Ontario Permit Path
Building Permit Requirements, Timeline & Pricing
Describe your project and receive instant guidance on permit requirements, drawings, pricing, timeline, and P.Eng review options.
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Your project information is used solely for preliminary review and is not shared with third parties.
Common questions
Common questions
- Do I need a building permit in Ontario?
- Most structural changes, basement apartments, additions, garden suites, and load-bearing wall removals require a permit under the Ontario Building Code. A preliminary engineering review confirms the pathway for your specific project and municipality.
- What does a basement apartment permit involve?
- Legal basement apartments typically require permit drawings, fire separation, egress, HVAC review, and a separate entrance assessment. Requirements vary by municipality across the GTA, Hamilton, Niagara, and beyond.
- Do garden suites and ADUs need a permit?
- Yes. Garden suites, accessory dwelling units, and secondary dwelling units require a building permit and, in many municipalities, a zoning review. We outline the expected pathway, drawings, and likely engineering reviews.
- Can I remove a load-bearing wall without a permit?
- No. Removing or modifying a load-bearing wall requires a building permit and structural engineering review. We identify whether your renovation triggers structural review before you start work.