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When do you need a building permit?

February 15, 2024   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

With spring approaching, many residents will look forward to building or renovating an existing property.

You may require a building permit depending on what type of project you are planning.

Building permits ensure construction is done up to code to keep structures safe.

You must obtain a building permit if you are planning to build new, demolish, renovate, repair or add onto a building or structure.

Examples of when a building permit is required include but are not limited to a new building or structure that is larger than 10 square metres. An addition or sunroom that is attached to a building or structure. Agricultural buildings. A pre-fabricated building/structure, which is greater than 10 square metres. Any building or structure that contains plumbing regardless of size. Any plumbing or HVAC work.

For garages, foundations, and basements, you will need a building permit if you are excavating a basement or constructing a foundation, or if you are converting an attached garage into a liveable space.

You also need a permit if you are installing a door between an attached garage and a house or basement, or an exterior staircase for basement access.

You will need a building permit anytime you install, change, remove, or move load-bearing walls or beams, install new openings in load-bearing walls, or exterior walls, or change the size of doors and windows. Installing a skylight also requires a permit.

For outdoor decks, you will need a permit to build a wood deck more than 23 5/8 inches in height above ground level. This includes decks around private swimming pools and if you are adding a roof over a wood deck.

Installing or modifying a septic system, water service, sewer line, heating system, air-conditioning system, fireplace or wood stove requires a permit. This includes installing or repairing a chimney, installing, renovating or modifying plumbing fixtures or systems, and constructing, renovating, or repairing a sewage system, septic tank or septic field.

The Town of New Tecumseth’s website has more information on how to plan ahead before applying for a building permit.

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