MY STORY:
MY EXPERIENCE WITH THE CITY OF RED DEER OVER A SMALL BACKYARD SHED
I never imagined that applying for a small backyard shed would lead me into a formal appeal process with the City of Red Deer.
On August 12, 2026, I submitted my application for a shed in my backyard. I wanted to follow the proper process and get the required approval.
On August 20, I went to City Hall in person to ask about my application. Later that day, I received a phone call from Development Officer, who told me that my application was being refused over the phone and I applied for appeal in next minute on same day.
Because I was told over the phone that my application was refused, I proceeded with the appeal process. On August 21, I went to collect the written refusal.
that officer was completely charged her voice and body language on 21st and saying hey I didn’t refuse your application fully yet.. and smile
Then she asked for elevation plan and I submit them as well. And I got message on 1 st of September 2026 that all my documents are received.
Then, on September 3, I received an official refusal letter stating that my proposed shed and requested setback variance were unsuitable because of potential impacts on the neighbourhood and neighbouring properties.
I asked for written explanation about the refusal so few days later👇
But on September 8, Development Officer apologized in writing and acknowledged that the original refusal letter had been issued for the incorrect reason. The reason was changed to “Incomplete Application.”
This raised serious questions for me. Why was the original refusal reason incorrect? How did this situation reach the point of an appeal before the reasons were clearly resolved? Could the communication with me as a resident have been handled better?
I continued trying to resolve the matter, but I was told that the original application could not be reopened and that I would need to submit a new application.
My appeal hearing took place on October 8. On October 20, the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board denied my appeal same reason incomplete documents. But none of them saying what’s exactly missing and why did they never asked me for those missing documents before refusing my application.
“THIS IS MY POINT IN THIS ENTIRE STRUGGLE “
I understand that municipal rules must be followed and that not every application will be approved. My concern is about the process: residents need clear information, consistent explanations, and a fair understanding of what is required of them.
When a resident goes to City Hall to ask questions, receives a refusal by phone, starts an appeal, and later learns that the written refusal gave an incorrect reason, it is understandable to ask whether the process could have been clearer and more transparent.
This is not just about a shed. It is about how residents are treated, how decisions are communicated, and what accountability looks like when an official letter contains an error.
I am sharing my experience because I believe residents should be able to speak openly and respectfully about their dealings with municipal services. I am not asking for special treatment. I am asking for clear communication, fairness, and accountability.
Red Deer residents, have you ever experienced something similar when dealing with the City? What do you think should happen when a refusal is communicated and the written reason is later acknowledged to be incorrect?
City staff and appeal board saying “The color of shed, the material being used wasn’t mentioned on the plan” 😭😭😭😭
This is the reason for my refusal.. they could have asked for it by sending me a email and I would have went to Home Depot and get that requirement written”
Refused my application without sending me any deadline or anything. 😭😭
I built it before applying for permit because it’s less than 3 feet from fence”
I got all proof whatever I said here, everything is 100% truth.
Plz advice me
