- Construction of new commercial buildings
- Additions to existing buildings that increase floor area, change building footprint or alter use
- Mezzanines and structural expansions
- Projects that change occupant loads or require new life-safety features
- Projects that affect building structure, fire protection, accessibility or energy performance
Commercial Buildings and Additions
Building permits are required before constructing a new commercial building or adding on to an existing one. These permits help verify that your project complies with the Alberta Safety Codes Act, the National Building Code - Alberta Edition, accessibility standards, fire protection and municipal zoning requirements.
Before beginning construction, review the information on this page to ensure your project meets all requirements and that you have applied for the necessary permits.
When do you need a permit?
- Flooring, paint or trim upgrades
- Simple cosmetic improvements that don't alter structure or systems
* In many cases, a Development Permit must be in place before a building permit application can be submitted especially if land use, building placement, height, or design changes are involved.
How to apply?
You can apply online through eApply or in person at City Hall.
Your application must include three complete sets of working (construction) drawings with all related details including:
- Key plan showing the entire building and adjacent tenant spaces (if more than one tenant)
- Building description with number of stories, total area and construction type (e.g., wood frame, concrete, masonry block)
- Floor plans detailing existing layout and proposed revised configuration
- Details on all architectural, structural, plumbing, heating, sprinkler and electrical changes
- Site plan if required depending on the scope of project
- Accessibility considerations, including barrier free access provisions
Drawings must be scaled and dimensioned so that any qualified contractor could construct the project from the documents.
Additional Requirements
Depending on your project:
- Development Permit or Change of Use approval may be required if the tenant's business changes function or occupancy classification
- Barrier Free Design must be considered and incorporated where applicable
- Trade permits (electrical, plumbing, gas, HVAC) may also be required for systems work
Permit Fees
- Commercial: minimum permit fee of $250.00 plus applicable Safety Codes Council levy. Fees increase based on the total construction value.
- Additional fees may apply for trades (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) or re-inspections
Inspections
Inspections are required at key stages of construction, typical inspections would include:
- Footing and foundation
- Framing
- Rough-in (HVAC, Gas, Plumbing, Electrical)
- Fire separations
- Insulation
- Final
You must schedule inspections at least one business day in advance. Please schedule using the eInspections portal.
FAQs
Do I need a Development Permit before applying for a building permit?
In many cases, yes. If your project changes use, alters building placement, modifies parking or does not meet zoning requirements. Confirm with Planning and Design before applying.
Will I need professional drawings?
For most commercial projects and additions, drawings prepared and/or sealed by a qualified professional (architect or engineer) are required to demonstrate compliance with safety and structural standards.
What codes apply to commercial buidlings?
Commercial projects must comply with the National Building Code - Alberta Edition, the Alberta Fire Code, accessibility standards and municipal bylaws.
Can I start construction before permits are issued?
No. Starting construction without all required permits can result in stop-work orders, fines and re-inspection requirements.
Contact Us
City Hall
910 4 Avenue South
Lethbridge, AB T1J 0P6
Phone: 311
or 403-320-3111 (if outside of Lethbridge)