Engineering Excellence for a Sustainable Future

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. 

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.

 There are several stages to obtaining a building permit and completing construction:

• First, you need to gather all the building paperwork that allows you to start the process.
• Then you need to submit your drawing to the city of Toronto building permit department and wait for them to review your application and give you the building permit.
• Upon completion of every construction stage, an inspector will visit the site and determine whether the construction can go on and at the end they will provide you with the final occupancy approval.

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.  

We recommend reaching out to us for a free consultation to determine if you home has any ongoing permits that need to be closed. 

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. 

See our detailed guide here.

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 Building permit application process. 

Prepare Your Plans: 

• Create detailed plans and drawings of your proposed 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 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 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 building 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. 

1. Constructing a new structure, apartment, etc. 

2. Expand a pre-existing structure. 

3. Make changes to the structure. 

4. Build an auxiliary structure larger than ten meters. 

5. Construct a deck. 

6. If the retaining wall is on or near to public land, construct a wall that is higher than one meter. 

7. Demolish a building entirely or in part. 

8. Construct a tent if it spans more than 60 square meters, is affixed to a building, or is located no more than 9 meters from another structure. 

9. Install a wood-burning stove or fireplace 

10. Set up the chimney.