A building permit is required to ensure your project is built to the minimum standards set out in the Ontario Building Code (OBC). The OBC is a provincial regulation created and administered by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, which also includes the Building Code Act. The Building Code Act allows municipalities to ensure such things as structural and fire safety and energy conservation are maintained at a level equal to what is required in the OBC.
A building is defined as a structure occupying an area greater than 10 square metres (107 square feet) and consists of a wall, roof, floor or structural system including all plumbing, works, fixtures and service systems.
All buildings and structures located on a property must comply with the city's Zoning By-law. All grading and drainage associated with buildings and structures on low density residential lands must comply with the city's Grading and Drainage Clearance Certificate By-law.
If you are unsure if you require a building permit for your project, please contact a permit technologist at the Planning and Building Department, Building Division at 905-335-7731.
Consequences of Not Obtaining a Building Permit
- Possible fines and legal action against all parties involved
- Costly repairs or removal of construction that is not in compliance with the Ontario Building Code, Zoning By-law and Grading and Drainage Clearance Certificate By-law
- May effect ability to refinance or sell the property
- Additional fees under the Building Permit Bylaw
- Inspections by professional engineers
Sample Projects
Below are examples of projects that do and do not require building permits.
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Building Permit Required
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Building Permit Not Required |
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