Town of Banff

Development Permits

If you're planning to construct a new building, renovate an existing building, or change the use (or intensity of use) of your property then you will need a development permit from the Town of Banff. A Development Permit authorizes you to make those changes.
 
The 'rules' for development are laid out in detail in the Land Use Bylaw, but typical developments needing permits include:

• Constructing, substantially altering or renovating any building, garage or accessory structure such as a shed or a deck
• Demolishing or moving a building
• Expanding or substantially renovating your store, shop, office or commercial enterprise;
• Establishing or expanding a 'transportation service'
• Changing or intensifying the use of a lot or building
• Installing, relocating or changing a sign
• Developing an unfinished basement or other part of a building
• Opening or expanding a home occupation or bed and breakfast operation
• Significantly changing the landscaping or grading of your property (including removing trees)

In addition to Land Use Bylaw standards, the Town of Banff now requires that all developments - whether a minor interior improvement or major building construction - appropriately manage and dispose of construction waste. The Town of Banff has partnered with the Bow Valley Waste Commission to create financial incentives encouraging developers to properly manage re-usable waste materials in order to prolong the lifespan of our only available landfill! For more information please consult Your How-to Guide for Construction Waste Management ( PDF - 6.0 MB).

Development Permits are not required for routine maintenance and repair work, mechanical and electrical work, or repainting a building or sign to the same colour or finish.

The approving authority for development permits is either the Development Officer or the Municipal Planning Commission, depending on the scale and sensitivity of the proposed development.  Decisions on development permits may be appealed to the Development Appeal Board.

To confirm if your project requires a Development Permit, please contact Planning and Development for more information.

Click here for a list of the various development permit types and associated application forms. You may print a copy of the appropriate form and submit to Planning and Development along with submittal requirements outlined on the form.