When is a Building Permit Required in Ontario

Written By Asad Ladha

A building permit is required in Ontario:

  1. Building a new structure larger than 108 square feet.

  2. Building any addition to an existing structure.

  3. Renovations that involve alterations to the structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing.

  4. Change use or re-zoning a property.

  5. Demolishing all, or part of, a building.

 

Common Renovations (require permit):

  • Adding Square Footage

    • second or third floor

    • solariums, porches or decks

    • sunrooms

  • Structural or Material Alterations

    • adding or removing wall

    • changing room size or use

    • new window or door

    • enlarge or relocating existing window or door

    • enclose existing deck, porch or patio

  • Build Garage, Carport or Sheds

    • larger than 107 square feet in area

    • garages or carports attached to existing home

  • Finishing Basement

    • structural or material alterations

    • heating or plumbing systems

    • foundations or underpinning

    • basement entrance

  • Build Deck

    • over 24 inches above ground

  • Build Retaining Wall

    • height more than 3.3ft

  • Demolition

  • Chimney or Fireplace

    • install or rebuild

  • Install or Modify Heating System

  • Install or Modify Plumbing System

 

Common Renovations (DO NOT require permit):

  • Build a Deck

    • less than 24 inches above the finished grade

  • Install a Skylight

    • does not require the removal of more than one rafter, joist, or other similar structural member (with the exception of a truss)

  • House Exterior

    • re-cladding with non-combustible material (stucco), other than brick or stone veneer

  • Adding or Replacing Insulation

  • Replace Windows or Doors

    • no change to location or size

    • structural support (lintel) is not affected

  • Replacing Furnace

  • Install Additional HVAC Systems

    • cooling systems

    • gas fireplaces

    • air cleaners

    • humidifiers

    • hot water tanks

  • Repairing or Replacing Plumbing Fixtures

  • Replacing Existing Roofing

  • Finishing Basement

    • does not include structural alterations

    • no additional dwelling units are created

    • no new plumbing installed

  • Waterproofing Basement

  • Installation of Cabinetry

  • Build Retaining Wall

    • height less than 3.3ft

  • Install Sump Pump

  • Build Shed

    • under 160 ft2

    • one storey

    • not attached to any structure

    • no plumbing

 
Asad Ladha
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