Building Permits

A building permit gives you legal permission to start construction on a building project. The building permit process helps enforce the requirements of the Ontario Building Code and the Municipal Zoning By-law. It ensures compliance during construction as well as the structural safety of the completed building.

All permits need building plans and a site plan. Others may need proof of entrance approval, conservation authority approval, septic or water and sewer approval, and/or payment of development fees.

Apply for a building permit

Before you start construction of any type, please contact the Building department to find out if you need permit.

Building Permit Application

A complete building application will include a completed application, site plan and technical drawings. Additional documents may be required depending on the nature of the proposal.

Building Permits can be submitted through our online Cloudpermit portal. You can view Cloudpermit's Solutions page for information on how to create an account and submit a building application.

You may also come into the office to submit a building permit in person.

Additional documents for submission may include:

Proof of entrance approval
Conservation Authority Approval
Septic or water and sewer approval

Building without a permit is against the law and you can't begin any construction until you've received permit approval.

If you begin building without approval, you or your contactor could be subject to fines or penalties as set out in the Ontario Building Code. Building permit applications are produced on legal size paper and can be picked up at the Building Department.

Fees

Permit fees vary based on the type of project and location within the municipality. All fees are payable upon issuance of the permit. Please refer to Schedule B in the Fees and Charges by-law.

Electrical projects

For electrical projects, please contact your utility provider for permit requirements.

Demolitions application

Homeowners are responsible for ensuring that a permit is obtained before demolition of any building begins. Demolition permits are necessary for adjusting your assessment value when constructing.

Demolition Permit Application

Frequently asked questions

Review the frequently asked questions related to getting a building permit. Please contact us if you have a question about your new building or renovating project. We are happy to help.

How long does it take to receive a permit?

According to the Ontario Building Code processing times can vary depending on project type. As a general rule, permits are issued within 10 business days for most home renovation projects. Time is counted beginning on the day after a permit application is received and only after all required information has been received in our office.

When is a permit required?

Some of the projects that require a building permit include:

Construct a new building
Add an addition or make structural alterations, renovations or repairs to an existing building
Change a building's use
Make new openings for, or change the size of, doors and windows
Build a garage, balcony or deck
Excavate a basement or construct a foundation
Install or modify plumbing systems
Install or reconstruct chimneys or fireplaces
Build an accessory structure larger than 108 square feet
Wood burning stove/fireplace installation
Build a basement entrance
Finish an existing unfinished basement
Install a swimming pool, fence or sign

Often, designers or contractors will get permits on your behalf, but homeowners are ultimately responsible for ensuring that a building permit is obtained before construction begins.

When is a permit not required?

Some of the projects that do not need a permit include:

Replace existing doors and windows (same size), subject to distance from property lines
Install siding on small residential buildings, subject to distance from property lines
Build a utility shed under 108 square feet
Re-shingle a roof
Dry-wall or plaster
Paint or decorate
Install kitchen or bathroom cupboards

How long is the permit valid?

Construction or demolition must start within 12 months from when we issue the permit. Failure to do so could result in the revocation of the permit. Construction or demolition must not be substantially suspended or discontinued for more than one year. Suspension or discontinuation could result in the revocation of the permit.

What happens if I don't get a building permit?

If you do not receive a building permit, the work may not comply with Ontario Building Code. This could result in:

Costly repairs may be required to gain compliance
Removal of work that isn't in compliance
The building permit application fee may be increased based on administrative penalties found in our Fee's and Charges By-law under Schedule B
Legal action may be initiated by the Planning and Building Services Department to gain compliance

Why do I need a building permit?

Building permits are required to:

Ensure that construction within our municipality meets with standards set out in the Ontario Building Code
Ensure that zoning requirements, fire and structural safety standards and other building standards are met

Who can apply for a building permit?

The following individuals can apply for a building permit:

The homeowner
Contractor or designer with appropriate authorization from the home owner

What is a building permit?

A building permit is a license that:

grants legal permission to start the construction of a building project
Gives building officials the means to enforce the requirements of various standards