When is a Building Permit required?
You will need a building permit if you plan to:
- Construct a new building
- Any addition to an existing building
- Structural alterations
- Renovate, repair or add to a building
- Demolish or remove all or a portion of a building
- Change a building's use
- Install, change, or remove partitions and load bearing walls
- Make new openings for, or change the size of, doors and windows
- Build a garage, balcony or deck
- Excavate a basement or construct a foundation
- Install or modify heating, plumbing or air-conditioning systems
- Install or reconstruct chimneys or fireplaces
- An accessory structure larger than 108 sq. ft. in area
- A deck more than 24" above ground
- A wood burning stove/fireplace installation
- A basement entrance
- A Second Suite
- New or altered plumbing
When is a Building Permit not required?
You do not require a Building Permit for the following:
- replace existing doors and windows (same-size), subject to distance from property lines
- install siding on small residential buildings, subject to distance from property lines
- build a roofless deck under 0.61 metres (2 feet) that is not attached to a building
- build a utility shed under 10 m2 (108ft2)
- re-shingle a roof
- replace or increase insulation
- dry-wall or plaster
- damp-proof basements
- paint or decorate
- install kitchen or bathroom cupboards without plumbing
- erect a fence (except for outdoor swimming pool fences)
- electrical work (however, the Electrical Safety Authority must inspect electrical installations)
In many cases, your designer or contractor will get permits on your behalf. Remember, as the building owner, you are ultimately responsible for complying with all building requirements. Failure to obtain Building Permits can result in costly construction delays, legal action and/or the removal of work already completed.