Buying or Selling a Property

A Compliance Certificate confirms that all buildings and structures on a property follow the Town’s Land Use Bylaw and have the required development permits.

• Why get one?
  It’s often required for real estate closings and can help avoid delays or legal issues from unknown encroachments or missing permits.
  
  
• How to apply:
  Submit a completed Compliance Certificate application form with an up-to-date RPR (within 90 days).
  
  
• Fee: We offer rush or regular service, and fees are listed in our current Fee Schedule.

Compliance Certificates are not legally required, but they’re highly recommended and often requested by lawyers, lenders, or buyers.

An encroachment occurs when a structure—like a fence, garage, or driveway—extends onto Town property or a utility right-of-way.

• What happens if there’s an encroachment?
  You may need an Encroachment Agreement, or, if it causes a safety or utility issue, it may need to be removed.
  
  
• How are they discovered?
  Typically during a survey or compliance review when a property is being sold.

Contact Planning & Development for guidance on your specific situation.

Need to know what permits, approvals, or inspections exist for a property? A file search can provide this information.

To request a file search:

• Submit a signed letter with landowner authorization
• Allow time for review; fees apply
• Note: Environmental or emergency response records may fall under the Access to Information Act (ATIA) and are not included in general requests

For more information about ATIA requests, contact Legislative Services at 780‑349‑4444.

A third-party home inspection is typically arranged by a buyer and completed by an independent company—not affiliated with the Town.

• These inspections are non-invasive and focus on the condition of the home.
• They are not a replacement for Safety Codes inspections.
• The Town does not endorse specific inspectors—ask around or check online reviews.