The County of Grande Prairie is committed to ensuring safety of its residents, staff and businesses during the pandemic while maintaining operations when and where it’s practical – including safety codes inspections and subdivision and development permits.

“We encourage residents to stay at home and practice physical distancing and also recognize there are planned projects that can be completed without jeopardizing health,” says Nick Lapp, Director of Planning and Development.

“It may be possible to complete inspections virtually using FaceTime, Skype, Google Duo and photos to limit or eliminate personal interaction,” he says. “Our Safety Codes Officers are following Safety Codes Council and Alberta Health Services guidelines regarding social distancing and best practices regarding sanitation and use of protective equipment.”

The priority is on projects that enable home occupancy and utility hookup. Staff will consider deferring or postponing inspections of high-density, multi-family occupancy buildings.

“There are projects where inspections are being completed on commercial buildings, residential foundations, rough-ins and framing so these involve entering occupied buildings,” Lapp says.

Staff continues to review applications for subdivisions, development agreements, municipal addressing, development permits, safety codes permits, and compliance requests.

County of Grande Prairie offices are closed to the public during the pandemic. Enquiries regarding inspections and permits can be made via email to plan@countygp.ab.ca or 780-513-3950.

“We ask for patience at this time as we work to provide the best possible service while protecting our employees and residents,” Lapp says.