Driveways and Sidewalks

What permits do I need?

A Driveway Permit is required 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 neighbourhood, or
4. Your planned driveway will have an impact on City infrastructure. Examples would be:

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

Driveway Permit Application

Online

Apply online

In Person

1. Determine which application(s) you need. You can then download checklists and forms below to complete them, or come in person to City Planning and we will assist you.
2. Have drawings ready, if required (ex: Site plan, elevation plan, floor plan, floor joist and roof truss drawings)
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 all these required documents (USB drive preferred) and apply in person at City Planning.

Payment Methods

Online or phone:

• Visa or Mastercard

In-person:

• Debit
• Cash
• Cheque
• Visa or Mastercard

Mail:

• Cheque

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 at least two days notice.

You must provide utility locate slips with a development application.

Line locates

Inspections

If a Building Permit was required for your project, then you must book a City inspection. At the discretion of the Safety Codes Officer, most projects require rough-in and final inspections, depending on the complexity of the project.

Book Online

Please review this user guide before booking online.

Book by Phone

Phone 403-529-8208 or fax the Inspection Request to 403-502-8036.

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:

• Enforcement action issued by a Safety Codes Officer.
• 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.