Toronto Building Permit Guide

Building or renovating in Toronto? Whether you’re planning a home addition, basement conversion, laneway suite, or a brand-new custom home, understanding how to obtain a Toronto building permit is crucial.
This guide breaks down the entire process step-by-step, with official City of Toronto links and professional tips from our construction experience.

You can either file it yourself or you can reach out to any licensed contractors to do it for you.

What Is a Building Permit?

A building permit is an official approval from the City of Toronto that allows you to proceed with construction, renovation, demolition, or change of use on your property. It ensures that the work complies with:

• The Ontario Building Code

• The City of Toronto Zoning By-laws

• Local planning regulations and safety standards

Failing to get a permit can lead to fines, stop-work orders, and costly delays.

Official Toronto Building Permit Page

When Do You Need a Building Permit?

You need a permit if your project includes:

• Building a new home, addition, or laneway/garden suite

• Finishing a basement (creating a secondary suite)

• Removing or altering load-bearing walls

• Installing new plumbing, HVAC, or electrical systems

• Changing window or door openings

• Demolishing a structure

You do not usually need a permit for:

• Painting, flooring, or cosmetic finishes

• Replacing existing windows (same size)

• Re-roofing (no structural change)

• Kitchen or bathroom replacements without structural/plumbing changes

When in doubt, contact Toronto Building for clarification.

Check if You Need a Building Permit

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Building Permit in Toronto

Step 1: Check Zoning and Property Information

Before you start designing, confirm what’s allowed on your property.
Review zoning restrictions such as height, lot coverage, and setbacks.
If your project doesn’t comply, you may need to apply for a minor variance from the Committee of Adjustment.

Go to Toronto Zoning By-law Maps

Step 2: Prepare Your Drawings and Documents

Your application must include detailed drawings and reports such as:

• Site plan and lot grading plan

• Architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical drawings

• Building permit application forms

• Energy efficiency design summary

• Tree declaration and zoning certificate (if applicable)

All drawings must comply with the Ontario Building Code and City’s electronic submission standards.

See the Electronic Submission Guidelines (PDF Requirements)

Express Building Permits – City of Toronto

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once your documents are ready, submit them electronically to Toronto Building.
You can email the application or use the City’s secure file transfer system (SFTP) for large files.

Your application must include:

• Completed application form

• All drawings (PDF, to scale)

• Schedule 1: Designer information form

• Applicable fees (based on project area)

Apply for Building Permit

Step 5: Plan Review and Revisions

After submission, your plans will go through several reviews:

• Zoning review

• Structural review

• Mechanical/plumbing review

• Fire and safety review

If deficiencies are found, you’ll receive a revision notice.
Your designer or contractor must address all items before approval.

Plan Review Process

Step 6: Get Your Permit

Once the plans are approved, you’ll receive a Building Permit — this is your official green light to start construction.
Keep the permit posted on site and follow all conditions listed.

Step 7: Book Inspections

During construction, you must schedule inspections at key milestones:

• Foundation / footing

• Framing

• Insulation & vapour barrier

• Plumbing, HVAC, electrical

• Final inspection before occupancy

You can book inspections online or by contacting Toronto Building directly.

Book or Check Inspection Status

Step 8: Final Approval & Occupancy

After passing all inspections, you may receive a Final Occupancy Certificate (for new dwellings).
This closes the permit and officially confirms the project meets all safety and code standards.

 Tips for a Smooth Permit Process

• Submit complete and accurate drawings, incomplete applications cause major delays.

• Check your zoning and conservation authority restrictions early.

• Use the Express Permit service for small projects.

• Keep digital files under size limits and follow PDF rules (no comments or layers).

• Respond promptly to city examiners’ requests.

• Hire a licensed architect, engineer, or design-build firm to handle submissions.

Typical Permit Timelines & Fees

View Current Building Permit Fees (Toronto)

Common Reasons for Permit Delays

• Missing or incomplete documents

• Zoning non-compliance

• Tree protection or conservation issues

• Drawings not sealed by a qualified designer/engineer

• Outstanding property taxes or encumbrances

Need Help with Your Permit?

At Grand Design Build, we handle the entire permit process from zoning reviews and architectural drawings to city submissions and inspections.Our in-house engineers and project managers ensure your application is complete, compliant, and approved as quickly as possible.

Contact us today to discuss your project or request a free consultation.