DRAS is now live for Water Act approval applications, amendment applications, and Code of Practice notices
Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP) continues to modernize its regulatory system to reduce red tape, create efficiencies, and enhance transparency while still maintaining high environmental standards. One initiative to support modernizing Alberta’s regulatory system is the creation of the Digital Regulatory Assurance System (DRAS), which went live on June 21, 2021 and is the only system for submitting and tracking Water Act approvals, amendment applications, and Code of Practice notices. DRAS is designed to provide clear, upfront expectations to applicants and will be used to manage the entire lifecycle of a project, from application to authorization, monitoring and compliance reporting, to remediation and closure.
DRAS will provide applicants:
- the ability to track the status of an application in real time
- the ability to apply for one project with multiple activities via an integrated application
- a clear decision-making process
DRAS is now available for access and includes multiple ways to get assistance.
- Knowledge articles within DRAS are searchable and provide users with key information
- “Get Help” tab that enables DRAS users to submit online requests for business related or technical assistance
- Email or phone support requests, which can be submitted to support@gov.ab.ca or at 780.427.6311
For more information on DRAS, including links to registration for orientation and training sessions, visit the DRAS webpage.
DRAS will be rolled out in stages throughout 2021 to 2023. By mid-2023, all applications will be moved online to DRAS, supporting all authorization types managed by AEP under the Water Act, Public Lands Act, and Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act.
RMA staff will continue to update members through Contact on DRAS progress.
Alex Mochid
Policy Advisor
780.955.4085
alex@RMAlberta.com
Tasha Blumenthal
Director of External Relations & Advocacy
780.955.4094
tasha@RMAlberta.com