Permits FAQs

(1) Why do I need a Building Permit?
(2) When do I require a Building Permit?
(3) Can anyone get a Building Permit?
(4) Do I need any other permits?
(5) When do I require a Mechanical Permit?
(6) Do I need a Building Permit for a Fence?
(7) When do I require a Development Permit?
(8) Where can I get a Permit Application?
(9) I'm just building an accessory building do I still need all the Permits?
(10) What about building a deck?
(11) I want to put an addition on my building, what's needed?
(12) What kind of information do I need to apply for a Permit?
(13) Once I apply for a Permit can I commence construction?
(14) How much is it for a Permit?
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(1) Why do I need a Building Permit?

Building Permits deal with the structural sufficiency of buildings and the health and safety of the building's occupants.

(2) When do I require a Building Permit?

A Building Permit is required for the construction, addition, alteration, repair, reconstruction, or relocation of a building.

(3) Can anyone get a Building Permit?

Building Permits are issued as authorized by the Building By-law. All Contractors who perform work authorized by a Permit must:

hold a valid City of Yellowknife Business License, and
hold, or employ a Person who holds a valid Journeyman Trade Certificate which is applicable to the work being performed.

The Owner of a Detached Single Family Dwelling may perform work authorized by a Permit on his own residence.

(4) Do I need any other permits?

Depending on the type and size of the project other Permits may be required.

A Development Permit, Mechanical Permit and Water Connect are other types of permits issued by the City that may be required for your project. Gas (propane) & Electrical permits are issued by the Government of the Northwest Territories, Public Works & Services - Safety Division.

(5) When do I require a Mechanical Permit?

A Mechanical Permit is required for construction, extension, alteration, repair, renewal, or relocation of any part of a mechanical system.

(6) Do I need a Building Permit for a Fence?

Subject to the discretion of the Building Inspector, a Building Permit may not be required for fences, other than those referred to in Part 8 of the Building Code.

(NBC Part 8-Safety Measures at Construction and Demolition Sites)

(7) When do I require a Development Permit?

If you are planning to construct a new building, add to an existing building or change the use or intensity of use of a property, you will need a Development Permit. (Exceptions) i.e. fences.

(8) Where can I get a Permit Application?

Application forms for Development, Building, Mechanical and other permits are available online and at City Hall from the Building Inspections Division. Water Connection Permits are available from City Hall Public Works Office.

(9) I'm just building an accessory building do I still need all the Permits?

Development Permit and a Building Permit are required for the construction of accessory buildings exceeding 10 square metres. A Building Permit may not be required for accessory buildings less than 20 square metres used for cold storage if verification is provided showing that the building will not be insulated, heated, or have electrical power.

(10) What about building a deck?

A Development Permit and a Building Permit are required for the construction of residential decks exceeding 600mm (2 ft.) in height from adjacent ground level.

(11) I want to put an addition on my building, what's needed?

A Development Permit and a Building Permit are required for the construction of additions to buildings. A Mechanical Permit will also be required if mechanical systems are being installed in the addition.

(12) What kind of information do I need to apply for a Permit?

Ensure that sufficient information is provided in order to show that the proposed work will conform to Yellowknife's By-laws and the National Building Code (NBC). Plans are required to be drawn to scale and must indicate the nature of the work in sufficient detail so that it can be determined that the proposed work will conform to the By-laws and the NBC. Additional pamphlets are available from the Inspections Division to assist you in making application for your specific project.

(13) Once I apply for a Permit can I commence construction?

Your Building Permit is not valid until you receive your permit for posting on site.

(14) How much is it for a Permit?

The fees for the various permits vary. Information for fees can be found in the Pamphlets for the Development, Building, and Mechanical Permit Process.