Development Services

Development Services Plans

The Town of Olds issues Development Permit Applications and Building Permit Applications for all construction within the town limits. By obtaining these permits, you know that your property complies with the Town’s Land Use Bylaw and the Alberta Building Code. You will be secure in the knowledge that building inspections will be provided by a certified Safety Codes Officer.

It is very important that you have Development and Building Permits approved before you begin constructing your project. If you have begun construction without proper approval, you will be advised to stop construction immediately until the applications have been submitted and approved by both the Town and the Building Inspector. Please note that any work started without proper approval could result in a stop work order, and is also subject to a penalty fee of triple the initial fee.

The Planning and Development Department aims to work closely with landowners in helping to obtain permits. Should you have any questions you may contact a Development Officer who will answer any questions you may have and will work with you to get you the approval of the type of project you wish to construct.

Building and Development Permit FAQ

Development & Building Permit Application Forms

Construction, Demolition & Renovation Projects 

For most construction, demolition, and renovation projects a Development and Building permit is required before you commence work. The Land Use Bylaw regulates and controls the use and development of land and buildings. Development services include processing development and building permits, certificates of compliance, sidewalk cafe and sale permits, mobile vendor permits, land use bylaw amendments and providing development information to the public.

Development Permits

Development Authorities

The Town of Olds has 3 development authorites that review, approve or refuse development permit applications:

1.  Development Officer

The Development Officer approves all sign permits and permitted uses where no variance beyond scope is requested.  

2.  Council

Council reviews all Direct Control District development permit applications, unless otherwise noted in the Land Use Bylaw.

Approvals

Building Permits

The Town of Olds is an accredited municipality within the Building discipline.  

Other permits for electrical, gas and plumbing may also be necessary.  These permits are not available through the Town of Olds, but you can find companies that offer services in the area by visiting http://www.municipalaffairs.gov.ab.ca/.

New Home Warranty

The New Home Buyer Protection Act (NHBPA) came into force effective February 1, 2014 as part of the Government of Alberta’s ongoing commitment to improving consumer protection, recourse options and builder accountability for new homes built in Alberta.  A new home warranty is required on new homes in order for a building permit to be issued.   Builders who have questions or want more details can refer to the Alberta government website or contact Municipal Affairs at 1.866.421.6929.

National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings

The National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB) was developed by the National Research Council and Natural Resources Canada, as part of the commitment to improving the energy efficiency of Canadian buildings, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The NECB covers a wide range of building components and systems, including building envelope, electrical, and mechanical systems.

The NECB became mandatory on November 1, 2016.

Off-Site Levies

What is an Off-Site Levy?

Off-site levies are a tool that a municipality can use to pay for new infrastructure or the expansion of existing infrastructure required because of development. Off-site levies must be authorized by bylaw. Under the current Municipal Government Act, off-site levies can be collected for: 

  • New or expanded facilities for the storage, transmission, treatment or supply of water;
  • New or expanded facilities for the treatment, movement or disposal of sanitary sewage;
  • New or expanded storm sewer drainage facilities;
  • New or expanded roads required for or impacted by a subdivision or development; and
  • Land required for or in connection with any of the above-described facilities.

Off-Site Levy Bylaw 2018-49
Rates Bylaw - Schedule K, Offsite Levies