Municipal Mini: How Does the Bylaw Approval Process Work?

Residents sometimes ask why some bylaws receive first, second, and third readings during the same Council meeting. The short answer is: Alberta legislation allows it in certain situations. 

Under Alberta’s Municipal Government Act (Section 187), all bylaws must receive three readings before they can be passed. These readings give Council opportunities to review, discuss, and vote on proposed bylaws. 

Each reading serves a purpose: 

• First Reading introduces the proposed bylaw and allows Council to decide whether it should move forward for consideration.
• Second Reading is where Council debates the bylaw, discusses details, and may propose amendments.
• Third Reading is the final approval step before the bylaw can take effect. 

In most cases, these readings happen across multiple meetings. However, Alberta legislation also allows Council to proceed with all three readings at a single meeting if all councillors present unanimously agree to do so. 

Council might choose this fast-track approach when timing is critical or to ensure that boards, committees, or municipal processes can continue operating without interruption. Some bylaws cannot be rushed because they require additional steps, such as advertising or public hearings, before they can proceed. For example, public hearings are legally required for any bylaws that relate to the following: 

• Intermunicipal Development Plans
• Area Structure Plans
• Area Development Plans
• Land Use
• Use & Disposition of Reserve Land  

Council meetings, agendas, and minutes are available to the public through the Town of Olds website, helping residents stay informed about upcoming decisions and bylaws under consideration.