Question 1

What permits do I need for my project?

Accepted Answer

Most projects need a Development Permit, a Building Permit, or both. If your project fits within
the land use bylaws of your county, a Development Permit may not be needed. We will confirm
what applies before getting started.

Question 2

What’s the difference between a Development Permit and a Building Permit?

Accepted Answer

Development Permit: land-use rules (zoning, setbacks, height, lot coverage).
Building Permit: building code and construction safety.
If needed, the Development Permit must be approved before the Building Permit.

Question 3

How long does the permit process take?

Accepted Answer

Development Permits take the longest and can range anywhere from 2 – 12 weeks, depending on
if your application triggers circulation, neighbour notice or discretionary review. Building
Permits are typically issued between 1 – 6 weeks. We reduce delays by submitting a complete
package and handling deficiency responses fast.

Question 4

What do you need from me to get started?

Accepted Answer

Typically we ask for: address/legal land, what you’re building (size + intended use), any plans
you have, and where you want it on the property. If available, send a land title/RPR, photos,
and any septic/well/approach info. Don’t worry if you don’t have it all — we’ll map out what’s
needed.

Question 5

Do you work with all Alberta municipalities?

Accepted Answer

We focus on rural Alberta. Common service areas include places like Rocky View, Foothills,
Wheatland, Mountain View, Kneehill and nearby municipalities. If you send your address or
legal land description, we’ll confirm fit right away.

Question 6

Can you provide site plans and drawings, or do I need an engineer?

Accepted Answer

We can prepare/coordinate site plans and the full submission package. You may need
engineered/stamped documents for things like large clear spans, major beams, multi-storey
structures, unusual loads, retaining walls, or commercial builds. We’ll tell you early so you
don’t design twice.

Question 7

What’s included in your service?

Accepted Answer

We handle bylaw/zoning review, application prep, site plan support, submission, and follow-
ups. If the municipality requests changes, we coordinate revisions and resubmissions and
keep you updated on what’s happening and what’s next.

Question 8

What if my project doesn’t meet a bylaw rule (setbacks/height/lot coverage)?

Accepted Answer

That’s common on rural parcels. Options usually include moving the building, adjusting
dimensions, or applying for a variance/relaxation. We’ll identify the exact rule you’re up against
and help build a rationale using practical impacts (safety, drainage, visibility, neighbors, intended
use).

Question 9

Can you help with an appeal if my permit was refused?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Appeals are time-sensitive (often a short window, like 14–21 days, depending on the
municipality). We’ll review the decision, clarify what can realistically be challenged, and help
assemble a clean package: rationale, drawings, photos, supporting documents, and a plan
for the hearing process.

Question 10

Do you help with farm buildings and agricultural projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We do barns, shops, machine storage, livestock shelters, riding arenas, ag storage and
more. “Farm building” rules depend on intended use and municipal definitions, and some
structures may have different building code/permit requirements. We’ll confirm what applies and
submit accordingly.

Question 11

Do you handle commercial, rezoning, or complex applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes. These often include extra steps like pre-application review, public notice,
council/committee decisions, parking/access requirements, servicing
(water/septic/storm), and higher-detail drawings. We start with a quick review and then
outline the path, risks, and expected timeline.

Question 12

How does pricing work?

Accepted Answer

Many common applications are flat-rate or tiered based on complexity. Municipal fees are
separate and paid to the municipality. For rezoning/appeals/complex commercial, we quote
based on scope so you’re not guessing. Check out our pricing schedule on our How it Works page

Frequently asked questions