New Jasper construction subject to new rules after fire [Video]

As Jasper residents navigate rebuilding their homes, Ottawa has launched a rebuilding guide to help simplify the process.

• Complete coverage of the 2024 Alberta wildfire season

After receiving feedback from Jasper’s mayor and council, Parks Canada also revealed on Wednesday new land-use policies.

In the future, residents and visitors will see less wood design elements within the town than they are used to. The new policies prohibit new wood siding or roofing, require a 1.5-metre buffer zone of non-flammable materials around a home, and require new coniferous trees be planted at least 10 metres away from a building.

Parks Canada says heavy timber log construction is still allowed and “aligns with the bold, robust detailing that is emblematic of mountain architecture.”

Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper have created a five-phase plan to help rebuild the town. The steps include understanding what insurance will cover, retaining professionals, and designing the build and submitting permit applications. 

A five …