What is Development Permit Survey?

A development permit survey is a type of land survey conducted in the context of urban or rural development projects. It involves the assessment and documentation of a property’s existing conditions, boundaries, and topography to ensure compliance with local zoning regulations and development plans. This survey is often a prerequisite for obtaining a development permit from the relevant municipal or local authorities.

What is shown in a Development Permit Survey?

 

  • Legal Descriptions
  • Property Boundaries
  • Topography
  • Existing Structures
  • Setbacks and Easements
  • Environmental Features
  • Utilities
  • Traffic and Access
  • Streetscape of Adjacent Lots
  • Side View of Adjacent Lots

Why You Need a Development Permit Survey

A Development Permit (DP) Survey is a crucial step in the City of Calgary’s approval process when you plan to:

  • Build a new house, garage, or secondary suite
  • Add a deck, extension, or addition to your property
  • Construct a fence or retaining wall in a discretionary location
  • Apply for a bylaw relaxation
  • Change land use or redevelopment (e.g., infill housing)

A professional DP Survey ensures your proposed development complies with municipal bylaws and helps streamline your application process.

FAQ

A DP Survey is a legal plan showing your lot and proposed development to help the City assess compliance.

When building new structures, changing footprints, or applying for infill or bylaw relaxations.

A contextual drawing showing proposed development relative to adjacent homes – often required for discretionary or infill projects.

Most DP surveys are completed within 7-15 business days.

If your site has slopes or requires grading, topographic info may be required.