Stettler property owners who fail to clearly display their civic addresses could face fines under a new bylaw passed by town council.
Council approved an addressing bylaw during its June 16 meeting, introducing an escalating fine structure on missing or unreadable house numbers.
A first infraction will cost property owners $250, a second jumps to $500, and a third offense would trigger a $1,000 penalty upon conviction.
The issue has become problematic on commercial and residential lots containing multiple units which frequently share a single legal address but lack clear internal signage.
Coun. Dusty Myshrall, said the change will save vital time when lives are on the line.
“Throughout my career as a paramedic, I’ve responded to emergencies where every second mattered,” Myshrall said in a statement.
“In those moments, something as simple as a clearly visible address can help responders find the right property faster and begin providing care sooner. This bylaw is a simple step that can make a meaningful difference in protecting public safety throughout our community.”
The law also addresses the town’s growing footprint. Owners of newly annexed properties will be permitted to keep their existing rural addresses until the town’s chief administrative officer issues a new one.
Once notified of a change, owners have a 90-day window to remove old rural signage and post their official town address.
Town officials are recommending residents review their properties immediately to ensure all numbers are visible from the roadway.
Residents are also encouraged to support local businesses when purchasing address markers.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
