Building Permits

When do I need a building permit?

A building permit is required for:

• all new residential and commercial buildings
• residential additions (e.g., bedrooms, family rooms, bathrooms etc.)
• commercial additions/renovations and accessory buildings
• residential work (e.g., decks, garages, sheds, accessory buildings)
• residential renovations
• electrical systems
• plumbing and gas systems
• heating ventilation and air conditioning systems
• demolition of structures
• fireplaces and wood burning appliances
• tents (open or enclosed) larger than 60 sq metres
• replacing furnaces or hot water tanks

This is a general list. Your project may require specific instructions. Please contact us before starting any construction or demolition project. Structures built without a permit may be subject to increased fees. 

You do not need a building permit for the following:

You do not need a building permit when you:

• construct any detached structure less than 10 square metres (107 square feet) or a shed accessory to a residential use only under 15 square metres (160 square feet) in size, these structures must comply with other applicable by-laws (e.g., zoning), regulations and contain no plumbing
• replace shingles or steel roofing, or replace exterior cladding, unless structural work is undertaken, insulation is added or air barrier is added
• install eaves trough
• paint or decorate
• erect a fence, unless it surrounds a swimming pool
• install, replace or alter electrical fixtures (excluding smoke or CO alarms). Note that an inspection by the Electrical Safety Authority may be required
• demolish a farm building on an active farm
• tents smaller than 60 sq metres that are used for personal or non-commercial use

Although a building permit may not be required, zoning by-laws still apply and your project may require planning approval or approval from other agencies. Please contact us before starting any construction or demolition project. Structures built without a permit may be subject to increased fees.

What should I submit with my application?

Your application should be accompanied by:

• construction details
• a detailed plot plan of the property
• the administration fee

Review our Guide to Building Permit Applications for other requirements.

How much does a building permit cost?

Building permit fees are based on the value of your construction project and/or the square footage of the project. Projects valued at $50,000 and up require a refundable deposit of $560. An administration fee is also due when your application is submitted. On projects valued up to $30,000 an administration fee of $150 is required. On projects valued over $30,000 an administration fee of $600 is required.

How long does it take to get a building permit?

Applications are reviewed by the Chief Building Official within 10 business days and staff will contact applicant regarding status of the permit for these types of construction:

• a detached house, semi-detached house, townhouse, or row house where no dwelling unit it located above another dwelling unit
• a detached structure that serves a building described in clause (a) and does not exceed 55 m2 in building area
• a tent to which Section 3.14 of Division B of the Ontario Building Code applies
• a sign to which Section 3.15 of Division B of the Ontario Building Code applies

Other types of construction may require additional time for review as indicated under the Ontario Building Code.

Does my building permit expire?

Building permits are valid for one year from the issue date.

If your project is not completed and finalized within the year, it is your responsibility to complete and submit a building permit renewal form, along with the applicable fee for every year the permit remains open.