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Building and Development Permits

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Building and Development

Most developments for constructing new or additions to a building, as well as some renovations require permits. The permit process helps enforce the requirements of the Cities, Towns and Villages Act; Community Planning and Development Act; the Town's Zoning By-law, as well as other applicable laws and standards. It ensures compliance during construction, the structural safety of the completed building, as well as the protection of property values.

A person applying for a development or building permit must also adhere to and comply with the following regulations: 

 

Responsibilities

In many cases, your designer or contractor will get permits on your behalf. Remember, as the building owner, you are ultimately responsible for complying with all development/building requirements. Failure to obtain a Development Permit can result in costly construction delays or force homeowners to remove the work that was already done, and that's on top of potential legal issues.

 Starting Construction without a Permit is against Law

WHEN IN DOUBT: It is always best to contact the Planning and Development Department prior to commencing work to make sure that you have your permits in order or to confirm that a permit is not required. It is the goal of the Town to complete permit applications within 5 Business days. Most applications are processed more quickly; however, times may vary with the volume of permits received.

An application for a Development Permit should be made to the Development Officer in writing and should be accompanied by: 

  • A site plan in duplicate showing the building outlines; the legal description; front, rear and side yard set-backs; provisions for off-street loading and vehicle parking, access and egress points to the site and provision for landscaping and drainage;
  • Floor plans, elevations and sections at a minimum scale of 1:100
  • Proof that notification has been given to all Utility Providers
  • The estimated commencement and completion dates; and
  • The estimated cost of the project (include material and labour) or contract price  

 

When is a permit required?

There are a variety of projects that require a development permit. Some of the projects are listed below:

 

  • Land Development (including new roads)
  • Construct a new building;
  • Add an addition or make structural alterations, renovations or repairs to an existing building;
  • Install, change, or remove partitions and load bearing walls
  • Change a building's use;
  • Make new openings for, or change the size of, doors and windows;
  • Build an accessory building, garage, shed or gazebo;
  • Build a balcony, deck or porch;
  • Excavation or Lot fill;
  • Install a fence;
  • Install a sign;
  • Repair to Pilings or foundation;
  • New and replacement Utilidors;
  • Home Occupation
  • Variance

 
When is a permit not required?
 

You do not require a Development Permit for the following:

 

  • Work or maintenance or repair to any building, if such works do not increase any dimensions of the original building or structure;
  • Construction or installation of an accessory structure (shed, Garage, Gazebo) that does not exceed 10 m2 in area and is not more than 3 m in height;
  • Construction of unenclosed decks no higher than 0.6 m above ground level;
  • Install siding on small residential buildings with the same material;
  • Replacing existing roofing material provided no structural work is required;
  • Dry-wall or plaster;
  • Paint or decorate;
  • Install kitchen or bathroom cupboard and cabinets;
  • Adding or replacing insulation;
  • The replacement of windows or doors provided:
    • there is no change in the location or size of the window and/or door;
    • the structural support for the opening (i.e. lintel) is not affected; and
    • a new exit is not created;
  • Repairing and replacing plumbing fixtures;

Although a permit may not be required, it is still necessary for these projects to comply with the applicable zoning requirements and other codes. Contact the Town of Inuvik to determine the requirements for your specific project.

For electrical and gas related projects, please contact your utility provider for permit requirements.

For more information, please contact the Development Officer.