Building and Renovation Permits

Note: Development Permits are required when:

• The property is not in the Traditional Neighbourhood  (TN) District
• The structure does not meet the Building and Placement Standards in the Land Use Bylaw
• The structure is taller than the primary building

“Accessory building” means a building or other structure on a site which is normally incidental or subordinate to the primary building on the same site. Typical buildings include sheds, gazebos, pergolas, hot tubs, private greenhouses, water features, private swimming pools and private tennis courts.

Building Permits are not required when a structure is:

• Less than 10 square metres and not attached to a house or any other building
• Not connected to electricity, plumbing or gas lines
• Not located in the front yard
• Refer to the Land Use Bylaw for Building and Placement Standards

For more information click the button below. 
Safety Codes Council Safety Tips

Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Provide a Metric Site Plan showing:
  • Building dimensions
  • Height and setbacks from property lines and buildings (i.e. Real Property Report)
     
• Click the button below to complete the application form
  Application form

Fees
Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

Step 2: Permit Issuance

• Applicant will get an email notification that permit is ready and that they can now call Client Services to make a payment
• After payment, Administration will review the application; approval times vary based on the type of project
• Approved permits will be emailed out to the applicant
• Click the button below to inquire on the status of your application if you have not received it within the processing time
  Contact Us

Step 3: Booking an Inspection

• Please refer to your plan review for inspection booking requirements
• To schedule your Inspection click the button below
  Book Inspection

Note: Development Permits are required when:

• The property is not in the Traditional Neighbourhood  (TN) District
• The structure does not meet the Building and Placement Standards in the Land Use Bylaw
• The structure is taller than the primary building

The Town of Okotoks regulates decks on residential properties. Your deck must meet the setback requirements outlined in the Land Use Bylaw. Construction within Overland Drainage and Utility Rights-of-Way are not permitted.  Please check your Real Property Report for details of any rights-of-way that may be registered on your property.

Do I Need A Permit?

Development Permits are required for:

• A deck that is above 0.6 metres high and does not meets the Building and Placement Standard in the Land Use Bylaw
• A porch that does not meet the Building and Placement, and Frontage Standards in the Land Use Bylaw

Building Permits are not required when a deck is:

• 0.6 metres or less above the ground at every point

For more information, click the button below.

Safety Codes Council Safety Tips 

 Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Provide a Metric Site Plan showing:
  • Deck dimensions
  • Complete the Unenclosed Deck Guidelines and Exterior Accessory Application forms 
  • Height and setbacks from property lines and buildings (i.e. Real Property Report)
  • If screw piles are being used, site specific engineering and the CCMC Evaluation Report are required. A report with achieved torque values, is required to be submitted prior to the Town of Okotoks Inspection.
     
• Click the button below to complete the application form
  Application Form

Fees
Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

Step 2: Permit Issuance

• Applicant will get an email notification that permit is ready and that they can now call Client Services to make a payment
• After payment, Administration will review the application; approval times vary based on the type of project
• Approved permits will be emailed out to the applicant
• Contact us  by clicking the button below to inquire on the status of your application if you have not received it within the processing time
  Contact Us

 Step 3: Booking an Inspection

• Please refer to your plan review for inspection booking requirements
• To schedule your inspection, click the button below
  Book Inspection

Note: Development Permits are required when:

• The property is not in the Traditional Neighbourhood  (TN) District
• The structure does not meet the Building and Placement Standards in the Land Use Bylaw
• The structure is taller than the primary building

A building permit is required for residential detached garages. These structures are not permitted to exceed the height of the principal building. An electrical permit is also required if interior work is being completed. The exterior finishes of detached garages shall match or complement the exterior finishing of the principal building.

If your garage does not meet the Land Use Bylaw requirements for size and setback, a development permit would be required. Please note, a building permit cannot be approved without the development permit if one is necessary.

Building Permits are not required when a structure is:

• Less than 10 square metres and not attached to a house or any other building
• Not connected to electricity, plumbing or gas lines
• Not located in the front yard
• Refer to the Land Use Bylaw for Building and Placement Standards

For more information, click the button below.

