RMWB Council Budget meeting Feb 3, 2026
FORT MCMURRAY — Today, April 1, updated user fees, rates and charges are taking effect across the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo following approval by council last fall.
The municipality says while most rates remain unchanged, adjustments have been made to a range of services, including increases to some landfill and cemetery fees, as well as certain assessment, taxation, planning and development charges. Some fees have also been reduced or eliminated.
Officials say the annual review of the Fees, Rates and Charges Bylaw is intended to better reflect the cost of delivering services, reduce reliance on property taxes and support a fiscally responsible budget.
The municipality says its rates remain among the lowest in Alberta following comparisons with similar jurisdictions.
Municipal services are funded through a combination of property taxes and user fees, depending on the service. Core services such as fire protection, policing, roads and parks are fully tax supported, while services like transit and recreation facilities are partially funded through user fees. Utilities and licences are funded entirely through user charges.
User fees are paid by residents who directly access specific services and are intended to offset the cost of providing them.
A full list of updated fees and charges is available on the municipality’s website.
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