Skip to content

Pro Reliance Builds: Multifamily Development Permits Guide

Navigating Permits for Your Calgary Multifamily Project

At Pro Reliance Builds, we streamline the permitting process for your multifamily development, ensuring compliance with Calgary’s regulations while keeping your project on track. Below is a concise guide to the key permits and approvals required, tailored to multifamily projects like 4+4 duplexes or 5+5 row homes with legal basement suites.

1. Development Permit
  • Purpose: Authorizes the project’s use, size, and location per the Land Use Bylaw.
  • Requirements: Site plans, elevations, floor plans, transportation assessments.
  • Timeline: ~60 days; complex projects may take 4–12 months.

Cost: Varies by gross floor area (see City’s fee calculator).

2. Building Permit
  • Purpose: Ensures compliance with Alberta Building Code (safety, fire, accessibility).
  • Requirements: Construction drawings, trade permits (electrical, plumbing, etc.).
  • Timeline: 2–4 weeks.

Cost: Based on scope; deposit up to $10,000 for large projects.

3. Development Site Servicing Plan (DSSP)
  • Purpose: Plans utility connections and stormwater management.
  • Requirements: Design drawings, stormwater report, fire prevention plan.
  • Timeline: 4–8 weeks.

Cost: Building Grade fee + storm redevelopment fee ($84/m frontage).

4. Environmental Approvals
  • Stormwater Management (Ponds): Register ponds with Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP); submit EPEA application.
  • Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC): Plan to prevent runoff; approval needed before construction.
  • Environmental Site Assessments (ESA): Required for potentially contaminated sites.
  • Timeline: 4–12 weeks.

Cost: Varies by site complexity.

5. Trade Permits
  • Purpose: Authorize electrical, plumbing, gas, and mechanical work.
  • Requirements: Detailed plans by licensed professionals.
  • Timeline: 1–2 weeks.

Cost: Per City fee schedules.

6. Permission to Construct (PTC) Permits
  • Purpose: Authorize utility connections and road excavations.
  • Types: Water Addendum, Street Use, Excavation, Compaction.
  • Timeline: 1–3 weeks.

Cost: Included in contractor quotes; road degradation fees apply.

7. Landscape Construction Approvals
  • Purpose: Ensure landscaping complies with City standards.
  • Requirements: Drawings for reserve land, public utility lots, or street trees.
  • Timeline: 4–6 weeks.

Cost: Included in DSSP/permit fees.

8. Fire Prevention Plan
  • Purpose: Ensures fire safety (hydrants, access, sprinklers).
  • Requirements: Submit with DSSP; reviewed by Fire Department.
  • Timeline: 2–4 weeks.

Cost: Included in DSSP fees.

9. Storm Redevelopment Fee
  • Purpose: Funds storm sewer upgrades in redevelopment areas.
  • Requirements: Pay $84/m frontage via ePay or cheque.
  • Timeline: Payable at permitting stage.

Cost: E.g., $4,200 for a 50m lot.

10. Construction Completion Certificate (CCC) & Final Acceptance Certificate (FAC)
  • Purpose: Verify infrastructure compliance post-construction.
  • Requirements: As-built drawings, inspections.
  • Timeline: CCC: 2–4 weeks; FAC: 1–2 years later.

Cost: Inspection fees via ePay.

Why Pro Reliance Builds?

With 25+ years of Calgary expertise, we manage all permits efficiently, ensuring compliance and minimizing delays. Contact us at +1 587 930 9289 or www.proreliancebuilds.com to start your multifamily project.

Note: Timelines and costs vary by project scope. Verify requirements with the City of Calgary or Alberta Environment and Parks.

Need Help Navigating Permits?

We handle the paperwork so you can focus on the build. Share your project details and let our team guide you through every permit required for your multifamily development.