Renovating a home in Toronto can add major comfort, value, and long-term savings — but before you start, it’s important to know when a City of Toronto building permit is required. This guide explains the basics in clear language: who needs a permit, how to apply, timelines, costs, and useful links.
What Is a Toronto Building Permit?
A building permit is an official approval from the City that confirms your renovation plans follow Ontario Building Code (OBC) standards, zoning rules, and local safety requirements. It protects homeowners from structural issues, unsafe work, and future insurance or resale problems.
Do You Need a Permit for Your Renovation?
You do need a permit when your renovation involves:
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Structural changes (removing or adding load-bearing walls)
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Basement underpinning, foundation work, or lowering the basement
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Adding or resizing windows or doors
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Building an addition, extension, or second floor
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Plumbing changes behind walls or below concrete
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HVAC installation or major modifications
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Decks higher than 24 inches
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New entrances (front, back, or side)
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Major electrical work (Electrical Safety Authority permit separately)
You do not need a permit for:
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Cosmetic upgrades like flooring, painting, cabinets
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Replacing fixtures like sinks or toilets (same location)
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Minor repairs with no structural impacts
If you’re unsure, the City recommends asking Building Services — many homeowners get caught off-guard with “hidden permit requirements.”
How to Apply for a Toronto Building Permit
Toronto's permit system is now fully online through Toronto Building – ePlans.
1. Prepare Your Drawings
You will need:
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Architectural drawings
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Structural drawings (if structural work is involved)
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Mechanical, electrical or HVAC drawings (if applicable)
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Survey (sometimes needed)
These drawings must follow the Ontario Building Code and city standards.
2. Submit Online
Apply through the official City portal:
Apply for a Building Permit (ePlans Portal):
https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/building-construction/building-permits/
Scroll down to “Apply for a Building Permit” and select Residential Renovations.
3. Pay the Permit Fees
Fees depend on project size and construction value.
Most renovations fall between $200 – $2,000+.
4. City Review
Typical timeline:
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Small renovations: 10 business days
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Structural renovations: 15–20 business days
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Complex projects: 30+ days
5. Start Construction After Approval
You must post the permit card on site and follow all inspection schedules.
Required Inspections During Renovation
The City will inspect key stages, including:
Booking inspections is also done online.
Basement Renovations
If you are adding rooms, altering structure, adding plumbing, or lowering the basement — a permit is required.
Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel
Permit is needed for:
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Structural work
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Plumbing relocation
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Wall removals
Load-Bearing Wall Removal
Always requires structural drawings and a permit.
Adding a Legal Basement Apartment
Requires a full building permit and zoning review.
Why Getting a Proper Permit Matters
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Avoid fines or stop-work orders
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Ensure insurance coverage
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Protect resale value — unpermitted work can block a sale
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Ensure safety and compliance
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Peace of mind knowing the work meets building code
Many Toronto homeowners later regret skipping the permit process because corrections become more expensive than doing it right the first time.
Useful City of Toronto Links
https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/building-construction/building-permits/
Building Permit Fee Schedule
https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/housing-shelter/building-renovating/building-fees/
Zoning & Property Information
https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/zoning-by-law-preliminary-zoning-reviews/
Book Inspections
https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/building-construction/inspections/
Final Tips for Homeowners
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Always work with qualified designers, engineers, or contractors in Toronto.
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Submit complete drawings to avoid delays.
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Ask the City early if your project needs zoning review.
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Keep all permit documents for future resale.
