Sheds, Garages & Accessory Buildings

Installing a shed, detached garage, or other accessory building requires planning and may involve permits depending on the size and type of structure.

Before starting your project, review the requirements that apply to your property and proposed design.

Accessory buildings must comply with the Town’s Land Use Bylaw and may require a Development Permit and Building Permit depending on the size, location, and use.

This page outlines common types of residential accessory buildings. Review the steps below to understand typical requirements and next steps.

Common examples include:

• Sheds used for storage of tools, equipment, or household items
• Detached garages used for vehicle parking or storage
• Workshops or hobby buildings
• Other similar structures accessory to a residential property

If you are unsure which steps apply to your project, please contact the Development & Planning Department for assistance.

Before purchasing or constructing a shed, garage, or other accessory building, confirm:

• your property meets setback and placement requirements under the Land Use Bylaw
• the size and location of your proposed structure
• whether a Development Permit is required
• what permits and inspections are needed

Accessory buildings must comply with the Town’s Land Use Bylaw.

Requirements may include:

• setbacks from property lines
• maximum height and size
• location relative to the main building
• number of accessory buildings permitted

All structures must remain incidental and subordinate to the principal dwelling.

The permits required depend on the size and type of accessory building.

• Structures larger than 100 sq. ft. require a Building Permit and a Development Permit
• Smaller structures may not require a permit but must still comply with the Land Use Bylaw

Once you have confirmed your requirements:

• submit applications for any required permits
• ensure your plans meet applicable regulations
• include any supporting documents requested

3A. Development Permit

You may need to obtain a Development Permit before building, depending on your project.

A Development Permit may be required if your project involves:

• increasing building size or footprint
• changes that affect setbacks, height, or lot coverage
• placement of a new accessory building on the property

If you are unsure, or would like to schedule a pre-planning meeting, please contact the Development & Planning Department.

3B. Building Permits

Once your Development Permit has been approved (if required), proceed to submitting your Building Permit application.

A Building Permit ensures that construction meets:

• the Alberta Building Code
• applicable safety codes and regulations

Building Permit applications typically require:

• site plan showing location of the structure
• building dimensions and height
• construction details

3C. Additional Permits

Depending on your project, additional permits may also be required:

• Electrical Permit
• Plumbing Permit
• Gas Permit

Trade permits are issued through the Town’s contracted inspection agency.

For application forms, requirements, and fees, visit:

Once permits are approved and before starting any work, 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 (gas, electrical, water, etc.) to help prevent damage, service disruptions, or injury.

Lot Grading

Depending on the type of installation, lot grading may need to be considered.

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 and installation 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

All work must be completed in accordance with approved permits, and inspections must be scheduled during construction.

If you are unsure what applies to your project, contact the Development & Planning Department before starting.

Early coordination helps ensure your project meets all requirements and avoids delays.