We’re modernizing the way you apply to subdivide and develop property. You can now apply for planning and development applications online using the PLANit Parkland portal, click the button to get started today!
Whether you are building a new structure or renovating an existing one, Parkland County's Planning and Development Services is here to help. We can help you determine what regulations might affect your project and what kind of permits you require before you begin.
The permit process
- Determine what you want to build and verify that your land use zoning / district allows that development
- Get a plot plan
- Apply for the development permit
- Apply for the building permit
- Apply for mechanical permits (plumbing, gas, electrical and private sewage)
Frequently asked questions
Below are some frequently asked questions about Parkland County's permit process.
Do I need a permit for my project? |
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Most types of property or building development require one or more permits. Any use or development of lands or buildings requires a development permit, unless exempt under the Land Use Bylaw. Many developments also require building permits, and electrical, plumbing, gas, and/or private sewage disposal permits. Alberta Municipal Affairs offers a Do I need a Building Permit tip sheet that can help explain the process. |
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What is the difference between a development permit and a safety codes permit? |
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The Municipal Government Act and Parkland County's Land Use Bylaw guide the development permit process. Development permits are required for new builds and additions to structures and for a change in land use on a property. The Safety Codes Act and the Alberta Building Code, Alberta Gas Code, Alberta Plumbing Code, Canadian Electrical Code Part 1, Alberta Private Sewage System Standard of Practice 2015 and Alberta Fire Code guide the building permit process. Your project may need development permit approval to get a safety codes permit. |
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How do I apply for a permit? |
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We’re modernizing the way you apply to subdivide and develop property. You can now apply for planning and development applications online using the PLANit Parkland portal, click the button to get started today!
If you have a project planned, you can book a pre-application meeting with Planning and Development Services by calling 780-968-8888 or by visiting the Parkland County Centre. At the pre-application meeting, you can learn more about land use, development restrictions, and permitting requirements. We can help you apply for development, building and mechanical permits before beginning construction and advise if you need permits from other agencies. |
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What information is required to complete an application? |
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The information you need to submit varies depending on the type of project. Our application forms include checklists that will help you determine what type of drawings and information are required. |
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What is the cost of a permit? |
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Permit fees vary based on the type, size and value of your project. Contact us or view our fees. |
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Who can apply for a permit? |
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Usually the property owner applies for development and building permits and the specific trades will apply for plumbing, private sewage disposal, gas, and electrical permits. |
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How long does it take to get a permit? |
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Processing times can vary depending on the type of application, property zoning and how close the property is to a highway. |
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How long is a permit valid? |
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What type of work requires a safety codes permit? |
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The Safety Codes Act requires that all contractors and homeowners in Alberta get permits before starting work on buildings covered by the Alberta Building Code or work governed by the Canadian Electrical Code, the Alberta Gas Code or the Alberta Plumbing Code. |
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What are the benefits of getting a safety codes permit? |
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The major benefits are knowing that the installation will conform to the safety standards adopted under the Safety Codes Act and that safety code officers will provide the inspections(s). |
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What services can I expect to receive for a safety codes permit? |
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Services that you can normally expect to receive include: a permit, plans examination (if applicable), inspection(s) by certified safety codes officers, inspection reports(s), follow-up of deficiencies and/or unsafe conditions, technical advice and a status report at the completion of the project. |
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Where can I get more information on technical requirements? |
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For your convenience, we have compiled a collection of Diagrams that may be of benefit when installing certain electrical, gas, plumbing, and private sewage components:
Additionally, Alberta Municipal Affairs offers a Codes and Permits Safety Tips website with brochures on subjects like private sewage treatment systems, secondary suites, building a wood deck, and many more. Parkland County Safety Codes Officers are also available for technical inquiries and can be reached at 780-968-8443. |
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Do I need a permit to drill a well? |
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You do not need approvals or permits from Parkland County to drill a well on your land. However, before drilling a well, we suggest you:
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What kind of development can I have on my property? |
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Land use in Parkland County is regulated by the Land Use Bylaw. If you need help, contact us for more information. |
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How do I find information on my property (zoning, legal description)? |
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Use our online mapping system, Discover Parkland. You can also contact us for zoning, possible land uses, development projects happening in your area and other property information on land throughout the County. |
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How tall can my fence be? |
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Fences are covered in the Land Use Bylaw, under Section 16. Fence height:
Fences built within these parameters do not require development permit approval. If you'd like to build a fence taller, please contact Planning and Development at 780-968-8443 as a variance would be required. |
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Can I build a second dwelling / secondary suite / garden suite on my property? |
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A second or additional dwelling is a discretionary use in many districts. You will need development and safety codes approval. A secondary suite:
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Do fabric covered buildings and temporary buildings need a permit? |
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Yes. Any structure over 10 m² (108 ft²) requires a permit. Fabric covered buildings also need engineer stamped prints. |
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Do agricultural buildings require permits? |
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Farm / agricultural accessory buildings (e.g., a granary) may not require permits if:
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What permits are required for agricultural activities? |
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A development permit is not required for permitted farming activities. New confined feeding operations are not permitted under the County's Land Use Bylaw. Contact Planning and Development if you'd like to discuss whether or not you will require any permits or approvals. |
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Do I need a permit to replace the shingles, siding, windows or doors on my house? |
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No. As long as you are not making structural changes (like increasing the size of openings), general maintenance of buildings (like painting) does not require a permit. |
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