With the exception of the primary residence, any stand-alone building that has an area over 10 square meters (107.64 sq feet) OR over 4.3 meters (14.1 feet) in height is considered to be an accessory structure that requires both a development and building permit.

Some examples of accessory structures under the Zoning Bylaw would include: stand-alone sheds, gazebos, greenhouses (for personal use only) and pergolas.

A detached garage or carport is also considered an accessory structure, however, special requirements exist for those types of buildings. See detached garages for more information.

If the accessory structure is also having mechanical work done, please see gas, HVAC, plumbing, electrical or sewer and water permits for more information.

Permit Exemption
While most accessory structures require both a development and building permit, some may not not need either. An accessory structure is exempt if it meets the following conditions:

• It is less than 10 square metres (107.64 square feet) in area.
• It is shorter than 4.3 meters (14.1 feet) in height.
• It complies with all the zoning regulations applicable to the property.

If your structure does not meet these requirements, a development permit and a building permit are required.

Zoning Regulations
The standards in the zoning regulations for a shed or gazebo outlines how tall an accessory structure can be, where it can be built and the amount of area it can cover.

Other Zoning Regulations
Residential properties can be zoned differently and may be affected by an overlay schedule. To verify the zoning of a property, visit our office or do an address search on the Edmonton Maps website.

Building Design
The Alberta Building Code regulates the construction and safety of the structure. For any related inquiries, contact our office and speak with a Safety Codes Officer.

Application Procedure

To apply, fill in the Residential Construction Application form, and include all required information as indicated, as well as all application fees.

Processing  

A development officer reviews the application using the regulations of the Edmonton Zoning Bylaw. Once approved by the development officer, the application is examined by a safety codes officer for approval.

• If an application is refused, an appeal can be made through the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board - Phone: 780-496-6079.

 

2012 Fees

Development permit fee: $114

Building permit fee: $88

The safety code fee: $4.50

For more information:

Customer Information and Support Services

Sustainable Development
5th floor, 10250 - 101 Street
Edmonton, AB  T5J 3P4

Hours of Operation:

Monday to Friday
8am to 4:30pm

Telephone	In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311
Fax	780-496-6054