Frequently Asked Questions
Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions below to find quick answers to some commonly asked questions on driveways.
If your question is not answered below please email lotgrading@stalbert.ca or phone 780-459-1654.
Do I need a permit if I am installing a driveway for a new home?
Yes, an On-Street Construction Permit is required.
The approved plot plan will typically show the dimensions of what was approved for the driveway installation. If new installation dimensions are not deviating from that, a Development Permit will not be required.
Should the dimensions be expanded upon the applicant will need to request for a review of the said proposed deviation of the approved plot plan and a Development Permit may be required.
Do I need a permit if I am replacing a driveway but not widening it?
Yes, an On-Street Construction Permit is required.
The replacement driveway will need to conform to the current Land Use Bylaw, Surface Drainage Bylaw and Municipal Engineering Standards. Based on the size, a Development Permit may be required.
I would like to widen my driveway. Do I require a permit?
Yes, an On-Street Construction Permit is required.
The replacement driveway will need to conform to the current Land Use Bylaw, Surface Drainage Bylaw and Municipal Engineering Standards. Based on the size, a Development Permit may be required.
Who is responsible for replacing and/or maintaining the driveway apron?
The property owner is responsible as an apron is a private asset located on public land.
Who is responsible for installing/replacing and/or maintenance of the garage access pad from a back lane?
Garage access pads situated off of a back lane are to be installed to the grade of the back lane; to ensure proper drainage and to minimize trip/impact hazards. Garage access pad installations are at the risk of the property owner(s). The City of St. Albert is not responsible for any maintenance or damages to the back lane garage pads.
What type of products are permitted for driveway surfacing?
As per the Land Use Bylaw, all driveways are required to be hard surfaced (in concrete or asphalt) and parking vehicles on gravel, dirt, turf, paving stones/bricks or sidewalk blocks is not permitted.
Installations of topical surface treatments (ie: rubber overlay) to driveways and/or aprons are at the risk of the property owner(s). The City of St. Albert is not responsible for any maintenance or damages to the surface treatment.
What should I do if there are shallow or deep utilities in the vicinity of the work zone?
Prior to any ground disturbance shallow and deep utility lines will need to be located.
Contact Utility Safety Partners to arrange for shallow locates at 1-800-242-3447.
Contact the City at 780-459-1557 or pwadmin@stalbert.ca for deep utility locates.
Can I remove a boulevard tree to accommodate a driveway apron expansion?
Boulevard trees are valuable City assets. As per the City of St. Albert Urban Forest Management Plan, the Public Operations department typically denies these types of requests. Removal of a City tree without approval may be subject to action by Municipal Enforcement.
Can I hire a contractor to do the work for me?
Yes. However, before proceeding with any work it is recommended that you ensure the contractor has a valid City of St. Albert Business License. It is also best practice to obtain reference checks prior to entering into a contract with a contractor.
Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the contractor regarding curing times and warranty requirements for the newly installed driveway and/or apron.
Can the City recommend a contractor for me?
Due to potential for conflicts of interest, the City cannot recommend contractors.
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Last edited: July 3, 2025