Section 7 of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) sets out the general jurisdiction to pass bylaws. This general jurisdiction gives broad authority to municipal councils to develop bylaws to govern the affairs of the municipality and to address matters that will affect the public.

In addition to creating a bylaw that meets general statutory and fundamental principle standards, a good bylaw needs to be drafted for certainty, predictability, democratic transparency, and accountability. Municipal administration aims to create bylaws that are understandable, enforceable, and accomplish the council’s desired goal.

Municipal by-laws cannot interfere with legislation or regulations mandated by provincial or federal governments; however, they can be developed to complement or supersede provincial legislation.