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When Do I Need a Permit?

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A ladder rests against a newly constructed wall

Before starting a new construction project, whether inside or outside, you must first determine if you need a building permit. Please call the building department to confirm before starting your project if you are unsure.

'Building,' 'Construct,' and 'Demolish' are defined terms in the Building Code Act.

Projects that require a permit
  • Any structure occupying an area greater than 10 squared metres (108 square feet) consisting of a wall, roof or floor, or a structural system, including all plumbing, works, fixtures and service systems that lead to or service that structure
  • Any structure occupying an area of 10 squared metres (108 square feet) or less that contains plumbing, (including plumbing that leads to, or services that structure)
  • Any addition to an existing building
  • Any form of plumbing, whether in a structure or not
  • Replacement of a fire alarm panel or control unit
  • Sewage or septic system (new or repair)
  • "Designated" structures, as per the Ontario Building Code; (Division A-1.3.1.1.)
  • Any alteration to an existing building which affects the structural design of the building, including mechanical, plumbing services (no limit on size of building), fire separations, egress (exits) fire protection/suppression systems, and changing the use of the building, or parts of the building
  • Adding an additional dwelling unit

Demolition permits are required for all buildings greater than 10 square metres (108 square feet), with the exception of farm buildings.  Please note: a designated substances report will be required for all dwellings at the time of application submission.

 Examples

Here are some examples of residential construction projects that require a permit. Please note, this is not an exhaustive list. 

  • Decks attached to a building, regardless of height
  • Decks over 24" in height
  • Interior structural alterations
  • Adding or removing most walls, (creating different room sizes and/or uses)
  • Porches
  • Basement or main floor walkout alterations
  • Sunrooms, solariums
  • Replacement of brick veneer
  • Carports, attached or detached garages, sheds
  • Dormers or finishing of attic space
  • Additions
  • Installation or repair of storm, sanitary and water service
  • Finishing a basement or portion thereof
  • Furnace and ductwork replacements
  • Conversion from a septic to sanitary sewer
  • New installation, repair, or replacement of an onsite sewage system (septic system)
  • Plumbing or drains (except replacing fixtures)
  • Insulating exterior walls, when interior cladding is removed
  • New or structural alterations to windows or doors
  • New installation, repair or replacement of water service
  • Structural work related to fire damage
Projects that do not require a permit
  • Fences (other than for swimming pools)
  • Asphalt roof shingling
  • Eavestroughs
  • Minor repairs to masonry
  • Damp proofing basements
  • Air conditioning units or heat pumps added to existing forced-air systems
  • Kitchen or bathroom cupboards without plumbing
  • Free-standing satellite dishes
  • Replacement of existing forced-air furnace (no duct work alterations)
  • Replacement of siding or windows (provided there are no structural changes)
  • Pool heaters
  • Painting and decorating
  • Landscaping
Emergency Repair Permits

If you are applying for a building permit to resolve an emergency plumbing or septic issue in a single detached dwelling or other dwelling, including but not limited to:

  • Water service repair or installation
  • Sanitary sewer repair or installation
  • Onsite sewage system repair or installation

Please include "emergency plumbing repair" in the description of proposed work field on the application form. We will do our best to expedite the permit. 

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.

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