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1. Where can I get/submit a development permit application?

Development Permit applications can be obtained and then submitted three ways:

1. By email – request an application or submit the application to wpermits.
2. The County office - 243019A Highway 13 (southside of Highway 13 across from Reynolds Alberta Museum entrance)
3. By regular mail - Box 6960, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 2G5

Planning and Development Applications

2. What do I need to submit with my development permit application?

The required documents may vary depending on what the proposed development is; however, majority of development permit applications require:

• Completed development permit application form, 
• Drawings (blueprints),
• Floor plan, 
• CSA Certification for all Mobile and Modular Homes,
• Site plan, and 
• All application fee(s) to be paid in full. 

Applications are NOT considered complete until ALL of the required information and fees have been provided. An incomplete application form and/or illegible supporting information may result in the application being returned to the applicant. Please refer to the checklist on the back of the application. Fees will be determined after application is considered complete.

Click here to contact the Planning and Development department for any questions regarding the application or application process. 

Site Plan Example:

Examples of drawings/measurements required: 

Shed	Garage	House

Planning and Development Applications

3. What is a site plan?

A site plan is a detailed, dimensional plan/drawing showing all buildings/structures on a site and their distance to:

1. Property lines
2. Pipelines/Well Heads
3. Bank breaks

All setbacks are required to be measured from the property line, not from the road or center of the road. The site plan should also show the square footage of all buildings, and where access into the parcel is (driveway/approach).

Site Plan Example

Planning and Development Applications

4. What type of blueprints/drawings are required with my application?

The County will require blueprints/drawings for all development permit applications. The County will require professional plans to be submitted for any new buildings used for residential use (Dwellings, Garages, Shops, etc.).  If the application is for an existing building, the following examples are of the required type of drawings/measurements that should be submitted.

Examples of drawings/measurements required: 

Shed	Garage	House

Planning and Development Applications

5. How long does it take to get my Development Permit?

The time to process a development permit application can vary, depending on the type of development. 

If the development is a permitted use and within the required setbacks outlined in the designated property district, it can typically take 5-7 business days. 

A discretionary development permit application may take up to a month to process for the following reasons:

• The application may require a referral if your property is subject to one of the reasons listed below, and the referral agencies are given 14 to 21 days to provide the County with any comments.
  • Located within 1.6 km (1 mile) of any Municipal Boundaries ,
  • Located within 800 metres (1/2 mile) from a CFO,
  • Located within 800 metres (1/2 mile) of a pipeline or well head, and
  • Located within 1.6 km (1 mile) of a sour gas pipeline or well head (sour gas is 10 mol/kmol or more)
• Notice to Adjacent Landowners

A notice of all discretionary permits are required to be mailed to adjacent landowners, and are given a 21 day appeal period. 

Planning and Development Applications

6. How do I pay application fees?

The Development Permit application fee will depend on the type of development proposed, the zoning of the parcel, and whether or not a variance (relaxation of a setback) is being requested. Please refer to the Fees and Charges Bylaw - Schedule C to view Development Permit fees. 

Payment of fees may be made by cash, cheque, debit or credit card. For more information visit payment options.

Planning and Development Applications

7. Why was my development permit application sent back to me?

When a development permit application is received, a quick preliminary review of the application form is done.  If additional information, documents, or fees are required, the applicant will be informed that their application has been deemed incomplete.  An incomplete application form and/or illegible supporting information may result in the application being returned to the applicant.

Applications are NOT considered complete until ALL of the required information and fees have been provided.

Planning and Development Applications

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1. Why do I need an ASP?

The purpose of an ASP is to provide a framework that guides the planning, subdivision and development of a given area or particular parcel of land. Council uses ASPs as key guiding documents when considering subdivision and development proposals, as well as planning for community infrastructure. 

An ASP provides the opportunity for the landowner/developer to explain their vision to Council and residents and show the plan’s consistency with higher order statutory plans such as an Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP) or Municipal Development Plan (MDP).  

2. When is an ASP required?

ASPs are required for new subdivisions and developments that are of a size and scope that may:  

• have long term impacts on the adjacent lands and their uses 
• require new or upgrades to the road network  
• require new or connection to water and wastewater infrastructure 
• impact environmental features, etc.

3. Who can submit an ASP?

ASPs can be prepared by a landowner/developer, although the County strongly encourages developers to engage professionals in the fields of land use planning, engineering, and other applicable areas to assist in the preparation of the ASP and associated reports/studies. The Alberta Professional Planning Institute (APPI) has a consultant directory on their website - Consultant Directory | Alberta Professional Planners Institute (albertaplanners.com). 

