Town of Westlock

The scope of work being done will determine what permits you require. To apply, see How to apply, below.

When is a Development Permit required?

A Development Permit is required for interior renovations when:

• Your proposed renovation involves an increase to the gross floor area (an addition), or
• Your proposed renovation is to add or modify a secondary suite in the home, or
• Your proposed renovation is related to a home-based business.

When is a Building Permit required?

A Building Permit is always required for any new development or alteration/renovation to existing development unless the project involves only:

• Cosmetic changes such as painting, decorating, patching drywall and other similar minor repairs of interior finishes, or
• Replacement of interior cabinetry (provided that regulated clearances are maintained from stoves), or
• Floor finishing (carpet, vinyl, tile, hardwood), as long as the structural elements of the floor are not altered or
• Replacement of doors or windows providing that their size and location does not change

What other permits/approvals are required?

Other permits (below) will be required if the interior renovation will involve specific considerations:

• Electrical Permit: Required for installing or modifying electrical systems, including moving lights or outlets.
• Gas Permit: Required for installing, modifying or adding to any gas system.
• Plumbing Permit: Required for installing or modifying plumbing systems or any plumbing equipment.
  NOTE: A plumbing permit is not required for the replacement of existing plumbing fixtures.

Do it yourself

As a homeowner, you are able to apply for permits for plumbing, electrical, gas and mechanical work. To apply for any of these  permits, all of the following conditions must be met:

• You must be doing the work yourself.
• You must own and reside in the Single Family Dwelling where the work is being performed.
• You must be capable of performing the work in accordance with the Safety Codes Act.
• It must be a Single-Family Dwelling (not a condo building, house with a secondary suite, etc.)

Risks when a permit is not obtained

If you, as a homeowner or contractor, do not have permits for work that has been started or completed, there could be consequences if you do not take action to correct the situation, such as:

• Enforcement action issued by the Town or a Safety Codes Officer.
• A fine for building without a permit.
• Having to undo work that has been completed.
• Future legal and financial issues when selling your property or making an insurance claim.
• Having to do more work than was originally planned and budgeted, to fix deficiencies.
• Potential liability to you, the homeowner, in the event of an accident.

NOTE: As a homeowner, you are responsible for paying any penalties, even if you hired a contractor who assured you that permits were not required. For more information, see Hiring a contractor.

What if I am not the property owner?

If you are not the owner of the property, then you must get the owner's consent to apply for any changes. Info below: How to apply.