Safety Codes Council Safety Tips

Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Provide a Metric Site Plan showing:
  • Garage/Building dimensions
  • Height and setbacks from property lines and buildings (i.e. Real Property Report)
     
• Complete the Detached Garage Guidelines Form below.
  Detached Garage Guidelines Form
• Click the button below to complete the application form
  Application Form

Fees
Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

 Step 2: Permit Issuance

• Applicant will get an email notification that permit is ready and that they can now call Client Services to make a payment
• After payment, Administration will review the application; approval times vary based on the type of project
• Approved permits will be emailed out to the applicant
• Click the button below to inquire on the status of your application if you have not received it within the processing time
  Contact Us

 Step 3: Booking an Inspection

• Please refer to your plan review for inspection booking requirements
• To schedule your inspection, click the button below
  Book Inspection

Fence means a vertical physical barrier constructed out of typical building material to provide visual buffering, prevent unauthorized access or to enclose a site. Click the button below for more information.
Fence Regulations

Retaining wall means a structure designed and constructed to resist the lateral pressure of soil, loose rock or similar material, which creates a change to the site Grades. Click the button below for more for more information.
Retaining Wall Information Sheet

Development Permits are not required when a retaining wall is:

• Under 1.0m in height
• Does not have a roof or walls
• Entirely located within a back or side yard
• The construction, maintenance and repair of the wall does not encroach onto public land or a utility right of way
   

Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Provide a Metric Site Plan showing:
  • Retaining Wall dimensions
  • Height and setbacks from property lines and buildings (i.e. Real Property Report)
  • Structural Engineering Drawings to be submitted with your application
     
• Click button below to complete the application form
  Application Form

Fees
Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

Step 2: Submit Your Application

• Applications are accepted online, please click the button below
• Digital (flattened) PDF copies only. Paper copies will not be accepted
• Applications are also accepted in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  Submit Application

Step 3: Permit Issuance

• Applicant will get an email notification that permit is ready and that they can now call Client Services to make a payment
• After payment, Administration will review the application; approval times vary based on the type of project
• Approved permits will be emailed out to the applicant
• Click the button below to inquire on the status of your application if you have not received it within the processing time
  Contact Us

Step 4: Booking an Inspection

• Please refer to your plan review for inspection booking requirements
• To schedule your Inspection, click the button below
  Book Inspection

Click the button below for the Application Form for residential and commercial demolition

Demolition Application Form

Fees
Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to estimate your fees
Calculate Permit Fees

Note: Development Permits are required when:

• The property is not in the Traditional Neighbourhood  (TN) District
• The structure does not meet the Building and Placement Standards in the Land Use Bylaw
• The structure is taller than the primary building

Do I Need A Permit?

Development Permits are required for new basement entrances that do not meet the setback requirements of the Land Use Bylaw.

Building Permits are required when:

• Developing or renovating an existing basement
• Completing alterations more extensive than cosmetic upgrades
• Adding, moving or removing walls
• Adding new or enlarging basement window(s); note that egress requirements in the National Building Code 2019 – Alberta Edition must be met if the proposed window is located within a bedroom. Engineers Report required. 
• Plumbing Permits are required if altering existing plumbing rough-ins.

For more information, click the button below.

Safety Codes Council Safety Tips
 

 Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Provide a Metric Floor Plan showing:
  • Proposed and existing room(s) layout
  • Designation of the use and dimension of the proposed room(s)
  • Total square footage being developed
  • Window and door sizes, location of smoke alarms (Note: if enlarging or adding new windows, a site plan, elevation plan and Engineers Report are required)
  • Details of any structural changes being proposed
  • List of contractors (if not homeowner)
  • If the installation of the egress window requires any coring of the concrete foundation, a professional engineer’s report is required. The professional engineer retained is to provide a site inspection report, once construction has been completed. This report is to be forwarded to the Town prior to booking the building inspection
     
• Click the button below to complete the application form
  Application Form

Fees
Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

 Step 2: Permit Issuance

• Applicant will get an email notification that permit is ready and that they can now call Client Services to make a payment
• After payment, Administration will review the application; approval times vary based on the type of project
• Approved permits will be emailed out to the applicant
• Click the button below to inquire on the status of your application if you have not received it within the processing time
  Contact Us

 Step 3: Booking an Inspection

• Please refer to your plan review for inspection booking requirements
• To schedule your inspection, click the button below
  Book Inspection

A secondary suite is a self-contained dwelling within the main residence that has separate living, sleeping, cooking and bathroom facilities. These are commonly referred to as basement suites or in-law suites. Prior to developing a secondary suite you must determine if your project requires a development permit and apply for a building permit.

