After you have obtained the development permit, you will require building, plumbing, gas, electrical and possibly private sewage permits. These permits ensure that your construction is done in accordance with Provincial codes and the Safety Codes Act. Building without the proper permits and inspections can also lead to costly repairs in the future.

Is a development permit the same as a building permit?

No, a development permit is not the same as a building permit. A development permit allows a specific type of development on a specific parcel of land in the community to proceed with the zoning and development bylaws of the municipality.

A building permit allows construction of buildings or structure to proceed on condition of compliance with the Alberta Building Code which addresses building and fire safety.

When are building permits required?

Building permits are required for the construction, alteration, repair, relocation, demolition, or change of use of a building. Farm accessory buildings, and non-hazardous accessory buildings under 100 square feet (10m2), are exempt.

Can I request an extension on my building permit?

On receipt of written application, a safety codes officer may, in writing, extend the term of the permit only once for up to 90 days, if the agency?s permit has not expired when application for extension is made.

 

Does my building permit cover the electrical, plumbing and gas installations?

The building permit covers the structural aspect of the construction. Permits are also required for the electrical, plumbing, gas and private sewage installations.

When do I call for an electrical inspection?

Call for an electrical inspection a minimum of 2 business days prior to drywalling.

What size of service is a homeowner able to install and obtain electrical permits for?

The ampacity of the service or equivalent can not exceed 100 amps, and the system voltage can not exceed 300 volts.

Do you charge extra for your inspections?

No, cost of inspection is included with the permit fees.

As the homeowner, am I allowed to take out a gas/plumbing permit for my gasfitter?

No, the certified installer is responsible to obtain the required permits to work on your home.

After my permit is issued how long is it good for?

The permit is valid for one year, provided it is not abandoned for more than 120 days and work must commence within 90 days of permit issuance.

I am relocating a manufactured home onto my property, why do I need a permit when it is a factory built home?

The home pre-certified to CSA and Alberta Labour Standards. Your permit covers the foundation, crawlspace, stairs, decks, etc.

Do I need a building permit to move a mobile home?

Yes, a building permit is required for the relocation of a mobile home. In order to ensure proper site preparation, foundation and anchorage.

Do I need a permit to extend or replace my private sewage system?

Any renovation, addition or alteration to an existing private sewage disposal system requires a permit. When a system is changed it then must conform with the private sewage standard in effect.

I am a homeowner acting as general contractor for my new home. I want to take out all the permits myself, but I will be hiring trades-people for most of the work. Is this acceptable?

Anyone can apply for the building permit, however unless you are completing the electrical, plumbing, gas and private sewage work yourself, the people contracted to complete the installations must take out their own permits. Ensure that you are hiring certified contractors.

How large of a garage can I build on a slab?

The garage can be up to 55 square meters when located on a slab. Otherwise engineering is required.

Does a PWF (Preserved Wood Fdn.) require the design of a professional engineer or registered architect?

No, as long as it is constructed in accordance with CSA standard (CAN/CSA S-406-92).

Do I require a permit to install a wood burning appliance?

Yes, a building permit is required for the installation of wood burning appliance.

Do I require a gas permit to replace a residential furnace?

If alterations will be made to the venting or gas piping, than a permit is required.

At what height do I require guardrails on a deck?

If the deck is 2 ? feet in height from the ground, 36 inch high guards are required with maximum spacing of 4 inches on verticals. If the deck is greater than 6 feet in height from the ground, guards must be at least 42 inches high.

I received a Permit Services Report (PSR) in the mail, what is it?

A PSR is a report letting you know the status of your installation. It indicates that Alberta Permit Pro has completed compliance monitoring required by the authority having jurisdiction.