Education · 1 of 4

The path

There is no academy. Municipalities hire and then train.

  1. 1

    High school diploma

    Grade 12

    The minimum in most postings. Alberta's career service lists a high school diploma, a clean criminal record check and a clean driver's licence as the base requirements.

  2. 2

    Get a diploma or get experience

    0 to 2 years

    Most employers prefer a 2 year college diploma in criminal justice, police foundations or law enforcement. Up to two years of related experience can stand in for it.

  3. 3

    Start where the door is open

    1 to 2 years

    Parking enforcement, animal services, seasonal park patrol or a small town posting. These are the usual first jobs.

  4. 4

    Get appointed

    On hire

    A municipality appoints you as a bylaw enforcement officer and, in most provinces, as a provincial offences officer so your tickets stand up in court.

  5. 5

    Specialise

    Year 3 onward

    Property standards, licensing, noise, animal control or investigations. Senior roles run whole programs.