Quick answer#
A Development Permit (DP) is a municipal planning approval that may be required before a Building Permit can be issued.
Unlike a Building Permit, a Development Permit generally focuses on land use planning, site design, landscaping, environmental objectives and the appearance of development rather than construction methods.
Some projects require both approvals before construction can begin.
What is a Development Permit?#
A Development Permit is a planning approval issued by a municipality under its Official Community Plan and applicable bylaws.
It allows the municipality to review how a proposed project fits within designated development permit areas before construction proceeds.
Not every property or project requires a Development Permit.
Why municipalities require Development Permits#
Development Permits help municipalities achieve long-term planning goals.
Review may focus on urban design, neighbourhood character, environmental protection, landscaping, accessibility, public realm improvements, parking and site circulation.
The objective is not simply to regulate construction but to guide appropriate development.
Projects that commonly require a Development Permit#
New commercial buildings.
Multi-family residential developments.
Large additions.
Mixed-use projects.
Projects located within designated Development Permit Areas.
Certain exterior renovations affecting building appearance.
Environmentally sensitive sites.
Development Permit vs Building Permit#
A Development Permit reviews planning and site design issues.
A Building Permit reviews Building Code compliance and construction safety.
Receiving one approval does not automatically grant the other.
What municipalities typically review#
Building placement.
Site layout.
Architectural appearance.
Landscaping.
Parking.
Vehicle access.
Pedestrian circulation.
Public realm improvements.
Environmental protection measures.
Typical Development Permit process#
Determine whether the property is located within a Development Permit Area.
Prepare architectural drawings, site plans and supporting documents.
Submit the Development Permit application.
Municipal planning staff review the proposal.
Respond to planning comments if revisions are requested.
Receive Development Permit approval.
Proceed with the Building Permit application if required.
Common review comments#
Provide a detailed site plan.
Clarify proposed building materials and colours.
Provide landscape plans.
Identify parking and loading areas.
Show accessible routes.
Confirm garbage and recycling locations.
Provide elevations illustrating the proposed appearance.
Address applicable Development Permit Area guidelines.
Common mistakes#
Assuming every project only needs a Building Permit.
Signing construction contracts before planning approvals are complete.
Ignoring Development Permit Area guidelines.
Submitting incomplete architectural drawings.
Assuming exterior changes never require planning review.
Planning before applying#
Before preparing drawings, confirm whether the property is located within a Development Permit Area.
Review municipal planning policies, zoning requirements and applicable design guidelines.
Early planning often reduces redesign, review comments and approval timelines.
How PermitWave helps#
PermitWave helps identify projects that may require Development Permit review before construction begins.
The Permit Preview highlights common planning issues, municipal documentation requirements and potential approval risks.
This allows owners and developers to better understand the approval pathway before investing in detailed design.