By Troy Gillard (Twitter: @Troy_Gillard)

Sylvan Lake bylaw would ban cannabis consumption in public places

Jun 12, 2018 | 3:27 PM

Sylvan Lake Town Council has given first reading to a new bylaw banning the consumption of cannabis in public places.

Councillor Jas Payne asked Town administration to come up with a Cannabis Consumption Bylaw that imposes further restrictions than those contained in the Smoke Free Bylaw. Payne’s motion received unanimous support from council during their meeting on May 28.

Proposed fines for those who violate the new bylaw range from $250 for a first offence to $1000 for a third or subsequent offence.

Those with a prescription for medical cannabis are not subject to the ban, but must abide by the Town’s Smoke Free Bylaw.

“Much of what is included in the bylaw came from the public consultations held earlier this year,” says Town Communications Officer Joanne Gaudet. “What we’re trying to do is balance economic growth opportunities without taking away from quality of life.”

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The City of Calgary is currently the only other Alberta municipality that plans to impose a complete ban on the consumption of cannabis in public places.

Prior to the bylaw coming to Sylvan Lake council for second reading, administration will work to clarify the differences between public (town/government-owned) property and public places which are subject to the bylaw.

Also this week, council approved land use bylaw amendments regarding cannabis retail use and sales.

Cannabis Retail Sales has been added as a discretionary use in three commercial districts (neighbourhood convenience, neighbourhood shopping centre and highway commercial districts) and two direct control districts.

The amendment aims to encourage an even distribution of cannabis retailers within Sylvan Lake and avoid clustering. Town officials also say it presents an opportunity to increase foot traffic in these areas and revitalize commercial activity, particularly in the downtown.

Of note, retail cannabis stores must be located at least 150 metres away from public playgrounds.