Can I Submit A Permit In Edmonton Without Engineering First?
When Edmonton permits can be submitted without engineering and when professional design is required.
Can I Submit A Permit In Edmonton Without Engineering First?
Yes, in some situations you can submit a permit in Edmonton without engineering first, but many homeowners are surprised to learn that a large number of residential projects trigger engineering requirements during City review. In practice, submitting a permit without engineering often leads to delays, rejections, and resubmissions when the City determines that professional structural input is required. Knowing when engineering is mandatory and when it is not can save weeks of time and unnecessary stress.
At Edmonton Structural Engineers, we regularly help homeowners who initially tried to submit a permit without engineering and were asked by the City to provide stamped drawings after the fact. Below, we explain when submitting without engineering is possible, when it is not, and how to choose the fastest path to permit approval.
Understanding Edmonton Building Permit Requirements
What The City Of Edmonton Looks For In Permit Submissions
When you submit a permit application, the City reviews the scope of work to determine whether the project affects structural safety, load paths, or code compliance. If the work is structural in nature, engineering becomes mandatory, even if it was not included in the initial submission.
This is why the question “can I submit a permit in Edmonton without engineering first” often depends on the specific details of the project rather than the homeowner’s preference.
Why Engineering Is Part Of The Permit Process
Engineering provides professional verification that a structure can safely support loads and meet the Alberta Building Code. City reviewers rely on engineers to confirm complex structural details rather than evaluating them internally.
When You Can Submit A Permit In Edmonton Without Engineering First
Cosmetic And Non Structural Work
You can typically submit an Edmonton building permit without engineer involvement for projects that do not affect structure, including:
- Flooring replacement
- Cabinetry installation
- Painting and finishes
- Minor interior renovations
- Non load bearing partition changes
In these cases, drawings may still be required, but engineering is usually not.
Small Scope Projects With No Structural Impact
Some small projects, such as minor alterations that clearly do not affect load bearing elements, may be accepted without engineering. Even then, drawings must clearly demonstrate that no structural changes are involved.
When Engineering Is Required Before Or During Permit Review
Load Bearing Wall Removal Or Modification
If your project includes removing or modifying a load bearing wall, engineering is required. Submitting without it almost always results in a request for stamped drawings.
This is one of the most common situations where homeowners attempt to submit permit Edmonton without engineering and face delays.
Beam And Column Installations
Any time beams or columns are added, resized, or relocated, engineering is mandatory. The City will not approve these changes without professional design.
Basement Developments With Structural Changes
Basement developments that involve new load paths, column relocation, or foundation modifications trigger Edmonton building permit engineering required status.
Additions And Expansions
Home additions increase structural loads. Engineering is required to confirm existing foundations and framing can support the new loads.
Foundation Repairs Or Alterations
Foundation work is always considered structural. Submitting without engineering will lead to rejection.
What Happens If You Submit Without Engineering When It Is Required
Permit Rejection Or Deficiency Notices
If the City determines engineering is required, your application will be marked incomplete. You will be asked to provide engineer stamped drawings before review continues.
Delays And Resubmissions
Engineering added after submission often extends timelines by weeks. Drawings must be prepared, stamped, and resubmitted.
Increased Costs
Rushed engineering or redesigns often cost more than planning engineering upfront.
Why Submitting Without Engineering Often Costs More Time
Engineering After The Fact Is Reactive
When engineering is done after a permit submission, it often involves revising drawings that were already prepared. This creates duplication of effort.
City Review Starts Over
Once engineering is added, reviewers often restart portions of the review process.
The Faster Approach To Edmonton Permits
Determine Engineering Requirements Early
The fastest path is confirming whether engineering is required before submitting your permit. This avoids guesswork and delays.
Submit A Complete Permit Package
Applications that include all required documents from the start move through review faster and with fewer comments.
How Edmonton Structural Engineers Helps Homeowners
Clear Determination Of Engineering Needs
At Edmonton Structural Engineers, we assess your project early and tell you clearly whether engineering is required.
Permit Ready Drawings
We prepare drawings that meet City expectations and reduce review time.
Support Through City Requests
If the City requests revisions or clarification, we respond quickly and professionally.
Common Scenarios We See With Edmonton Permits
Open Concept Renovations
Homeowners often submit permits without engineering for wall removal and are later required to provide stamped drawings.
Basement Renovations
Structural elements hidden in basements are often overlooked, triggering later engineering requirements.
Deck Construction
Attached decks frequently require engineering even when homeowners assume they do not.
Risks Of Assuming Engineering Is Not Required
Stop Work Orders
If construction begins without required engineering, the City can issue stop work orders.
Insurance Issues
Unpermitted or non engineered work may affect insurance coverage.
Resale Complications
Missing permits or engineering can create issues during property sales.
Questions Homeowners Ask About Submitting Permits Without Engineering
Can I Submit A Permit In Edmonton Without Engineering First For Renovations?
Only if the renovation does not affect structural elements. Many renovations do require engineering.
Will The City Tell Me If Engineering Is Required?
Yes, but waiting for City feedback often delays the project.
Can I Start Construction While Waiting For Engineering?
No. Construction should not begin until permits are approved.
Does Submitting Without Engineering Save Money?
Often no. Delays and redesigns usually cost more.
Who Decides If Engineering Is Required?
The City makes the final determination during permit review.
How Long Does It Take To Add Engineering After Submission?
It depends on project complexity, but it can add several weeks.
Final Thoughts On Submitting Permits Without Engineering In Edmonton
While it is sometimes possible to submit a permit in Edmonton without engineering first, many residential projects require engineering whether homeowners expect it or not. Submitting without engineering often leads to delays, rejections, and added costs.
The most efficient approach is confirming requirements early and submitting a complete application that includes engineering when needed. This protects your project timeline and reduces stress.
Work With Edmonton Structural Engineers
Edmonton Structural Engineers offers trusted residential structural design, inspections, and permit ready reports. Safe, accurate, and fully code compliant.
Call Us For A Quote: 587 400 0809
Our Services
We provide tailored structural engineering solutions for homeowners, builders, and renovators in Southern Alberta.
