Projects & Permits
As we enjoy longer days and spring weather, we get ready to take on some backyard projects at home or at our seasonal campsites. Often, this includes building decks, deck covers, and gazebos. Do these types of projects need permits? Sometimes!
Please note that the following items are general guidelines and are not intended to be comprehensive requirements for all scenarios. Additional or different requirements may apply, depending on the specifics of your project.
In Alberta, we are governed by the legislative requirements outlined in the Safety Codes Act and Permit Regulation. The Permit Regulation requires a building permit when construction exceeds $5,000 in prevailing market value or when health or safety matters are at risk. For example, a deck that is over 2 feet off the ground affects safety and requires a building permit, regardless of the project value. If your deck is at ground level, you do not need a building permit.
It is important to consider future plans and potential upgrades when constructing a deck. If a deck is less than 592 sq ft, it is permitted to have a surface foundation such as deck blocks. However, if you want to add a cover, deck blocks would no longer be acceptable, and the foundation may need to be upgraded. Similarly, if you are placing items such as a hot tub on your deck, additional requirements will apply.
If you are constructing a free-standing covered deck, the roof and structural elements that support the roof are required to be designed by an engineer. Prescriptive roof construction in the building code assumes that the roof is braced on one side by attachment to a permanent, code-compliant building. Without that, an engineer is required to design a free-standing roof.
Purchasing a pre-manufactured gazebo from various retail stores does not require a permit as the value rarely exceeds $5,000. However, if you are purchasing a pre-manufactured gazebo that exceeds $5,000, you will need a building permit and must provide engineering from the product manufacturer or obtain site-specific engineering with your building permit application. Similarly, if you are constructing a gazebo, a permit is required when the prevailing market value exceeds $5,000.
As always, check with Wheatland County to confirm if your project requires a Development Permit before proceeding with any building permit applications. All buildings/structures over 100 sq ft require a Development Permit. Remember to contact your Safety Codes Officer with any code questions while planning your upcoming project. We’re happy to help you make the most of our spring and summer months!
For more information, please contact Wheatland County at 403-934-3321 or safetycodes@wheatlandcounty.ca or The Inspections Group Inc. at 1-888-852-3558 or south@inspectionsgroup.com