When undertaking construction projects in Alberta, it is essential to understand the permitting process required to ensure projects are safe, legal, and compliant with local regulations.

Development Permits vs. Building Permits

In Alberta, two primary permits govern construction projects: development permits and building permits. Though they are often spoken of interchangeably, they serve different purposes and must be obtained at different stages of the construction process.

A development permit is required for any change in land use or a development that could impact the community, the environment, or surrounding properties. Essentially, it’s the approval to proceed with a project on a specific piece of land, confirming that the proposed development aligns with municipal zoning bylaws, land use regulations, and planning policies.

Development permits are often required for projects such as:

• New buildings or structures

• Changes in land use (e.g., converting a residential property to commercial use)

• Significant renovations or additions

• Demolitions or removals of structures

• Any development affecting natural resources (e.g., wetlands or wildlife habitat)

Once approved, the development permit ensures that the project complies with city or regional planning objectives and minimizes negative impacts on the community.

A building permit, on the other hand, focuses on the technical aspects of construction. It ensures that the design and construction of the building comply with Alberta’s Building Code and other safety standards. While a development permit addresses whether a development can take place, a building permit ensures that the structure is safe, durable, and suitable for occupancy.

Building permits are typically required for:

• New construction (homes, commercial buildings, etc.)

• Major renovations, additions, or structural modifications

• Electrical, plumbing, or mechanical installations

• Any project that alters or adds to a building’s load-bearing elements

The Permitting Process

1. Pre-Application Consultation: Before applying, consult your local municipality to understand zoning requirements and community plans.

2. Development Permit Application: Submit detailed project plans, including site layouts and elevations, to the local authority. Approval can take weeks to months.

3. Building Permit Application: After receiving the development permit, submit detailed architectural and engineering plans for review. Inspections may be required during construction to ensure compliance.

4. Final Inspection and Occupancy: Once construction is complete, a final inspection will confirm everything meets building codes. A Certificate of Occupancy will be issued if all requirements are met.

Why Permits Matter

Permits ensure safety, compliance, and environmental protection, helping avoid legal and financial issues down the road. Building without permits can result in fines, forced demolition, or trouble when selling the property. In most cases, a lack of proper permitting would be considered a material latent defect and must be disclosed when selling a property.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Getting Both Permits: A development permit does not replace the need for a building permit.

• Skipping Consultation: Avoid unnecessary delays by understanding zoning and regulatory requirements early.

• Neglecting Inspections: Inspections are crucial for compliance and final approval.

A Note on Secondary Suites

As secondary suites become more popular as a source of generating income for Alberta homeowners, it is important to be aware that they require a building permit for construction. When buying or selling a property that includes a secondary suite it is in the best interest of all parties to be aware of the applicable permitting and municipal zoning bylaws. Existing suites are categorized as:

• Legal: proper compliance with zoning and building codes.

• Illegal: without permits and/or in non-permitted zoning.

• Non-Conforming: was legal at time of construction but does not meet current regulations.

Conclusion

Navigating Alberta’s development and building permit process ensures your project is safe, legal, and up to code. While it may seem complex, obtaining the right permits is crucial to the success of your construction project. Always consult with your local municipality early and follow the process to avoid costly mistakes.