Work That Typically Does Not Require a Building Permit
The following are examples of work which do not require a building permit and are not subject to the provisions of the building code. However, this list is not exhaustive, and judgment should be used depending on the project’s circumstances. Even if a building permit is not required, compliance with the Zoning Bylaw is mandatory.
- Uncovered platforms (e.g., decks), provided:
- Finished deck level is not more than 60 cm (24 inches) above the adjacent finished grade
- It does not form part of an exit required under the building code
- It complies with the Zoning Bylaw
- Installing a skylight in an existing building, provided:
- The building is a house or small building (3 storeys or less)
- Installation does not require the removal of more than one rafter, joist, or similar structural member (except a truss)
- Re-cladding of a house or small building (3 storeys or less) with non-combustible material (excluding brick or stone veneer)
- Adding or replacing insulation
- Replacement of windows or doors, provided:
- No change in the location or size of the window or door
- Structural support for the opening (i.e., lintel) is not affected
- No new exit is created
- Replacing a furnace or boiler in a house
- Installation of additional cooling systems, gas fireplaces, air cleaners, in-line humidifiers, or hot water tanks in a house
- Repairing and replacing plumbing fixtures
- Replacing existing roofing material, provided no structural work is required
- Finishing a basement of a house, if:
- No structural or material alterations are included
- No additional dwelling units are created
- No new plumbing is installed
- Undertaking waterproofing repairs to a basement
- Installation of cabinetry and millwork
- Plastic sheet covered accessory structures (e.g., snow canopies, driveway tents, automotive canopies) do not require a permit if:
- Installed on or after October 15 and removed on or before April 15
- Comply with the Zoning Bylaw
- Constructing a retaining wall on private property that is not accessible to the public and/or is less than 1 metre in height at any location
- Installation of a sump pump
- Sheds are exempt if:
- Not more than 15 m² in gross area
- Not more than one storey in building height
- Not attached to a building or other structure
- Used only for storage purposes ancillary to a principal building on the lot
- Do not have plumbing
- Tents or groups of tents are exempt if:
- Not more than 60 m² in aggregate ground area
- Not attached to a building
- Constructed more than 3 m from other structures
