Planning & Checklists
Renovation Permit Guide — Calgary
Updated 3 min read
The short answer
In Calgary, a building permit is required for structural modifications, electrical work, plumbing, gas, HVAC changes, new openings in load-bearing walls, additions, deck construction (attached, over 600mm above grade, or over 108 sq ft), and any work that changes the building's approved drawings. Cosmetic work (paint, flooring, trim, hardware) does not require a permit. When in doubt, call Calgary Building Services — the call is free and the answer is definitive.
When you need a permit
| Work type | Permit required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Painting, flooring, trim | No | Cosmetic only |
| Replacing cabinets in same location | No | No structural or service change |
| Replacing a door in the same opening | No | Same size, no structural change |
| Moving or adding a door opening | Sometimes | Non-structural wall: usually no. Load-bearing wall: yes |
| Removing or modifying a wall | Yes | If structural (load-bearing), engineering required |
| Electrical work | Yes | All electrical requires a permit and licensed trade |
| Plumbing changes | Yes | Moving, adding or removing plumbing requires a permit |
| Gas line work | Yes | Requires licensed gas fitter and permit |
| Deck (attached, elevated, large) | Yes | Attached to house, over 600mm above grade, or over 108 sq ft |
| Deck (unattached, ground-level, small) | No | Under 108 sq ft and not attached to house |
| Window replacement (same size) | No | Like-for-like replacement |
| Window or door enlargement | Yes | Changes structural opening size |
| Basement development | Yes | Electrical, plumbing, framing all require permits |
| Addition or new construction | Yes | Full permit set with plans |
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The permit process
The permit process is straightforward but takes time. Plan for it.
- Determine if you need a permitCall Calgary Building Services at 403-268-5330 or visit calgary.ca/permits. Describe the work. They will tell you whether a permit is required and what documentation is needed. This call is free and eliminates guesswork.
- Prepare your applicationFor simple permits (deck, window replacement), you may need only a description and a sketch. For complex permits (structural modification, basement development), you may need architectural drawings and structural engineering. Your contractor or designer typically prepares these.
- Submit the applicationApplications can be submitted online through Calgary's permit portal or in person. Include all required documentation. Incomplete applications delay the process — submit everything at once.
- Wait for reviewSimple permits are reviewed in 1–2 weeks. Complex permits (structural, plumbing, electrical) may take 4–6 weeks. Do not start work until the permit is issued — starting before permit approval can result in a stop-work order.
- Schedule inspectionsThe permit will specify required inspections (framing, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, insulation, final). Your contractor schedules these at the appropriate phase. Each inspection must be passed before the next phase of work proceeds.
- Close the permitAfter the final inspection passes, the permit is closed. Keep the closed permit documentation — it is required if you sell the house. An open permit is a red flag in a real estate transaction.
Answers
Frequently asked questions
- How much does a permit cost in Calgary?
- Permit fees are based on the project value. A simple permit (deck, window) costs $100–$300. A complex permit (basement development, structural modification) costs $300–$1,000+. The fee is a small fraction of the project cost and is well worth the protection it provides.
- Can my contractor handle the permit?
- Yes, most contractors will handle the permit application as part of their service. The permit is issued to the property owner, but the contractor can submit on your behalf. Confirm this is included in their scope before hiring them.
- What if I already did work without a permit?
- You can apply for a retroactive permit (called a "compliance permit"). Calgary Building Services will inspect the work. If it meets code, the permit is issued. If it does not, you must bring it into compliance before the permit is issued. It is always better to get the permit before starting work.
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