When is a Building Permit Required?

A Permit is required to construct or demolish a building. Construction can include anything in the erection, installation or extension or material alteration or repair of a building.

The following building projects require permits:

NEW BUILDINGS: over 108 square feet (10m2) in area (i.e. houses and other dwelling or residential buildings)
ACCESSORY BUILDINGS: over 108 square feet (10m2) in area (i.e. detached garages, tool sheds, etc.)
WOOD DECKS: greater than 24 inches (600 mm) above ground level
ADDITIONS / EXTENSIONS: to existing building even if under 108 square feet (10m2) in area (i.e. sunrooms, porches, carports, garages, dormers, second storeys, etc.)
RENOVATIONS: skylights, patio doors, rec rooms, finished basements, family rooms, interior renovations including commercial/industrial buildings, etc.)
CHANGES IN USE: to a use with an increased hazard (i.e. from office to retail)
STRUCTURAL ALTERATION: removing load-bearing walls, beams or columns, repairing or reconstructing basement walls, foundations, floors, roof structures, etc.
PREFABRICATED BUILDINGS: over 108 square feet (10m2) in area (i.e. portable classrooms, kiosks, garages, tool sheds, patio roofs/enclosures, etc.)
FARM BUILDINGS: barns, sheds, greenhouses, silos, etc.
MOBILE HOMES
FIREPLACES AND STOVES: (i.e. wood stoves, solid fuel burning appliances, chimneys, etc.)
MATERIAL ALTERATIONS: alterations to, or new, fire separations (i.e. fire rated ceilings, wall or floors) • alterations to, or new, exit facilities • alterations to, or new, fire protection systems (i.e. fire alarms, sprinklers, standpipe and hose systems etc.)
DAMPPROOFING: or waterproofing of foundation walls
PLUMBING: alterations to, or new, plumbing systems
SWIMMING POOLS: in-ground, on-ground or above-ground Contact By-Law Office with any inquiries: 905-892-2607 ext. 204 or 207
STRUCTURES DESIGNATED BY THE BUILDING CODE, TENTS AND TEMPORARY STRUCTURES
BUILDINGS RELOCATED OR MOVED