What is a building permit?

A building permit is your formal permission to begin construction.  It means that plans for any new structure, addition or renovation have been reviewed by the municipality, for compliance with the Ontario Building Code, the local zoning bylaws and any other applicable laws and regulations.

When is a building permit required?

The Ontario Building Code Act requires a building permit when a person constructs or demolishes a building or causes a building to be constructed or demolished.  A building is defined as:

• a structure occupying an area greater than 10 sq.m. (108 sq.ft.) consisting of a wall, roof and floor or any of them or a structural system serving the function thereof including all plumbing, works, fixtures, and service systems appurtenant thereto,
• a structure occupying an area of 10 sq.m. or less that contains plumbing, including the plumbing appurtenant thereto,
• plumbing not located in a structure
• a sewage system; or
• structures designated in the building code

Examples that DO require building permits in the City of Waterloo:

• Construction of any new building or structure on your property
• Demolition of a building or structure on your property
• excavating or constructing a foundation
• renovation or converting an existing building (change of use and occupancy)
• additions
• attached or detached garages
• installation or changes to plumbing
• material alterations, additions or repairs to a building
• decks (greater than 2 ft above grade)
• pools
• hot tubs 
• sunrooms
• porches
• sheds (greater then 108 ft.sq)
• carports
• dormers
• new or structural alterations to windows and doors
• adding or removing most walls
• new fireplaces
• basement or main floor walkouts
• backflow prevention device

The following examples DO NOT require building permits in the City of Waterloo:

• a detached shed that is 10’ x 10’ or less,
• a fence (ie. chain link, wood, wrought iron),
• removing the kitchen cupboards and replacing with new cupboards,
• installing new shingles on existing roof,
• replacing a fixture (ie. toilet, bathtub or sink) with a new fixture

Should you have questions or comments regarding the above information or any other proposed project, please call the Building Standards Service Unit. City staff will confirm whether you require a building permit and if yes, explain the necessary drawings required to apply for a building permit.