Steps For Building A Residential Infill

An approved Development Permits (DP) is required before making an application for a Building Permit (BP) to construct a new infill house (there are exceptions when a DP & BP can be submitted at the same time). A DP determines the site use, building size, building location, and landscaping. A BP ensures that the new buildings comply with safety codes and regulations, as well as records the mechanical and electrical permits and inspections. But, before and after the DP & BP are issued, there are other steps that you and your Design-Builder are involved with:

  • Read up on best practices, guidelines, and requirements for construction in the Residential Construction guide at edmonton.ca/myneighbourhood
  • The following links provide good information to better understand Edmonton’s zoning for your home (the type and scale of development permitted on your land). These will help you identify if there are any possible variances to the zoning and DP application.
  • Decide whether you plan to subdivide your property (to create a new parcel of land).
  • Obtain a Real Property Report (RPR) through any Alberta Land Surveyor. The RPR is a legal drawing that indicates the location of the physical features of your property.
  • Obtain a Demolition Permit if you are taking down the old house. Note the comment below regarding asbestos.
  • For your new home know your budget limits. Start with a list of needs versus wants. Don’t forget to budget for the costs for the old house removal and the new house design and permit fees.
  • Sketch your floor plans showing the location of the interior main living area and any prominent design features. These features could include open beams, fireplace, kitchen island, oversized cabinets, specialty doors and windows, and ceiling heights. There is no need at this stage to include minor items like mirrors and small cabinets.
  • Identify if the basement will be finished and if it is for family or a rental suite.
  • Describe what you want for the garage – number of cars, heat, drainage, special lighting, extra space for racking/shelves, garden rental suite.
  • List the exterior features like finishes (type & color), front and rear doors, windows, entrance ways, mudroom, fencing, and landscaping.
  • Other important items
    • Arrange for an Asbestos inspection and report (if you are demolishing the old house). This will determine whether or not you need to follow and budget for proper asbestos abatement and removal (before the old house is demolished).
    • Determine the availability and capacity for necessary infrastructure such as water, sanitary sewage, gas, electrical power, roads/curbs/lanes.
    • Tree protection and conservation management will be required.

Construction can begin when all required permits and approvals are issued.