Learn about our different building permits and what you need to include in your application. If you have any questions, send us an email or call us at 519-741-2312.

On this page:

  1. Application process
  2. Miscellaneous permits and applications
  3. Demolition permit
  4. New building or addition (ICI and part 3 - residential)
  5. Interior alteration

Application process

Visit our apply for a building permit page to find:

  • how to apply for a permit
  • processing times
  • drawing requirements
  • permit fees
  • what happens when we issue your permit
  • information about inspections

All projects must follow our zoning bylaws.

If you're looking for a building permit for your home, visit our residential building permits page.


Miscellaneous permits and applications

Visit our miscellaneous permits and applications page to find requirements for these applications:

  • adding solar panels
  • adding a backflow device
  • installing or altering a septic system
  • emergency water service repair
  • tents
  • demountable stages and support structures
  • outdoor patios

Demolition permit

You need a building permit for a partial or full demolition of a building.

Use the accordions below to find the requirements to apply for this building permit.

Fee 
  • demolition fee: $0.03 per square foot (minimum $163) plus rebate fee
  • rebate fee: $1,000

Permit and rebate fees are due when the permit is submitted. We must receive the fees in order to start the permit review timeline and process. See our fee schedule or send us an email for help with the fee calculations. If a code review is required for determining the permit fees, the rebate fee is still required at the time of permit submission.

Application requirements 

If you’re demolishing a builder larger than 600 square meters:

  • professional engineer’s report that includes the descriptions of the structural design characteristics of the building(s) and the method of demolition (OBC Div. C, 1.3.1.1(3))
  • Commitment to General Review form from the engineer who is overseeing the demolition and completing the general review
Demolition control
If the building is residential or includes any residential units, you need to apply for demolition control.

New building or addition (ICI and part 3 - residential)

You need a building permit for new ICI buildings or additions.

Use the accordions below to find the requirements to apply for this building permit.

Fees
  • see our fee schedule for permit fees and other charges
  • rebate fee: $10 per $1,000 of the total construction value (maximum $5,000)

Permit and rebate fees are due when the permit is submitted. We must receive the fees in order to start the permit review timeline and process. See our fee schedule or send us an email for help with the fee calculations. If a code review is required for determining the permit fees, the rebate fee is still required at the time of permit submission.

Application requirements
Required plans

Stamped by an architect:

Stamped by an OLS, CET or professional engineer:

  • grading and erosion control plan

Stamped by an architect or professional engineer, complete with stamps, signatures and dates:

  • architectural (only signature)
  • structural
  • mechanical
  • electrical
  • site servicing plans (including approved city copy)
Energy efficiency certification
  • choose the energy efficiency design for the building or choose the reason for exemption
  • for all methods, get all seals and signatures (architect, mechanical and electrical engineer)
  • if you choose an energy efficiency design, complete the SB-10 form

Interior alteration

You need a building permit for interior alterations to ICI buildings.

Use the accordions below to find the requirements to apply for this building permit.

Fees
  • permit fee: $0.37 per square foot
  • rebate fee: $1,000

Permit and rebate fees are due when the permit is submitted. We must receive the fees in order to start the permit review timeline and process. See our fee schedule or send us an email for help with the fee calculations. If a code review is required for determining the permit fees, the rebate fee is still required at the time of permit submission.

Application requirements
Required plans

Stamped by an architect, professional engineer or qualified designer

  • architectural

Stamped by a professional engineer or qualified designer

  • plumbing
  • HVAC
  • electrical