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Geothermal Permits

Geothermal systems provide heating and cooling by transferring heat between a building and the earth through underground piping. The system relies on a ground loop and heat pump to move thermal energy rather than generate heat directly. Because geothermal installations involve excavation, mechanical equipment, and electrical components, permits and inspections are required to ensure safety and code compliance.

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.

eApply

When do you need a permit?

You need a permit for:

Installing a new geothermal system (horizontal or vertical loops)
Replacing or modifying an existing system
Making changes to piping, pumps, or heat exchangers
Installing or upgrading ground loop manifolds or mechanical systems connected to geothermal units

You do not need a permit for:

Servicing or maintenance performed by a licensed contractor
Non-mechanical landscaping work that doesn't affect the geothermal system

How to apply?

You can apply online through eApply or in person at City Hall.

For all buildings permit submission requirements include:

Site plan, showing GeoExchange system layout along with existing & proposed underground services;
Alberta Environment Approval (As per Policy AEP Water Quality 2018 No. 3)
Bore field design, indicating

number, depth, diameter, and spacing of bores,
types of piping, fluid and grout,
heating and cooling capacity (Peak Hour & Annual Rejected/Extracted Energy),

Drawings and specifications showing CSA C448 compliance, OR

sealed by an Alberta-registered Engineering Professional, with Schedules of Professional Involvement.

Drilling contractor contact information

Permit Fees

Residential: minimum permit fee of $110.00 plus applicable Safety Codes Council levy. Fees increase based on the total construction value.
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:

Rough-in (before loop connections are buried or covered, pressure test)
Final (after system is connected, tested, and operational)

You must schedule inspections at least one business day in advance. Please schedule using the eInspections portal.