It has been said that there are two seasons in Canada … Winter and Construction! If your summer plans include building an "Accessory Building" such as a shed, garage, shop, greenhouse, etc., there is information you need to know before you begin construction.
Do I need permits to build a Fence?
The Town of Olds does not require permits for construction of fences; however, there are regulations regarding height. Backyard fences may be no higher then 2.0 m (6.5 ft) in height. Front yard fences may be no higher than 1.0 m (3.3 ft) in height. The front yard is defined as measured perpendicularly from the front boundary of the parcel to the front wall(s) of the main building. Fences must be located within your own property.
Do I need permits to build a Deck?
If the deck is higher than 0.61 m (2 ft) off the ground, a Development Permit and a Building Permit are both required. If the deck is less than 0.61m (2 ft) off the ground, no permits are required. Permit costs, the process for returning the performance bond, and the timeline for approval are the same as the process for constructing an accessory building.
Do I need permits for an Accessory Building?
All Accessory Buildings require both a Development Permit and a Building Permit.
How close to the property line can I build?
Accessory buildings may be located no closer to the rear property line than 1.0 m (3.3 ft) and no closer to the side property line than 1.0 m (3.3 ft). Accessory Buildings may not be located in the front yard.
When should I apply for permits?
Typically, the review of permits will take about five working days. All Development and Building Permits must be approved PRIOR to commencement of construction.
What is the cost of permits?
The cost of a Development Permit is $1.20 per $1000 of construction value, with a minimum fee of $100.
The cost of a Building Permit is $6.00 per $1000 of construction value up to $1,000,000, with a minimum fee of $90.
In addition to the above fees, a Performance Bond of $1000 is required. This fee will be refunded after the satisfactory completion of all building and development final inspections.
A Safety Codes Fee of a minimum of $4 or 3.5% of the Building Permit cost (whichever is greater) will also be charged.
When will my Performance Bond be refunded?
The Performance Bond will be returned upon satisfactory completion of the Building Inspection, plus when the following are complete: hard surfacing of the driveway (if applicable), landscaping and landscaping elevations, installation of rear house numbers (if applicable), and completion of exterior finish.
