Multi-Family Dwelling

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

All 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 is zoned for multi-family development and review applicable regulations.

This includes:

• Land Use Bylaw requirements (density, setbacks, height, lot coverage)
• parking, access, and landscaping requirements
• Statutory Plans (Municipal Development Plan, Area Structure Plans (ASP), etc) 

If your property is not zoned for your proposed building type, please see Land Use Redesignation for more information.

Taking time at this stage helps prevent 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 confirms that your proposed building complies with the Town’s planning regulations and requirements.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• setbacks
• building height
• lot coverage
• site layout and placement on the lot
• parking and access
• permitted uses

Visit the Development Permit page for details on how to apply.

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

After obtaining a Development Permit, a Building Permit is required, before you begin construction of your new building.

A Building Permit ensures your project meets the Alberta Building Code, including but not limited to:

• structural safety
• building systems
• energy efficiency requirements

Please visit the Building Permit Application Checklist for required documentation that will be needed in your submission. 

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

When you receive your Building Permit, please ensure you read the Plans Review issued by the Safety Codes Officer. The Plans Review outlines all building codes associated with your project, including required inspection stages.

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 building and toward appropriate drainage areas, helping to prevent water issues on your property and neighbouring properties. 

A signed Grade Slip is required at Development Permit Application Submission. The applicant is required to follow the Town of Crossfield's Lot Grading Bylaw, including the submission of the final Grade Certificate. 

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 your Plans Review for full details.

⚠️ Important:
If multiple inspections are required, do not proceed to the next stage of construction until the required inspection has been completed and approved.

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.