The Town of Okotoks is reminding residents of proper permitting as spring and summer are peak seasons for D.I.Y. construction projects in yards.

Manager of Permit and Assessment Services Rob Mueller shares, decks, detached garages, sheds and fences can all be subject to development or building permits.

"One of the first things that everybody wants to do is decks, and when you're building decks you do require permits and setbacks according to the Okotoks Land Use Bylaw. Any decks that are two feet above ground or higher require a permit and must meet the setbacks of the bylaw."

Mueller explains detached garages require permits, but not all sheds do.

"Sheds that are on a permanent foundation require a building permit, also sheds that are bigger than 10 square metres require a permit. Any detached garages in the rear yard will require a permit, as well as other permits based on what they're doing to the interior for retrofitting."

One of the biggest projects in which permits are overlooked by residents are retaining walls, which are subject to building and development permits.

"Retaining walls are subject based on placement in the yard to building permits or development permits. Before going ahead with any retaining wall on the property the individual or property owner should contact the town for verification as to whether permits are required for construction."

Mueller says its wise to call the Town to clarify before beginning any project.

"If people are to construct without permits, if discovered by the town or anyone else we would contact the property owner to discuss the project, and all required permits that would be necessary would have to be provided in an application to the town for review prior to construction continuing, the project would be stopped."

For more information on building permits click here.