| Question | Answer |
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| When do I require a building permit? |
You will require a building permit for:
- Constructing a new building greater than 10m²
- Any material alterations, extensions, or additions to an existing building, including plumbing drains, vents, and water systems
- Demolishing or removing all or a portion of a building
- Installing wood burning appliances, including new or replacement of existing components
- Changing a building's use
- Other structures designated by the building code such as certain retaining walls, solar collectors, signs, dish antenna, etc.
- Building a utility shed larger than 15m²
- Reconstructing a chimney
- Placing a manufactured or prefabricated home (must have CSA approval)
If you are unsure if your project requires a building permit, contact the Building Services Division.
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| When do I not need a building permit? |
You will not require a building permit for:
- Replacing existing, same-size doors and windows (subject to distance from property lines)
- Installing siding on small, residential buildings (subject to distance from property lines)
- Building a utility shed under 15m² for storage purposes only (Planning approval is still required)
- Building a deck less than 0.6m high and not attached to a building (Planning approval is still required)
- Re-shingling a roof (where no structural work is required)
- Installing eavestrough (drainage must be contained to your property)
- Painting or decorating
- Reinstall kitchen or bathroom cupboards without plumbing
- Putting up a fence, except around swimming pools (must adhere to Property Standards By-law and Zoning By-law)
If you are unsure if your project requires a building permit, contact the Building Services Division.
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| How long does it take to get a building permit? |
A permit can be issued when the application is considered complete. This means all applicable laws and requirements under the Ontario Building Code have been met and payment has been made.
Timelines are legislated and vary depending on the size and occupancy of the property and/or project:
- Detached accessory structure (like a shed or garage) under 55m² serving a dwelling unit, or residential construction or renovation where dwelling units are not stacked – 10 business days
- Buildings under three storeys and less than 600m² – 15 business days
- Large buildings (greater than 600m² or taller than three storeys) – 20 business days
- Buildings classified as high building or post-disaster – 30 business days
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| What happens if my application is not complete? |
The applicant will receive an email from a Building Official with a list of review deficiencies. Some common deficiencies include:
- Missing, incomplete or inadequate forms and/or drawings
- Planning review issues
- Unpaid invoice
Addressing the deficiencies to the satisfaction of the Building Official will result in approval and subsequent issuance of the permit based on the legislated timelines.
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| What happens after my permit is issued? |
The applicant will receive the signed permit by email. Print and place it where it will be seen from the road, such as in a front window or on the front door. This also acts as your inspection checklist. Print a copy of the stamped drawings to be kept on the project site. The project can proceed.
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| When and how do I schedule inspections? |
The list of required inspections is found on the permit card. Inspections are required before the pertaining work is covered. For example, call to have an inspection of the footings prior to pouring concrete, or the insulation and vapor barrier prior to putting up drywall.
Inspections can be booked online or by phone by calling 905-885-2431. A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required. Inspections are not scheduled on weekends or holidays. A site inspection will be conducted within 48 hours. Contact the Building Services team as soon as possible if an inspection needs to be canceled or rescheduled.
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| What happens when my project is complete? |
The last inspection required on a permit is called the Occupancy Inspection. When the project is complete and satisfies all requirements under the Ontario Building Code, this inspection is documented as Passed. The permit is then considered complete, and the file is closed.
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| Will my property taxes increase because of my project? |
Some projects may result in an increase in your property value and lead to a reassessment. For more information, contact the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).
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