The city is divided into five zones for grading. Work typically starts in Area 1 and progresses to Area 5. View the Lane Grading Map to find your zone.
Lane Grading
The City of Medicine Hat maintains approximately 140 km of gravel lanes. These lanes are inspected annually, and those needing attention are graded between April and October.
Help keep lanes clear
To ensure safe and effective maintenance, residents are required to remove any obstructions from lanes:
- Waste, yard, and recycling carts must be removed from the lane or street within 24 hours of collection, as per Waste Bylaw #1805.
- Other obstructions (trees, flowerbeds, vehicles, soil piles, etc.) must be cleared in accordance with Public Roads Bylaw #4346.
Clear lanes help City equipment operate efficiently and ensure safe access for emergency and service vehicles.
Watch Video: Lane grading: why keeping your lane clear is important
Safe distance
For your safety and the safety of our crews, please maintain a distance of at least 15 metres from City grading equipment while work is in progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will I know when my lane is going to be graded?
When does lane grading take place?
Grading occurs from April to October, usually between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m, Monday through Friday. Only lanes identified during inspection are graded.
What is an obstruction and why do I have to remove it from the lane?
Obstructions pose safety risks and hinder maintenance. Examples include:
- Trees and shrubs
- Flowerbeds or planters
- Sidewalk blocks
- Waste, yard or recycling carts
- Soil or debris piles
- Parked vehicles
Under Public Roads Bylaw #4346, residents must keep lanes clear at all times.
What about my garbage, recycling, or yard waste carts?
Carts must be removed within 24 hours after collection. The lane grading schedule is coordinated with the waste pickup calendar to help ensure lanes are clear when work is planned.
What will happen if I do not remove the obstruction?
You may be charged for removal costs under Public Roads Bylaw #4346. For concerns, please contact Bylaw Enforcement at 403-529-8400.
Will I still have access to my garage or backyard?
Access disruptions are minimal. However, for your safety, please avoid using the back lane while grading is underway in your area.
Will lane grading continue if it rains?
Grading may be delayed during or after rainfall, as wet conditions reduce effectiveness. Operations will resume when weather permits.
Contact Us
Roads & Sidewalks
88 Kipling St SE
Medicine Hat, Alberta
T1A 1Y3
P: 403-529-8177
F: 403-502-8040
Email us
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