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Frequently Asked Questions


Do I Need a Building Permit?
Decks:
Any uncovered horizontal structure less than 0.6 m above the ground is considered a patio and does not require a building permit. Anything higher than 0.6m from the ground is considered a deck and requires a building permit.
Covered porches and decks (including attached pergolas):

A pergola or roof structure that is attached to your house is considered an addition and requires a permit. Any sort of roof structure that is detached from the house is considered an accessory residential building. If it is under 10 m² in area typically you do not require a building permit.
Fences:
A building permit is not required to construct a fence on a residential property.
Retaining Walls:
A building permit and engineer involvement will be required when the structure is holding 1.2 m (4ft) of soil.

Why Get A Permit?
Permits and inspections are safeguards put in place to protect the homeowner, against fly-by-night contractors who do shoddy work and don't follow the permit process, and the contractor. 
As a homeowner, you are responsible for paying any penalties, even if you hired a contractor who assured you permits were not needed.

If you, as a homeowner, do not have permits for work that has been started or completed, there could be consequences if you do not take action to correct the situation, such as:
  • Enforcement action issued by a City inspector.
  • A fine for building without a permit.
  • Having to undo work that has been completed.
  • Future legal and financial issues when selling your property or making an insurance claim.
  • Having to do more work than was originally planned and budgeted.
If a structure has already been built and does not comply with the rules of the Land Use Bylaw​, a relaxation application is required. The applicant must apply for a development permit for The City to weigh the impacts of the non-compliant structure and evaluate whether a relaxation is appropriate.
For more information about building permits, go to www.calgary.ca/PDA/pd/Pages/Home-building-and-renovations/Home-Improvement-Hub.aspx


Why Use A Licensed Contractor Like Gateway Outdoor Living?
A contractor with a valid City of Calgary license is able to obtain permits on your behalf.
Also, you can be assured that a licensed contractor does not have a criminal record.


Is a Written Contract Necessary?
A written contract protects the customer and the contractor, and eliminates mis-understandings by clarifying the scope of work, price, payment terms, schedule, etc. Without a written contract, the customer has no protection against faulty workmanship and assumes all liability for injuries and damage that occurs on site.

Is a Cash Deal Available?
No! A cash contractor is avoiding paying income tax and GST, which means you and I are subsidizing his existence. If he's dishonest about this aspect of his business, can you trust him with your project?

Is a Deposit Required?
No. Contractors requesting pre-payments or progress payment for work must be licensed with the Government of Alberta as a pre-paid contractor. For more info go to www.servicealberta.gov.ab.ca/ Gateway Outdoor Living is not a pre-paid contractor.

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  • Home
  • What We Do
  • Project Gallery
  • Ideas
  • Contact
  • 10 Pergola Ideas
  • Everything You Need to Know About Decking Materials
  • 12 Things You Should NEVER Do to Your Wood Deck
  • Customer Feedback
  • FAQ
  • About