Driveways and Sidewalks

What permits do I need?

A City application is needed for a driveway when:

1. You wish to increase the width of an existing driveway, or
2. You wish to construct a driveway that is wider than 10 meters, or wider than 2/3 of your lot's front width (whichever is less), or
3. You wish to construct a driveway in a mature fully-developed neighbourhood, or
4. You wish to add a second driveway or parking pad on a lot, or
5. Your planned driveway will have an impact on City infrastructure. Examples include:

• • Removal or alteration of a City curb and gutter, or
  • Moving a streetlight or power pole, or
  • Construction across a City street boulevard, or
  • Impact to the preservation of a City tree, including the root system.

Sidewalks:

Sidewalks on residential properties do not typically require a permit. If you have questions or concerns, contact Planning & Development Services.

Online

Apply online

Click to submit your driveway application. We will review your information to determine if a development permit and variance is required, or if there are additional considerations such as proposed modifications to City infrastructure.

In Person

1. Come in person to Planning & Development Services at City Hall and we will assist you.
2. Have a drawing of site plan and proposed driveway, with lot lines and all measurements.
3. Have utility locate slips: These show the location of underground and overhead utilities, such as gas and cable lines. See Line Locates below.
4. Bring required documents as indicated on the application, and apply in person at Planning & Development Services.

The below forms are relevant for certain driveway applications. If you are unsure which applies to your situation, we will provide you with the appropriate form when you visit:

• Residential driveway application (Land Use Bylaw variance)
• Residential driveway application (Impact to municipal infrastructure)

Payment Methods

Online or phone:

• Visa or Mastercard

In-person:

• Debit
• Cash
• Cheque
• Visa or Mastercard

Mail:

• Cheque

Building a driveway without first checking if approval is required could result in a fine and/or having to undo completed work. However, depending on design specifics of your driveway project, you may or may not need a permit or other approvals. If required, we will notify you of the fee. If not required, we will notify you and there will be no application fee.

Fees and charges

Line Locates

When planning your project, it is important to know where utilities are located on your property. Locates are free of charge but require three days notice.

To apply, visit the page below:

Line locates

Inspections

Your application will determine if your planned driveway project involves modifying City property, such as a curb cut. If approved, an agreement will be established between the you and the City, allowing you to work on City property. A City inspection will automatically be done to ensure that the work on City property is done correctly. No separate application for this inspection is required.

City inspectors do not generally inspect finished driveway or sidewalk construction work which is on private property.

Risks when permits are not obtained

By not obtaining permits for work done on your home, you are leaving yourself vulnerable to potential future legal and financial issues when selling your property or making an insurance claim. There could also be consequences if you do not correct the situation, such as:

• A fine for building without a permit.
• Having to undo work that has been completed.
• Future legal and financial issues when selling your property or making an insurance claim.
• Having to do more work than was originally planned and budgeted, to fix deficiencies.
• Potential liability to you, the homeowner, in the event of an accident.

As a homeowner, you are responsible for paying any penalties, even if you hired a contractor who assured you that permits were not required.