Q: What if I fail to take out a permit?
- If the work does not comply with the Manitoba Building Code requirements, costly repairs may result to you
- Work started that cannot be made to comply, may likely require removal
- There are surcharges to the regular fees if work is started before obtaining a Building Permit
- Legal action may also be initiated to ensure compliance
- Insurance coverage/claims may be denied
- Selling your home may be difficult
Q: I would like to have a home based business/occupation. Who do I contact?
Mid-West Planning District. See Home-Based Business under Development Permits.
Q: Do I need a permit for renovations?
Most likely yes, see Residential Renovations.
Q: Do I require a building permit for a deck?
Yes! A building permit is required for any deck which is higher than 200 mm (8 in.) above average ground level or ANY deck which will eventually support an enclosed structure with a roof such as a sun room, family room, etc.
Q: What if the deck is not attached to my house, do I still need a building permit?
Regardless of whether or not the deck is attached to the house or any other structure on the property, a building permit is required, as noted above.
Q: Do I require an occupancy permit for new building construction?
Yes, this is part of the permit process through the Mid-West Planning District.
Q: There are new Codes in effect as of January 1, 2024. Where can I get a copy of the new Codes?
Manitoba Regulation 78/2023: Manitoba Building Code adopts National Building Code of Canada 2020 with Manitoba Amendments. National Building Code of Canada 2020 Free PDF download of the Code.
Manitoba Regulation: 79/2023: Manitoba Energy Code for Buildings adopts National Energy Code of Canada 2020 for Buildings with Manitoba Amendments. National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2020 Free PDF download of the Code.
Manitoba Regulation 80/2023: Manitoba Plumbing Code adopts National Plumbing Code of Canada 2020 with Manitoba Amendments. National Plumbing Code of Canada 2020 Free PDF download of the Code.
Manitoba Regulation 82/2023: Manitoba Fire Code adopts National Fire Code of Canada 2020 with Manitoba Amendments. National Fire Code of Canada 2020 Free PDF download of the Code.
Q: Is there any way that compliance with a certain aspect of the Building Code can be waived?
The Mid-West Planning District does not have the authority to waive the requirements but it does have the authority to accept alternative solutions which meet the intent of the Building Code. If you feel you can satisfy a Building Code requirement by using an equivalent material or construction method, contact us to discuss.
Q: Where do I obtain an electrical or gas permit?
Q: Who do I contact if I am doing excavation work?
Call or click before you dig. http://www.clickbeforeyoudigmb.com/
For Manitoba Hydro (Electricity & Natural Gas) Call: 1-800-940-3447 Email: info@clickbeforeyoudigmb.com
Q: What methods of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, cheque, or e-transfer (email to devofficer@midwestplanning.ca)
Q: How do I submit an application?
You can find all our applications and forms online. Once filled out you can submit them one of several ways.
- If it is a building, plumbing, demolition, or development application, you can apply through our online portal, Cloudpermit.
- Send via email to devofficer@midwestplanning.ca
- Send via fax to 204-567-3695
- Mail to Mid-West Planning District, Box 96, Miniota, MB R0M 0T0
- Drop off at our office: 111 Sarah Avenue, Miniota, MB – Basement entrance on the south side of the building.
Q: How do I sign up for a Cloudpermit Account?
To get started with Cloudpermit, you need to Create an Account.
Note: you will need an email address to use the system.
- Go to the Cloudpermit site
- Click on “CREATE NOW” found under the Register for an account column.
- Provide your email address.
- Cloudpermit will send an email to the address you have provided.
- Open the email and complete the registration process.
Note: this email is only valid for 24 hours.
The next time you visit the site, you’ll login using your email and password.
Q: How do I know which inspections to book for?
When your building permit is approved, you will receive a list of the inspections required.
Q: Where do I obtain a Development Plan By-law and maps?
A PDF can be downloaded from our website.
Q: Where do I obtain a municipal zoning by-law and maps?
Zoning by-law and maps can be purchased from the respective municipalities or downloaded from our website.
Q: How do I get a copy of my Land Title?
A: The Status of Title(s) can by acquired from your lawyer or the Land Titles Office (Teranet Manitoba).
Q: How do I determine my property lines?
To accurately locate property lines requires a Manitoba Land Surveyors Building Location Certificate or there may be pins located on your property which indicate the property lines.
Q: How can I obtain a Building Location Certificate?
Check your records. Most property owners already have this document, it usually comes with the property purchase. Otherwise, the services of a qualified Land Surveyor should be obtained. Using a Certificate as reference is the best way to avoid disputes between neighbours.
Q: Where do I obtain a survey certificate?
Obtain a survey through a Manitoba Land Surveyor.
Q: I want to install a sign on my business, who do I contact?
Mid-West Planning District. See Sign Permits under Commercial / Industrial Building.
Q: Who do I talk to about purchase of Municipal owned land?
Contact the respective municipalities.
Q: I need to drill a well on my property? What permits do I need?
You do not require a permit from Mid-West Planning District, but you will require a provincial permit.
Permit information can be obtained by contacting Manitoba Sustainable Development, Water Use Licensing at 204-945-3983 or by email at mws@gov.mb.ca.
Information on the water rights licensing process is available at www.manitoba.ca/waterstewardship/licensing/wlb/obtaining.htm
Q: Where do I apply for subdivision of property?
Manitoba Local Government – Community & Regional Planning Email: Community & Regional Planning Email | General Inquiry 204-726-6267
Q: I am building a residential home in a farm land area what additional approvals/permits do I need?
- Subdivision approval if applicable.
- Conditional Use approval if applicable.
- Variance to the property if applicable.
- Approval from the Government of Manitoba Department of Conservation and Climate for the septic system to be provided.
- Water Use License from Manitoba Sustainable Development if drilling a well.
- Department of Transportation and Infrastructure if your property access is onto a highway or provincial road.
- Municipal agreement or application if your property access is onto a municipal road.
- Apply for a civic address for emergency services and installation of a “blue” address sign from the municipality.
- Water Resources permit if in a reservoir area.
Q: My property has been affected by flooding. Where do I get information and support?
When a natural disaster occurs, the Manitoba government may declare the event eligible for Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA). The DFA program provides financial assistance for residents, farmers, small business owners, non-profit organizations and municipalities affected by flooding. Visit: Government of Manitoba for more information about DFA and additional resources if you experience flooding.
Q: Could there be asbestos in my building?
If your house or building was constructed circa 1930 to 1990’s there’s a good chance that some of the materials used in construction contain asbestos. See our Demolition permit page for more asbestos information.