Find out when you need a building permit before starting a home renovation project. In general, you'll need a building permit to erect, install, extend, alter or repair a building. If you're unsure whether your project requires a permit, please contact us and we can help.
Projects that require a building permit
You need a building permit for a variety of home renovation projects including:
- Additions
- Finishing basements
- Alterations such as enlarging windows or door openings, skylights or patio doors
- Removing or adding walls
The following construction projects require a building permit:
- Garages (attached or detached) and carports
- Decks (more than 600 mm above ground)
- Installation or alteration of plumbing systems
- Installation or alteration of HVAC (heating, ventilation or air conditioning) systems
- Retaining walls
- Accessory buildings such as sheds that are more than 15 m²
- Signs
- Installation of masonry or factory-built fireplaces, woodstoves or chimneys
- Structural alterations
- Swimming pools, hot tubs, ponds and related enclosures
- Tents or groups of tents that exceed 60 m²
- Any tent that is closer than 3 m to another structure
When do I need a demolition permit?
A demolition permit is required to demolish all or part of any structure that is greater than 10 m². Learn how to apply for a demolition permit.