Building and Construction

COVID-19 and Building Services

Why do I need a permit?

Building permits are required to protect the interests of both individuals and the community. Building staff review and approve building plans before work begins, and we carry out inspections while construction is underway. This process ensures buildings comply with:

• The Ontario Building Code
• The local zoning by-law and other planning controls on buildings
• Other applicable legislation, including conservation authority approvals and certain requirements under the Environmental Protection Act

Building Services

The Building department provides services to builders and individuals looking to build or renovate. We issue permits for:

• Construction, renovation, demolition
• Certain change of use of buildings and structures
• Moving
• Installation, alteration, extension or repair of on-site sewage systems
• Plumbing, sewer and water service
• Fence enclosures for swimming pools, and
• Signs

We also carry out inspections to ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code and issue Occupancy Letters.

What if I fail to get a permit?

Homeowners are responsible for getting a permit before construction starts. Building without a permit is against the law and could result in you and/or your contractor being subject to fines or penalties set out by the Building Code Act.

Projects completed without a permit may not meet the building code standards, resulting in poor construction that may be unsafe; this could lead to costly repairs to correct the problem or even bring about complete construction failure. If you have begun your project without a permit, your permit costs double, and we may pursue legal action to ensure compliance.