Building Permits

What is the Difference Between a Development Permit & Building Permit?
Development permits are typically required for new construction, additions, and changes in land use.  The specific requirements can depend on factors such as the zoning regulations, the size and type of the proposed development, and the intended us of the land.  Development permits are issued by the Municipality whereas a building permit is issued by a building inspector.

How do I obtain a development permit application?
It is a simple application process and, providing no bylaw amendments are required. Please contact the Town office. The cost is $50 and they are valid for 6 months.

All development permits should include;

1. Application filled out
2.  Site plan, showing existing and proposed information with labels and measurements Residents are required by bylaw to obtain a permit for development, building, moving or demolition permit for projects as defined by Provincial and Federal Legislation

When do I need a permit?
Building permits are required for new construction, additions to pre-existing structures or property and in most cases large renovations, including but not limited to: basement developments, decks, garages and any renovation where structural changes occur.

Development permits are required for any activity involving building, engineering, or operations in on or over land as well as any substantial change in use or intensity of use of land or buildings. This includes excavating, filling, grading or drainage of land.

When don’t I need a Building or Development Permit?
Re-roofing, painting, re-siding, flooring and cabinet installation and replacement of windows and doors (as long as the openings are not changed) do not require a permit.

A permit is also not required for fences, sheds less than 100 square feet and decks less than 1 foot off the ground.

Who are the Building Inspectors and how do I contact them?
Residential & Commercial Building Inspector: Dan Knutson. Contact by phone at 306-741-7844 or email deknutson@shaw.ca.

How do I get a permit?
Building and demolition permits can be purchased at the Town Office and online. Applications for a permitted use as defined in the Zoning Bylaw are approved by the Development officer. Any permit applications requiring approval of a discretionary use must be approved by Town Council.

For example, in a Residential Single Dwelling District an RTM, garage, deck or pool application may be approved by the Development Officer since these are all considered Permitted Uses. An application for a discretionary use such as a child daycare centre in the same Residential Single Dwelling District would require council approval.

Building permit application or pick one up at the Town Office. In addition, most permits have required documents or worksheets that must accompany the application.

When do I need a demolition or moving permit?
Any assessable (taxable) property or portions thereof being removed or moved onto a property require a demolition or moving permit, respectively. The cost for demo or move in perit is $60.

How do I know if my application is approved or not?

You will be notified in writing if your application is approved or not. If approved, the Town will collect your fee and issue the permit. 

What happens if I don’t get a permit before work commences or receive proper approvals from the Building Inspector?
This could result in:

• Stop work orders being issued
• Fines
• Work needing to be re-done or demolished

Check with the Town Office for more details before commencing work.

Please note that additional permits may be required from utility providers and the Inspector, depending on the type of work.

 

How much are inspections?

Property line setbacks are from the foundation of the structure. Therefore if the setback bylaw says 4’0” then it is the distance from the property line to the foundation. The eaves usually extend past the foundation two feet .

Note, If there are no eavestrough on the eaves then it could cause water issues on the adjoining property. This is prohibited.

Step Guidelines:

• If over 24” requires a guardrail
• Permit Required:  If over 24” High
• No Permit Required:  24” and under (as there is no guardrail required)
• Guardrail spacing, no more than a 100mm.
• All steps require a landing from the wall to at least 3 feet and as wide as the door opening.

Supporting documentation is required for all building projects. Most permits require a minimum of a site plan and floor plan including dimensions and material type. Could someone look at your information and complete the project? Use that as a mental check when completing your application.

 

The general application process checklist is as follows:

1. Permit Application is received, including supporting documentation and fees.
2. The permit is presented to Town Council for approval.
3. The permit is sent to the building inspector for review and approval.
4. Once both approvals are received, the Town Office issues the approval for the building permit.
5. Once the approved permit is received by the owner and the fee is paid in full, the project can commence