FAQs
What is a development permit? Do I need one?
Any changes to your property, whether it is an excavation, building a deck, putting in a shed, installing a fireplace, changing or expanding a business, or anything else that would alter the way you use your property, is a development. Any of these changes require development permits unless they are explicitly exempt in the Land Use Bylaw. For example, patios, small sheds and fences do not require permits. However, regulations regarding property line setbacks, height, site coverage and other regulations apply to all developments regardless of whether or not a permit is required. Permits are also not required for minor projects such as repainting your shed or residing your house (with exceptions). Information on Development Permit Applications, including exactly what is required to submit an application, is located here.
What Land Use District (zoning) is my property or the empty field near my property in? What can I build there?
You will need to locate the property on the Land Use District Map (Schedule A of the Land Use Bylaw) which identifies the district (i.e. R-1 is Single Detached Residential). Each District has a section in the Bylaw which specifies what types of buildings and uses can go there, setbacks and site coverage regulations that apply, and any other regulations. For example, the Neighbourhood Commercial (C-4) District allows for convenience stores and personal service shops, to name a few, and must meet specific setbacks and landscaping requirements.
I am selling my house and my lawyer requested a Compliance Certificate. How do I obtain one?
A Compliance Certificate confirms that developments on a property meet the Land Use Bylaw regulations. An application for a Compliance Certificate must be accompanied by a current Real Property Report, which is a survey prepared by an Alberta Land Surveyor which shows the legal property boundaries, all physical improvements, setbacks, easements and utility right-of-ways. Information on Compliance Certificates is located here.
I need a Lot Grading Certificate before I can receive my Security Deposit refund. How do I obtain one?
An application for a Lot Grading Review can be submitted at either the rough or final stage of development. Information on Lot Grading Certificates is located here.
I want to build a deck. What do I need to know?
A Deck is an open structure (no walls over 1.25 m (4.1 ft) and no roof) projecting from a building having a height equal to or greater than 0.3 m (1.0 ft) above grade. An open structure below this height is considered a Patio. Development Permits are required prior to construction of any Deck, but not required for Patios provided they meet yard regulations of the Land Use Bylaw. Decks and Patios must meet land use district setback and projection regulations provided for in the Land Use Bylaw. Building Permits are also required for a wood deck or patio where the height is over 0.6 m (2.0 ft) and/or the floor area is over 10 m² (107.6 sq ft). Covered decks, verandas, porches or any other open structure with a roof, pergola or other covering – regardless of height or size – require development and building permits. Please click on Building a wood deck for more information regarding building and safety codes (brochure provided from Alberta Municipal Affairs), or contact us for more information.
I want to put up a new fence. Is a permit required? Should I notify my neighbour?
In most cases, fences in residential districts do not require permits. However, there are certain regulations that must be followed, which is located in the Land Use Bylaw. For example, if your house is on a corner the fence needs to be setback a certain distance from the property line. There are specific height regulations that apply to all fences. Generally, fences can be 1.0 m tall in the front yard and 1.9 m in the side and rear yards. Unless it is adjacent to a street or lane, a fence can be placed along the property line and can be made of any material (except barbed wire). Electric fences are also prohibited. Any matters regarding notifying your neighbour, cost-sharing and ownership of the fence is a civil matter between you and your neighbour.
I want to open a business in Morinville. How do I begin?
All businesses, including home-based businesses, are required to have valid business licenses. In many cases, you will also need development and building permits. There must be a valid Development Permit in place prior to obtaining a Business License. A Development Permit review will ensure that the business and building type conforms to the land use district it is in. We advise that Development Permit applications be made prior to purchasing or leasing commercial space for any new or relocating businesses. For more information, please refer to the "Starting a New Business" section of our website.