Some projects around your home require a permit, others do not. To avoid hefty fines and project delays you should know if you require a permit before you start!
Why are Building Permits Necessary?
Building permits help protect you, your home, and the interests of your community by making sure the project is structurally sound. All projects are required to follow the Ontario Building Code, municipal zoning, and other applicable laws. Whether you are building a new home or renovating an existing one, you want to make sure the renovations are safe and legal for you and any future occupants.
Consequences of Not Obtaining a Building Permit
- Possible fines and legal action against all parties involved
- Costly repairs or removal of construction that is not in compliance with the Ontario Building Code, Zoning By-law and Grading and Drainage Clearance Certificate By-law
- May affect ability to refinance or sell the property
- Additional fees under the Building Permit Bylaw
- Inspections by professional engineers
Is a Building Permit Required for my Project?
Permit requirements vary between municipalities. You should always check with your local municipal if a permit is required for your future project.
The following typically requires a building permit before beginning construction:
- New building Construction
- Additions to existing buildings
- Foundation Repairs or underpinning
- Carport/attached garage
- Basement finishes
- Accessory apartments/Addition of a 2nd suite
- New/altered plumbing or heating systems
- New or enlarged openings for window/doors
- Structural wall removals or alterations
- Demolishing all, or part of, a building
- Backwater valve installation or drain repair
- Green roof
- Chimney/fireplace (other than direct vent)
- Recladding with brick or stone veneer
- Exterior basement stairwell or entrance
- Pool fence enclosure
- Deck/porch/balcony 24 inches above ground
- Accessory structures greater than 10 m2
- Septic systems including repairs to existing
- Swimming Pools
- Signs
- Retaining walls taller than 1 meter in height
When is a Building Permit Typically Not Required?
If your home is less than 3 storeys and no structural modifications or alterations are required, the following are examples of renovations which typically do not require a building permit. This list is not extensive; therefore, a permit may be needed depending on the situation and circumstances associated with the project. Even if a building permit is not required, compliance with the Zoning Bylaw is required.
- Deck/porch/balcony renovations that are less than 24 inches above ground and does not form part of a required exit
- Skylight Installation in an existing building
- Re-cladding with non-combustible material other than brick or stone veneer
- Insulation Replacement
- Window or Door Replacement
- Furnace or Boiler Replacement
- Installation of additional cooling systems, gas fireplaces, air cleaners, in-line humidifiers, or hot water tanks
- Plumbing Fixture repair or replacement
- Roofing material repair or replacement
- Basement Finishing if no additional dwelling units are created and the work does not include the installation of new plumbing
- Waterproofing repairs to a basement
- Cabinetry and millwork
- Temporary Plastic Sheet Covered Accessory Structures installed during permitted dates.
- Retaining walls less than 1 meter in height on private property, not accessible to the public.
- Sump Pump Installation
Permit requirements vary between municipalities. You should always check with your local municipal if a permit is required for your future project.
Do you have an open Permit On your home?
It is important to know if there is an open permit when purchasing a new home or when you are thinking of renovating your existing space. There are easy ways to find out a home’s permit status in just seconds. Simply google your “Residential Permit Status” for your municipality.
Burlington: Permits (arcgis.com)
Hamilton: Public Search > Public Search (hamilton.ca)
Mississauga: Find property information – City of Mississauga
Oakville: Permits (arcgis.com)
Toronto: City of Toronto: Building Application Status
If you are ready to start your project and you need a permit, you should contact us at www.eternity.design.
