Basement Renovation Permits in GTA & Southern Ontario

In Ontario, obtaining a permit is necessary for renovating a basement. Specifically, basement renovations that involve structural modifications, changes to plumbing or electrical systems, or the creation of a livable space mandate the need of building permits. 

Such renovations without the essential permits can result in fines and complications. Therefore, it is recommended to secure the appropriate permits before commencing any basement renovation project in Ontario. 

Permit drawings for basement renovations have complete architectural and structural plans the current basement layout and the proposed changes to the basement. 

These drawings are vital when seeking a building permit. These drawings show clear information needed by the city and include a site plan, floor plans, elevations, and requisite details. Local authorities utilize these permit drawings to evaluate proposed changes, ensuring adherence to building codes, safety regulations, and zoning ordinances. The precision and comprehensiveness of these drawings play a pivotal role in securing legal approval to proceed with your basement renovation project. 

Building permits are typically needed for construction, demolition, renovation, and additions to residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Projects involving changes to a building’s structure, plumbing, or mechanical systems often require permits 

The timeline for obtaining a building permit depends on the complexity of your project and the workload of the city’s building department. Simple projects may be approved in a few weeks, while more complex projects can take several months

 Modifying permit drawings during construction can be possible, but it often depends on the nature and extent of the changes. 

We recommend reaching out us to resolve changes in your current construction project. We will talk with the city and inspector to accurately show changes that were made one site after getting the permit approved. It’s essential to communicate any alterations promptly to us. We can assess the modifications and determine if they comply with regulations, and guide you on the necessary steps for approval. 

We have worked with 100's of clients whose permit was previously rejected or had too many ongoing changes requested by the city. We will your review your application for Ontario Building Code, National Building Code and City By-laws to make sure it is not rejected again.

Incorporating crucial information like floor plans, elevations, sections, site plans, and construction specifications is imperative when creating permit drawings for a basement renovation. These drawings offer a comprehensive visual depiction of both the current layout and the intended changes, ensuring alignment with local building codes and regulations. The inclusion of all necessary details aids local authorities in accurately evaluating the project, facilitating the approval process for the permit required for your basement renovation. 

The duration of a basement renovation permit in Toronto ranges from 6 months to 2 years, contingent on the permit category and the complexity of the project. It's important to be mindful of the permit's expiration date and initiate the process for renewal or extension if required, ensuring compliance with the stipulated timeframe. 

The FASTRACK building Building permit service aims to issue permits for specific home renovation projects within a 5-business-day timeframe. However, it's important to note that FASTRACK applications are designed for minor interior renovations and projects without any external work. For more extensive projects like additions, garages, or new builds, the processing time is typically longer, depending on the project's individual scope. 

It's often overlooked that the city of Toronto involves different departments in reviewing various aspects of an application. Different departments handle HVAC, life safety, and structural drawings. If your project involves external work, such as building an addition or a shed, the city of Toronto will also review it to ensure compliance with zoning by-laws. Obtaining a Building permit entails more than just submitting a few documents, which is why the process generally extends beyond the 5-day period. 

We've encountered numerous clients facing similar issues. They acquire a property only to discover that the second-floor addition, deck, or secondary unit was not constructed in compliance with building codes and was erected unlawfully. The harsh reality is that, if you've purchased such a property, it now falls upon you to rectify the mistakes of the previous owners, despite them being the ones who implemented the changes. This is why conducting a thorough inspection before purchasing the home is crucial, ensuring that everything is in proper order.

According to legal obligations, sellers are required to disclose any additions or unpermitted work they are aware of. However, openly addressing this situation allows for collaboration with buyers, reassuring them that necessary adjustments can be undertaken. Selling a house with minor unpermitted work is indeed a viable possibility.  

The rules and regulations regarding building without a Building permit vary by municipality in Ontario, and it's important to check with your local municipal building department for specific guidelines. 

Constructing a backyard shed, garden shed, or storage shed does not necessitate a building permit if it is smaller than 160 square feet (or 15 square meters). However, any shed exceeding 160 square feet does require a building permit. It's important to note that building permits are obligatory for accessory structures with plumbing, irrespective of their size. For additional details, you can refer to the Toronto website. 

In Ontario, it is illegal to build or renovate a building without the required permits. The legislative guidelines for constructing or renovating structures in the province are provided by the Building Code Act of Ontario. Without a valid permission, it is illegal to construct, dismantle, or permit the construction or demolition of a building. If these actions are carried out without the required authorization, there may be severe repercussions, such as fines, penalties, and possible legal action. 

If found guilty of a breach of the 1992 Building Code Act, such as building without a permit, the fines might reach $100,000 for many infractions and $50,000 for first offenses. 

Pre-Application Consultation: 

• Before starting the application process, it's advisable to have a pre-application consultation with EngineeredPlans. This allows you to discuss your project, understand local regulations, and receive guidance on the Secondary Dwelling Building permit application process. 

Prepare Your Plans: 

• Create detailed plans and drawings of your existing and proposed basement construction project. These should include architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical details that meet Toronto Permit Office Requirements. The level of detail required may vary based on the complexity of the project. 

Complete Application Forms: 

• Fill out the necessary building Building permit application forms from City of Toronto provided by your local municipality. Include all required documentation, such as site plans, floor plans, elevations, and any other relevant information. Be sure to provide accurate and complete details to avoid delays. 

Submit Application: 

• Submit the completed secondary dwelling application forms and supporting documents to the Toronto Building permit department. There is typically a submission fee, which varies depending on the municipality and the scope of the project. 

Application Review: 

• The building permit department will review your secondary dwelling application to ensure it complies with local zoning by-laws, building codes, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and other regulations. This process may involve multiple departments, such as planning, engineering, and fire services. 

Issuance of Permit: 

• Once your application is approved, the building department will issue the building permit. This document grants you legal permission to begin construction. It will outline specific conditions and requirements that must be followed during the construction process. 

Commence Construction: 

• With the Secondary Dwelling Building permit in hand, you can start the construction process. It's essential to adhere to the approved plans and any conditions specified in the permit. 

Inspections: 

• Throughout the construction process, inspections may be required at various stages. Contact the building department to schedule inspections to ensure that the work complies with the approved plans and building codes. 

Final Inspection and Occupancy: 

• Once construction is complete, a final inspection is typically required. If the work meets all the necessary standards, a Certificate of Occupancy or a similar document may be issued, allowing you to occupy or use the structure. 

See our detailed guide here.

1. If you would like to rent the basement as a second unit.

2. Add kitchen with Stove