Calgary Permit Fees & Security Deposits Guide

Introduction

This guide explains development fees and security deposits for permits in Calgary, Alberta, so applicants and builders know when deposits are required, how fees are calculated, how to pay, and where to get help. It covers Development and Building permits, typical security purposes, refund and release practices, enforcement pathways, and practical action steps to apply, pay, and appeal.

What are development fees and security deposits?

Development fees are charges set by the City to cover application review, municipal services, or infrastructure levies; security deposits (sometimes called performance or damage deposits) guarantee compliance with permit conditions and protection of public property. For official fee and deposit rules, check the City of Calgary permit fees and security deposits page Development permit fees & deposits^[1].

• When required: often for site work, grading, landscaping, or where a permit requires restoration of public property.
• Purpose: protect city assets and ensure completion of conditions tied to the permit.
• Return/release: released when conditions are met and inspections are complete, subject to the city’s hold and review process.

How fees are calculated & paid

Fee schedules, calculation methods, and payment options vary by permit type (development, building, off-site levies). Detailed schedules and payment instructions are published on the City of Calgary building and permit fee pages; consult the building and permit fee page for specifics and current schedules Building and permit fees^[2].

• Calculation: may be fixed fees, area-based rates, or levy formulas depending on the instrument.
• Payment timing: typically at application or before permit issuance.
• Methods: online, in-person at a city counter, or as directed by the permit office.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of fee payment, deposit conditions, and compliance with permit terms is managed through City of Calgary enforcement channels and planning or bylaw units. For controlling instruments and enforcement references, consult the City’s land-use and bylaw enforcement information Land Use Bylaw and enforcement^[3].

• Fines: exact monetary fines and schedules are not specified on the cited city pages and must be read on the controlling bylaw or enforcement notice (not specified on the cited page).
• Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offence escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page.
• Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remedy, stop-work orders, forfeiture of deposits, or court action are enforcement tools used by the city.
• Enforcer: Planning & Development and Bylaw Enforcement units; complaints and inspections are routed via the city’s service pages.
• Appeals: appeals or reviews of development decisions typically go to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board or other appeal bodies; exact time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited pages.

Applications & Forms

Common application forms include the Development Permit application and Building Permit application. Fee schedules and where to submit are published on the City of Calgary permit pages; some forms are submitted online and some at city counters. If a specific application form number or fee is required but not published, it is not specified on the cited page.

FAQ

Do I have to pay a security deposit for all permits?

No. Security deposits are required only when the permit or site conditions create potential risk to public assets or require guaranteed completion of works; check the permit conditions and the city fee page for when a deposit applies.

How do I get my deposit back?

You must request release after required works and inspections are complete; the city inspects and confirms compliance before releasing funds, subject to hold periods and deductions for repairs.

What if I disagree with a fee or a forfeiture?

Follow the city review or appeal process stated on the notice or decision; if no time limit is listed on the cited page, the time limit is not specified on the cited page.

How-To

1. Confirm required permit type and read the related fee and deposit guidance on the City of Calgary permit pages.
2. Prepare complete application materials, including drawings and site protections that may reduce deposit needs.
3. Submit the application and pay required fees and deposits as instructed by the permit office.
4. Complete permit conditions and public-works protections, and request inspections when ready.
5. After final inspection, apply for release of the security deposit and provide evidence of completed works.
6. If there is a dispute, use the review or appeal route listed on the decision or notice; if no timeline is provided on the cited pages, the timeline is not specified on the cited page.

Key Takeaways

• Fees and deposits vary by permit type; check official city fee pages before applying.
• Deposit release requires inspections and evidence of completed conditions.
• Contact Planning & Development or Bylaw Enforcement for enforcement, appeals, and clarifications.

Help and Support / Resources

• Development permit applications and guides
• Building permit applications and forms
• Report a bylaw or request inspection (City of Calgary service portal)

1. [1] City of Calgary — Development permit fees & deposits
2. [2] City of Calgary — Building and permit fees
3. [3] City of Calgary — Land Use Bylaw and enforcement