You are required to get a building permit before you begin a new construction or renovation project on your property.

Permit application

Complete the Building Permit Application and submit it to Town Hall at 87 Broadway or by email.

If you are not the owner of the property, you will need to submit a Letter of Authorization along with the permit application.

Process

Once an application has been received, it will be reviewed for completeness and accuracy.  If there are missing items we will contact you directly. The timeline may vary depending on the type and scope of the project. 

The prescribed review timeframes as mandated by the Ontario Building Code will begin as outlined below:

  • Residential - 10 business days
  • Small Buildings and Accessory Apartments - 15 business days
  • Large Buildings - 20 business days
  • Complex Buildings - 30 business days

Incomplete Applications are not subject to the timelines listed above and will not be processed until all required documents have been submitted.

Please note, fees are paid once the department has reviewed and finalized the permit for issuance.

Fees

Building Permit fees are calculated using our User Rates and Fees By-law. Additional fees may apply depending on the type, size and use of the building. For example, the following items have an extra fee:

  • grading damage deposits
  • water meters
  • development charges
  • site plan securities
 Grading Damage Deposits
  

We collect lot grading deposits as part of the building permit fees for the construction of a new home or projects that would alter the grading. Some of the projects include basement entrances, accessory additional dwelling units, detached garages, swimming pools and decks.

This is a security that is held until the lot has been certified as graded according to approved plans, and the building permit has been closed. 

 

When is the deposit released?

Timelines and conditions will vary depending on the type of development or scope of the project. 

We hold the deposit until the final inspection to close the building permit. The building department will then notify the Public Works Department to complete their separate inspection to ensure the grading is satisfactory. After the grading inspection has been passed, staff will process your refund.

The time it takes to receive your deposit depends on the time it takes for construction to be completed in compliance with the approved building permits, including completion of all required inspections through to the closing of the building permit.

 

 

 Projects that require a Building Permit
 

According to the Building Code Act, a building permit is required for the construction or installation of a new structure or the construction of an addition or alteration of any structure. The following are common projects that require a building permit:

 

- new structures (residential, commercial, industrial and institutional)

- accessory buildings (larger than 15 square metres)

- any addition to a structure, regardless of the size of the addition

- interior alterations to create new rooms in a basement/attic or converting a garage to living space

- any structural changes including interior partitions

- adding structural features such as decks, balconies, canopies, etc.

- repairs or renovations

- a new entrance or new window opening

- adding new dormers

- raising the house to provide a full basement or first storey or to excavate the basement to provide a full basement

- enclosing a porch/roof or sundeck

- constructing a retaining wall larger than 3 feet and 3 inches of exposed height

- installing a pool or hot tub

- installing a fireplace or woodstove

- interior alterations to non-residential units

- any installation or alteration of a plumbing system

- replacing a sewer line/water service line

- converting from a septic system to Town sewer or water

- change of use

- Permanent In-Ground or Wall Sign(s)

 
Book an Inspection

 

Contact us to book a building inspection. Please notify us at least 24 hours prior to the required inspection.

It is a violation to proceed with certain work without first getting an inspection. Failure to call for a required inspection may result in the removal of completed works. This can cost you time and money.

When do I need an inspection?

All mandatory and required inspections are listed on your building permit or other documentation issued with the building permit.

Here are the general stages for all types of permits:

  • footing (prior to placement of concrete)
  • weepers/foundation
  • outside drains
  • inside drains
  • framing
  • rough-in plumbing
  • insulation
  • general inspection or re-inspections (if required)
  • final inspection

Please contact us for more information or clarity.