If you're planning to dig out an area to hold a body of water deeper than 600 mm (24 inches) on your property, you will require a building permit. This applies to ponds and water landscape features.

Depending on the size, if the body of water is contained within a structure above ground, you may require a development permit in addition to the building permit.

Guidelines

The Alberta Building Code requires that the contained body of water be as safe as possible at all times. Under the code, if a body of water is 2 feet or more in depth, it is considered the same as a swimming pool. A building permit would be required and the same guidelines as required for a swimming pool would apply.

Conditions

The yard with the pond must have a fence with a minimum height of 1.8m (6ft) and must completely enclose the pond.

The gate on the fence must be the same height as the fence, and must be self-closing.

The latch must lock and be installed on the inside of the gate at least 1.5 m (5 ft) off the ground.

These regulations apply to a contained body of water.

Inspection

A final inspection is mandatory. Contact our office to arrange for the inspection once the work is complete.

To apply, mail or bring the following items to our office:

• Residential Construction Application form
• Your property's municipal address and legal description (plan number, block and lot as shown on your tax notice)
• If there is an existing fence around your property and it meets the requirement, submit a letter of confirmation along with your application.
• Three copies of a site plan, showing:
  1. Size of property
  2. Size and location of all buildings
  3. Size, location and depth of proposed pond
  4. Distance from pond to property lines
• All application fees.

Processing

1. The application may be reviewed by a development officer.
2. When approval is given, the application will be reviewed by a safety code officer for approval.

2012 Fees

Development permit fee: $114

Building permit fee: $88

Safety code fee: $4.50

Note: There is an additional $40 fee if development permit is discretionary and notices need to be sent out.

For more information:

Current Planning Service Centre