Do I Need A Permit?

In most zones (land use districts), you are permitted up two dwelling units within a single building without requiring a Development Permit. If you are exceeding this, please Contact Planning Services for more information.

Development Permits are not required when:

• Adding a secondary suite to a single-family building

Development Permits are required when:

• The proposed suite is in another structure. Examples include a garage, garden, or laneway suite.
• A secondary suite that is proposed in a semi-detached building.
• A new basement entry does not meet the setback requirements of the Land Use Bylaw.

Building Permits are required when:

• Safety codes permits are required (building, plumbing, electrical, gas) and the suite must meet National Building Code 2019 – Alberta Edition requirements for minimum safety standards. If a development permit is required, the safety codes permits will not be issued until after a valid development permit has been issued
• Adding new or enlarging basement window(s); note that egress requirements in the National Building Code 2019 – Alberta Edition must be met if the proposed window is located within a bedroom. Engineers Report required. 
• New basement entry (may require a development permit if proposed entry does not meet the Land Use Bylaw requirements). Contact Planning Services prior to construction for further information.
• In most zones you are permitted 2 dwelling units, if you are exceeding this please contact Planning Services to determine if a Development Permit is required for your Secondary Suite.
• Your secondary suite project may be eligible for a grant under the Secondary Suite and Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant Program.  Please visit the program webpage to review eligibility and application requirements.

For more information, please click the button below.

Safety Codes Council Safety Tips

 Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Provide a Metric Floor Plan including:
  • Main floor plan and the floor plan where the secondary suite is being constructed
  • Room layouts indicating size, uses and location of walls, doorways and windows (include all sizes)
  • Floor to ceiling height
  • Location of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors which must be hard wired and interconnected
  • Cross section showing all materials used for structure
  • Wall/floor/roof assembly details
  • Construction specifications
  • If the installation of the egress window requires any coring of the concrete foundation, a professional engineer’s report is required. The professional engineer retained is to provide a site inspection report, once construction has been completed. This report is to be forwarded to the Town prior to booking the building inspection.
• List of Contractors (if not the homeowner)
   
• Click the button below to complete the application form
  Application Form
• Complete and submit the Secondary Suite Sound Transmission Form below

Secondary Suite Sound Transmission Form

Fees
Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

 Step 2: Permit Issuance

• Applicant will get an email notification that permit is ready and that they can now call Client Services to make a payment
• After payment, Administration will review the application; approval times vary based on the type of project
• Approved permits will be emailed out to the applicant
• Click the button below to inquire on the status of your application if you have not received it within the processing time
  Contact Us

 Step 3: Booking an Inspection

• Please refer to your plan review for inspection booking requirements
• To schedule your inspection, click the button below
  Book Inspection

Solar photovoltaic systems are a safe and reliable technology that converts sunlight to electricity. They are typically mounted flush with the surface of a building, ie roof or exterior wall surface to capture sunlight. Building and Electrical Permits are required to install Solar Photovoltaic Systems.

 Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Solar installation within the Town of Okotoks requires the following information for review:
  • Schematics or a professionally drawn sketch of the system layout showing all the component systems, modules and total ratings
  • Requirements of the CSA standards and Canadian electrical code rules
  • Based on the size of the system, structural engineering maybe required to support the load
  • Installation guide and anchoring system
  • At completion of the project the installer and professional involved are required to submit a letter of verification for the installation
     
• Click the button below to complete the application form
  Application Form

Fees|
Use the Permit Fee Calculator to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

 Step 2: Permit Issuance

• Applicant will get an email notification that permit is ready and that they can now call Client Services to make a payment
• After payment, Administration will review the application; approval times vary based on the type of project
• Approved permits will be emailed out to the applicant
• Click the button below to inquire on the status of your application if you have not received it within the processing time
  Contact Us

 Step 3: Booking an Inspection

• Please refer to your plan review for inspection booking requirements
• To schedule your inspection, click the button below
  Book Inspection

A building permit is required for most forms of development within the Town. Please ensure you have the appropriate applications and paperwork in order. DIGITAL COPIES ONLY PLEASE. NO PAPER COPIES ARE ACCEPTED.

