New anti-bullying and harassment rules help keep Chestermere’s parks, paths, and playgrounds safe
Chestermere has updated its Anti-Bullying and Harassment Bylaw (#011-25) to set clear expectations for behaviour in any public place.
What counts as bullying or harassment?
- Bullying: verbal or physical abuse, threats, taunts, name-calling, or repeated hurtful behaviour, in person or online.
- Harassment: communication, comments, or actions that could reasonably cause offence, intimidation, or humiliation, including those based on personal characteristics such as race, religion, disability, age, gender, or sexual orientation.
Four things everyone should know
- No bullying or harassment in public, or where it can be seen from a public place.
- No cheering it on. Encouraging or filming to promote the behaviour is also an offence.
- Parents must step in. If the City lets you know your child is bullying or harassing, you must take reasonable steps to stop it.
- No faking it. Staging or pretending to be a victim to get someone in trouble is prohibited.
What happens if the rules are broken?
Bullying tickets start at $1,000 and harassment tickets start at $500, with higher penalties for repeat offences. Peace Officers can issue a remedial order that requires the behaviour to stop. Ignoring an order can result in a $2,500 ticket. In appropriate cases, officers may use diversion options such as apologies, community service, or restorative-justice meetings.
Why the update matters
“Bullying and harassment have real impacts on mental health and community well-being,” said Mayor Shannon Dean. “By putting these rules front and centre, we are telling residents and visitors alike that respect is non-negotiable in Chestermere.”
How to report bullying or harassment
- Emergency or violence in progress: Call 9-1-1.
- Non-emergency concerns in public spaces:
- Municipal Enforcement (Community Peace Officers) 403-207-8154
- Chestermere RCMP non-emergency (after hours) 403-204-8900
Please share the location, time and any details or video if it is safe to do so.
Need support?
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 | kidshelpphone.ca
- 211 Alberta: call or text 211 for provincial counselling and social services
- City’s Community Wellness Services: 403-207-7079
- Parent & Caregiver Support (ages 0-13): 403-207-7050 ext. 7135
Together, we can make every public space in Chestermere welcoming and safe for all.