What permits are involved
A commercial project in Alberta commonly involves a development permit and a building permit from the municipality, along with trade permits for electrical, plumbing, gas and sometimes mechanical work. Which ones apply depends on the scope and the location. Some changes, such as simple cosmetic work, need fewer approvals.
Permit costs are part of the budget. Fees depend on the municipality and the construction value, and we include them in our estimates. We also advise on any conditions attached to approvals, such as site work, signage or parking requirements, so they do not surprise you later.
Our team prepares drawings and forms, submits applications and follows up with reviewers. Our in-house engineering helps make submissions complete and consistent with the National Building Code, Alberta Edition. Our licensed electrical and mechanical crews know what inspectors look for and prepare for it.
Typical steps
- Confirm which permits apply
- Assemble drawings and supporting documents
- Submit and track the application
- Answer questions or revision requests
- Receive permits and post required notices
- Book and attend inspections through construction
Timing and risk
Review times vary by municipality and by workload, and we do not guess at them. We plan with a range and keep you informed. A landlord or lender may need to approve plans too. We work out those approvals in parallel with the permit process.
Common causes of delay
Incomplete drawings, missing information on existing conditions, and unanswered reviewer questions are the usual causes of permit delay. Another is a change of scope after submission, which may restart review. We try to freeze the scope before applying, and respond to comments quickly. When a project is in a building with a landlord review, we send plans for that review at the same time.
What to plan for
Make sure we have the owner's details and any landlord requirements. Be ready to sign forms promptly. Avoid starting work that requires a permit before it is issued. The next step is procurement, which often begins while permits are in review.