Our Building Services Division issues building permits to help create safe, accessible, and sustainable buildings in the Municipality of Port Hope.
Please be advised that plumbing services now fall under the responsibility of Northumberland County. Plumbing inspections are booked through County staff.
| Building permit process | ||
| Before any construction or renovation can begin, you will need to obtain a building permit. Building Services Division staff oversee the enforcement of the Ontario Building Code Act to ensure health and safety in the Municipality of Port Hope. Building without a permit can result in fines and penalties as set out in the Building Code Act. | ||
| Review construction plans with the Planning Division | ||
| Prior to applying for a building permit, the Planning Division is required to review proposals involving new construction, accessory structures (such as a detached garage), and decks or porches. There is no fee for the planning review and ensures your project meets the requirements of the Zoning By-Law. Planning review forms and submission requirements can be found on the Planning and Development Applications page. If you require any assistance please contact the Planning Division. |
||
| Review our detailed building permit requirements | ||
|
Make sure to review the requirements and design guidelines. Reviewing this information will help you complete your building permit application properly. |
||
| Fill out your building permit | ||
|
Once you have approval from Planning, you can fill out your building permit application. Permit applications are to be signed by the owner or an agent of the owner who has been authorized in writing by the owner. The building permit application can be found below: |
||
| Include your drawings | ||
|
You will need to include construction drawings in addition to your building permit. Please follow our submission guidelines and refer to the Design Guides and Requirements page for detailed and project-specific resources. You can either submit them electronically (preferred) or as a hardcopy. If you would like submit your files digitally, please ensure they follow our submission guidelines below:
|
||
| Complete any additional forms or requirements | ||
|
Depending on the type and complexity of your project, you may be required to submit additional forms along with your permit application. |
||
| Submit your application | ||
|
We have two options on how to submit your application:
|
||
| Paying the associated fees | ||
Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive an invoice by email and you can pay for your permit. Visit our fees and charges webpage for a breakdown of the permit fees in Port Hope.
To make a payment you can:
If paying by cheque, make payable to the Municipality of Port Hope ($30 charge for NSF cheques). For assistance, contact the Building Services Division at 905-885-2431 or email us. |
Additional Forms/Requirements
Depending on the type and complexity of your project, you may be required to submit additional forms along with your permit application.
Agent authorization form |
|
If the applicant is not the same as the property owner, an Agent Authorization form is required . This applies when:
Complete the form and include it with your permit application. |
Demolition sign off |
|
Additional information about your project is required for residential and non-residential demolitions. Complete the form and include it with your permit application. |
Electrical work |
|
If your project includes electrical work you will need to contact the Electrical Safety Authority in order to apply for an electrical permit or book an inspection. |
Entrance permit |
|
An entrance permit is issued to designate a portion of your property as a driveway and provide access from the road. The permit is obtained from the appropriate Roads Department with jurisdiction over the road where access is being requested. Municipal roadsWorks and Engineering Northumberland County roadsNorthumberland County Transportation, Waste & Facilities Department Provincial highwaysIf construction is proposed adjacent to a provincial highway contact the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario at 905-885-6381 for information on setback requirements. View the application for entrance onto Provincial Highways. |
Setback permit (Northumberland County Roads) |
|
If your project involves construction adjacent to a Northumberland County roadway, a setback permit is required. Northumberland County Transportation, Waste & Facilities Department |
Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority |
|
If any part of the lot is within an area regulated by the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority, a permit may be required. 2216 County Road 28 |
Heritage permit |
|
Changes being made to a designated property will require a Heritage Application Form. Consult with the Planning Division prior to submitting an application. |
Port Hope Area Initiative (PHAI), Canadian Nuclear Laboratories |
|
The Port Hope Area Initiative involves the clean up of historic low-level radioactive waste in the Urban Area (Ward 1) of Port Hope. Complete the Construction Management Program Consent Form and include with your Building Permit Application. 25 Henderson Street |
Plumbing permit |
|
Projects involving the addition or relocation of plumbing fixtures require a plumbing permit. Include the application form Application and fees; $150.00 base fee plus $17.00 per fixture. |
Septic (onsite) sewage system permit |
|
Septic sewage system permits must be obtained from Northumberland County. Applications for permits are available online or can be picked up at the county office: 600 William Street, Cobourg, ON or printed from the county’s website. |
Site Plan Agreement |
|
New residential developments where more than ten units will be constructed, and new non-residential developments are subject to Site Plan Agreement. Prior to Building Services involvement or permit application, documented project approval from the Municipal Planning Department is required. Municipal Planners can be contacted at the Development Team Office – 905-885-2431 or email. |