Single Family Dwellings

Building a new single family home is a major investment, and a proper building permit ensures your project meets provincial safety codes, City bylaws and engineering standards. Single family home permits protect occupants, neighbours and the long-term integrity of your property and community.

This page explains when a permit is required, what approvals and inspections are needed, how to apply and what documentation you must provide.

eApply

When do you need a permit?

You need a permit for:

A building permit is required whenever you plan to construct a new single family dwelling on a vacant lot.

In most cases, Development approval must be obtained first from Planning & Design to ensure the lot meets zoning requirements (e.g., setbacks, height, lot size, and permitted uses).

No building permit is issued until zoning review and Development approval are complete.

How to apply?

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

Include the following with your application:

Site plan, including architectural controls (if applicable)
Floor plans for all levels of the home
Four-sided building elevations
Cross sections showing key details
Truss floor & roof layouts with corporate letter
Drawing details, such as tall wall details (if applicable)
Engineered drawings where required
New Home Warranty or Exemption number
Soil bearing evaluation

Footing & Foundation Plan Requirements

Foundation plan showing basement and main floor truss layout
Elevations and cross sections
Site plan
Engineered drawings (if applicable)

Lot Grading Requirements

Site plan with elevation details showing grading

You cannot begin construction until your building permit is issued and all required approvals are in place.

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 $110.00 plus applicable Safety Codes Council levy. Fees increase based on the total construction value.

Inspections

Inspections are required at key stages of construction; typical inspections would include:

Footing and foundation
Framing
Insulation and vapour barrier
Rough-in (HVAC, Gas, Plumbing, Electrical)
Final

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

Things to know before you start

Helpful information to support homeowners and contractors in understanding key considerations, requirements and resources for a successful Single Family Dwelling Development.

Development Considerations

Before applying for a building permit:

Confirm the property’s zoning district using the City’s Property Information Map.
Check the Land Use Bylaw 6300 for permitted uses and minimum requirements (e.g., parcel size, setbacks, building height, etc.).
Contact Planning & Design if you’re uncertain about what zoning or development approvals are required.

Development approval ensures your proposed home fits all local regulations before technical review begins.

Design and Code Requirements

Your home must meet safety and structural standards in the applicable building codes:

Footing & foundation, framing, insulation, vapour barrier, wiring, plumbing, gas and ventilation must comply with applicable codes.
Egress windows are required in all bedrooms and must meet minimum size and safety criteria.
Tall walls, fire response time and structural member specifications must be addressed in your construction drawings.
Attic access, load requirements for heavy point loads (e.g., columns) and special foundation conditions (e.g., piles, ICF) also have specific code requirements.

Professional drawings are often required, especially for structural or engineered.

Required Permits and Inspections

Building a single family home typically requires several coordinated permits:

Mandatory Permits

New Home Warranty / Exemption Number: All newly constructed homes in Alberta must be registered with Alberta Municipal Affairs.
Lot Grading Permit: Ensures proper drainage away from the foundation; final grading must be verified by a registered professional (e.g., land surveyor).
Building Permit: Includes inspections for Footing & Foundation, Framing, Insulation & Vapour Barrier and Final.

Trade Permits

Electrical Permit: May be issued to the homeowner or a contractor, but electrical service must be installed by a licensed electrical contractor. Includes service, rough-in and final inspections.
Plumbing Permit: May be issued to the homeowner or contractor; includes rough-in and final inspections. Optional below- and above-grade inspections are available.
Gas Permit: Must be issued to a licensed gas installer; includes rough-in and final inspections.
Heating & Ventilation (HVAC) Permit: May be issued to homeowner or contractor; includes rough-in and final inspections.

Multiple inspections throughout the build ensure compliance with all applicable safety and construction standards.

FAQs

Do I need Development approval before applying for a building permit?

Yes. Zoning and development compliance must be confirmed before a building permit for a single family dwelling can be issued.

Can I act as my own contractor?

Yes. Many residential permits allow homeowners to pull permits for single family dwellings, but trade work (e.g., electrical service) often must be completed by licensed professionals and covered under the appropriate trade permit.

What drawings are required for structural elements?

Any engineered components (e.g., large footings, piles, tall walls) require detailed drawings and may need professional seals per code.

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