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Monday Municipality Matters



Development Items that Don’t Require a Development Permit

This week’s Municipality Matters focuses specifically on what developments don’t require a development permit.

Understanding Permits: What’s the Difference?

Development Permit: This permit is required for certain types of construction or modifications to land and buildings that affect land use, building appearance, and land development. It ensures that the development complies with local zoning and land use regulations.

Other Permits (Electrical, Plumbing, and Gas): These permits are needed for specific types of work related to electrical systems, plumbing, and gas installations. They ensure that such work meets safety and regulatory standards. These permits are managed by Inspections Group, which is regulated by Alberta Safety Codes. For assistance with these permits, please contact Inspections Group at:

Inspections Group

Please note that while certain projects may not need a development permit, other permits for electrical, plumbing, and gas might still be required. 

Streamlining the Process

Last year, we updated our Land Use Bylaw (LUB) to make things easier by expanding the list of projects that don’t require a development permit. We wanted to cut through the red tape to help you get your projects done faster and with fewer hassles.

Why We Reduced Red Tape

We streamlined the process to:

  • Enhance Efficiency: Fewer permits mean less waiting and more doing.
  • Promote Growth: A simpler process encourages you to invest in your property and community.
  • Improve Accessibility: We aim to make development as straightforward as possible.

Why We Still Need Regulations

While we’ve cut down on unnecessary red tape, regulations are still essential. Think about it: You probably wouldn’t want your neighbour to build a skyscraper in a rural area where it doesn’t fit. Regulations help:

  • Ensure Safety: They make sure developments meet necessary safety standards.
  • Maintain Community Aesthetic: Regulations help keep the character of our town, avoiding mismatches between developments.
  • Promote Thoughtful Growth: We manage growth in a way that balances development with the needs of our community and environment.

For more details on development permits and to see if your project qualifies for an exemption, check out our infographic below or see section 6.1 of the Land Use Bylaw for more details.

Have additional questions or something you want to learn more about on Monday Municipality Matters?? Send an email to redwater@redwater.ca