Brian Li Engineering

& Home Solutions

WHEN ARE BUILDING PERMITS REQUIRED?

MARCH 12, 2019

One of the most common questions we are asked with regards to home renovations or building alterations is whether a building permit is required. In this article, we will cover what a building permit is, and a brief overview of the permit application process.

Wall Opening - Markham, Ontario

What is a Building Permit?

Simply said, a Building Permit is an authorization from your local municipality that gives permission for a specific construction project to proceed. This permit generally ensures that the construction plans are in agreement with the Ontario Building Code, municipal zoning and applicable laws. This in turn helps protect home owners and their communities by ensuring that the proposed construction is safe.

The Ontario Building Code is the regulations that all buildings in Ontario must abide by, whether the building is a small residential home, or large scale industrial complex. There are different sections of the building code which regulate requirements such as (but not limited to) structural integrity, fire separation or fire safety systems, insulation, plumbing and mechanical systems, etc.

Ultimately, building owners are responsible for complying with all building requirements, including the obtaining of Building Permits. Failure to obtain Building Permit prior to the commencement of work can result in serious consequences, including financial penalties, work stoppage, and possibly having to undo the work that has been completed.

When are Building Permits Required?

Building Permit requirements are not only limited to new builds. In fact, something as common as a bathroom or kitchen renovations, or finishing a basement may require a building permit. Typically speaking, most renovations or building alterations require Building Permits. It also depends on the municipality your property is in. Fortunately, most municipalities have good guidelines as to what projects require Building Permits and what do not. For your convenience, we have some links to the Building Permit requirements in the municipalities in the Southern Ontario Area:

Should you still be unsure about the Building Permit Requirements, you can call your local Permit Office to inquire, they are usually very good with answering any questions you may have.

Attic Retrofit - Oshawa, Ontario

Documents Required for Building Permit Applications

Different projects will have different requirements for different municipalities. These are outlined in the Building Permit Requirements in the links above. Most projects will require a site plan and building floor plans. Some will also require building elevation plans, and mechanical/structural details. It is therefore worthwhile to check with your local permit offices about the document requirements at the start of projects.

In Ontario, plans and drawings are to be completed by one of the following:

· A qualified person with a BCIN (Building Code Inspection Number – Only applicable in Ontario) – for small buildings

· A licensed Architect

· A licensed Engineer

· The home owner of the subject property (with a good working knowledge of house construction and the Ontario Building Code) – for small buildings

A Permit Application fee is required at the time of the Permit Application Submission. This fee typically varies depending on the size and type of your project. Once the Building Permit is issued, it will have to be posted at the construction site. During construction, a building inspector will come to check the work at different stages of completion (outlined in their website and sometimes provided together with your building permit).

Building Addition (Rear Storage Shed) - Greenwood, Ontario

Some may think getting building permits are a pain, and could put further financial burden on your project. However, ultimately, having a building permit is a peace of mind for building owners. Knowing that the designs are up to code, and abide by municipal bylaws. Furthermore, having a proper design done by a professional means the liability is on the designer, and not on the homeowner.

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