Introduction to Plan Smart Series

Planning and Development Services is excited to ring in the new year with the launch of our information series called Plan Smart.

Beginning January 17th, we will share topics related to Planning and Development that are pertinent to you—our residents. Each segment will be designed to equip you with essential information, ensuring a smooth and positive experience when developing your property within the County. Whether you're constructing your dream home or installing a fence, we will provide you with the nuts and bolts necessary for effective planning.

Plan Smart Series Episode One: Planning, Development, and Permits!

Our Planning & Development Services team is here to help bring your vision to life while keeping our County’s land use policies on track. Whether you’re building, renovating, or changing how you use your property, we’ve got the tools and expertise to guide you every step of the way.

Why Permits Matter
Permits aren’t just paperwork—they’re here to help YOU:
✅ Ensure your project complies with safety codes and regulations.
✅ Explore options and opportunities you may not have considered.
✅ Avoid unnecessary fines, stop-work orders, and costly backtracking.

Did You Know?

• You’ll need a Development Permit for new buildings, renovations, demolitions, landscaping changes, and more!
• Farm-use buildings are exempt from building permits, but a development permit is still required.
• Depending on your project, additional permits (plumbing, electrical, gas) may also be necessary.

Bottom Line: Permits protect YOU, your property, and the entire community. Skip the hassle—connect with our P&D team before starting your project to ensure smooth sailing.

Have questions? We’re here to help! Drop by, call, or visit our website to learn more. 780-349-3346

Please click the like button or share this segment with friends if you think it was helpful.

Let’s Plan Smart Together!

Plan Smart Series Episode Two: Permit Timeline and Processes

Many times, we are asked how long it will take to process and approve permits. While we would like to provide a simple, one-size-fits-all timeline, there are several factors that influence the length of time required for permit approval:

• Complexity of the application
• Whether the application is submitted incomplete
• If the application is refused and appealed
• If the application involves discretionary use, which requires an additional 21-day appeal period.

In our last episode, we discussed that a Development Permit is required when planning to construct a new building (residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, etc.), renovate or expand an existing structure, change the use of land or a building, demolish a building, operate a business, alter landscaping, place temporary structures, and more.

Once the Development Permit is in effect, the construction permit process can begin (Building, Electrical, Gas, Plumbing, and Private Sewage).  These permits are submitted to the Inspections Group who perform the inspections and final approvals for the County.

A Building permit is required for most major construction projects. These projects include new buildings, additions, renovations, alterations, repairs, relocations, demolitions, or change of use in an existing building.

Depending on the type of development – you may require subsequent plumbing, electrical, gas, or private sewage permits. These permits ensure that your project complies with safety codes and standards. The standard timeline to be issued is 24-48 hours (time also varies depending on time of season).

NOTE:  If construction is Commercial/Industrial/Institutional – a certified contractor MUST apply for the Electrical, Gas, and Plumbing permits.  These cannot be issued until the Building Permit is issued. (A Private Sewage permit is the only permit that can be applied for at the same time as the building permit.)

Have questions? We’re here to help! Drop by, call, or visit our website to learn more. 780-349-3346

Please click the like button or share this segment with friends if you think it was helpful.

Let’s Plan Smart Together!