4. What information do I need to provide in an ASP? 

Policy 61.1 – Requirements for Area Structure Plan (ASP) provides a comprehensive guide for what information is required for submitting a completed ASP. This Policy can be found *here* 

5. How much does an Area Structure Plan application cost?

Area Structure Plan applications cost $1,000.00 plus: 

• $100.00 per lot/unit being created  
• $100.00 per hectare  
• $50.00 per campsite/stall 
• $100.00 per additional lot/unit being created (if an amendment to an existing ASP)

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1. What is the difference between a development permit and a building permit?

Development Permit- County of Wetaskiwin

A development permit is needed when you are planning to construct an improvement or structure on your property. A development permit ensures land use and/or location of the structure on the property is appropriate. Examples include a new house, an addition on to an existing house, a shed, garage, or any other structure. The County offers this service as defined in the Land Use Bylaw. A development permit ensures the proposed development meets the County’s requirements as set out in the Land Use Bylaw. Planning and Development Applications

Safety Code Permit- Superior Safety Codes

After the development permit has been approved and issued, the appropriate safety code permits must be acquired. Superior Safety Codes issues the safety codes permits listed below within The County. Superior Safety Codes allows construction to proceed on condition of compliance with the Alberta Building Code. 

• Building
• Electric
• Gas
• Plumbing
• Sewage

Superior Safety Codes allows construction to proceed on condition of compliance with the Alberta Building Code. It deals with structural integrity and public safety.

2. Who is Superior Safety Codes?

Council has approved the contract between the County and Superior Safety Codes. The Provincial Safety Codes Council has authorized the County as an accredited agency who has the authority to enter into contracts with an accredited agency to provide services. As such, all safety codes permits (electrical, building, gas and plumbing) must be obtained from Superior Safety Codes.

• Who is Superior Safety Codes?
• Apply for a Safety Codes Permit
• Superior Safety Codes Forms and Checklists
• Superior Safety Codes FAQ's
• Contact Superior Safety Codes
  • Contact either the Edmonton or Red Deer Office. 

3. What if I want to choose my own Safety Codes Agency for safety codes permits?

Council has approved the contract between the County and Superior Safety Codes. The Provincial Safety Codes Council has authorized the County as an accredited agency who has the authority to enter into contracts with another accredited agency to provide services. As such, all safety codes permits (electrical, building, gas and plumbing) must be obtained from Superior Safety Codes.

4. What is the appeal process for a Safety Codes Permit?

The Safety Codes Council provides a fair and transparent appeals process of orders, refusals, suspensions and cancellations, in accordance with the Safety Codes Act. The Appeals process for a safety codes permit is a formal hearing process that allows a person or corporation named in an order, refusal, suspension, or cancellation, to file a notice of appeal with the Coordinator of Appeals within 35 days of service of an order or within 30 days of service of a refusal, suspension, or cancellation notice. To be considered, your notice of appeal must be submitted with the appropriate appeal fee and within the applicable time frame. Your appeal to the Safety Codes Council must be in writing and signed. 

Appeal Process

5. What process is in place to ensure agency permit costs are controlled?

Council establishes the fees for permits, and any changes to fees will be held in a public forum. The agency is paid a percentage of the permit fee which is established at the contract approval stage.

6. Who is the Safety Codes Council, and what is the Safety Codes Act?

Safety Codes Act:

The Safety Codes Act established a unifying administration to ten safety disciplines which each have their own safety codes to keep the public safe in the places they live, work and play.

Safety Codes Permit:

You require a safety codes permit to ensure that the work you are completing is meeting the requirements of the Safety Codes Act and other regulations. This will not only give you peace of mind, but may also be a requirement of you homeowners insurance. Safety Codes are about ensuring that any work that falls under the Safety Codes Act complies with the standards they establish. These standards are in place to keep the public safe.

Safety Codes Council:

The Safety Codes Council is a corporation established under the Safety Codes Act that reviews safety codes and standards in the province of Alberta. The Council assists the Government of Alberta department of Municipal Affairs in administering the Safety Codes Act. The Safety Codes Council is responsible for all aspects of the safety system, including accrediting the municipalities, corporations and agencies that sell permits and inspect the work carried out under these permits; certifying and training Safety Codes Officers who do the inspections; administering the Alberta Master Electrician Program, developing, enhancing and supporting Information Technology safety system applications.  

• What is the Safety Codes Council role in permitting and inspections?

Safety Codes Council

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1. What approval do I require to operate a business?

