Building a home in Parkland County
Building a Home in Parkland County
If you’re contemplating a residential construction or remodelling endeavour in Parkland County and are uncertain about the necessary permits and regulations, we’re here to assist! Parkland County oversees residential construction activities through development and safety codes permits, ensuring that your projects are secure and harmonious with surrounding land uses.
When you’re ready to begin your project, you might need various permits. Typically, you’ll start with a development permit and then proceed to safety code permits.
Development Permits evaluate the usage, location, and dimensions of a structure based on Land Use Bylaw regulations. Safety Codes Permits examine projects to ensure they align with the National Building Code of Canada: 2020, Canadian Electrical Code, Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code, National Plumbing Code of Canada: 2020, and the Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice 2021.
Do I need a development permit?
If you plan to construct a new building, alter an existing one, change how a property is being used, or change the scale to which a property is being used, you will need a development permit.
Typical developments that require a permit include:
Land development and preparation (grading, tree clearing, resource extraction)
Residential Development (i.e. new dwelling, moved-on dwelling, garage, shed, secondary suite, etc.)
Business Development (i.e. home based business, commercial, industrial, cottage industry)
What regulations are considered for a development permit?
A development permit application can consider information such as:
- Whether a use is permitted or discretionary in your Land Use District
- Intensity of a land use
- Building height
- Building site coverage
- Setbacks from property lines
- Proximity to environmentally sensitive areas
- Impact to neighbours
- Other development details (landscaping, lighting, parking, etc.)
- Compliance with Parkland County’s Municipal Development Plan and other statutory documents
Once you have your development permit and safety code permits in place you may begin construction of your project.
Dwellings (includes new single-detached dwellings and manufactured homes)
Residential dwellings (including manufactured homes) require:
Permit information and checklists – Dwelling
View the following resources to help you apply for a new single-detached dwelling (Dwelling, Single Detached) or manufactured home:
Development Permit Resources
Safety Codes Permit Resources
- For Single Family Dwellings:
- For Manufactured Homes:
Permit information and checklists – Dwelling (Single-Wide Mobile Home)
View the following resources to help you make an application for a new single-wide mobile (manufactured) home:
Development Permit Resources:
Residential Dwelling Development Permit Application Package
Safety Codes Permit Resources:
- Manufactured Home or Single Mobile Home Safety Codes Checklist
- Manufactured Home / Single-wide Mobile Home Safety Codes Application Information Details
Wondering what’s permissible on your property, or whether you need a Development or Safety Codes Permit for your residential project? Parkland County’s online system, PLANit, simplifies the application process, allowing you to apply for permits, track your application status and correspondence, and view your approved permits all in one place, accessible anytime, anywhere!
To apply:
- Collect the necessary documents for your application. Find forms and checklists on PLANitForms.
- Set up an account on the PLANit portal. Detailed instructions, including a YouTube how-to video, are available on the PLANit Help webpage.
- Submit your application on PLANit Parkland, following the step-by-step guide and YouTube tutorial provided.
Remember, construction can’t commence until all required Development and Safety Codes permits are approved. Permit processing times can vary, but once a development permit is approved, you have 12 months to apply for your Safety Codes Permits.
Need additional resources or assistance? View forms, checklists, and more on PLANit Parkland to prepare for your project. For personalized help, contact the Planning and Development Services team by email at hello@parklandcounty.com or visit the Parkland County Centre.
Also, consider the fees associated with building, electrical, plumbing, and gas permits, which vary based on your project’s type, size, and value. And don’t forget about inspections! Learn how to schedule necessary inspections with Parkland County at various stages of your project and permit applications.
Most residential building projects in Parkland County require the appropriate permits before commencement. These might include development, building, electrical, gas, and plumbing permits. To ensure a smooth application process, view the checklists, processes, and forms needed for your specific project on PLANit Parkland.
Included below are homes for sale in Parkland County. If you would like more information on any of these Parkland County real estate listings, just click the “Request More Information” button when viewing the details of that property. We can provide you with disclosures, past sales history, dates and prices of homes recently sold nearby, and more.
And, if you haven’t already, be sure to register for a free account so that you’ll be updated whenever new Parkland County listings come on the market.
Parkland Country MLS Listings
Common FAQs
If you are in need of an EDMONTON Realtor right now, you can call us here.
What are the zoning regulations for building a home on an acreage in Parkland County?
Zoning regulations in Parkland County vary depending on the specific area and intended use of the land. Generally, you need to ensure that your property is zoned for residential use, and you may have to adhere to specific guidelines regarding minimum lot sizes, building setbacks, and permitted structures. It’s essential to consult the Parkland County Land Use Bylaw and possibly seek advice from the county’s planning and development department to ensure compliance.
What utilities and services are available for acreages in Parkland County?
Utility services on acreages can vary. Most acreages will require private water wells and septic systems for wastewater. Electricity is typically available but may require an extension from the nearest power line. Natural gas might be available in some areas, but in more remote locations, propane might be the alternative. Internet and phone services can vary, with some areas having access to high-speed internet while others might need satellite services.
What are the typical costs associated with building a home on an acreage in Parkland County?
Building on an acreage involves several costs beyond just the construction of the home. These can include land purchase, site preparation (such as clearing and grading), utility connections (well, septic, electricity), road access or driveway construction, and possibly additional costs for permits and inspections. The overall cost can vary widely based on the location, size of the property, and the specifications of the home. It’s advisable to create a detailed budget and consult with local builders or contractors who have experience with rural properties to get accurate estimates.
