Demolitions

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What must I know about non-heritage building demolitions?

Sheds, garages and other accessory buildings larger than 10sq.m. (108sq.ft.), need a permit to be demolished. House demolitions also need a permit.

Getting a permit to demolish is a very simple process involving submitting an application, a moderate fee and a plan of survey of your current property showing the building to be demolished.

What must I know about heritage house demolitions?

If you plan to demolish your home and it dates from 1925 or earlier, it may be included on the Town's "Built Heritage Inventory" list. If your home is on this list, there are a few additional steps you must take before you can get permission to demolish.

Step 1: Submit a demolition application (our forms can be accessed by following 'Building Permit Forms Quick Links' at the bottom of the page) along with a letter addressed to the Chief Building Official stating the reasons why you believe this heritage home cannot be saved.and what actions, if any, you took to try and relocate the home to another property or include it in your rebuilding plans.
Step 2: If the home is of significant heritage value, you may be asked to hire a professional heritage consultant and submit a report detailing the heritage aspects. After we have received your information, the material is given to our Heritage Advisory Committee for comment. When we receive their recommendations and along with staff comments, a report is presented to Town Council for their acceptance.
Step 3: If Council agrees to grant the demolition. A permit would be available through the Building Division. If Council denies the demolition request, a process is commenced by the Town to designate the home under the Ontario Heritage Act.

How much will it cost?

Permit costs are found starting at Schedule "G" in our Town Fees Bylaw, see our Fee Info page for the current fee by-law. We charge a small fee per square foot measured from the outside walls of the structure. We only accept cheque, debit and cash.

How do I get a permit?

If you already know that your building is not on the Town's Heritage Inventory List, or if it is, but you already have Council's approval to demolish, then bring a completed application (our forms can be accessed by following 'Building Permit Forms Quick Links' at the bottom of the page) to our Municipal Offices, with two photocopies your property survey plan (circling the building that is to be demolished) along with the demolition fee.

How long will it take?

Demolition permit reviews of non-heritage buildings take 10 business days following the day after you submit your complete application.

On the tenth 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/clarification is still needed.

The permit process for heritage homes usually takes several months before the Chief Building Official may be authorized to grant the demolition.

After I pick up my permit can start demolishing?

Yes, but you should make sure that all services (electricity, gas, cable, phone, water lines, sewers etc.) are properly disconnected before you start. See "Call before you Dig".

How many inspections do I need?

Only a final inspection is needed after the demolition area is cleaned up.