Basement Development

Developing or renovating a basement requires planning and may involve multiple permits depending on the scope of work.

This page outlines the typical requirements for basement development. Review the steps below to understand what approvals may be needed.

If your Basement development includes a kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, it will be considered a Secondary Suite, and a Development Permit is required moving forward. Please note some districts within the Land Use Bylaw may not allow for Secondary Suites. 

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

Before beginning any basement development, confirm:

• the scope of your project (finishing, renovations, or layout changes)
• if a Development Permit is required
• what other permits are needed

If your project includes creating a secondary suite, additional approvals and requirements apply.

Taking time to review requirements early can help avoid delays or redesign.

The permits required depend on the type of basement development.

All basement developments will require:

• a Building Permit
• Trade Permits (Electrical, Gas, Plumbing)

A Development Permit is be required if:

• a Secondary Suite (kitchen, bedroom, bathroom) is proposed
• exterior alterations are involved (adding windows or entryways) 

A Development Permit may be required depending on your project.

This is required for:

• a Secondary Suite (kitchen, bedroom, bathroom) is proposed
• exterior alterations are involved (adding windows or entryways) 

A) Building Permit

A Building Permit is required for most basement development projects. Once your Development Permit is approved (if required), you may proceed to submitting your Building Permit Application

A Building Permit ensures that construction meets:

• the Alberta Building Code
• applicable safety codes and regulations

B) Additional Permits

Depending on your project, additional permits may 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 the Building Permit Applications & Fees page.

Once permits are approved and before starting any work, the following requirements must be completed:

Inspection Requirements

All permitted work must be inspected at key stages.

Before starting, ensure you understand:

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

Work must not proceed beyond required inspection stages without approval.

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.