Hi Jeremy,
This was a topic this week with Edmonton's IDEA (Infill Development In Edmonton).
If you are serious on the topic, you should check out IDEA's twitter page for links to the work and conversations they have been having with the city recently
https://twitter.com/InfillEdmonton. This group meets on a monthly basis and it would be worthwhile getting to know a few of the industry participants if you are serious.
I like to know how can I verify this lot I am looking at is really duplex approved/pre-approved/ or how do I go about getting an approval to built a duplex when I do intend to do so in the coming years when the market picks up?
If you are in Edmonton, check out Slim Maps (
http://maps.edmonton.ca/map.aspx), and look up the address. You will need to do some research on the current zoning overlay. It is really easy. You will need to take a look at your RPR and look up the zoning requirements for setback. The difficulty in zoning will depend on whether your lot has this as a discretionary use (MDR or something similar zone) or if it is zoned something different. If you are changing zones, things get a bit more difficult and the time horizon extends.
Look up the zoning on the lot with the local planning body. Conduct the research on the zoning class. Run the financials to determine if there is any margin on redeveloping. Then submit the rezoning. If you already have zoning, you will not need to supply anything to planning at this time. When it comes time and you are ready to build, you will supply planning with a development permit which will trigger a series of levies as you are increasing the load on the site. This could range from sanitary, road, and other infrastructure items above the application fee. Most DPs are good for a year or so and then you need to obtain the building permit to construct on the site.
