Why do I need a building permit?
The purpose of building and development permits is to protect the property owner and the community in the area of the proposed development by assuring that works are undertaken in conformity to applicable rules and regulations. Our intent at the Commission is to ensure that every party`s interests are observed, including the neighbors and most importantly, ensuring that you the property is receiving what you pay for as a consumer. Though we cannot ensure the quality of workmanship, we can ensure that safety and minimum standards are applied.
When is a Building Permit Required?
Building permits are required throughout the region for the construction, locating or relocating, demolishing, altering, repairing, or replacing of a building or structure. Typical renovations which mandate a permit include (but are not limited to) replacing exterior doors and windows, building decks and porches, replacing cladding, and of course building additions or new construction.
Who is Responsible to Apply for a Building Permit?
As the home/ property owner, you are responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and ensuring that the conditions of the permit are respected. The contractor may apply on your behalf only with your consent. Permits should be obtained prior to the starting any of the works – in certain municipalities, permit fees are doubled when works are started without a permit.
How do I obtain a permit?
A building permit application can be filed at your municipal office, or at the office of the Regional Service Commission. Application forms will require that you provide basic information such as the owner and/or applicant`s name, their address and their telephone number, the location of the project, expected start and completion dates, the estimated value of the proposed works and other basic information. Along with the application, certain projects may require additional plans and details, this is to ensure that the project will meet applicable provisions. As a general rule, we recommend that you submit a general site plan, which can be hand drawn, along with your submission.
Does it take long to get a permit?
Depending on the complexity of your project and the time of year, you should expect a minimum of three days to a week for the agents of our office to process your application. Where proposals do not comply with applicable zoning provisions, additional delays should be expected. If you are unsure on your project, we encourage you to contact your agent early in the planning process.
Are Inspections Applicable to my project?
Among the documentation submitted to you with your copy of the building permit, you will be given a list of the applicable inspections. Typically, projects will include four inspections, consisting of:
- a pre-backfill inspection – verification of size and depth of footings, application of damproofing, installation of building anchorage, etc…
- a completion of framing inspection – Verification of framing and building frame assembly.
- a pre-drywall inspection – verification of installation of proper insulation products and of a complete building envelope
- a final inspection – prior to occupying the space of the new construction. – verification of building safety components (smoke alarms, building ventilation, carbon monoxide alarms) and other.
It is the responsibility of the permit holder to contact the agent at the time of inspection – we recommend a 24hr notice prior to the inspection time.
