Applications, Licences and Permits

We issue building permits for the construction, renovation, demolition and certain changes of use of buildings, as well as for the installation, alteration, extension or repair of on-site sewage systems.

You must apply for an open-air burn permit for any open-air burning, such as fire pits, campfires and chimineas, within designated rural areas in the city.

Businesses outlined in the City's Business Licensing Bylaw require a business licence permit to operate.

If you have suffered a loss for which you believe the City may be responsible, you can submit a claim against the City.

Learn how to get a demolition permit in the City of Burlington.

We provide comprehensive information and guidance on several different City development applications.

Dogs in the City of Burlington must have a dog licence as per the City's Animal Control Bylaws.

The City of Burlington's Driveways Bylaw regulates and provides specifications on the expansion of driveways and adjacent curbs on home properties.

We recognize the value of festivals and events in our community. They contribute to quality of life, encourage local economic development and help shape our community identity.

A provincial liquor licence is required to sell liquor in any establishment. Licences are approved by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).

Eligible charitable, not-for-profit organizations that demonstrate a mandate which include advancement of education, advancement of religion, relief of poverty, or other charitable purposes beneficial to the community may apply for a lottery licence with the City:

You need a marriage licence to get married in the Province of Ontario. We offer marriage licences to residents of Halton Region with a wedding date within 60 days of their scheduled appointment date with the City.

If you are planning any construction activity within the City of Burlington’s right-of-way or other City property, you must apply for a Municipal Consent Permit before starting any work.

We offer residential parking permits and permits for parking in downtown Burlington municipal lots. You can also apply for an accessible parking permit with Service Ontario.

Before installing a swimming pool or hot tub, review our pool permit application package and information for pool owners. As per the City's Pool Bylaw, owners of privately owned swimming pools must build and maintain fences and gates around their pools.

If you are planning on carrying an oversized load on the road, temporarily placing a dumpster bin on a public roadway, or keeping construction materials or structures on a roadway, you must apply for a road and transportation permit with the City.

Learn about licensing requirements for short-term rental properties, including accommodations listed on Airbnb and VRBO for stays under 29 days.

We issue permits for the construction and installation of signs, including billboards, facia signs, ground signs, and portable signs.

Learn how to apply for a seasonal outdoor patio permit in the City of Burlington and view the requirements for outdoor patios.

A tournament can be events on municipal property that may include championship or fun days, picture days, banquets, galas, camps, and uniform pickups.

The destruction, removal or injury of trees on public and private property may be prohibited under the Public and Private Tree By-law unless authorized by a Tree Permit.