Building Permits Frequently Asked Questions

The time required for processing a Building Permit application is between 10 to 30 business days, depending on its class and  size determination as follows:

The above timelines are for complete permit applications.  A complete application is one that meets zoning requirements, all applicable laws & the submitted drawings provide all the required information.

Please be advised that Staff will provide assistance to the applicant but must refrain from acting in the capacity of a designer.

How long is my permit valid?

Who obtains the approvals from other agencies?

It is the responsibility of the applicant to secure required approvals from other agencies (where applicable) prior to the issuance of a building permit. 

I’ve been issued my building permit. Do I have to post it somewhere?

Yes, you must post your Building Permit for the duration of construction, in a visible location on-site in order to permit the public and the Building Inspector to view the permit.

What is a BCIN and when is it required?

 A BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) is issued to designers by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

In general, designers other than professional engineers and architects that engage in the following 'design activities” are required to meet the qualification/registration requirements under the Building Code: 

• Preparing a design as part of a building permit application;
• Giving information or an opinion concerning whether a building or part of a building complies with the Building Code if the information or opinion is to be submitted to a chief building official in connection with a building permit application; and
• Preparing a written report for submission to the chief building official based on a general review, where a general review is required by the Building Code.

Homeowner's who do their own design work are not required to obtain a BCIN.

What is a Site Plan?

A Site Plan is a drawing of the full extent of your property showing the clearly labelled location and all dimensions of all existing and proposed structures, including placement of septic system (if applicable) and well (if applicable). Site plans are required for all building projects affecting land area.

View the Site Plan Guide and Example Plans (PDF)

What are the most common things that delay obtaining a Building Permit?

a) Missing information (e.g. application is incomplete, dimensions are missing not all drawings provided, etc.).

b) Poor quality of plans (due to lack of knowledge of drafting techniques resulting in missed information or poorly drawn diagrams).

c) Inaccurate or incomplete septic information (if applicable).

d) Schedule 1: Designer Information page of application form is not completed or not signed.

e) Volume of applications (greatest volume is received between May and September).

What could happen if I don’t obtain a Building Permit?

Failure to obtain a Building Permit prior to commencing construction may place both the property owner and the contractor in contravention of the Building Code Act, which means both parties are breaking the law.

a) Once discovered, you will still need to apply for a permit, and your building permit fees may be doubled in accordance with the Building By-Law.

b) It may be necessary to uncover components of your project so that these items can be inspected (e.g. remove drywall so that insulation and framing can be inspected etc.). You may need to hire an engineer (at your expense) to review the completed work.

c) You may be required to pay for any costs incurred by the County that is associated with the unapproved construction, including investigation and enforcement.

d) The Building Code Act also provides the following penalties:

“36(3) Penalties. A person who is convicted of an offence is liable to a fine of not more than $50,000 for a first offence and to a fine of not more than $100,000 for a subsequent offence.”

“36(4) Corporations. If a corporation is convicted of an offence, the maximum penalty that may be imposed upon the corporation is $500,000 for a first offence and $1,500,000 for a subsequent offence and not as provided in subsection (3).”

“3(6) Continuing Offence. Every person who fails to comply with an order made by a Chief Building Official under subsection 14(1) or clause 15.9(6)(a) or 15.10.3.(8)(a) is guilty of an offence and on conviction, in addition to the penalties mentioned in subsections (3) and (4), is liable to a fine of not more than $10,000 per day for every day the offence continues and after the time given for complying with the order has expired.”

Remember, ignorance of the law is no excuse. There are legal implications for you and your contractor if construction is started without a permit.