Building, Electrical, Gas, Plumbing, & Private Sewage Permits

The Municipal District of Bighorn is accredited to administer Safety Codes in the disciplines of Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Gas, and Private Sewage Disposal.

Obtaining all the safety code permits (building, electrical, plumbing, gas, and private sewage) is a requirement of the Alberta Safety Codes Act.

⚠️ Disclaimer

Safety Codes Permits and Development Permits (DPs) are two different types of permits. Depending on the nature of your project, you may be required to obtain a Development Permit from the MD before applying for a Safety Codes Permit.

Find out if you need a Development Permit by clicking this link or by emailing planning@mdbighorn.ca

Permits help ensure that work is safe, meets code requirements, and protects you, your family, and your property.

When is a permit required?

A permit is typically required for:

New construction (residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural buildings)
Renovations, additions, or structural changes
Installing or altering electrical, plumbing, or gas systems
Upgrading hot water tanks or furnaces
Installing wood-burning appliances
Private sewage system installation or alteration

Do I need a Building Permit? Please look at this document to find out.

For more details, visit the Safety Codes Council or contact us directly.

How to Apply

You can apply for safety codes permits by filling out one of the downloadable forms below:

📄 You may submit a completed application form (PDF Version) by email at safetycodes@mdbighorn.ca or in person at the MD Administration Office.

Permit Application Forms

Need help filling out a form? Contact us at safetycodes@mdbighorn.ca.

Fees

Permit fees vary by project type and scope.

View the current Safety Codes Permit Fee Schedule here.

Need to pay for a invoice for a Planning related fee?

1. Debit or Cash at the MD office in Exshaw
2. Cheque (mailed or in person)
3. OptionPay for Credit Card
4. Online Banking (coming soon) - Please note that we do not accept e-transfers

Inspections

Inspections are required at various stages of construction. After your permit is issued, you will receive information about how to schedule inspections.

To request an inspection, contact Superior Safety Codes at info@superiorsafetycodes.com or use the --> Online Portal <-- with your permit number.

Safety Tips

FAQs

What is a Safety Codes Permit?

A Safety Codes Permit is an official approval that allows construction, installation, or renovation work to proceed in accordance with the Alberta Safety Codes Act. Permits ensure that the work is safe, inspected, and code-compliant.

Why do I need a permit?

Permits protect public safety, property value, and liability. They ensure that work meets provincial safety standards and allow for inspections at key stages of your project.

What types of permits are there?

In Alberta, common Safety Codes permits include:

Building (new buildings, additions, renovations)
Electrical (wiring, panel upgrades)
Plumbing (water lines, drainage systems)
Gas (furnaces, gas lines)
Private Sewage Disposal (PSD) (septic systems)

Do I need a permit for minor work like painting or replacing cabinets?

No. Cosmetic upgrades (e.g., painting, flooring, cabinetry) usually do not require permits. However, structural changes, new plumbing/electrical/gas work, or changes to a sewage system likely do.

Who is responsible for obtaining permits — the contractor or the property owner?

Either party can apply, but the property owner is ultimately responsible for ensuring permits are obtained. We recommend confirming this with your contractor.

How do I apply for a permit?

To apply for a Safety Codes, permit in the MD of Bighorn, please email the completed application form along with all supporting documents to:

📧 safetycodes@mdbighorn.ca

Make sure to include:

A completed permit application form (PDFs are available on our website)
Site plans, construction drawings, or system design (as applicable)
Any other required documentation noted on the form

If you have questions or need help with your application, feel free to contact our Planning and Development Department.

How much does a permit cost?

Permit fees depend on the type and scope of work. Refer to your municipality’s Permit Fee Schedule or contact staff for an estimate.

How long does it take to get a permit?

Permit processing times vary depending on the complexity of the project and the completeness of the application. Simple permits may be issued within a few days, while more complex applications may take longer.

Do I need an inspection after I get a permit?

Yes. Most permits require one or more inspections to ensure work is done properly and safely. Your permit documentation will include inspection instructions.

What happens if I don’t get a permit?

Doing work without a required permit can lead to:

Fines or stop-work orders
Delays in your project
Issues with insurance claims or property resale
It’s always best to check if a permit is required before starting work.

Can I apply for a permit after the work is already done?

This is called a "permit after the fact". It may be possible, but it can involve additional inspections, costs, and in some cases, redoing non-compliant work. It’s strongly recommended to obtain permits before beginning.

Where can I find more information?

Safety Codes Council – Alberta
Contact your municipal Safety Codes Officer or Planning Department

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Building, Electrical, Gas, Plumbing, & Private Sewage Permits

When is a permit required?

How to Apply

Permit Application Forms

Fees

Inspections

Safety Tips

Contact Us

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Fee Schedule

Quality Management System

FAQs

Contact Us

Land Acknowledgement