Build a Custom Home

Home/.../Development Services /Building Services Division/Build a Custom Home

The following is a simplified step process to understanding how to obtain a permit to construct a new or replacement home.

Where do I start?

Before applying for any building permits you must first know whether your proposed new or replacement home is located properly on your lot by keeping a minimum distance between buildings and property lines in compliance with the Town`s zoning and property uses.

What else must I know?

In addition to zoning requirements, you should confirm compliance with other Applicable Law Declaration, see our Applicable Law Declaration for contact information to many of the approval authorities commonly involed in building proposals (our forms can be accessed by following 'Building Permit Forms Quick Links' at the bottom of the page). Although this is not a comprehensive list, an Applicable Law Declaration will be required to be submitted with your Application.

Pay special attention if you are in an area regulated by either conservation authorities, Toronto Region or Lake Simcoe Region. This process takes additional time and money.
If you are located in the older area of urban Stouffville and your proposal is for an addition other than a deck, check to see if you are within the Heritage Site Plan Control Area. This process also takes additional time and money. Please contact the Planning Division to discuss your site plan control questions.

Can I do my own design and plans?

The Town does not recommend you complete your own building designs unless you are very knowledgeable in the Ontario Building Code. As a property owner you are allowed to submit your own building designs instead of hiring a Qualified Designer, an Architect or an Engineer. Do-it-yourself homeowner designs often result in delays and added costs for multiple plan reviews. For a detailed list of plans and information needed to obtain a Building Permit, please refer to our Building Bylaw. For liability reasons, you should be aware that Town Staff will not provide design advice to anyone.

How much will it cost?

All costs for a replacement house are found starting at Schedule "G" in our Town Fees Bylaw see our Fee Info page for the current fee by-law. We charge per square foot measured from the outer limits of the structure. More charges apply for construction involving plumbing and septic systems.

There are significant Development Charges associated with constructing a new house on a vacant lot. These charges can add up into the tens-of-thousands of dollars, so be prepared. We only accept cheque, debit and cash.

How do I get a permit?

If you already know that your proposed new home complies with the Town's Zoning Bylaws and other Applicable Laws, please review and complete the related Building Permit forms and bring them along with your design drawings and the set building fees to our Town Offices. You must also know your contractor's TARION new home warranty number in order for us to release your permit. Please note that the Town does not approve or inspect electrical or gas services which are under the jurisdiction of the Electrical Safety Authority and your authorized Enbridge Gas contractor, respectively. Other fuel services such as oil and propane are approved and inspected by the Technical Standards Safety Authority.

How long will it take?

Addition and deck permit reviews take 10 business days to process following the day after you submit your complete application. On the tenth business day, or earlier, you may either receive a phone-call/e-mail saying that the Town can now approve your Building Permit, or that further information/correction is still needed.

How many inspections do I need?

The amount of inspections depends on the complexity of the work and will normally be assigned with the Building Permit.