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Do I Need a Permit to Develop My Basement in Calgary?

If you’re planning new basement development in Calgary, your head is probably filled with creative ideas for your new living space. Maybe you want a games room, a custom home theatre, or a secondary suite to rent out for extra income. But before you get too far ahead of yourself, you need to check if you require a permit for new basement development in Calgary.

Let’s find out if you need a permit to develop your basement.

Permit Specifications for Basement Development in Calgary

Typically, interior renovations and changes to existing basements do NOT need a permit when the work consists of minor cosmetic upgrades. But when you’re developing a new basement, that’s a different story. A new basement entry requires a building permit. Take a look at some of the rules you’ll need to follow.

Land Use Bylaw Rules

When your proposed entry requires a landing, the landing must:

  • Not exceed 2.5 m².
  • Not be located in the 3.0 m side setback area required on a laneless property.
  • Not be located in a side setback area that is required to be clear of projections unless the landing is accessible from the rear and the front.

Building Code Rules

When adding new exterior doors to your concrete foundation wall, a professional Engineer’s structural review is required when one or more of the following applies:

  • The width of a new opening exceeds 1.2m (4’-0”)
  • The combined width of all new and existing openings in one wall exceeds 25% of the overall length of that wall.
  • The width of a solid wall which remains between an existing opening and a new opening is less than the width of either of those openings.

Applying for A Basement Development Permit

When applying for a basement development permit, follow the four-step application process.

Step 1: Review the rules.

Step 2: Prepare your application. Click here to see the digital permit criteria.

Step 3: Submit the application. Click here to find the application form.

Step 4: Book an inspection. Inspections are part of the approval process and are included in the permit price. Your permit is not complete until your work has passed all required inspections.


With over 25 years of experience at Calgary Home Renovations by Aspire, we provide professionalism, quality workmanship and attention to detail that will ensure our clients are 100% satisfied with their Calgary home renovations. Our services include Calgary kitchen renovations, bathroom renovations, basement renovations and development, home additions, and garage additions. Contact us today by visiting our website or calling us at (403) 796-4044!

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