Okotoks Municipal Centre re-opening March 9

In response to step two of the Government of Alberta’s path forward strategy, the Town is pleased to be able to re-open the Municipal Centre effective Tuesday, March 9 with regular business hours. Service will also continue to be offered by phone, email and online.

Please note that Council meetings will continue to be held virtually, and, with in-person meetings still not possible and many staff working remotely, residents will need to contact Town representatives through phone or email.
Mandatory masks, physical distancing and other Alberta Health Services safety measures remain in place.

Get up-to-date info on Town's response

Spring cleaning? Keep your family safe from household chemicals 

Chemicals you use in your home can be dangerous to your health and the environment. Even if your cleansing wipes are running low, please do not mix cleaning products when disinfecting your home. DO NOT MIX:

• Bleach & vinegar = toxic chlorine gas
• Bleach & ammonia = toxic chloroform vapors
• Bleach & rubbing alcohol = chloroform
• Hydrogen peroxide & vinegar = Peracetic acid

You can dispose of household hazardous waste at the Eco Centre.

What goes to the Eco Centre

Change your clocks, check your batteries

Daylight saving time officially starts on Sunday, March 14 at 2 a.m. While your phones and computers will automatically "spring forward" one hour earlier, you'll still need to check your ovens, microwaves, and most importantly, your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Please replace the batteries in each detector. Make sure you have smoke detectors installed inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home (including the basement).

Learn more

Need a hand with basic tax returns?

Filing taxes – even if you have no income to report – may qualify you to receive various government benefits. Volunteers with the free Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) can give you a hand completing your simple tax return. Call 403-995-2626 to make an intake appointment.

Find eligibility info

Black Knot? Call the Horticulture Hotline

Black knot is a fungal disease found on Schubert chokecherry, western (native) chokecherry and mayday trees. The fungus is easy to see in the fall/winter; look for swellings on branches that are hard, brownish black lumps. During this time, prune out the fungus below the infection and dispose in the garbage or by burning. The Town manages black knot by pruning all susceptible species in manicured areas yearly and by planting alternate species. Black knot in natural areas within the town is not removed as the fungus is native. Contact the Horticulture Hotline at 403-995-6333 or email horticulture@okotoks.ca.

Find how to ID tree & shrub diseases

Grass and concrete swales: Keeping your property safe

Swales often run along the back or side of residential properties. They are in place to help facilitate proper storm drainage and prevent flooding and damage to your and your neighbour’s property.

Property owners are responsible for keeping swales located on their property clear of all debris. If you or your neighbour have a swale, please be aware of related building restrictions and guidelines for your swale maintenance. It’s important for property owners to keep these areas clear of snow and ice, especially prior to spring run-off. Failing to do so could cause overland flooding and potential property damage.

Swale information

Seniors, your stories can help others facing challenges

Project SOS: Share Our Stories is a writing opportunity for seniors to share their stories of resiliency so that they can help others who are facing challenges. We invite you to share a story or two about a difficult time in your life and how you got through it. Starting March 10, we will begin sharing stories we’ve received every Wednesday! Check back weekly to read new stories of resiliency. 

Share your stories

Help create a connected community

When you sign up to be a Community Champion, you’ll receive a toolkit filled with fun ways to get to know your neighbours and stay connected. You can also participate in a weekly challenge and be entered in a draw for a $25 gift card to a local business of your choice!

Make #OkotoksStrongerTogether by sharing your stories of supporting and caring for others in our community and nominate someone for Kindness Currency, or Gift It Forward with a surprise gift bag to someone making a difference!

Okotoks Stronger Together

Bylaw relaxed to allow front yard fire pits

The Okotoks Fire Department is supporting the community with more variety in outdoor recreation by permitting front yard fire pits. Don’t forget that fires need to be contained in an approved gas or wood burning fire pit under adult supervision while maintaining at least two metres from any structure or combustibles. Please follow the current Alberta Health Services direction for outdoor gatherings which can be found on their website.

Watch the video to learn more

Don't forget to buckle up!

Okotoks Municipal Enforcement reminds you that the most effective way to reduce the chance of injury or death in a motor vehicle collision is by wearing a seatbelt. The penalty for seatbelt infractions is a fine of $162. It’s also the driver’s responsibility to ensure that passengers under the age of 16 are buckled up. Young children under six years of age and 18 kilograms or less must travel in the appropriate child safety seats. If a child is not correctly restrained, the driver can be issued fines under the Vehicle Equipment Regulations.

Learn about traffic safety

Property Assessment inquiry period

The 2021 property assessment inquiry period lasts until March 15. This provides an opportunity for property owners to review their assessment and, if necessary, make an inquiry. Call 403-995-6313 or email assessment@okotoks.ca to discuss your assessment with an assessor.

Property assessment info