Multi-Family Dwelling

Building a multi-family dwelling—such as a duplex, triplex, fourplex, townhouse, or apartment—requires planning, approvals, and coordination with the Town.

Most projects will require both a Development Permit and a Building Permit, along with inspections and other approvals.

Follow the steps below to understand the process.

Before designing your project, confirm that your property allows for multi-family development and review applicable regulations.

This includes:

• Land Use Bylaw requirements (density, setbacks, height, lot coverage)
• parking, access, and landscaping requirements
• applicable statutory plans (e.g., Municipal Development Plan, Area Structure Plans)

In some cases, a Land Use Redesignation may be required if the current district does not support the proposed development. This must be completed before a Development Permit can be considered.

Taking time at this stage helps avoid delays later in the process.

A pre-application meeting with the Town is strongly recommended for multi-family projects.

This helps you:

• confirm required approvals
• identify site-specific considerations
• understand submission requirements
• discuss servicing, access, grading, and design expectations

Larger or more complex projects will benefit from early discussion.

A Development Permit is required before you can move forward with construction.

This  approval focuses on how your project fits on the site and complies with planning regulations.

You may be required to submit:

• site plan
• building elevations
• floor plans
• landscaping plan
• additional supporting information, depending on the project

Approval of the Development Permit is required before applying for a Building Permit.

Once your Development Permit is approved, a Building Permit is required before you begin construction.

This review ensures your project meets safety and construction standards under the Alberta Building Code.

Multi-family projects typically require detailed drawings prepared by qualified professionals, including:

• architectural and structural drawings
• mechanical, electrical, and plumbing designs
• energy compliance information
• grading or site servicing details

Complete applications help avoid delays.

Once your Development Permit and Building Permit have been approved, you can begin preparing for construction.

Before starting any work on your property, the following requirements must be completed:

Line Locates (Required Before Digging)

Before any ground disturbance, you must request line locates through
Utility Safety Partners. 

This service identifies underground utilities (sewer, gas, electrical, water, etc.) to help prevent damage, service disruptions, or injury.

Lot Grading

Before construction begins, it is important to understand how your lot will be graded. 

Lot grading ensures that water drains away from your home and toward appropriate drainage areas, helping to prevent water issues on your property and neighbouring properties.

You may be required to follow an approved grading plan and provide confirmation after construction that grading has been completed correctly.

Inspection Requirements

Construction must follow a series of required inspections at key stages.

Before starting, ensure you understand:

• when inspections are required
• how to schedule inspections
• what must be completed before each inspection

See the Inspection Requirements page for full details.

In addition to a Building Permit, separate permits are required for:

• Electrical
• Plumbing
• Gas

These permits are typically applied for by your contractor.

Building a multi-family structure involves multiple steps, permits, and requirements. If you’re unsure where to start, the Town is here to help.

Contact the Planning & Development team if you:

• are unsure what permits are required
• need help understanding application requirements
• want to confirm zoning or property details
• would like to discuss your project before applying

Early coordination can help prevent delays and ensure your application is complete.