Building Permit Application Processes

The first major step to getting started with the construction of your new home or renovation is applying for a building permit. This process for many people might be a little daunting to say the least. What is required? Where do I get that? How much does it cost? How long will it take? These might be just a few of the important questions you might have. In Ontario, the application form to apply for a building permit has been standardized across the province. Having said that, your local building department may request or require different items to be included in the permit application or provided at a later date during construction.

Example Truss Drawing

For example, some municipalities might require you to submit engineered truss drawings with the permit application where others may wish to review these documents at the framing inspection stage. The best practice would be to go into your local municipal office to discuss what they require for the particular project you are proposing. You will likely find the staff very informative and very helpful. Most municipal offices will have an application package that you can pick up and discuss with them should you have any questions. Likely included in the package will be a checklist indicating what must be included in your permit application. One of the items to be included will be two complete sets of construction drawings. Although it may be acceptable as the homeowner to prepare your own construction drawings it is money well spent having a draftsperson or and architect prepare these drawings. By doing your own drawings you may end up delaying the building permit process if there are concerns with the design, or you may end up with many questions from suppliers and subtrades if the drawings are not accurate and complete. If you are hiring an architect or draftsperson to prepare your construction drawings it is important to ensure that they are registered in Ontario and that they have a BCIN number. As part of the application you must provide the “Designer Information” which will include their BCIN number. Most designers will provide this information for you to be included in your application package. Feeling a bit overwhelmed? Don’t worry! If you work with us at Alair Homes in Barrie we take care of all these requirements and give you the option to oversee the process without stressing about it.

Example Plot Plan

You will also require a site plan or “plot” plan indicating your lot’s property lines and proposed house location ensuring that all setbacks are met. Also indicated on the “plot” plan will be well & septic locations or water & sewer line locations as well as all other services. A land surveyor usually prepares this plan. If your plot plan does not show the final grading you may require a separate grading plan. This plan is completed by an engineer; however, you may be able to get a plot plan and grading plan done from the same consultant. Another item that will be required is a heat loss/gain calculation. There are heating contractors & consultants that can provide you with this paperwork for a fee in order for you to apply for your permit. Many heating contractors will provide you with the heat loss calculations along with a quote to perform the heating portion of your project. They will often “waive” the fee for the calculations if they get the job to install the heating system. You may also find that you need to provide environmental information or other specific information if you are building on water front property or other protected areas.

Applying for a building permit should be an exciting time, the first step to the realization of your dream. If you would like to discuss the permit process specific to your area, a member of the Alair Homes team would be glad to answer your questions.