Whether you’re eyeing up that space in your backyard for a modular home office or a garden suite, or you’re planning on taking on a full-scale custom new build home project, knowing when a building permit is required in Ontario should always be your first concern.
No matter if your construction project is big or small in scale, in Ontario, it’s essential to have planning and building permission from your local government before your first hammer is ever swung.
While legalities and red tape can be thorns in the side of many creatives and lovers of modern homes like us, they’re set in place for good reason. So ahead of your next residential construction project, you can learn all about when a building permit is required in Ontario by reading our blog post here.
What Are Building Permits?
Building permits are exactly what they sound like — an official document permitting you to begin a construction project. Building permits outline that your construction project follows the set of standards outlined by your local governing body, and has been approved to take place.
In Ontario, building permits must follow the provincial building standards defined by the Ontario Building Code, however, those building code standards are is generally enforced by municipal building departments. This is because building permits are in place to protect the interests and integrity of your entire municipal community.
Through a review and approval process, municipal governments can ensure that any domestic building project complies with local zoning bylaw, the Environmental Protection Act, and building codes which set standards for things like health, safety, fire protection, accessibility, and resource conservation.
For more information on the overall building process read: 4 Essential Steps to Building a House in Ontario
What Do You Need Building Permits For?
A building permit is required in Ontario for almost all domestic renovation projects before construction of any kind begins. This includes the addition, repair, renovation, demolition, or structural alterations of livable spaces on your property.
In addition, any space that requires plumbing, any repairs or installation of sewage and drainage, or any foundation work will most probably also require a building permit in Ontario.
However, some domestic renovation projects that do not require a building permit in Ontario include the installation or building of a shed, deck, fence, or other minor home improvement projects. Keep in mind though that even small home projects are required to stay within certain scales and parameters before a building permit is required in Ontario.
If you aren’t sure if your project will require a building permit or want to know more about when a building permit is required in Ontario or your municipality, it’s always a good idea to contact your municipality’s planning office directly.
For some inspiration on designs and structures read:
- Garden Suites – The Trend Cultivating Across Ontario
- Top 5 Modern Home Trends to Watch in 2021
- What You Should Know About Modular Homes
How To Get a Building Permit
Although the rules and regulations surrounding building permits and construction codes are defined by the provincially recognized Ontario Building Code, it’s technically the responsibility of individual municipalities to ensure any construction project within their borders is upheld.
The formal application process is generally done within the planning office of your municipality, and can most usually be completed securely online. Whether you submit them online or in person, you are required to provide the planning department of your municipality with all necessary paperwork, documentation, specs, and plans for your application.
Additional resources on building and new construction homes:
- Understanding Construction Mortgage Loans in Ontario
- How To Source a Qualified New Build Team
- The Real Cost of Building a House in Ontario
How Much Do Building Permits Cost?
Like almost any construction or home renovation project, costs and fees vary depending on the size of your project and where it will take place. Even within Ontario, the costs of obtaining a building permit can differ greatly between municipalities.
While the cost of some building permits is size-based and depends on the square footage of your construction area, others can follow more of a flat rate format. You may also be required to pay a small fee along with your application process depending on where you live.
Are you thinking of taking on a real estate project in the near future? Our team of seasoned real estate professionals is well versed in the world of both new build and resale properties. For local trustworthy guidance ahead of your next real estate adventure, reach out to us here.
