If you're planning a shop build for this year, the biggest mistake you can make is waiting too long to start the process. Between permits, weather windows, and booking a crew, lead times add up fast. Here's what the process actually looks like so you can plan ahead and avoid delays.
Permits — What You Need
In most Manitoba and Saskatchewan municipalities, you'll need a building permit for any structure over a certain square footage — usually 108 sqft, though this varies by RM. Your local RM or municipal office will tell you exactly what's required. In most cases, you'll need to submit a site plan showing where the building will go on your property, stamped engineered drawings (which we provide with every kit), and a permit application with the associated fee.
Some areas also require a separate development permit, especially if you're building on agricultural land or near a property line. If you're in an organized hamlet or town, zoning bylaws may apply. It's always worth calling your RM office early — they'll tell you what you need and how long approval typically takes.
Budget 2–6 weeks for permit approval depending on your municipality. Some RMs are faster than others, and summer is their busy season too. Getting your application in early gives you the best shot at staying on schedule.
Timelines — How Long Does a Build Take?
Once permits are in hand and the weather cooperates, here's what to expect. For a kit-only order, materials typically ship within 2–4 weeks of deposit. Delivery is on a flatbed to your site — you'll need equipment to unload.
For a full build, a typical 40×60 takes about 3–5 weeks on site. That breaks down to roughly a week for concrete (including cure time before erection), then 2–3 weeks for structure erection, cladding, doors, windows, and finishing. Larger builds like 60×100 or 80×120 take proportionally longer. Weather is the biggest variable — rain delays concrete pours, and extreme cold affects curing.
Spring and summer book fast on the prairies. If you want your shop done before fall, getting your quote and deposit in by early spring gives you the best timeline options. We book on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to Have Ready Before We Show Up
Before the build starts, you'll want to know your building size, intended use (heated or unheated, storage vs. workshop), and whether you want kit-only, concrete-only, or full build. Have your site accessible for equipment and delivery trucks — a flatbed needs room to maneuver. If you're on a rural property, confirm your land title doesn't have building restrictions or easements that could affect placement.
If you're going full build, we handle site prep from there. If you're doing kit-only, make sure your concrete slab is poured, cured, and ready before materials arrive — you don't want a truckload of lumber sitting in the rain waiting on a slab.