A permit is required before you:

• Install a new wood burning fireplace
• Install a free-standing wood stove
• Install a factory-built solid-fuel appliance
• Replace an existing wood-burning appliance with a different unit
• Install or modify a chimney or flue system
• Convert an existing fireplace to a certified wood burning insert

If you are altering structural framing, adding a chase or modifying a roof structure for a chimney, a building permit is also required.

You must obtain your permit before starting work.

• Manufacturer name and model number
• CSA or ULC certification information
• Manufacturer’s installation manual

• Floor plan showing appliance location and carbon monoxide detector location.
• Clearance distances to walls, ceilings and combustibles
• Hearth pad specifications (size and R-value, if required)
• Chimney type and configuration (factory-built or masonry)
• Chimney height and roof penetration details

• Framing details if altering floor joists, roof trusses or load-bearing walls
• Engineering documentation if required

Wood burning appliances must comply with:

• National Building Code – Alberta Edition
• Alberta Safety Codes Act
• CSA standards for solid-fuel-burning appliances (e.g., CSA B365 – Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment)
• Manufacturer installation instructions (which form part of the code requirement)

The most restrictive clearance requirement (code or manufacturer) always applies.

Clearances to Combustibles

Minimum distances from walls, ceilings, mantels and framing must meet both:

• Manufacturer specifications
• Applicable code requirements

Hearth Protection

Most wood burning appliances require a non-combustible hearth pad extending a minimum distance in front of and beside the appliance.

Chimney Requirements

• Chimneys must be certified and installed per manufacturer specifications
• Proper vertical clearance above roofline is required
• Firestopping is required at floor and ceiling penetrations

Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Alarms

Homes with solid-fuel appliances must have:

• Interconnected smoke alarms
• Carbon monoxide alarms installed per code

Yes. A permit is required for replacement to verify clearances, chimney compatibility and code compliance.

Only if it is CSA/ULC certified and installed according to current code and manufacturer instructions.

In most cases, solid-fuel appliances require a dedicated flue. Confirm with Building Inspection Services before installation.