Farm Building Exemptions

Farm Use Exemptions  

Wondering if you need to apply for a permit for a farm building?  

If your set plan shows the building within the required setback area, or if there is a non-conformance with the Land Use Bylaw (height, size, building number, building area or lot coverage, etc.) you will also need a Development Permit from Planning. You have the option to amend your design to conform with the Land Use Bylaw to avoid this. 

Your drawings must show the square footages and the uses; failing to provide this information will delay the processing of your application. 

If the building is to be used for personal use in addition to farm use, a farm exemption will not apply, and a building permit will be required. 

Building Services FAQ
 

Can I store my personal vehicle in my farm building under the exemption? 

No; you will require a Building Permit if using the building for personal use.  

Are the subtrade permits included in the Farm Use Exemption?

No. Any subtrade permits required are not exempt, and that type of work must meet the associated codes. Sub Trade Permit Applications (listed below) are their own applications, and must be submitted at the same time as the Building Permit Application: 

  • Electrical Permit 
  • Gas Permit 
  • Plumbing Permit 
  • Private Sewage Treatment System 
  • Other items if applicable: 
  • Solar (mounted on the structure) – Refer to Solar Panel Checklist 
  • Geothermal – Refer to Geothermal System Checklist 
  • Hydronic – Heating Systems - Refer to Hydronic Heating Checklist and Hydronic Heating 
  • Systems for Dwelling Unit Guideline 

I submitted my application and have items outstanding; I want to make changes to my site plan before sending in the rest of the outstanding items. Is that ok?

Any changes made to the initial application may affect the review of the application, and additional items may be required.  This may delay the processing and decisioning of your application. 

I have other questions. Who do I talk to? 

Questions can be sent to Building@rockyview.ca 

Where to I find the application forms?

They can be found on the website: Forms & Documents | Rocky View County


Planning FAQ
 

My proposed Farm Building doesn’t meet the required setbacks. What do I do? 

Apply for a Development Permit (Contact Planning & Development) or move your building location. 

The height of my proposed farm use building exceeds the allowance in my land use zoning.  Am I still exempt?

Any variance from the requirements in the Land Use Bylaw requires a Development Permit application. This includes whether the use is permitted or discretionary, building height, building size, number of buildings, total area of all buildings, and lot coverage; please refer to the Land Use Bylaw and/or connect with Planning & Development to find out what is allowed.  

My farm building is a seacan. Are there any specific rules? 

The sea can must meet setbacks, and must meet the Land Use Bylaw requirements, including being either painted to match the dwelling, or screened from the road and adjacent properties. Contact Planning & Development to discuss.

I want to build an equestrian centre and private riding arena. Can I get a Farm Use Exemption?  

No. An Equestrian Centre is not a farm building and requires both a Development Permit and a Building Permit. A private riding arena requires a Development Permit. Contact Planning & Development for more information.

Where to I find the application forms? 

They can be found on the website: Forms & Documents | Rocky View County 

I have other questions. Who do I talk to?

Questions can be sent to or development@rockyview.ca 

Contact

Building Services
403.230.1401
building@rockyview.ca

262075 Rocky View Point
Rocky View County, AB
T4A 0X2
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8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Monday to Friday
Office closed on statutory holidays

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