When is a building permit required?


  • When is a building permit required?

    Fun Facts about building in Ontario and the Ontario Building Code. You may have heard that for a building less than 100 square feet, a permit is not required. This is not actually entirely true. First, it is 10 square meters which is actually 107.6 square feet (great news for some!). Second, if the building…

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  • Accessibility Rules

    When is a new build required to be “Accessible”? Accessibility is referring to the requirement to create a barrier free access to portions of new buildings.  We must keep in mind that the building code is only “law” prior to an occupancy permit being issued.  Once that happens, as long as you do not change…

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  • I’m just doing a small renovation. Do I still need a permit?

    I thought I would elaborate a little on the requirements for building permits.  Many people think, if I am not doing something structural to my building, then I don’t need a permit.  This is not true. The best way to look at this issue is to ask yourself this question.  “If I was doing this…

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  • From Dreaming to Doing:

    Steps to Turning Your Building Project into Reality  Embarking on a building project is an exciting endeavor that allows you to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s a home, a commercial space, or a community project, the journey from dreaming to doing involves careful planning, collaboration, and perseverance. In this blog, we’ll explore the…

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  • What is required for a Secondary Apartment?

    Before March, Secondary apartments were a big part of urban areas of Ontario, but even more so now since the onset of Covid-19.  Home owners are looking for ways to increase revenues in a growing rental market.   More and more I see landlords call asking me to procure drawings so they can bring their…

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  • What Documents are Required for a Permit?

    So, you have decided to build or renovate and you need to take out a building permit.  What documents are necessary to get this done? The Building Code Act requires a permit to be taken by a person specified by the act and must be submitted on a Ministry approved form with supporting documentation.  …

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  • Requirements for Cottages

    What is the difference in the code requirements for a Cottage versus a Residence, well…not much and a whole lot.  A cottage is still required to meet the majority of Part 9 of the building code, but there is also a large amount that they are exempted from.  Let’s first look see if your Cottage…

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  • I’m just doing a small renovation. Do I still need a permit?

    I thought I would elaborate a little on the requirements for building permits.  Many people think, if I am not doing something structural to my building, then I don’t need a permit.  This is not true. The best way to look at this issue is to ask yourself this question.  “If I was doing this…

    Read More

  • Accessibility Rules

    When is a new build required to be “Accessible”? Accessibility is referring to the requirement to create a barrier free access to portions of new buildings.  We must keep in mind that the building code is only “law” prior to an occupancy permit being issued.  Once that happens, as long as you do not change…

    Read More