The Building Standards Branch is responsible for the issuance of building, plumbing and demolition permits within the city of Saskatoon.  A permit is required prior to the start of construction on most projects. Whether a permit is required for the project or not depends on the nature of the project and the scale of work being done. If unsure about whether a building permit is required, it is always best to check by phoning the Building Standards Branch.

A Building Permit IS Required For:

• residential and commercial construction, including new building construction as well as alteration and renovation of existing structures;
• demolition, repair, relocation, alteration or addition to an existing building or structure;
• alterations or construction of accessory buildings, garages, decks, swimming pools, and mobile homes;
• structural changes to existing buildings;
• change of occupancy or use of an existing building;
• accessory buildings that are greater than 10m²;
• decks over 200mm above grade, and roof enclosures over existing or new decks;
• basement development in existing dwellings.

A Building Permit IS NOT Required For:

• fences, driveways and sidewalks;
• cosmetic repairs such as paint or minor repairs to exterior finishes;
• replacement roofing on a one to four unit dwelling unless the decking is replaced;
• replacement siding on a one to four unit dwelling, as long as the replacement is with similar construction;
• laying carpet;
• replacing doors and windows in existing openings in a dwelling unit, as long as the replacement is with similar construction.