Elements of Form-based Zoning - Form-based Zones

Form-based Zones are based on function and form as a geographic entity, rather than strictly on a single use. Each Zone focuses on the built form and its relationship to the Public Realm through urban design.

The emphasis placed on physical form is intended to produce a safe, attractive and enjoyable Public Realm complemented with a healthy mix of uses. With proper urban form, a greater integration of building uses and densities is natural and comfortable.

The Form-based Zones better facilitate development that achieves St. Albert's four Smart Growth principles.

Form-based Zones (PDF)

St. Albert's Form-based Zoning will consist of four key elements. The first key element is Form-based Zones.

Five Form-based Zones

  • Form-based Neighbourhood (FBN)
    • is developed around a pedestrian pocket with a radius of approximately 400 metres, which allows for a leisurely five-minute walk to destinations
    • a residential neighbourhood based on traditional urban form, and is readily linked with local and nearby destinations and adjacent neighbourhoods
    • has a Neighbourhood Activity Centre as a focal point
  • Neighbourhood Activity Centre (NAC)
    • a neighbourhood centre with a higher intensity of development
    • these destination nodes shall encourage a mix of residential, retail, office and civic uses and spaces in a compact, physical arrangement, easily accessible by all neighbourhood residents
  • Transit-Oriented Development Zone (TOD)
    • is a walkable, mixed-use, high density development
    • focused around a transit station to make transit convenient for more people
    • is a primary destination and generally incorporates a mix of residential, employment, leisure and shopping opportunities designed primarily for the pedestrian, but without excluding the automobile
  • Large-Format Commercial Zone (LFC)
    • allows for commercial development but provides guidelines and standards about design and road systems on the site
    • more inclusive of pedestrians, transit and bicycles while maintaining easy access for automobiles
  • Form-based Business/Industrial Park Zone (FBP)
    • allows for industry and business development but provides guidelines and standards that help ensure such developments provide the higher-quality environment that will attract both business and workers
    • contains a central pedestrian-oriented public space as an amenity to employees in the zone
 Form-Based Zones
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