(Cochrane, AB) - The Town of Cochrane is introducing a new Community Standards Bylaw designed to address minor social disorder offences at the municipal level, and support the town’s long-term vision for safety, cleanliness and livability.
The proposed bylaw significantly enhances local enforcement capabilities by establishing a municipal framework that addresses minor anti-social behaviors outside the criminal justice system. This approach represents an important shift from purely criminal charges to municipal bylaw enforcement.
In October 2024, the provincial government provided Community Justice Grant funding to help establish a local framework to manage minor anti-social behaviors outside of the criminal justice system. The proposed bylaw empowers both RCMP and Community Peace Officers to handle issues such as public disturbances, vandalism, graffiti, fighting, aggressive panhandling and other forms of public disorder at the municipal level. Historically, these cases relied solely on RCMP intervention through criminal charges, which led to high costs, resource strains and delays due to an overburdened justice system. The new bylaw provides an alternative enforcement approach through municipal bylaw enforcement rather than criminal charges, reducing reliance on RCMP resources and streamlining resolution of low-risk cases.
In addition to addressing social disorder, the bylaw consolidates and repeals three outdated regulations: the Nuisance and Unsightly Premises Bylaw (04/2007), the Noise Control Bylaw (16/2011) and the Snow Removal Bylaw (01/2009).
“This bylaw really reflects what we’ve heard from the community about keeping Cochrane safe, clean, and true to its small-town charm,” said Jay Judin, Director of Community Safety and Protective Services. “It tackles key concerns like traffic safety, preserving natural spaces and maintaining public areas. We’re rolling it out with officer training, public awareness campaigns and regular reviews to make sure it’s working for our residents.”
A key amendment within the bylaw is Section 16, which addresses construction noise hours. Over the past year, the Municipal Enforcement team has managed 31 construction noise complaints. The proposed changes shorten construction hours and aim to balance community livability with continued development:
• Current hours: 7 AM – 10 PM Monday-Saturday, 9 AM – 10 PM Sundays & Holidays
• Proposed hours: 7 AM – 9 PM Monday-Saturday, 9 AM – 8 PM Sundays & Holidays
To ensure flexibility, exemptions will be available for critical infrastructure projects Noise Exemption Permits can be obtained for emergencies or high-priority developments.
Residents are invited to learn more about this bylaw and provide their feedback at letstalkcochrane.ca/csbylaw.