Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks

An Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework (ICF) is a tool used to facilitate cooperation between neighbouring municipalities, delivering shared services in an efficient and cost-effective manner. For example, ICFs can include services such as fire response or bylaw enforcement.

ICFs set clear expectations of how services will be delivered and funded, outlining the steps municipalities will follow to resolve any disputes. They also include processes for reviewing the agreement and updating it as needed over time.

By establishing shared expectations and clear service agreements, ICFs create a foundation for cooperation between municipalities.

Why Do We Have ICFs?

ICFs are required under Alberta's Municipal Government Act (MGA) for all municipalities that share a border.

Many municipal services cross borders, and are costly to deliver on their own, or are used by residents from more than one community. Without coordination, municipalities may duplicate services and infrastructure, overspend, or offer inconsistent service levels. ICFs help municipalities work together, reduce unnecessary costs and make better use of taxpayer dollars.

Service Areas

All ICFs must address five key service areas: 

  • Transportation
  • Water and sewer services
  • Solid waste
  • Emergency services
  • Recreation 

Impacts of the EMRB disbandment 

Prior to its disbandment on March 31, 2025, of the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Board (EMRB) provided a regional forum and coordinated policy framework for growth, land use, and servicing decisions for its member municipalities. With the EMRB now disbanded, neighbouring municipalities must manage these relationships directly. As a result, Parkland County is required under Alberta’s Municipal Government Act to establish new Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks (ICFs) and Intermunicipal Development Plans (IDPs) with former members of the EMRB, such as the City of EdmontonCity of Spruce Grove, and Town of Stony Plain. These agreements will formalize how municipalities work together on shared services, infrastructure, land use planning, and dispute resolution, ensuring continued coordination, responsible growth management, and protection of long-term regional interests.

  • City of Edmonton
  • City of Spruce Grove
  • Town of Stony Plain
  • Town of Devon
  • Sturgeon County
  • Lac Ste. Anne County
  • Leduc County*
  • Brazeau County
  • Yellowhead County
  • Village of Spring Lake
  • Betula Beach
  • Kapasiwin
  • Lakeview
  • Point Alison
  • Seba Beach 

Opt Out Agreements

In compliance with Section 708.28 of theMunicipal Government Act, municipal districts (counties) with common boundaries are exempt from creating a framework if both municipal districts determine and agree that they do not require one.  

On August 19, 2025, administration from both Parkland County and Leduc County met to review land use, development, and shared services along the shared boundary.  

The North Saskatchewan River forms the boundary between the two counties, providing a natural buffer that minimizes the potential for land use conflicts. The surrounding land is largely agricultural, and existing planning frameworks are sufficient to manage development.  

Both municipalities also agreed that our shared services are managed well through the existing service agreements, and an ICF is not required to adequately provide these services across our borders. 

Based on this review, both municipalities agreed that neither an ICF nor an IDP is required at this time. 

Contact Us

Parkland County Centre
53109A HWY 779, Parkland County, AB T7Z 1R1

General Office: 780-968-8888
Toll Free: 1-888-880-0858
After hours: 780-968-8400
Email: hello@parklandcounty.com

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