Turf Operations is mandated by City Policy C614 which ensures that turf grass areas are well-maintained for recreational and wellness activities. This allows residents to enjoy green spaces in their local areas and to use these spaces for a variety of purposes—ranging from passive enjoyment to active recreation. The team's efforts make it possible for people to gather, participate in affordable recreational activities, live healthily, and host events throughout the city.
The City maintains 4069 hectares of turf grass throughout our open spaces, along roadways, and in parks. These areas are mowed and trimmed and kept clean of garbage during the operating season.
To keep our city attractive and active, grass is maintained from May until October. The City uses the latest technology to enhance the quality of your green spaces while respecting our environment.
Turf Operations also collaborates with Naturalization on reverting select sections of City green spaces to a more natural state through naturalization.
Service Levels
For more information on service levels in parks and open spaces, please visit Parkland Care.
Mowing is the cutting of turf grass areas with the use of ride-on mowing equipment and push-mowers.
For more information on the service levels of turf grass areas, visit Parkland Care.
Trimming is the process of cutting down tall grasses using a tool called a line trimmer, or a weed whacker. This task is completed around fixed objects such as fences, trees, light poles, signs, benches, and areas mowers cannot reach.
Trimming Service Levels
There will be 2 trimming cycles this season. The first cycle is set to conclude by July 31. A second cycle is scheduled for completion by September 30.
Mowing Map
For more information on service levels in parks and open spaces, please visit Parkland Care.
The Mowing Map shows when turf was last mowed in City-maintained parks and open spaces, and how often mowing will occur in each area.
Mowing Fleet Transition to BIO-Oil in 2025
Beginning in 2025, the majority of mower fleet units will switch to environmentally friendly biodegradable hydraulic oil. This eliminates the need for land remediation following hydraulic spills, reduces cleanup efforts and prevents land and water contamination in open spaces.
Going Green on Turf Maintenance
Keeping our city "green" means respecting the environment. The City of Edmonton is committed to turf maintenance practices that make economic and environmental sense. As outlined in our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Policy C501A, the City minimizes the use of pesticides and uses them responsibly when they are required.
Herbicide Reduction
Research into biological rather than chemical weed control is being pursued. Only when necessary is herbicide applied to control noxious weeds, and weeds that would impact safety and enjoyment of our green spaces (broadleaf weeds are managed on active turf like sports fields to reduce slip and trip risks; see IPM for Landscapes in British Columbia).
All herbicide applications meet Environmental Protection legislation and Broadleaf Weed Control Standards established by City Council. Strict safety precautions are taken to protect public, employees and environmental health.
Spraying information is advertised in local community newsletters and newspapers. Signs at treatment sites are posted to inform the public of herbicide application for 48 hours after spraying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. A person shall maintain any boulevard adjacent to the land they own or occupy by keeping any grass on the boulevard cut to a reasonable length as per Community Standards Bylaw 14600.
This task falls under the responsibilities of the horticulture team and will be managed as part of their regular routes. The turf and horticulture teams are piloting a project to combine trimming activities between both teams in selected areas in the City. This project will be looking for increased efficiencies within both teams to enhance the services that we provide.
The city uses various sizes of mowers. Large mowers are used for larger open spaces and smaller mowers are used for smaller areas. Based on the work routing, the larger and smaller mowers may not always align to be at the park on the same day.
The current approved funding allows for two trimming cycles this season. Trimming schedules may not always align with the mowing cycles; nevertheless, the trimming crews will proceed to these locations along their scheduled routes.
Contact Us
311 Contact Centre
Phone 311 | Outside Edmonton and Video Relay Service (VRS): 780-442-5311 | TTY 711