The City of Burlington issues building permits to protect property owners and the community. Our building officials make sure the proposed building design follows the Ontario Building Code and all construction is completed with the issued building permit plans and the Ontario Building Code. We review and approve building plans and inspect construction for all issued building permits to make sure buildings meet Ontario Building Codes. These protect everyone’s health and safety using the building.
We issue building permits for:
- The construction, renovation, demolition and certain changes for the use of buildings/structures
- The installation, alteration, extension or repair of on-site sewage systems
For more information, read Building Permit Bylaw (By-law 066-2019), amended by By-law 006-2023 and By-law 003-2021
Discover how to apply for a building permit and learn about projects that do and do not need building permits and re-submissions to an existing building permit application.
View each step of the building permit process, which ensures high standards of design, efficiency of land use and servicing efficiency.
Check the status of a building permit application or issued permit.
Building Permit Frequently Asked Questions
As a homeowner, can I do my own drawings for a building/structure on my property? |
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Yes, as the owner of the property, the Building Code under Div. C - 3.2.4 gives you an exemption so you can design your own drawings for buildings/structures on your property. It’s important to understand the standard of drawings that are needed. Please prepare your plans and specifications with enough detail to show that your project will meet all the technical requirements of the Ontario Building Code. If the drawings are below standard or are missing information, you will be asked to revise them. You can also hire a designer who holds the required qualifications under the Ontario Building Code. If you need help, please contact us at 905-335-7731 or buildingpermits@burlington.ca. |
I am moving to a new house and wish to do construction work on it. Can I apply for my building permit before taking ownership? |
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No. Please wait until you take ownership. In the City of Burlington, you must be the owner of the house before you can apply for a building permit. If you bought a house that is in under construction by the previous owner, please apply for a transfer of permit. Contact the Building Department at 905-335-7731 or buildingpermits@burlington.ca to apply for a permit transfer. |
How long is my building permit good for? |
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Your building permit is good for up to six months before you start construction. If construction has not begun after six months, your permit may be revoked as per section 8 of the Building Code Act. We get it: sometimes things come up that lead to a delay in your project being able to start. If this happens, please contact the Building Department at 905-335-7731 or buildingpermits@burlington.ca and we’ll do our best to help you out! |
Do I need a building permit for my landscaping project? |
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It depends on the type of project. Most types of landscaping, such as hedges and patio stones, do not need a building permit. More permanent items, such as retaining walls, decks, and gazebos do need a building permit. Where landscaping projects affect private or public trees, you might need a tree permit. For more information, please contact Service Burlington at 905-335-7777 or city@burlington.ca. |
Do I need a permit for doing electrical work? |
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Electrical work is governed by the Ontario Electrical Safety Code through the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA); therefore, the City of Burlington does not issue permits nor inspect electrical work. It is the property owner’s responsibility to make sure an electrical notification (permit) and electrical inspection is done as required by the ESA. For more information on ESA requirements visit esasafe.com |