FAQ
Top Permit Questions
Do I need a permit for my project?
Permits are generally required when construction involves structural work, layout changes,
additions, new buildings, or modifications that must comply with safety regulations. A building
permit confirms that construction meets the requirements of the Alberta Building Code, while a
development permit confirms that the project complies with municipal zoning regulations.
What happens if work was completed without a permit?
If construction was completed without the required permits, the municipality will require the
property owner to apply for a retroactive permit. The work will need to be inspected and may
also need to be modified or upgraded to comply with current regulations.
What is the difference between a development permit and a building permit?
A development permit confirms that a project complies with municipal zoning regulations such
as land use, setbacks, building height, and site layout. A building permit confirms that
construction complies with the Alberta Building Code and safety standards. Some projects
require both approvals.
How long does it take to get a permit approved?
Permit timelines vary depending on the municipality, the complexity of the project, and whether
a development permit is required. Some permits may be reviewed within a few weeks, while
more complex applications may take longer depending on regulatory review.
Understanding Permits
What is a building permit?
A building permit is an approval issued by a municipality confirming that proposed construction
complies with the Alberta Building Code. Building permits are typically required when
construction involves structural work, layout changes, or new building elements that must meet
safety standards.
What is a development permit?
A development permit confirms that a proposed project complies with municipal zoning
regulations such as land use, setbacks, building height, site layout, and parking requirements.
Why do municipalities require permits?
Permits ensure that construction projects meet safety standards, follow zoning regulations, and
protect property owners, neighbours, and future occupants.
Do permits expire?
Yes. Most municipalities issue permits with a validity period. If construction does not begin or is
not completed within the required timeframe, the permit may expire and may need to be renewed
or reapplied for.
Regulations That Affect Development
What is a Land Use Bylaw?
A Land Use Bylaw is a municipal regulation that controls how land and buildings can be used. It
establishes zoning districts and development rules such as permitted uses, setbacks, building
heights, and site requirements.
What is the Alberta Building Code?
The Alberta Building Code establishes minimum safety standards for building construction,
including structural design, fire protection, accessibility, and other life-safety requirements.
Who regulates construction and development in Alberta?
Municipalities regulate zoning and development through land use bylaws, while the Alberta
Building Code establishes technical construction standards for building permits.
Permit Requirements
When is a building permit required?
A building permit is generally required when construction involves structural changes, new
buildings, additions, interior layout changes, or other work that must comply with the Alberta
Building Code.
Are permits required for renovations?
Permits are often required when renovations involve layout changes, structural work, or the
creation of new spaces that must comply with building code requirements.
Do structural changes require permits?
Yes. Structural work such as removing walls, modifying floor systems, or adding windows
typically requires a building permit.
Do I need a permit to remove a wall?
Yes. If a wall is removed, whether it is structural or not, a building permit is required before
removing the wall.
Do I need a permit to finish a basement?
Yes. Finishing an unfinished basement requires a building permit because the new space must
comply with the Alberta Building Code for safety, egress, ventilation, and other requirements.
Trade Permits (Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC)
What are trade permits?
Trade permits are permits issued for specialized construction work such as plumbing, electrical,
gas, and HVAC installations.
When is a plumbing permit required?
A plumbing permit is required when installing or modifying plumbing systems such as water
supply lines, drainage systems, or plumbing fixtures.
When is an electrical permit required?
An electrical permit is required when installing or modifying electrical wiring, panels, circuits, or
electrical equipment.
When is an HVAC permit required?
An HVAC permit is required when installing or modifying heating, ventilation, or air
conditioning systems.
Are trade permits separate from building permits?
Yes. Trade permits are typically issued separately and may be required in addition to a building
permit depending on the scope of work. Trade permits must be submitted directly by the trade
and in some cases by the home owner.
Permit Process
What drawings are required for permit applications?
Permit applications often require drawings showing the proposed construction, including floor
plans, elevations, site plans, and construction details that demonstrate compliance with zoning
and building code requirements.
What happens after a permit is approved?
Once a permit is approved, construction can begin. Inspections are typically required at different
stages of construction to confirm that the work complies with the approved plans and applicable
regulations.
What inspections are required during construction?
Municipal inspectors may review structural framing, plumbing systems, electrical installations,
and other building elements to ensure the work complies with the approved permit and building
code requirements.
Retroactive Permits
Can permits be obtained after construction is completed?
In many cases permits can be obtained after construction through a retroactive permit process.
What is a retroactive permit?
A retroactive permit is a permit application submitted after work has already been completed so
the municipality can review the construction and confirm compliance with regulations.
Will construction need to meet current building code requirements?
Yes. When applying for a retroactive permit, the work must typically comply with current
regulations.
Can you sell a house with unpermitted work?
Yes, but unpermitted work can create complications during a real estate transaction. Buyers,
lenders, or municipalities may require permits to be obtained retroactively before the transaction
is completed.
Grandfather Rights & Non-Conforming Properties
What are grandfather rights?
Grandfather rights refer to situations where a building or use was legally established under
previous regulations and with permits in place, and is allowed to continue even if zoning rules
change.
Do grandfather rights apply to construction completed without permits?
No. Work completed without permits is not considered legally established and require a
retroactive permit.
What is a non-conforming property?
A non-conforming property is a building or use that was legally approved under previous zoning
regulations but does not comply with current zoning rules.
What is a legal non-conforming use?
A legal non-conforming use is a use of land or a building that was legally established with a
permit before zoning regulations changed and is allowed to continue under certain conditions.
Relaxations and Variances
What is a relaxation or a variance?
A relaxation or a variance is an approval that allows a development to deviate slightly from
specific zoning requirements when the municipality determines the change is reasonable.
Who approves relaxations or variances?
Relaxations or variances are reviewed and approved by municipal planning departments or
development authorities by issuing a development permit.
Site and Location Restrictions
What are flood area restrictions?
Flood area restrictions regulate development within areas susceptible to flooding and may
require special design considerations. Properties within flood areas require a development
permit.
What are airport vicinity restrictions?
Properties located near airports may be subject to regulations affecting building height, land uses,
and other factors to ensure aviation safety.
How can site conditions affect development approvals?
Site conditions such as flood zones, environmental protection areas, or infrastructure corridors
may influence whether development is permitted and what regulations apply.
Working With Permit Masters
What does Permit Masters do?
Permit Masters assists property owners, businesses, and developers with navigating the permit
approval process, including reviewing regulatory requirements, preparing permit-ready
drawings, and managing permit submissions.
Do you prepare permit drawings?
Yes. We prepare permit-ready drawings for many projects and coordinate the preparation of
drawings when registered professionals such as architects or engineers are required.
Do you submit permit applications?
Yes. We manage permit submissions and communicate with municipal planning and building
departments throughout the review process.
Do you coordinate architects and engineers when required?
Yes. When a project requires registered professionals such as architects or engineers, we
coordinate with the appropriate professionals to support the permit submission.
How do I get a quote for permit services?
You can contact Permit Masters to discuss your project, and we will review the scope of work
and provide guidance on permit requirements, a price and identify the next steps.
Types of Projects We Help With
What types of permits does Permit Masters help with?
Permit Masters assists with a wide range of residential and commercial permits, including
garages, decks, home additions, basement development, secondary suites, backyard suites,
renovations, tenant improvements, change of use permits, commercial construction permits, and
signage approvals.