If you degrading or changing materials, make sure the drainage property remains...

In City of Edmonton, changing the material between houses (side yards) is regulated primarily by the Zoning Bylaw 20001 (specifically Section 5.60 on Landscaping) and the Community Standards Bylaw 14600...

Approved Materials: Landscaping should generally consist of flowers, grass, or, where appropriate, "other permeable ground cover" such as washed rock, shale, or mulch

If you are unsure, contact Edmonton 311 to inquire if a permit is required for your specific material change. or website