Permits and licences protect the outcome and investment value of a project. It confirms that the construction codes are being followed and met, and that your project is adhering to safety recommendations. 

Building permits are required for specific projects under the Building Code Act, to ensure the safety of the occupant with respect to fire, structural stability and energy efficiency to the minimum standards of the Ontario Building Code. Any work done without obtaining a building permit may result in a work order against the property or even the loss of a sale.

The building permit application form is available for download or can be acquired at the Town Hall.

When is a building permit necessary?
Always verify with the Building Department before starting a project.
  • Construction or installation of any pool (inground/above ground)
  • Construction or installation of a detached structure larger than 108 square feet.
  • Construction of any size of addition to an existing building.
  • Construction of a deck, patio, gazebo, stairs or solarium.
  • Installation of a permanent "Tempo" garage.
  • Installation of interlocking stones for stairs to an entrance.
  • Construction of a new dwelling or addition.
  • Transformation of a garage into a dwelling or living quarters.
  • Creation of a new dwelling unit within the same building.
  • Installation of an above ground or in ground pool, spa, hot tubs.
  • Installation of a solid fuel burning appliance/and chimney, outdoor boilers.
  • Modification or installation of new plumbing.
  • Renovation to the building including basement, or alteration of room size.
  • Construction of a farm building, coverall shelter, silo and lagoon.
  • Construction of a greenhouse.
  • Change of use of a building.
  • Demolition of all or part of a building (not farm buildings).
  • Construction of a retaining wall above 1 metre high.
  • Construction of a new foundation for an existing building.
  • Installation of new roof trusses.
  • Replacement of windows when structural modifications are required.
  • Installation of a tent larger than 645 square feet.
  • Installation of solar panels on a building.
  • Installation of water/sewer connections.
  • Installation of a septic system (See also the South Nation Conservation Authority).
  • Installation of wood stoves and fireplaces.

Building permits are not required for the following projects

Projects that do not require a building permit:

  • Detached structure of less than 108 square feet.
  • Installation of an air conditioning unit.
  • Demolition of a farm building.
  • Replacement of asphalt shingles.
  • Replacement of windows of the same size.
  • Installation of a temporary 'Tempo' garage

Fees

The Permit fee is based on the size of the project. Additional fees may include development charges, service connection charges, performance deposits or others. The minimum cost for a permit is $152.

The permit process, step-by-step
  1. Visit or call your Building Department.
  2. Submit application. Other documents may also be required for your project.
  3. Wait. The review process may take a few days or weeks depending on the project and on the workload.
  4. Receive results of review. If the project is in compliance with building and zoning regulations, a permit will be issued. If denied, you can always make the proper revisions to the application and resubmit.
  5. Receive permit. Once the fees are paid, construction can begin according to revised plans.
  6. Call for inspections. Each building project has to be inspected at different stages. These are indicated on your building permit.

Samples and Information
When is a building Permit Required

Documents Required in Order to Obtain a Building Permit

Sample Plans for Accessory Building

Sample Deck Plans

Entrance Permit or Road Cut Permit

Entrance Permits are to be used to obtain permission from the Public Works Department to construct an entrance to a property from a municipal road. A Road Cut Permit is required prior to digging on a Township road. This permit is issued by the Superintendent of Public Works. The forms are bilingual by default. Unilingual forms can be given on request.

Notes

  • Any person wishing to renovate, demolish or construct any building on his/her property must first obtain a building or demolition permit unless specified above.
  • A permit is required for any pool installation (inground/above ground)
  • Although the installation of a temporary garage does not require a permit, there are still regulations to be followed.