Do I Need a Permit?

A Development Permit is required prior to the construction of any residence within the Town of Slave Lake.

Development permits ensure that new houses comply with the Land Use Bylaw, including zoning, setbacks, lot coverage, and compatibility with surrounding development.

What is regulated?

When reviewing an application for a house or dwelling unit, the Land Use Bylaw regulates matters such as:

• Permitted and discretionary residential uses
• Minimum yard setbacks
• Building height
• Parcel coverage
• Building footprint
• Parking requirements

Building height, setbacks, and other development standards vary depending on the district of the property. To confirm your property’s district, please refer to the Town’s Land Use District Map.

To confirm the applicable requirements, please refer to the Town’s Land Use Bylaw.

Additions and Alterations

A development permit is also required for:

• Addition to an existing house
• Changes that increase building footprint or height
• Changes that result in a different use of the dwelling

Minor interior renovations, including the carrying out of maintenance or repair work to a building, typically do not require a development permit, provided that such work does not include structural alterations, major works, renovations, changes to the exterior of the building, or changes to how the dwelling is used.

Building Permits

Please note that the Town of Slave Lake is not accredited or authorized to issue building permits. Building permits are issued by the appropriate Safety Codes Authority. Please note that a development permit must be obtained before applying for a building permit.

What’s the Process?

To apply for a development permit, submit to the Planning Department a filled-out Residential Development and Accessory Building Development Application Form together with the required plans.

Before purchasing materials, hiring a contractor, or finalizing plans, it’s ideal to contact the Planning Department. Early conversations can help confirm requirements, identify potential issues, and avoid unnecessary costs or delays.