Planning Your Residential Project

Home renovation and building projects are challenging and rewarding endeavours for homeowners. Making sure you have all the required City of Edmonton permits and documents before you start the job is an important first step towards a successful project.

Why permits are needed

Permits are here for your protection. They’re the result of years of experience, testing and feedback. Having the proper permits will ensure what is being built is safe, and that the appearance and use is consistent with the rest of your neighbourhood.

The correct permits also ensure that development on your property meets the Edmonton Zoning Bylaw and Safety Codes Bylaw requirements as well as the standards of the Alberta Building Code.

Timing your permit application

To make sure you can start your residential project as soon as possible, the most important thing you can do is ensure that you have all your documents and plans completed accurately when you apply for your permit.

If you have questions about preparing the permit application, documents and plans, visit the Permits and Licensing Service Centre, or email Current Planning.

Book an appointment 

The City is offering, on a trial basis for the months of April through August, appointment booking for homeowners coming in for residential construction permits.

To book a homeowner appointment for your residential application, please email us at sdcurrentplanning@edmonton.ca.

Submit applications early

The City of Edmonton encourages property owners to submit their applications well before their anticipated project start date. The permit processing time depends on the complexity of your application and the number of applications received.

Applications for projects submitted during the busy residential construction season, May to September, may take longer to process.

Home renovation projects requiring permits

• Basement Developments
• Secondary Suites
• Garage Suites
• Garden Suites
• Plumbing
• Gas Lines
• Heating and Ventilation
• Air Conditioning
• Sewage Lines
• Water Lines
• Electrical
• Solar Energy Systems
• Satellite Dish

Obtaining permits for common summer projects

Many home renovation and building projects are done in spring and summer. Preparing and submitting your permit application ahead of time can help you get a strong start on your project.

Here are some common summer home projects that homeowners can apply for well ahead of the busy summer season:

• Addition or Covered Deck
• Uncovered Deck
• Erecting a Fence (on a corner lot)
• Garage or Carport - Attached to house
• Garage or Carport - Detached from house
• Hot Tub
• Pond
• Shed or Gazebo (stand alone structure)
• Swimming Pool

Projects that do not require a permit

Some alterations may not require permits. When renovations do not affect health or safety, then a permit may not be required. Examples include:

• Roof replacement (with similar materials)
• Painting and re-tiling
• Carpet replacement
• Basement dry-walling
• Counter top replacement
• Cupboard door alterations
• Window replacement (for same size)
• Door replacement (for same size)

For More Information

Permits and Licensing Service Centre

Sustainable Development
5th floor, 10250 - 101 Street
Edmonton, AB T5J 3P4

Hours of Operation:
Monday to Friday
8am to 4:30pm

Telephone	In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311
Fax	780-496-6054