Frequently Asked Questions
provided by The Inspections Group
QUESTION: I am building a new house and the Municipality has issued the development permit, do I need any other permits?
ANSWER: In addition to the development permit, all other permits are required such as building, electrical, gas, plumbing and 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.
QUESTION: Is a development permit the same as a building permit
ANSWER: 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 public safety and welfare.
QUESTION: When are building permits required
ANSWER: Building permits are required for construction, alteration, repair, relocation, demolition, or change of use of any building. Certain farm buildings, and non-hazardous accessory buildings under 100 square feet, are exempt.
QUESTION: Can I request an extension on my building permit?
ANSWER: 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.
QUESTION: Does my building permit cover the electrical, plumbing and gas installations?
ANSWER: The building permit covers the structural aspect of the construction. Permits are also required for the electrical, plumbing, gas and private sewage installations.
QUESTION: When do I call for an electrical inspection?
ANSWER: Call for an electrical inspection a minimum of 2 business days prior to
QUESTION: What size of service is a homeowner able to install and obtain electrical permits for?
ANSWER: The amperage of the service or equivalent can not exceed 100 amps, and the system voltage can not exceed 300 volts.
QUESTION: Do you charge extra for your inspections?
ANSWER: No, inspection fees are included when the permit is purchased.
QUESTION: As the homeowner, am I allowed to take out a permit (plumbing/private sewage, gas or electrical) for my contractor who is doing the work?
ANSWER: No, the certified installer is responsible to obtain the required permits to work on your home.
QUESTION: Do I need a building permit to move a mobile home?
ANSWER: Yes, a building permit is required for the relocation of a mobile home. In order to ensure proper site preparation, foundation and anchorage.
QUESTION: Do I need a permit to extend or replace my private sewage system?
ANSWER: 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.
QUESTION: 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.
ANSWER: 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.
QUESTION: How large of a garage can I build on a slab? And, do I need a permit for that?
ANSWER: The garage can be up to 55 square metres (approximately 600 sq. ft.) when located on a slab. Yes, you do require a building permit when building a garage.
QUESTION: Does a PWF (Preserved Wood Foundation) require the design of a professional engineer or registered architect?
ANSWER: No.
QUESTION: Do I require a permit to install a wood-burning stove?
ANSWER: Yes, a building permit is required for the installation of wood burning stove.
QUESTION: Do I require a gas permit to replace a residential furnace?
ANSWER: Yes, if there are alterations to the venting or gas piping, than a permit is required.
QUESTION: At what height do I require handrails on a deck?
ANSWER: If the deck is two feet in height from the ground, 36 inch high handrails are required with maximum spacing of 4 inches on verticals. If the deck is greater than 6 feet in height from the ground, handrails must be at least 42 inches high.