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.
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.
You do need a permit when your renovation involves:
Structural changes (removing or adding load-bearing walls)
Basement underpinning, foundation work, or lowering the basement
Adding or resizing windows or doors
Building an addition, extension, or second floor
Plumbing changes behind walls or below concrete
HVAC installation or major modifications
Decks higher than 24 inches
New entrances (front, back, or side)
Major electrical work (Electrical Safety Authority permit separately)
You do not need a permit for:
Cosmetic upgrades like flooring, painting, cabinets
Replacing fixtures like sinks or toilets (same location)
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.”
Toronto's permit system is now fully online through Toronto Building – ePlans.
You will need:
Architectural drawings
Structural drawings (if structural work is involved)
Mechanical, electrical or HVAC drawings (if applicable)
Survey (sometimes needed)
These drawings must follow the Ontario Building Code and city standards.
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.
Fees depend on project size and construction value.
Most renovations fall between $200 – $2,000+.
Typical timeline:
Small renovations: 10 business days
Structural renovations: 15–20 business days
Complex projects: 30+ days
You must post the permit card on site and follow all inspection schedules.
The City will inspect key stages, including:
Framing
Plumbing rough-in
HVAC rough-in
Structural changes
Insulation and vapour barrier
Final inspection
Booking inspections is also done online.
If you are adding rooms, altering structure, adding plumbing, or lowering the basement — a permit is required.
Permit is needed for:
Structural work
Plumbing relocation
Wall removals
Always requires structural drawings and a permit.
Requires a full building permit and zoning review.
Avoid fines or stop-work orders
Ensure insurance coverage
Protect resale value — unpermitted work can block a sale
Ensure safety and compliance
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.
https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/building-construction/building-permits/
https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/housing-shelter/building-renovating/building-fees/
https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/building-construction/inspections/
Always work with qualified designers, engineers, or contractors in Toronto.
Submit complete drawings to avoid delays.
Ask the City early if your project needs zoning review.
Keep all permit documents for future resale.