Electronic forms:

• Application Checklist
• Exterior Wall Claddings
• Grading Application
• Grading - Request for Time Extension
• Installation Job Work Record Form
• Letter of Authorization
• Manufactured Stone and Brick
• New Residential Construction Application
• Compliance Form
• Permit Document Submission
• Request Inspection
• Water Meter Install Request

Complete Your Application

Click the button below to complete the application form.
Application Form

Fees

Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

A Development Permit is required for most multi-residential forms of development within the Town. Click the button below to learn more.
Major Development Permit Application Package
The Town offers a complimentary pre-application submission service for Major Development Permits. Pre-application submissions made the Friday before the third Wednesday of a month are presented to the planning department and includes discussion with a planner.

A building permit is required for most forms of development within the Town. Please ensure you have the appropriate applications and paperwork in order. DIGITAL COPIES ONLY PLEASE. NO PAPER COPIES ARE ACCEPTED.

Complete the Application Form

Click the button below to complete the application form.
Application Form

Printable Application Forms:

• Declaration of Construction Cost

Fees

Use the Permit Fee Calculator below to estimate your fees.
Calculate Permit Fees

The Planning Services staff are here to assist you through the new construction process and you are encouraged to meet with us for pre-application discussions and the submission of a preliminary application.  There is no charge for these preliminary discussions and application.  For more information, click the button below or contact Planning Services.Major Development Permit Application Process

Please ensure you have the appropriate applications and paperwork in order.  DIGITAL COPIES ONLY PLEASE. NO PAPER COPIES WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Complete Permit Application Form

Click the button below to complete the application form.
Application Form

Printable/Fillable Forms
Declaration of Construction Cost
Demising Wall Application

Fees
Use the Permit Fee Calculator to estimate your fees:
Calculate Permit Fees

If you want to widen your driveway beyond the maximum width allowed in the Land Use Bylaw, you’ll need a Development Permit for Driveway Widening.

How to Apply:

Complete a Development Permit application (see how to apply) and include:

• A site plan showing existing and proposed driveway dimensions and surfaces (use a Real Property Report if available)

• Proposed surfacing material

• Reason for the expansion

• Photos of the property frontage

Applications are reviewed at the detailed team review meeting, held the third Wednesday of each month. Submit by the previous Wednesday for consideration. Applicants will be notified after the meeting if the proposal is supported. For grading and surface requirements, see the Grading and Landscaping Bylaw.

Step 1: Check the Land Use Bylaw regulations for what you are proposing

• Search your address here. Find your property’s land use district.
• Check the Land Use Bylaw regulations.
• Tip: You can contact the planning department for a pre-application discussion.

Land Use Bylaw 17-21

Step 2: Complete the development permit application form 

Development Permit Application Form

What happens next?

Town staff will review your application to see if any required information is missing. Following this, staff will review the application against the requirements of the Land Use Bylaw and other relevant policies and plans. During this stage, they may ask for revisions. You will be sent instructions on how to pay the fee over the phone. Approved permits will be emailed out. Contact Us if you have any questions.

Visit the planning guiding documents and bylaws page to find more information.

The Town of Okotoks introduced updated Grading and Landscaping Bylaw  requirements in November 2023 to support water conservation and sustainable yard development.

Drought-tolerant turf:
As of January 1, 2024, all new homes that install turfgrass must use drought-tolerant sod, seed, or grass species that meet the Town’s specifications. Existing homeowners are encouraged to choose drought-tolerant turf when re-landscaping. To help with the cost, the Water Conservation Rebate Program offers 50% rebates up to $500 (while funds last).

Grading process for new builds:

1. Lot Grade Permit & Plot Plan: Before construction begins, builders must submit a Lot Grade Permit Application and Plot Plan showing proposed elevations and drainage.

