05 Dec Residential Development Changes/Additions (Basement Suites, Accessory Buildings, Solar Panels, etc.) – Do I need HOA approval?
Recently there has been an increase in the number of inquiries through the HOA website in regards to homeowners making changes to the exterior of their property in the form of an addition, solar panels being the most common query at this time. The Architectural Guidelines put in place by the community developer do not address solar panels, basement suites, accessory buildings, or other items of this nature.
The Board of the HOA is not responsible for any changes homeowners make to their property or policing these changes; homeowners are responsible for researching the required steps to take when beginning any of these projects. This includes applying for and receiving any and all permits mandated by the City of Calgary.
If you are concerned about developments a neighbour is making to their property, you can access the City of Calgary’s online Development Map via https://www.calgary.ca/development/permits/permit-application-search.html . You will be able to see if they have permits issued for the development and can log a 311 ticket if you continue to have concerns about the project. It should be noted that the issuing of land use or development permits will often be preceded by some form of notice to the public (such as signage displayed on the front yard of a home giving neighbours the opportunity to provide feedback).
If you are a homeowner interested it adding to your property, here are some links you may find useful:
Solar Panels – https://www.calgary.ca/development/home-building/solar.html#:~:text=Electrical%20rules,and%20install%20solar%20PV%20systems.
Pools/Hot Tubs/Ponds – https://www.calgary.ca/development/home-building/swimming-pools.html
Garage/Shed/Gazebo/Similar Structure – https://www.calgary.ca/development/home-building/garages-sheds.html
As always, we encourage residents to be mindful of how developments to their property may affect those around them. Ensure you are following the steps required in the permit application process both to make your project a success as well as mitigate disputes with other community members.