The procedures in place by the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo for restricted area access have been tightened up for Abasand, Beacon Hill, and Waterways neighborhoods. The new procedures are designed to enhance security in the restricted access areas by keeping anyone except owners and approved individuals out of the areas. Anyone who is not a resident of the restricted area that they are trying to enter must be accompanied by a resident or have written authorization from a resident in order to get through. Photo identification issued by the government will need to be provided in order to check in for restricted area access, and a police officer will record the check in information provided. Any passenger traveling with a resident must also check in and provide identification. Every individual who checks in must also check out.

One way that the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo has tightened up the restricted area access is by using colour coded wristbands to identify various contractors, insurers, and residents. Abasand residents will receive an orange wristband after they check in, residents of Beacon Hill will receive a blue wristband, and Waterways visitors will get a wristband that is white. RMWB contractors and employees will have an REOC ID tag with an outline in either red or blue. A green wristband will be provided for other contractors while a gray one will be given to insurance adjustors. Identification badges will be worn by security guards in the restricted access areas. This will streamline the process and identify anyone who should not be in these areas.