Living Near Our Valley & Ravine System

The City maintains the natural beauty and integrity of our river valley and ravine system as a valuable resource for all Edmontonians.

As part of protecting this natural asset the City requires separation between any development and the abutting valley or ravine. The Top of Bank Policy (Policy C542 - Development Setbacks from River Valley/Ravine Crests) provides more details.

Edmontonians who live near or beside the river valley and ravine system, can help to preserve slope stability and protect their investment by limiting changes to property and the use of water near the valleys and ravines.

If you live near or beside the river valley and ravine system you are responsible to:

1. Obtain the required City permits and approvals prior to any construction or landscaping activity. You can plan your residential project online.


2. In addition, you should avoid the following:
   
   • excessive watering of lawns, trees, shrubs and other vegetation.
   • installation and use of:
     • systems that retain water (includes swimming pools, ornamental ponds, hot tubs, kiddie pools, etc.)
     • permanent sprinkler or irrigation systems
     • geothermal devices (commonly understood as looping pipe systems that are installed below the ground and contain liquids)
     • roof leaders, downspouts and sump pumps discharge spouts that discharge onto the ground. In many cases these should be connected to the storm sewer system; and
   • disturbance of any natural vegetation
3. Without the prior authorization from the City, you may not commence any construction, excavation or grading.
   • No construction of any structure with permanent foundations
   • No grading or alteration of the property
   • No granular or rock landscaping which could result in a focused infiltration of water
   • No adding fill material (only permitted in accordance with an approved lot grading plan)

For some properties these restrictions may be found as caveats on title for property abutting the valley and ravine system. Where caveats exist the above restrictions must be followed.

Please call 311 if you are concerned about activity happening in the vicinity of the valley and ravine system. Once the City is notified, staff can investigate whether proper permits are in place.

For More Information

Permits and Licensing Service Centre