Some Calgarians view dandelions or broadleaf weeds as a harmless plant, an important food source for bees, or a salad ingredient. Others may not share the same love for this hardy and fast-growing plant.
The Alberta Weed Control Act lists noxious and prohibited noxious weeds that must be controlled or eradicated to comply with provincial legislation. Dandelions are not considered a noxious weed under the Weed Control Act. The City of Calgary takes an integrated approach to manage weeds, including dandelions, through various techniques to encourage healthy grass/turf growth.
The City of Calgary does not use herbicides for cosmetic purposes. Dandelions are very hardy and adaptable and can grow even in poor soil conditions. The healthier the grass is, the more it can out-compete dandelions for water and nutrients. Turf management practices, like aerating, fertilizing and good watering practices to help encourage healthy turf growth. On occasion, the City will use herbicides as one tool to assist in the attempt to control weed populations. When herbicides are used it will likely be on a high-use sports field where high numbers of weeds can cause safety issues and will be used in conjunction with other techniques such as aerating and fertilizing. All herbicides are Health Canada approved and are applied by trained professionals in only as needed amounts.
You can find out when herbicide is being applied around Calgary by visiting the pesticide and herbicide page on Calgary.ca.
Herbicide applications are currently not scheduled for Douglas Quarry in 2025.
What can you do about weeds on your personal property?
Calgary bylaws do not prohibit dandelions on private property. However, grass and other herbaceous plants must be kept shorter than six inches. Some people prefer to keep their lawns dandelion-free. Techniques to do that without using herbicides include:
• Routinely pulling broadleaf weeds out by their roots, especially before they go to seed.
• Good turf management (water, aerating, topdressing, overseeding, etc.).
• Keep your grass at least three inches long so it shades its own roots from the sun, chokes out pesky weeds and holds moisture better.
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DouglasQuarry Community Association
Serving Douglas Glen, Douglasdale & Quarry Park
