Applications, Licences & Permits

Building Permit

A building permit is a document issued by the Township to enforce Ontario’s Building Code in your area. A building permit is necessary when you wish to construct, renovate, demolish or change the use of a building on your property.

If you are considering a construction project or undertaking demolition, the municipal team is available to assist you. We ensure that your project complies with applicable laws and standards as outlined in the Ontario Building Code and the Township’s Zoning By-law. The Chief Building Official (CBO) will review your plans, issue the necessary permits, and conduct inspections throughout the process.

Why you need to obtain a building permit

Building permits allow your municipality to protect the interests of both individuals and the community as a whole. By reviewing and approving building permit applications before any work is done, the municipality can ensure that buildings comply with:

• the Building Code, which sets standards for the design and construction of buildings to meet objectives such as health, safety, fire protection, accessibility and resource conservation
• the local zoning by-law and other planning controls on buildings
• other applicable legislation, including conservation authority approvals and certain requirements under the Environmental Protection Act.

When you need a building permit

A building permit is required for the construction or alteration of any structure over 10 m² (108 ft²) in area. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that a building permit is obtained prior to any construction taking place – it is illegal to begin construction without one. A building permit application and detailed drawings of the project must be submitted for approval prior to commencing with any construction work.

Contact the municipal team if you have any questions about when a building permit may be required.

Results from NOT obtaining a building permit

Under the Building Code Act, it is an offence to commence construction without obtaining a building permit from the Municipality.

If the work does not comply with the Building Code requirements:

• Costly repairs may be required to gain compliance;
• Removal of the work not in compliance may be required;
• The applicable permit fee is doubled;
• Legal action may be initiated by the Building Department to gain compliance. Anyone who is charged and found to be guilty of building without a permit can be fined up to $50,000 for a first offence and up to $100,000 for later offences. Fines up to $10,000 per day can also be imposed upon conviction if a person doesn’t comply with an order from the Township.