What are they building? Development permit signs mandatory in Edmonton

EDMONTON — Edmonton residents in established areas will soon have a better idea of what to expect from infill projects in their neighbourhoods, thanks to new rules by the city.

Development permit notification signs, like the one pictured above, are now required on residential constructions sites in mature and established neighbourhoods for projects approved on or after April 1, 2016.

The city said the visible, easy-to-understand signs will help residents stay informed about what’s being built. It’s hoped the signs will also encourage better dialogue between neighbours affected by an infill development and the builder or contractor completing the construction.

“The community asked for a way to be better informed about what’s approved in their community, as well as contact information. So it is directly in response to that community input,” Lana Phillips, senior planner with Development and Zoning Services with the City of Edmonton.

The mandatory signs must be posted near the sidewalk of the development within 14 days after they have been issued, and must stay posted until final occupancy is granted by the City.

Permit applicants will be responsible for making, posting, and maintaining the signs, which will be generated from a City-approved template. They have to include:

• Contact information for contractor, development permit holder and/or landowner
• The site address
• A brief plain-language description and/or graphic of what has been approved
• the City file number
• contact information for 311

Builders with developments that were approved before April 1 are encouraged, but not required, to post the signs.