Council Adjusts 2026 Fees and Rates with Strategic Service Adjustments | Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo
In a recent meeting on November 25, the Council approved the Administration's proposals to modify several user rates for municipal services. These changes will come into effect on April 1, 2026.
While most rates remain unchanged, some municipal services have seen increases, including landfill and cemetery fees, specific assessment and taxation charges, and certain planning and development services. Conversely, some fees have been decreased or eliminated.
A comprehensive list of all user fees, rates, and charges can be found in the Fees, Rates, and Charges schedule, accessible at https://www.rmwb.ca/media/02jibmtt/fees-rates-and-charges-schedule-2026.pdf.
Garbage and Recycling Services Updates:
Monthly curbside collection fees will increase by $4 to $5, depending on the location of the residence. Landfill disposal rates are being revised, with some fees rising, some falling, and others staying the same. Many items, such as compost, pet waste, yard clippings, and household electronic waste, will continue to be accepted without charge. Residents and businesses are advised to review the updated fee schedule and plan accordingly before the April 1, 2026, rate changes.
Planning and Development Permits Service Fees:
Residential and non-residential fees, including development permits, plumbing/gas, and appliance venting permits, will experience increases. To enhance clarity and transparency, overlapping fees have been consolidated.
No Changes to Transit Fares or Water Utility Rates:
Transit fares remain unchanged, except for the rural transit five-ride booklet for adults. RMWB transit fares continue to be among the lowest in Canada. Water utility rates for municipal water and wastewater services also remain unchanged, except for bulk water and sewage lagoon.
Sports Field Rentals Amendment:
The Council approved an amendment to the sports field rental rates, keeping them the same as the previous year.
Adjustments to Reduce Subsidy from Municipal Tax Base:
These adjustments are projected to generate approximately $1.8 million, which will help cover the costs of delivering services to residents and organizations, thereby reducing the subsidy from the municipal tax base. The Fees, Rates, and Charges Bylaw is reviewed and adjusted annually to better reflect the cost of individual services, reduce the subsidy from the tax base, and ensure a fiscally responsible budget.
Lowest Municipal Rates in Alberta:
During the annual review of the Fees, Rates, and Charges Bylaw, the Administration compares user rates with similar municipalities. The adjusted municipal rates remain among the lowest in Alberta. For the latest rates and more information on user fees and charges, visit rmwb.ca/userfees. The Fees, Rates, and Charges Bylaw No. 25/026 encompasses the user rates for all municipal services and aligns with the User Fees and Charges Council Policy FIN-030.
Contact Information:
For inquiries or additional information, residents can reach out to Pulse at 780-743-7000, 1-800-973-9663, or visit rmwb.ca/pulse.
