Building Permits
When do I need a building permit?
| Projects that require a building permit |
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| Projects that do not require a building permit |
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You will need to meet zoning regulations even if your project does not require a building permit.
For a more detailed list on when a permit is or isn't required, please reference our comprehensive, but not exhaustive guide.
How do I apply for a building permit?
You must fill out our permit application form. Before submitting, please refer to the Digital Permit Standards, which explain how to prepare your digital drawings and documentation files for the application.
If you are not the property owner, an owner's authorization form will be required.
Permit application options
You can now apply for building permits, check the status of applications and pay fees through our Application Portal.
If you need help using Application Portal, visit our help page.
| How long does it take to get a permit? |
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Our Building Permit Services staff are here to help guide you through the application process but cannot provide designer advice. Building permit application processing depends upon:
Processing times for complete applications vary depending on the type of construction. Incomplete applications are not subject to these timelines. Applications are considered premature and will not be processed, where it is determined that the proposal requires:
The Ontario Building Code regulates the period within which a permit can be issued or refused. However, due to record breaking volume of applications, we cannot guarantee review timeframes will be met. Please account for this when applying for your building permit. |
| What documents are required? |
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For most projects, you will require at a minimum the following: Forms
Permit Plans
View Developer specific information. You may need to have an Architect, Professional Engineer, or a Designer who is qualified with a Building Code Identification Number (B.C.I.N.) to draw your plans. All drawings for non-residential and multi-residential properties such as apartments and condominiums must be signed, sealed and dated by an architect, professional engineer and/or qualified designer. |
Additional approvals
Your project may require other approvals for your building permit application to be considered complete, for your building permit to be issued or for occupancy to be granted. To ensure your project is not delayed, please see the following information.
| Zoning compliance |
| Before you start a new project, check the zoning of your property to find out if there are any restrictions on what you can build. Zoning Regulations include Height, Lot Coverage, set-backs, landscape open space requirements, etc. |
| Applicable Law approval |
| Depending on the type of project you are working on and where your property is located there may be applicable law approvals needed before your building permit can be issued.
Complete the Applicable Law Form and include with your building permit application. Common examples of applicable law include:
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| Site Alteration approval |
| All lands within the City of Oshawa are subject to the Site Alteration By-law. This by-law helps the City regulate grading activities within private land, such as removing or adding soil that may change a homeowner's land levels.
Changing your land surface or grade could interfere with the way water moves off your property. Water that cannot drain off correctly can cause problems for yourself or your neighbour. |
| Water and sanitary sewer connections |
| If your project is on a parcel of land which is not presently serviced, you will be required to obtain the appropriate permits from the Region of Durham for connection permits. |
| Stormwater connection |
| If any part of your project requires a Storm Sewer connection, please contact Engineering Services. |
| Well water certificate |
| If your project is on a parcel of land which is not able to be serviced, then you must provide a Well Water Certificate prepared by a licensed water well contractor. |
| Electrical, Gas, Telephone and other agency connections |
| The applicant is responsible for obtaining connection to electricity, gas, telephone or other agencies if the project requires these services. |
| Development around the Oshawa Executive Airport |
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Any construction around our Oshawa Executive Airport that will create an obstacle, such as a temporary crane or high structure is a hazard to aviation safety. You will need clearance from the Oshawa Executive Airport before a building permit is issued. |
| Access permit / Curb cut |
| Contact Service Oshawa if your project requires a curb to be cut or widened. |
| Roadway restoration application fee (R.R.A.F.) |
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Your project may require a non-refundable Roadway Restoration Application Fee (R.R.A.F.), which you will be informed of once your permit application is reviewed by our staff. The R.R.A.F. (where applicable) is the responsibility of the owner or owner’s authorized agent to complete the R.R.A.F. application form and pay the non-refundable fee of $150 to the City. The R.R.A.F. is required prior to the issuance of a building permit for the erection, alteration, repair, or demolition of any structure on the specified lands. City staff complete inspections (before and after construction) and apply the fee paid against potential costs associated with repairing any damage to City Infrastructure (e.g. curbing, sidewalk, paved boulevard). Once construction is complete and the building permit is closed, please contact Service Oshawa to request the final R.R.A.F. inspection to close your file. For more information please review the Roadway Restoration By-Law. |
Building permit fees
The total fee for your project will depend on the size, type and use of the structure or building. The exact cost of your permit will be calculated when you apply.
Permit fees for different projects are provided in our Building By-law 33-2009.
We accept cash, cheque (payable to the City of Oshawa), debit, Visa, MasterCard or American Express. Permit fees must be paid before a permit is issued.
Forms and resources
- Permit application form, submit it along with your permit plans and pay a permit fee as outlined by the Building By-law 33-2009, as amended.
- Owner's authorization form will be required if you are not the property owner
- Building Permit Documents
- Two Unit Guide from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
- Basement Renovation Guide
- Deck Construction Guide
- Shed and Garage Construction Guide
- Energy Efficiency Design forms
- Commitment to General Review Form
- Temporary Crane Permit (Airport), required for all construction using a crane.
View a complete list of forms and resources