Business Approvals

The County does not issue business licenses, however we do issue approvals through the development permit process, which can fall into the following categories:

Business/Commercial development permits include uses such as:

• Intensive and Extensive Agricultural Uses, Tree Farms, Warehouses, Intensive Livestock Campgrounds, Recreational Unit Storage Centers, Golf Course, Rural Event Facility, Liquor Store, Retail Store, Hotel, Restaurant , Onsite and Offsite Home Occupations.
  • Home Occupations have been categorized either as Onsite or Offsite use. Both Onsite and Offsite then are broken up into different types (1, 2 or 3) depending on their intensity as defined in the definition section and listed in the respective Land Use Districts.
  • Business/Commercial development application

Agricultural development permit includes uses such as:

• Intensive and Extensive Agricultural Uses, Tree Farms, Intensive Livestock Operation, Greenhouses, Equestrian Centre, Apiary, Abattoir, and Market Gardens.
  • Agricultural Business development application

Mobile Vendors:

Mobile Vendor means a self-contained vehicle, trailer or stand that is capable of being moved from one location to another that is equipped to prepare, serve and sell food, or goods. The mobile vendor is allowed to be on a specific location for a maximum period of seven (7) consecutive days of operation. (amended by Bylaw 2019/44). A mobile vendor must receive approval from the County by applying for a Request to Operate Business letter.  

2. Can I operate a food truck in the County?

Mobile Vendor 

means a self-contained vehicle, trailer or stand that is capable of being moved from one location to another that is equipped to prepare, serve and sell food, or goods. The mobile vendor is allowed to be on a specific location for a maximum period of seven (7) consecutive days of operation. (amended by Bylaw 2019/44).

• Land Use Bylaw Section 9.19 Mobile Vendors
• Mobile vendor application

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1. How do I check the zoning of a property?

To check the zoning of a property within the County, follow these steps:

1. Visit the County Online Interactive Map.
2. Sign in as a Guest 
3. Under searches enter the rural address (blue sign), legal location, or tax roll number for the specific property you want to check.
4. Click on the property.
5. Click on the Zoning Code.
6. Additionally, you can use the map to view and print aerial photos of your property.

For an aerial photo, click on Imagery in the top right corner and select the year and submit.

2. How do I measure the distance from structures on a property to a property line?

To measure the distance from existing or proposed structures on a property to the property line, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Interactive County Map webpage.
2. Sign in as a Guest.
3. In the top right corner, click on Imagery and select the desired year, then submit.
4. In the search bar, locate the property by entering the address (blue sign), legal location, or roll number.
5. Next to the Legend, click on the Measurements Tool (ruler image).
6. Click on the structure or where the proposed structure will go on the property, and measure the distance to the property line (property line is highlighted in green).

3. How can I find the dimensions of a property?

To find the dimensions of a property, you can use the County Interactive Map by following these steps:

1. Sign into the County Interactive Map webpage.
2. Click Agree to proceed.
3. In the top right corner, click on Imagery and select the desired year, then submit.
4. In the Searches section, locate your property by entering the address (blue sign), legal location, or roll number.
5. In the Legend, click on the Planning Development Tab.
6. Choose Dimension from the dropdown menu.
7. Zoom in on the property to view the displayed dimensions (please note that not all properties may show dimensions).

In addition to the Interactive Map, property 'pins' and dimensions can be found on a Real Property Report (RPR). RPRs are issued by Alberta Land Surveyors. To find a list of surveyors, visit Alberta Land Surveyors Association. The County may have copies of RPRs on file if a Certificate of Compliance was requested and issued by the County.

4. How do I see if there is a pipeline or wellsite on a property?

To find if there is a pipeline or wellsite on a property, you can use the County Interactive Map by following these steps:

1. Sign into the County Interactive Map webpage.
2. Click Agree to proceed.
3. In the top right corner, click on Imagery and select the desired year, then submit.
4. In the Searches section, locate the property by entering the address (blue sign), legal location, or roll number.
5. In the Legend, click on the Oil Gas Tab.
6. Choose Wells or Pipelines from the dropdown menu.

5. How do I see if there is a development permit on a property?

To check if there has been a development permit issued on a property within the County, follow these steps:

1. Visit the County Online Interactive Map.
2. Sign in as a Guest. 
3. Click on Imagery in the top right corner, select the desired year and submit.
4. Under searches enter the rural address (blue sign), legal location, or tax roll number for the specific property you want to check.
5. Click on the property.
6. Click on Development Permits.

If you're still unsure whether the property has a development permit, you may contact Planning and Development. 

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1. What is an Off-Site Sewer Levy and why do I have to pay it?

Council passed Off-Site Bylaws 2007/38 and 2008/42, requiring any new or redevelopment of a structure that has plumbing, is required to pay a one-time Off-Site Sewer Levy Fee of $2,034.00 that stays with the property. This fee is designed to contribute to the capital costs associated with the expansion and upkeep of the Alder Flats and Mulhurst Lagoon infrastructure, ensuring it can effectively manage and process sewage. Payment of this levy is required before a Development Permit can be issued, with no exceptions.

The Off-Site Sewer Levy only applies to properties highlighted in red shown on the County map below. 

