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The following is a simplified step process to understanding how to obtain a permit to construct new buildings.
Where do I start?
Before applying for any building permits you must first know whether your proposed use of your new ICI building is permitted on your lot and meets the minimum distance between buildings and property lines in compliance with the Town's zoning and property uses.
What can I do if my proposal does not comply with the Town's zoning?
First step is to see if you can adjust your design and/or use to make it work. If that will not work, the next step is to see if you can apply for a "minor variance" with the Town's Planning Division.
- If staff determines the proposed design and/or use is a major deviation from the Town's "zoning", you will be required to apply for a "re-zoning" (zoning bylaw amendment).
- If staff determines the proposed design and/or use is not in conformance with the Town's "official plan", you will be required to apply for an "official plan amendment" before you can apply for a "re-zoning".
What else must I know?
In addition to zoning requirements, you should confirm compliance with other Applicable Laws, 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.
Included in "applicable laws" is the requirement to obtain "site plan approval" from the Town's Planning Division. This is a lengthy process normally done by a hired professional planner or architect.
Pay special attention if your property is in an area regulated by either conservation authorities, Toronto Region or Lake Simcoe Region.
How much will it cost?
We charge per square foot measured from the outside limits of the structure or in special cases, based on the value of the construction. More charges apply to construction involving plumbing and septic systems. Direct costs for Building Permits are found starting at Schedule "G" in our Town Fees Bylaw see our Fee Info page for the current fee by-law.
There are significant Development Charges associated with constructing a new ICI building. Depending on the size of proposed project, these charges can add up into the hundreds-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.
Can I apply for a building permit without having all the forms, processes and payments completed?
Yes, we allow incomplete submissions. For obvious reasons, incomplete permits do not have a set time period for response. Most developers use this option to ensure concurrent processing of their proposal. It is one of the ways the Town helps to cut down on the time it takes to start building.
Does the Town grant conditional building permits?
Yes, we grant conditional building permits when it is accompanied by a signed agreement with the Town. There is an additional cost to prepare and execute this agreement.
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.