

8. What should I do when I see street sweeping signs posted in my area?

Signage is posted a minimum of 24 hours in advance of crews starting street sweeping.

There are a few things you can do to help sweepers pick up the most materials possible when they are in your area:

• Remove all obstacles from the roadway such as driveway ramps, toys, basketball hoops etc. to allow the street sweeper to get as close as possible to the curb.
• Please ensure all vehicles, including trailers and RV’s, are moved from the street for the week your street is scheduled.

Keep in mind, if you do not move your vehicle, the street sweepers will go around your vehicle. 

During final inspection at the end of the week – any areas not completed due to unmoved vehicles or other obstacles will not swept.

If the vehicle is not moved by the end of the week, you may be ticketed ($75 fine) - as per Bylaw 011-13.

Last updated: March 18, 2021 

9. When can I move my vehicle back on to the street?

Street sweepers operate Monday – Friday from 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM, excluding holidays.

Please keep vehicles and other objects off the street each day during the hours listed above when scheduled.

Check the schedule and more information at chestermere.ca/sweeping.

Last Updated: April 22, 2021

10. Why does street sweeping take so long?

There are over 110 kilometres of roads in Chestermere. It takes at least 2 passes in each direction to clean the road, curbs, medians, and gutters properly. For comparison – that is roughly the same distance as driving round trip between Chestermere and Canmore.

Neighbourhoods vary in density and size. Where possible, they are broken up into zones to reflect about one week of time.

Additionally, schedules are also designed to factor in buffer time for weather delays, equipment maintenance, and daily sweeper unloading.

Last Updated: March 18, 2021

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1. How Do I Order a Tax Certificate?

Requests are required to be in writing via fax (403) 569-0512 or email at taxes@chestermere.ca. The Tax Department will prepare and fax your certificate within two working days.

2. How Much Is a Tax Certificate?

The cost for a tax certificate is $30. Proof of payment in the form of credit card information or a faxed copy of a cheque payable to the City of Chestermere must be received before a request is processed.

3. What Information Does the Tax Certificate Include?

Tax certificates will provide the roll number, legal description, property address, owners, levy, current balance, arrears, and any monthly tax payment plan amount.

4. Can I Order My Tax Certificate Online?

Not yet, however, the City of Chestermere is planning to launch an online system. An application form from the tax department will be necessary to set up an account and password. Certificates will then be ordered online using a credit card payment option.

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1. Why do I receive a property tax bill when I am on the TIPPs program? Do I have to pay?

If you are on the TIPPS program, you are not required to make any additional payments. The adjusted installments will continue on a monthly basis. The property tax notice is sent to every resident for information and payment purposes.

2. What is the TIPPS program and how can I sign up?

The Tax Installment Payment Program (TIPPs) is an optional plan is available to pay taxes by automatic monthly debit from your bank account. As a TIPP participant, you are not required to make an annual tax payment. Your taxes can be paid in monthly installments on the 15th of each month and adjusted automatically twice a year to reflect any tax changes for the current year.

More TIPPs Information and Forms

3. Why do I have to pay school taxes when I do not have children in school?

The Education tax is legislated by the Government of Alberta. As such, the City of Chestermere collects the tax on behalf of the provincial government and forwards the balance. Every citizen is responsible for this tax, regardless of family status.

4. What is the WID Fee on my Tax notice?

The Western Irrigation District Fee is paid by all Chestermere residents (households) for lake level management.

5. How is the TIPPs amount calculated?

The City’s tax schedule follows the calendar year. Since the notices are issued in the middle of the year your first 6 months of payments will differ from the last 6 months of payments. The first six months plus the last six months, will equal your tax levy. The credited amount indicated on your notice indicates payments you have made for the months of January to May of the current year.

6. What are the implications of late payments or non payment of my property taxes?

If property taxes are not paid by the stated dates as per your assessment, a 7% penalty will be applied in August and November. If your account remains outstanding for two years, your property will have a lien applied with the land title office. After two years, your property will be put up for auction.

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1. Why do we have so many lake weeds?

Water temperature, depth, water quality and lake usage all play a part in weed quantity. 

The lake weeds multiply when they break up, float around, and then establish new colonies. A new plant can start from a tiny piece of an existing one. 

The most common form of weed in Chestermere Lake is the Northern Milfoil. 

Last Updated: June 8, 2022

2. What are the harvesters for?

The City operates three aquatic weed harvesters and a barge. They operate from July 1 – Aug 31 each year. Depending on weed growth, harvesters may begin cutting earlier or cut later into September. The harvesters cut and remove lake weeds and other debris to ensure that Chestermere Lake remains safe for recreational and boating activities. Harvesting also reduces the clogging of the Western Irrigation District (WID) irrigation system.

Last Updated: June 8, 2022

3. How many kilograms of lake weeds are removed by the harvesters?

A breakdown of weed harvesting volumes from 2018 to 2021 is below:

2018 

• 215.5 trailer loads
• 342,645 kg

2019 

• 238 trailer loads
• 378,420 kg

2020

• 202.25 trailer loads
• 321,577.5 kg

2021

• 244.25 trailer loads
• 388,357.5 kg

On average, seasonal staff spend about 2,040 hours in total on the harvesting program. This results in regularly removing over 200 trailer loads of lake weeds, ultimately being converted into compost material.

Last Update: June 8, 2022

 

4. Is there a schedule the harvester operators follow?

The harvester operators follow a set schedule based on the historical prevalence and location of weeds. Although they typically adhere to a regular “route”, picking up where they left off the day before, this route may vary depending on operator discretion. They also focus on floating weed masses and known areas with high weed populations.

The harvester machine can only cut weeds down to a depth of 2m. This means that the weeds still grow on the lake bottom. As such, this program keeps weed growth in check during the season but does not prevent them from growing. 

Last Updated: June 8, 2022

5. How do lakefront home owners collect lake weeds?

Every summer, the lakefront owners help out by collecting floating weeds and hand harvesting weeds on and around their shoreline. 

This task involves putting the weeds into lake weed carts that are picked up by the City's Environmental Services team for a 12-week period in the summer months.

This collaboration ensures that Chestermere Lake continues to be a key recreational amenity for everyone to enjoy.

Last Updated: June 8, 2022

6. Where do the weeds go after they are harvested from the lake?

The lake weeds are hauled by truck to the City’s Eco Centre. 

About the Compost: the lake weeds are deposited, screened of debris, turned regularly for several months, and mixed with other soil to create good compost material. The process takes place for approximately one year. The larger clumps are screened out and the remaining compost is made available to residents.

Picking Up Compost: Residents must bring their own shovels and bins: these are not provided at the depot. Staff are not available to help load material. Please take only what you need - you cannot take a full truckload. 

Last Updated: June 8, 2022