Council approves 2026 Property Tax Bylaw with no increase to municipal tax rates

At the April 28 meeting, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo Council approved the 2026 Property Tax Rate Bylaw with no changes to municipal tax rates. 

“We continue to be focused on being responsible and mindful of the impact our collective decisions have on the region,” said Mayor Sandy Bowman. “Supporting some of the lowest municipal property tax rates anywhere is part of that approach and we thank everyone involved in this year’s process.” 

Over the past decade, Council and Administration’s focus on fiscal responsibility and cost control has reduced the annual municipal property tax revenue by a total of $247 million. In 2026, the Municipality will collect approximately $519 million in municipal property taxes, compared to $766 million in 2016.   

Property taxes fund the programs, services and infrastructure projects outlined in the Municipality’s approved operating and capital budgets. Property tax bills are calculated using the assessed value of properties and the accompanying tax rate and are paid to the Municipality annually. 

Provincial education tax increases slightly for non-residential properties 

In addition to municipal taxes, the Municipality collects education property taxes on behalf of the Province. In 2026, approximately $81 million will be collected locally to support provincial education funding. Under provincial legislation, all property owners contribute to education taxes, regardless of school enrolment. 

This year, the Province increased its education budget and the education tax rate for non-residential properties in the RMWB by 2.31%.  

Watch for property tax notices in the mail next month   

Property tax notices will be mailed to all property owners in May. The deadline to pay property taxes is Tuesday, June 30, 2026. Late penalties will be applied to any unpaid balances after this date. 

Support programs are available to help residents and business owners manage their property tax payments, including the Tax Instalment Payment Plan and the Rural Small Business Tax Class. 

Find more information about tax rates, payment options, notices and support programs at rmwb.ca/taxes.  

For questions, contact Pulse at 780-743-7000,1-800-973-9663 or rmwb.ca/pulse. 

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