Posted on May 26, 2025
Province is laying the foundation for faster approvals with the launch of a new task force aimed at accelerating regulatory processes for sand and gravel operations.
With sand, gravel and crushed stone being the backbone of the construction economy, and essential for building roads, homes and infrastructure, Alberta’s provincial government is launching the Sand and Gravel Task Force, a group dedicated to streamlining regulations related to sand and gravel pits located on private lands.
While these materials are heavily regulated to protect Alberta’s environment, landowners and operators have consistently voiced frustration that excessive red tape is creating unnecessary barriers to development and slowing down the delivery of sand and gravel to market, says the province. The task force’s mandate will be to find ways to ensure faster project timelines while continuing to uphold Alberta’s high environmental standards.
Led by Glenn van Dijken, MLA for Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock, and Brandon Lunty, MLA for Leduc-Beaumont, the task force will include representatives from industry and municipalities who understand the importance of timely access to sand and gravel resources. Over the next six months, the Sand and Gravel Task Force will deliver actionable recommendations focused on reducing bureaucratic delays, supporting landowners and strengthening Alberta’s aggregate supply chain.
“With the launch of the Sand and Gravel Task Force, we’re paving the way for a faster, smoother process. It’s time to stop graveling under bureaucracy and start building Alberta’s future,” stated Rebecca Schulz, Alberta’s minister of Environment and Protected Areas. “MLA van Dijken and MLA Lunty will leave no stone unturned as they dig into this important work.”
“From road infrastructure to industrial uses or residential housing, these resources are essential. Our government is determined to ensure the regulatory process around sand and gravel pits recognizes the need for efficiency and clarity,” added van Dijken.
There are currently more than 1,000 active sand and gravel pit registrations on private land across the province. These are regulated under the province’s Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act’s Code of Practice for Pits and the Water Act.
