Why Proper Permits Are Crucial for Calgary Construction
Building without permits in Calgary can lead to:
- Heavy fines ($10,000+ under City bylaws)
- Costly project delays (stop-work orders)
- Resale headaches (unpermitted work reduces property value by up to 15%)
At Continent Constructions, we secure permits for every project—ensuring your build is legal, safe, and insurable.
Types of Calgary Construction Permits (2024 Requirements)
1. Building Permits
Required for:
- New homes & additions
- Structural changes (wall removals, foundation work)
- Decks >0.6m tall or garages >10m²
Calgary-Specific Rules:
- Energy compliance: Must meet 2024 Alberta Building Code
- Flood zone requirements: Geotechnical reports needed for communities like Bridgeland
2. Development Permits
Needed when:
- Building in historic areas (Inglewood, Mount Royal)
- Changing property use (e.g., garage to rental suite)
3. Trade-Specific Permits
- Electrical, plumbing, and gas work require licensed contractor filings
How to Get a Permit in Calgary: 5-Step Process
Step 1: Pre-Application Research
- Check zoning at Calgary Maps
- Book a free pre-application meeting with the City
Step 2: Prepare Documents
- Architectural drawings (with energy calculations)
- Site survey showing property lines
Step 3: Submit & Wait
- Processing time: 4-8 weeks (longer May-Sept)
- Fees (2024):
- New home: $1,200+
- Addition: $800+
Step 4: Schedule Inspections
- Required for:
- Footings
- Framing
- Final approval
- Book via 311 Calgary
3 Costly Permit Mistakes Calgary Homeowners Make
- Underestimating Timelines
- "A 2023 client saved 6 weeks by applying in January vs. June."
- DIY Errors
- Missing engineer stamps for structural changes
- Ignoring Community Rules
- Heritage districts (e.g., Inglewood) have strict design guidelines
How We Make Permits Stress-Free
✔ Full-service management (we handle all paperwork)
✔ Pre-approved templates (faster approvals)
✔ Neighborhood expertise (flood zones, heritage rules)
"We’ve secured 47 Calgary permits with zero rejections by perfecting the details upfront."
—Continent Constructions
Free Calgary Permit Resources
Need Help? Get a Free Permit Consultation