What documentation do I need for a Calgary bathroom renovation permit application?

For a Calgary bathroom renovation permit application, you'll need project drawings, a property description, contractor information, and a completed application form — the exact package depends on whether you're pulling a building permit, plumbing permit, or electrical permit (often all three for a full renovation).

Calgary's permit system runs through the City of Calgary's Planning & Development department, and each trade discipline (building, plumbing, electrical) has its own permit stream. Most full bathroom renovations require at least a plumbing permit, and many also require a building permit if walls are moving or the bathroom footprint is changing. Here's what to prepare for each.

What You'll Need for Each Permit Type

Building Permit (structural changes, wall removal, new bathroom addition)

Your contractor will submit a site plan showing the bathroom's location within the home, floor plan drawings showing existing and proposed layouts (these don't need to be architect-stamped for most residential bathroom work, but they must be clear and dimensioned), and a scope of work description explaining what's being changed. If you're adding a bathroom in a basement development, expect to provide more detailed drawings showing ceiling height, egress window compliance, and structural framing. The City of Calgary may also require a Real Property Report (RPR) if the project affects the building envelope, though this is uncommon for interior bathroom renovations.

Plumbing Permit (any drain or supply line relocation)

This is the most common permit for bathroom renovations. Your licensed plumber (or your general contractor if they hold a plumbing licence) submits the application. You'll need a description of the plumbing work — specifically which fixtures are moving, where drains are being relocated, and what new supply lines are being run. The City will want to know the fixture count (number of toilets, sinks, showers being added or relocated). For a basement bathroom addition, the plumber must also specify how the new drain ties into the existing stack and whether a sewage ejector pump is required (common in Calgary basements where the drain sits below the city sewer connection).

Electrical Permit (new circuits for heated floors, exhaust fans, lighting)

Your licensed electrician submits this separately. Documentation includes a description of the electrical scope — new circuits being added, panel capacity confirmation, and the location of new outlets, switches, and fixtures. For in-floor radiant heating, the electrician must specify the system wattage and thermostat type. All bathroom electrical work must comply with the Alberta Electrical Utility Code and include GFCI protection on all outlets within 1.5 metres of water sources.

What Every Application Needs

Regardless of permit type, every application requires the civic address of the property, the owner's name and contact information, and the contractor's information including their Alberta trade licence number. Your contractor should also provide proof of WCB Alberta coverage — request a clearance letter before work begins, because if an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you as the homeowner may face liability.

Permit fees for a typical bathroom renovation run $75–$350 per permit, and you may be paying for building, plumbing, and electrical permits separately. Budget $300–$800 in total permit fees for a full renovation with plumbing relocation.

One practical tip: your contractor typically pulls the permits, not you. A contractor who asks you to pull your own permits is a red flag — licensed contractors are responsible for their own permit applications. If a contractor suggests skipping permits entirely for plumbing or structural work, walk away. Unpermitted work must be disclosed at resale, can void your home insurance, and may require costly remediation if discovered during a home inspection.

Once work is complete, a Safety Codes Officer will inspect and close the permit. Keep the compliance document permanently with your home records — you'll need it when you sell.

If you're ready to get started, Calgary Bath Remodeling can match you with local bathroom renovation contractors who handle the full permit process as part of their service. Browse professionals in your area through the Calgary Construction Network directory at calgaryconstructionnetwork.com/directory?trade=bathroom-renovations.