September 11, 2025
Expanding your home with an addition is an exciting way to create more space, boost property value, and tailor your house to your lifestyle but before construction begins, there’s one important step you can’t overlook: building permit approval.
In Edmonton, most structural changes require city approval, and skipping this process could leave you facing costly fines, delays, or even the removal of your addition.
This blog explains why permits matter, what kinds of projects require approval, how the process works, and why working with professionals can save you time and stress.
A building permit is the City of Edmonton’s official authorization to proceed with construction or renovation. It confirms that your project complies with Alberta’s building codes, zoning regulations, and local safety standards.
Without building permit approval, you risk:
Ultimately, permits protect homeowners by ensuring that renovations are safe, legal, and in line with community planning requirements.
Not every project in your home needs a permit, but when you’re altering the structure or adding space, city approval is almost always required.
If you’re adding an entirely new room, a second story, or extending your home’s footprint, you will need both a development permit and a building permit. Development permits check zoning regulations, while building permits cover construction safety.
Basement suites, garage suites, or garden suites require approval because they change how your property is used. Edmonton has strict bylaws about where and how secondary suites can be added.
Even if you’re not adding square footage, removing load-bearing walls, altering the foundation, or modifying the roofline typically requires a permit.
Projects like attached garages, large decks, or enclosed sunrooms often need building permit approval. Detached garages and accessory buildings may also require permits depending on size and location.
Some smaller updates don’t require city approval. Cosmetic changes such as painting, flooring installation, or cabinetry upgrades usually don’t need permits. Even some fences and landscaping features may fall outside permit requirements.
However, because rules can be complex, it’s always best to verify with the City of Edmonton before beginning any project. When in doubt, check first—guessing wrong could be expensive later.
Understanding how the process works will help you prepare and avoid delays.
You or your contractor must submit a detailed application that includes architectural drawings, site plans, and other documentation.
City staff review your application to ensure compliance with zoning bylaws, Alberta Building Code, and local safety standards.
If your project meets all requirements, you’ll receive building permit approval. If not, the city will request revisions before granting authorization.
Throughout construction, inspectors will check your work at key stages to ensure everything is done correctly. Passing inspections is mandatory to finalize your permit.
Timelines vary based on project scope and application accuracy. For simple additions, permits can be approved in a few weeks. Complex projects, such as full home expansions or secondary suites, may take longer. Having complete drawings and professional guidance often speeds up the process.
Trying to save time or money by avoiding city approval almost always backfires. If the City of Edmonton discovers unpermitted work:
Home additions are significant investments, and navigating Edmonton’s permit process alone can be overwhelming. An experienced contractor understands local bylaws, has connections with city staff, and knows how to prepare accurate applications.
Working with professionals ensures:
At Reno King, we specialize in home additions, renovations, and remodeling projects across Edmonton. Our team manages everything from design and construction to building permit approval, ensuring your project is fully compliant and stress-free.
If you’re ready to expand your living space with confidence, contact us today to start your home addition project.
