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1. When do I need a permit?

Any matters affecting life safety requires permits. Generally speaking, whenever building, adding on to, renovating, or relocating a structure, you will require one of all or the following permits: building, electrical, gas, plumbing or private sewage.

2. What are the benefits of obtaining a permit?

The major benefit of obtaining a permit is knowing the installation conforms to the safety standards that have been adopted under the Safety Codes Act of Alberta and that inspections will be provided by a certified safety codes officer.

3. Who can I call if I have a question about my construction project?

You can contact the Superior Safety Codes offices at 1.866.99.4777 and a safety codes officer will be more than happy to answer your questions.

4. Is there a difference between a development permit and a building permit?

Yes. A development permit deals with municipal bylaw requirements such as zoning and any restrictions on what type of building you may be able to construct. Development permits are strictly issued by the municipality.

A building permit ensures construction projects comply with the requirements of the Alberta Building Code. Receiving inspections during construction is also part of the building permit process. Building permits are issued by Superior Safety Codes and, in some instances, the municipality. 

5. What other permits do I require?

Electrical, gas, plumbing and private sewage permits may also be required depending on the nature of the project. Please consult one of Superior Safety Codes’ offices.

6. Who should apply for the permits, me or my contractor?

If you are hiring certified contractors to do the work, they should be obtaining the required permits.

If you are doing the work yourself, you can obtain the permits provided you are the owner and you live or will be living at the premises (some restrictions may apply).

7. What services do I get with my permit?

Services include, but are not limited to, a plans examination report, technical advice, site inspections and reports, and a final status report (Permit Services Report).

8. How long are my permits valid?

Permits are typically valid for one year, provided work is commenced within 90 days of permit issuance and the project is not suspended for more than 120 days and time extensions may be granted upon written request.

9. I have obtained my permits, now I have decided not to proceed with my project; can I get a refund?

Providing you have not started the work and the permit has not expired, you may be entitled to a refund. A processing charge may apply.

10. How much notice does Superior Safety Codes require when I am ready for an inspection?

We request that you give at least two (2) days notice for proper scheduling.

11. I am building a garage; can I build it on a slab?

A garage can be built on a slab providing it is no larger than 55 square meters. If you exceed 55 square meters then engineering will be required.

12. I am moving in a manufactured (or modular) home. Do I need a building permit?

Yes. Your home was built off-site to a standard, however, the onsite work such as the foundation/or blocking, stairs and landing still fall under the Alberta Building Code requirements and need to be permitted.

13. I have an older home that requires updating. Do I need to re-wire/re-plumb the entire house to meet today's standards?

You are only required to bring the effected systems up to today’s standards. It is however; highly recommended to bring all systems up to date.

14. I am installing a new furnace in my home, do I require a permit?

If you have to make alterations to your gas piping and/or venting, you will require a permit.

15. I am building a deck; do I need a permit?

Yes, if the deck will be 2 feet or greater above grade, you will require a building permit.

16. I am constructing a pole shed, do I need a building permit?

Yes, unless the intended use of the pole shed is strictly as a farm building on land designated for agricultural use. Pole sheds requiring engineering due to the nature of their construction materials.