A request for a file search or a record search can be made to Planning and Development Services to obtain records on a residential or commercial property.  The type of search required depends on the type of record and level of detail of information required. Some information can only be acquired by the registered landowner or an agent working on their behalf with written authorization. 

Record search

A record search request is an examination of Planning and Development Services, Development Permitting and Building Services files only. It is used to retrieve filed information or plans relating to the construction and development of a property.  It is not a replacement for a File Search. 

A search of records for a property can include: 

• a listing of development, building and safety code permits applications, inspection dates and current status
• copies of approved development, building and safety code permits 

For registered property owners or an agent acting on their behalf with Landowner written authorization the following are also available: 

• copy of a Real Property Reports and Statement of Compliance letter 
• copy of Safety Code inspection reports 
• copy of a permit service report 
• copy of building plans 

Fees 

A Record Search request is subject to administrative fees. Fees are identified on the Record Search - Request Form (784.5 KB) and are based on Council approved fees, rates and charges. 

For large format documents, copying or scanning charges may apply in addition to the Record Search request fee.

Document retention 

Strathcona County retains records in accordance with legislation and industry standards, however, some information that you request may not be available as Strathcona County manages records throughout their lifecycle in accordance with our retention schedule.​

Submission requirements

• Completed  Record Search – Request form (784.5 KB)
• Applicable fees 
• Landowner authorization when required

File Search

Please note that a File Search can also be referred to as a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment. 

Property information related to the environment can be obtained by filling out an application through Planning & Development Services. Your request will be circulated to various applicable departments. The following information is available: 

• Records pertaining to development permits, current land use/zoning, and land use infractions. *Copies of permits may be available for an additional fee (see Record Search). 
• Records pertaining to historic waste, landfill, or dumpsite on the subject property. 
• Records pertaining to any emergency response for reasons of fire incidents, spillage or leakage of dangerous materials. *Strathcona County Emergency Services does not administer the installation and/or removal of storage tanks and suggests that you contact the Petroleum Tank Management Association for Alberta for storage tank information on the property. 
• Building, electrical, plumbing, gas, and private sewage permits information and/or status of inspections. *Copies of permits may be available for an additional fee (See Record Search). 
• Records pertaining to land development such as outstanding obligations, levies, contributions, etc. 
• Records pertaining to any orders, caveats, or interest related to land acquisition or expropriation registered by Strathcona County against the subject property. 

A file search of our records does not constitute a complete Environmental Site Assessment. The presence or absence of any information on our files for a specific property does not imply the presence or absence of environmental problems or difficulties. Strathcona County accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of the information provided and the information should not be considered a substitute for proper investigation.

Submission requirements

• Completed  File Search - Request  form (532.6 KB)
• Applicable fees 
• Aerial photo/map with property boundary identified 
• Current copy of title 
• Landowner authorization. *All File Search requests must be made by the landowner or his/her acting agent. Agents who are acting on behalf of the owner must provide written authorization from the owner.