Key Takeaways

  • Building permits give you the authorization to build or renovate your home or commercial property.
  • Permits are required for major renovations involving the structure, foundation, size, or purpose of a building.
  • Building permits ensure buildings are designed and built without error that could harm you, the public, or the construction workers.
  • Permit approval processes differ based on the project’s scope.
  • Working with a licensed contractor and experienced architects and engineers is vital to an efficient permit approval process.
  • Building permits can take 10 to 30 days to acquire after submitting your application.

One of the first and most crucial steps to building, expanding, or renovating a Toronto home is obtaining the proper permits. The permit application process can be confusing and overwhelming, but with the help of this guide and a professional contractor, it doesn’t have to be. In the article, we’ll explain what a building permit is, examine the importance of acquiring Toronto building permits, and review the permit approval process.

What Is a Toronto Building Permit?

A Toronto building permit provides official authorization from the municipality for you to move forward with your residential or commercial construction project. Toronto building permit applications contain in-depth project details, including site plans, floor plans, and structural drawings.

Once submitted, the permit is reviewed to ensure your project is in compliance with zoning bylaws and building codes, such as fire safety regulations.

Why Do You Need Building Permits in Toronto?

Although they may seem like a hassle, building permits and inspections are essential to ensuring your property is quality-built and safe for you, the public, and the construction crew. Mistakes happen, and permits make sure they aren’t overlooked. Small design flaws can result in serious harm for the individuals constructing, occupying, or frequenting the building. By acquiring the proper permits, you can have peace of mind knowing your home or commercial building are built up to code.

When are Building Permits Required?

Toronto building permits are required for major renovations that involve constructing or changing a building’s structure, foundation, or purpose. Minor projects, such as painting the interior or exterior of your home, putting in shelving units, or installing new flooring, don’t require permits. Here are some examples of when a building permit is required:

  • Constructing a new building
  • Demoing an existing structure
  • Building an addition or ADU
  • Altering a building’s structure
  • Finishing a basement
  • Installing stairs, a pool, or a balcony
  • Relocating, installing, or enlarging windows and/or doors
  • Changing the function or size of a room
  • Constructing a shed with an area of 15 square meters or larger
  • Building an accessory structure (garage, cabana, workshop, etc.) larger than 10 square meters
  • Building a deck that’s over 24 inches above ground
  • Reinforcing or underpinning foundations

Toronto Building Permit Requirements

Toronto building permit requirements are necessary pieces of documentation and information that must be included in your permit application. These requirements can vary based on the scope of your project.

You may be asked to submit the following:

  • Zoning review
  • Site plans
  • Legal survey
  • Architectural drawings
  • Structural and engineering plans
  • Mechanical drawings
  • 3D renderings

Permit Approval Process

Permit approval processes differ based on the project’s scope. For example, smaller changes to existing structures can be approved quicker than complex plans. It’s also important to note that there’s a chance your application may not be approved. If this happens, your application will be returned with an explanation for the rejection.

After making the required changes, you can appeal the application. Once your application is approved, you’ll be able to begin construction. Here’s a simple breakdown of each step involved in the Toronto building permit application process:

1. Zoning Review

A zoning review ensures the project you’re proposing complies with the city’s zoning bylaws. Not every project will need a zoning review or zoning approval certificate. Zoning approval is required if you plan to:

  • Construct a new building
  • Alter the footprint of an existing building
  • Convert a residential building to a commercial one
  • Change a building’s occupancy, such as turning a home into a duplex
  • Make major modification to a building’s exterior

2. Develop Project Plans

Working with a licensed contractor as well as experienced architects and engineers is essential to developing detailed and accurate project plans. These plans will need to include specific technical information, such as property boundaries, elevation plans, and blueprints. This part of the process may take as little as a couple of weeks or as long as a few months, depending the scope of the work.

3. Gather Drawings and Supporting Documentation

Your Toronto building permit application will need to have architectural, engineering, and/or mechanical drawings. Construction drawings should be handled by qualified professionals, as inaccurate drawings can lead to permit rejections and project delays. Supporting documents may include land surveys, soils and environmental impact assessments, and property ownership. This stage of the process can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months.

4. Permit Application Submission and Review

Permit applications can typically be submitted either electronically or in-person. There will also be application fees that need to be paid before the review process can begin. Following submission, it can take 10 to 30 days for the city to fully review your application. If there are any issues with the application, you will be given the opportunity to make revisions.

Go Through the Permit Approval Process with the Pros

Acquiring building permits efficiently and effectively is easy when you have the right team at your side. Artycon is a leading custom home building and renovation contractor with years of experience navigating building permits. We handle all the permitting arrangements for our clients, ensuring you have a stress-free building experience.

Contact us today to learn more about our custom home, design-build, and renovation services.

Get the best tips to plan for your next renovation project.

FAQ 

How long does it take to get a building permit in Toronto?

Permit approval timelines vary based on the size and complexity of the project. On average, obtaining a building permit takes between 10 and 30 days. Small renovations typically take 10 to 15 days, while larger and more complex building projects can take 20 to 30 days.

What if I have the work completed without a building permit?

If you don’t obtain the proper permits, you can face serious fines, project delays, and additional construction costs. In some cases, you may be required to undo all the work performed without a permit.

How long are building permits valid in Ontario?

In Ontario, you must begin construction within six months after receiving your permit approval. If your permit expires, you’ll need to reapply. There are some instances where you can request an extension from the Chief Building Official.