2. Why do I have to pay the Off-Site Sewer Levy fee if I already pay for utility services?

The Off-Site Sewer Levy is separate from utility services. While you may pay for utility services, the Off-Site Sewer Levy is specifically designated to contribute to the expansion and maintenance of the Alder Flats and Mulhurst Lagoon, where sewage is transported. This fee supports the capital costs associated with the development and upkeep of the lagoon infrastructure, ensuring it can effectively manage and process sewage.

3. How do I know if the Off-Site Sewer Levy fee has been paid on my property?

To verify the status of the Off-site Sewer Levy payment, you can reach out to the Planning and Development department either by email or by calling 780-352-3321. This allows you to confirm whether the Off-site Sewer Levy for your property has been paid or is still outstanding.

4. What if I’m treating sewage on my property and it’s not being treated at the Lagoon?

If you have a lot that is one (1) acre or more, and you are treating sewage waste on your private property, you must obtain a Sewage Inspection Report from Superior Safety Codes Inc. This report should outline the type of private system used for sewage treatment and certify that the system has been installed following the Safety Codes Act.

If a satisfactory sewage inspection report is signed-off by Superior Safety Codes Inc. the Off-Site Sewer Levy payment will be refunded in full to the applicant. 

5. If the structure I’m developing does not have plumbing inside, do I still need to pay the Off-Site Sewer Levy?

No, the Off-site Sewer Levy is only triggered for any new or redevelopment of a structure that has plumbing. 

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1. Can I use my Recreational Unit (RV) to stay in if don’t have a house on my property?

Yes, you can use your Recreational Unit (RV) to stay on your property if there's no permanent house. However, there are some conditions:

1. Recreational Unit use is allowed as a discretionary use in certain land use districts.
2. You need a Development Permit for a maximum of 3 years to use your RV on the property.
3. If you want to continue using the RV beyond the initial 3 year period, you must reapply for the permit before it expires.
4. If there's a new application that changes the land use, you must remove the RV.

For information about permit fees, you can refer to Schedule C of the Fees & Charges Bylaw.

RV use for a 3-year term is only allowed in the following districts:

• Lakeshore Residential
• Wizard Lake Watershed
• Recreational (subject to Section 10.21 Recreational District)
• Watershed Protection (greater than 32. ha (80 ac) only)
• Agricultural (greater than 32. ha (80 ac) only)
• Severed Agricultural (greater than 32. ha (80 ac) only)

2. How many Recreational Units (RVs) am I allowed on my property?

To find out how many Recreational Units (RVs) you are allowed on your property, refer to Appendix H: Recreational Unit Matrix of the Land Use Bylaw. This matrix provides information on the allowed number of recreational units based on the district and parcel size of your property.

Short Term Camping means the RV can be placed for a maximum of fourteen (14) consecutive days. After this period, the unit must be removed from the property or stored for at least seventy-two (72) hours.

Recreational Unit Storage means the storage of RVs outdoors or inside a permanent structure. During storage, the units should be disconnected from most services, except for electrical, and accessories like slides and canopies should be put away.

3. Can I stay in my Recreational Unit (RV) while I’m building my house?

In the Country Residential and Restricted Country Residential districts where there is no permanent house on a piece of land, the Development Officer may allow the temporary use of Recreational Units (RVs) as a time-limited accessory use. This permission is granted at the same time as the approval for building a house on the land through a Development Permit and is only valid from April to October and lasts for 12 months from the Development Permit's issuance. If the house isn't finished by the time this temporary permission ends, the RV must be taken off the land, unless the Development Officer approves a new permit allowing continued RV use.

4. How do I know what my property is districted as?

To find out what district your property is in, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Interactive County Map on the County website.
2. Use the search function to locate your specific property on the map.
3. Once you find your property, click on it.
4. Look for the Zoning Code information associated with your property.

The Zoning Code will indicate the specific district your property falls under. This information can provide details about the permitted uses, regulations, and other zoning-related guidelines for your property.

5. How many temporary Recreational Units (RVs) can I have on my property if I’m hosting a function?

• Where a house exists on a parcel of land under one (1) acre, a maximum of five (5) Recreational Units may be present.
• Where a house exists on a parcel of land between one (1) and two (2) acres, a maximum of ten (10) Recreational Units may be present.
• Where a house exists or does not exist on a parcel of land between over two (2) acres and less than twenty (20) acres, a maximum of twenty (20) Recreational Units may be present.
• Whether a house exists or does not exist on a parcel of land twenty (20) acres or greater, a maximum of thirty (30) Recreational Vehicles may be present.

To accommodate family functions, reunions, weddings, and other similar functions that are associated with temporary use of Recreational Units, a written application must be provided to the County in accordance with Recreational Units During Family Functions Policy (amended by Bylaw 2021/60).