Building & Renovating | City of Wetaskiwin

Before beginning any construction, renovation, or property changes, understanding which permits you need is the first step in any building or renovation project. The information below explains the different permits you need for your project and how to apply for them. If you are looking for information on municipal land use plans, visit the Planning, Zoning, and Subdivision webpage.

If you are starting a new business in Wetaskiwin, please visit the Business Resources webpage.

Development Permits

Development permits make sure that any development, such as new construction, additions, or changes in how a property is used, follows the rules in the City’s Land Use Bylaw. Some projects are exempt. These exemptions are listed in Section 3.8 of the Land Use Bylaw.

To help you plan, please allow the following approval timelines after you submit a complete application, including fees and a clear, complete site plan:

3 to 5 business days for decks and sheds.
5 to 7 business days for new low‑density homes and additions, detached garages, signage, and changes of use.
10 to 20 business days for new higher‑density residential, commercial, and industrial development.

Building Permits

Building permits ensure that all construction work meets the safety standards set by Alberta's Safety Codes Act and that required inspections are completed by certified safety codes officers.

Once the City of Wetaskiwin reviews and processes your building permit application, it is sent to Superior Safety Codes Inc. They complete the plans review and issue the actual building permit.

Electrical, gas, and plumbing permits must be submitted directly to Superior Safety Codes Inc.

Fire Safety Note

The City of Wetaskiwin cannot guarantee a ten‑minute fire department response time. Because of this, the building plans review may require extra construction measures to help slow the spread of fire, as outlined in the National Building Code.

Processing Timelines

Please allow 7 to 10 business days for building permit approval after your development permit is approved, and you have submitted a complete building permit application with all required fees.

No work can begin until all permits have been reviewed and approved. Starting construction without the proper permits may result in additional fees and enforcement penalties.

How to apply for a development, sign, or building permit:

Step 1: Determine which district (zone) your property is in

To find your property's zone, consult our online web map or the Land Use Bylaw. If you are unsure which zone your property is in, you can call Planning and Development at 780.361.4432 for assistance. The zone that your property is in determines its potential use and development.

Step 2: Determine if your project is permitted or discretionary

Once you know which zone your property is in, review the City's Land Use Bylaw to find the specific regulations that apply to that zone, including which uses are permitted and which are discretionary. Permitted uses are those that are allowed within the zone. Discretionary uses are allowed only at the discretion of the Development Authority, based on their compatibility with neighbouring developments.

If your proposed development is not listed in the zone, a land use amendment will be required before the project can proceed. Consult the Zoning and Subdivisions webpage or contact Planning and Development for more information.

Step 3: Complete the permit application form

Review the relevant information package and complete the appropriate application for your project. These documents outline the supporting documents and permit applications needed for each type of project.

Download the forms and application package you need for your project below.

Step 4: Submit the application

Applications may be submitted by email to permits@wetaskiwin.ca, by mail, or in person at Wetaskiwin City Hall. Applications submitted by email must be in PDF format. Photos of forms and supporting documents will not be accepted.

Once your application has been received, a Development Officer will contact you to identify any outstanding information and arrange for payment. Applications are not considered to be complete until all required information and supporting documents are submitted.