Building Permits

It is the law! It is illegal to conduct work without a permit. The Ontario Building Code Act mandates that permits be obtained. There are significant penalties for not obtaining permits or for starting construction without permits.

You need a permit for the following:

• Sheds over 161 square feet (15 square meters).
• Decks over 108 square feet (10 square meters).
• For any structure attached to a building.
• For any structural change to a building.
• For any plumbing piping changes, fixture (sinks, toilets, etc.) location changes or additional fixtures.
• To replace insulation and vapour barrier (no permit required to add insulation to an existing attic).
• For any physical change to exits, halls, stairs or increased window openings of a building.
• For any substantial change or addition to ductwork or ventilation of a building.
• For a new septic or any change, repair or alteration to an existing septic.
• For the demolition of a building (except farm buildings).
• For the change of use of a building, for example a store to a restaurant.
• For the installation of a wood burning appliance.
• Raising a house or cottage to provide a crawlspace or full basement.
• Construction of finished rooms in the basement or attic.
• Installation of a swimming pool enclosure.

• For a patio less than 23 5/8"(60 cm) in elevation, not attached to a building; and not over 108 square feet (10 square metres) in area.
• For an shed less than 161 square feet (15 square meters).
• For interior finish, exterior siding / finish and or decorative coverings and cabinetry.
• Fences (other than swimming pool enclosures) that abide by the height restrictions and setback requirements listed in our General Zoning by-law. Tay Township Fencing and Pool Enclosure Information Pamphlet
• Minor repairs to Masonry
• Replacing siding or windows without structural changes
• To replace shingles/roofing products etc. (repairs to a roof structure DOES need a Permit) 

• Electrical Permits - Contact the Electrical Safety Authority 1-877-ESA-SAFE.
• Natural Gas service and piping, contact the T.S.S.A. for permit and regulatory information.
• Wells drilled or dug, contact Well Records 1-888-396-9355 for permit and regulatory information.
• Docks, shoreline and in water projects, contact the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (705-746-2196) ; the Ministry of the Natural Resources (705-725-7500) for permit and regulatory information. *Note dock permits are available at the Township for Wycliffe Cove.

• Consolidated User Fees and Service Charges By-law 
• Development Charges

The Building Department has 10 business days to refuse or issue a building permit AFTER it has been approved by our Planning and Operations Departments.

The Building Department will contact you when the permit has been issued and is ready to be picked up or if additional information is required. 

Construction cannot commence until your permit has been issued and posted on site.