Services & Departments
Building Permits
Projects That Require a Building Permit
Under the Ontario Building Code Act, a building permit is required to construct, demolish, renovate, alter, install or change the use of a building. The following is a list of typical projects or situations that require the issuance of a building permit prior to construction:
- New buildings or structures greater than 10 square metres (108 ft²) in total floor area, measured by the outside dimensions, or any size if they include services. This includes sheds, sleeping cabins or other accessory buildings or structures, including sheds and shed packages purchased from a store.
- Additions to existing buildings or structures.
- Renovations that involve structural framing.
- New or replacement decks.
- Wood burning appliances, including new or replacement of existing components.
- Replacement of windows or doors if the rough opening size is enlarged.
- Relocation or addition of plumbing fixtures.
- Replacement of interior water supply or drain pipes.
- Crib docks. If the crib area is 15 square metres (161 ft²) or more, approval is also required from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
- Docks greater than 10 square metres including covered docks.
- Wind turbines that generate more than 3 kW of electricity.
- Solar panels on new or existing structures that did or would require a permit.
- Permanent structure greenhouses.
- Quonset huts and pre-engineered metal buildings.
- Repair or replacement of all types of building foundations.
- Note that load bearing cement slabs for all houses or for garages greater than 576 sq ft require engineered design.
Projects that DO NOT Require a Building Permit
It isn’t necessary to obtain building permits to perform the following work. However, you must still comply with the requirements of the Municipality of Hastings Highlands Zoning Bylaw and, if applicable, the Ontario Building Code.
- Accessory buildings with a total floor area of 10 square metres (108 ft²) or less. Note: Zoning Bylaw requirements must be followed.
- Fences.
- Swimming pools and hot tubs.
- Replacement of plumbing fixtures (toilet, sink, bathtub, shower, hot water tank) in their original locations.
- Replacement of windows or doors provided the rough opening size does not change.
- Replacement of shingles or other roofing material unless you strip to the sheathing. If you’re replacing or adding new roof trusses or rafters, a building permit is required.
- Installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels on a pole. However, an electrical permit may be required – check with an electrician or the Electrical Safety Authority.
- Floating or pole docks less than 10 square metres.
- Wind turbines that generate 3 kW or less of electricity.
- Tarped vehicle or boat shelters.
If the above lists do not include specifics related to your project, or if you’re not sure whether a permit will be required, please contact the Building Department
How do I get a building permit?
Submit a completed application form, along with the appropriate fees plus the building plans and all other required information as specified in the information sheet, Information to Accompany a Building Permit Application Form.
How much does a building permit cost?
| Building Types | Fee payable per square foot | |
|---|---|---|
| Single family dwelling/cottage or addition | $ 0.80 per square foot | |
| Commercial/industrial/institutional | $ 0.50 per square foot | |
| Garage/boathouse/accessory building | $ 0.30 per square foot + $100 | |
| Deck, porch or dock | $ 0.30 per square foot + $100 | |
| Demolition permit | $ 100.00 flat rate | |
| HVAC system | $ 100.00 flat rate | |
| Plumbing | $ 100.00 flat rate | |
| Re-inspection, additional or misc. inspections | $ 100.00 flat rate | |
| Installation of wood-burning appliance/chimney | $ 100.00 flat rate | |
| Construction of a temporary tent over 60 sq. meters | $ 100.00 flat rate | |
| Septic Permit new | $ 500.00 | |
| Septic Permit alteration or repair | $ 200.00 | |
| Building Permit Renewal (inactive 1 year) | $ 100.00 flat rate |
Minimum fee for building permit $100
What happens if I build without a permit?
As a property owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that a building permit is obtained, even if you’re hiring a builder or contractor. If you’re unsure whether you need a permit, contact the Building Department to find out. The Building Bylaw and the Ontario Building Code Act have penalties of up to $50,000 upon conviction for illegal construction. We charge an additional $300 administration fee on permits if started without a permit. We also have a $1000 Provincial Offences Ticket for infractions.
Other Permits & Approvals
- Electrical permits and inspections fall under the jurisdiction of the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). It’s the responsibility of the homeowner or builder to contact the ESA for proper approvals.
- Septic system permits and approvals are treated as Building Permits under the jurisdiction of the Municipality. Fees are $500 for a new septic, $200 for a repair.
- An entrance permit is required to install a new entrance on your property, to change the location of an existing one, or to install a second entrance. Entrance approvals are handled by the Roads & Public Works Department.
- New civic addresses (9-1-1 numbers) for vacant lots are acquired through the Roads & Public Works Department. Contact Joan Nieman, ex 299.
