How long does the Safety Codes Council basement development permit approval take in Calgary right now?

The Safety Codes Council of Alberta doesn't issue basement development permits — the City of Calgary handles building permits directly, and current processing times are 4-6 weeks for straightforward basement developments.

The Safety Codes Council of Alberta is the umbrella organization that oversees Alberta's safety codes system and accredits the agencies that employ Safety Codes Officers. However, they don't issue permits directly. For basement development in Calgary, you'll work with the City of Calgary's building department, which employs accredited Safety Codes Officers to review plans and conduct inspections.

Current Calgary basement development permit timeline is typically 4-6 weeks for complete applications. This assumes your plans are professionally drawn, include all required details (structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC layouts), and comply with the Alberta Building Code. Incomplete applications or plans requiring revisions can add 2-4 weeks to the process.

What affects processing time:

• Plan quality — professionally drawn plans by an Alberta architect or certified building designer move faster


• Complexity — simple rec room and bedroom developments are faster than full apartments with kitchens


• Structural changes — removing or modifying load-bearing walls requires structural engineering and adds review time


• Secondary suite applications — if you're creating a legal secondary suite, you'll also need a development permit (separate 6-8 week process)

Calgary's basement development requirements under the Alberta Building Code include minimum 1.95m (6'5") ceiling height, proper egress windows in bedrooms, fire separation between units, interconnected smoke alarms, and adequate natural light. Your plans must show electrical, plumbing, and HVAC layouts even if you're getting separate permits for those trades.

Pro tip: Submit your building permit application first, then apply for your electrical, plumbing, and gas permits once the building permit is approved. The Safety Codes Officers who inspect your work are employed by accredited agencies under the Safety Codes Council system, ensuring consistent standards across Alberta.

Apply online at calgary.ca or visit the Calgary Planning Centre at 800 Macleod Trail SE. Current fees range from $800-2,500 depending on project scope and square footage.