2. As Constructed Grade Certificate: Within 12 months of final occupancy, a certified grade plan must be submitted to confirm grading and drainage meet Town standards. Landscaping can’t begin until this step is approved.

3. Landscaping requirements:

   • Minimum 30 cm (12 inches) of quality topsoil across landscaped areas.

   • A minimum of 60% of the landscaped area must be permeable (e.g., grass, garden, mulch, gravel).

   • All turfgrass must be certified drought-tolerant (e.g., TWCA-certified species or less than 30% Kentucky Bluegrass).

These updates help ensure every new property supports proper drainage, healthy landscapes, and responsible water use in our community.
Grading Bylaw Q&A

Book Inspection

Cancel Inspection

What is the permit process?

How do I pay for my permit?

Payment can be made over the phone with credit card or in person at the Municipal Centre using cheque, cash, debit or credit card.

I’ve submitted my application and paid for my permit, how long until it is approved?

Please note once you have paid for your permit, it could take up to 15 business days to get a Residential Permit Application approved and 15 days for a Commercial Permit Application to be processed. Your approval and permit number will be emailed to you once approved.

Does my Permit Expire?

Building permits do expire.  Active work must be started within 90 days from the date of issue and if work is suspended or abandoned for 120 days, a new permit must be obtained.  Residential permits are valid for 365 days at which time the work must be completed. If you are not ready for an inspection, you can request a one time 6 month permit extension before it expires.

I’m buying a home, what do I need to know?

Buyer beware! Make sure you ask for permits on the home you are considering. If you purchase it and then need to get permits, you may end up paying more and be responsible for deficiencies that need to be corrected after the inspection.

I’m selling my house, what do I need to know?

When you prepare to sell your home, the realtor is likely to ask for permits for finished basements, hot tubs, sheds etc.  If you need to get the permits in order to sell your house, there may be extra costs if you need to remove drywall so inspectors can see the wiring, plumbing, etc.

What if I just bought a house and the title hasn’t changed?

It could take up to 16 weeks to receive notification from Land Titles of a purchase of a new home. However, it you wish to apply for a permit before the Town of Okotoks has received notification from Land Titles please submit a copy of your Statement of Adjustments in order to avoid delays.

Why Should I get a Permit?

Making an insurance claim could be a challenge if you have uninspected work done in/on your home. We recommend contacting your insurance company for further information. Obtaining a permit ensures the work done in your home is safe and complies with the Alberta Building Code.

Can I still use a room in the basement as a bedroom if there is no window?

Any room being used as a bedroom must have a window that meets the egress requirements to ensure the occupant can get out in the case of a fire.

How Do I Cancel an Inspection?

Submit the form below one business day prior to the scheduled inspection.
Cancel Inspection

My Inspection Report says I need to submit Verification of Compliance (VOC), how do I do that?

Verification of Compliance is intended as an option in for re-inspection of identified deficiencies from your inspection.  Once the work indicated on your inspection report has been completed, the form must be signed and submitted online.

Submitting Verification of Compliance (VOC)

Submit VOC (Verification of Compliance) if all deficiencies noted indicated on the site inspection report have been completed in accordance with the Safety Codes Act.

** Please make sure to sign and date document before uploading**

Submit VOC (Verification of Compliance)

What is a Permit Service Report (PSR)?

A permit service report is sent to you by email once the work has passed inspection to indicate your permit is now closed. If the work has not passed inspection, at the end of the 365 days the report is sent to notify you of the status.

Sign means anything that serves to indicate the presence or the existence of something, including but not limited to a lettered board, a structure, or a trademark displayed, erected, or otherwise development and used or serving or intended to identify, to advertise or to give direction.

Non-Profit Signage

Up to three portable signs may be placed at any one time by non-profit organizations to advertise registration times and other special events on the Town property on the west side of Northridge Drive south of the intersection with Sandstone Gate.  Click the buttons below for more information.

Non-Profit Signage Information

Non-Profit Signage Application Form

Shipping Container means a standard metal ISO (International Organization for Standardization) container that can be loaded on container ships, railroad cars, and trucks and may only be used for storage of goods and materials accessory to the principal use of a site.  Click the button below for more information.

Shipping Container Information