Permits and Approvals

Building Permits

Before work can start on construction projects that are defined as "buildings" under the Building Code Act, 1992 you have to apply for and get a municipal building permit.

To find out the definition of a "building" and if it applies to your construction project see the Ontario Building Code.

Contact your local municipality to find out about all required prior approvals including any planning, development, zoning and municipal by-laws which may apply to your project. Your municipality can be accessed online through the AMO List of Municipalities.

If you need help or updates on the Building Code contact the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing or email: codeinfo@mah.gov.on.ca.

New Home Projects

If you are building a new home then The Construction Performance Guidelines (2nd Edition) is a reference guide to help builders and homeowners understand which work and material defects are covered under the Tarion Warranty Corporation.

Pre-Start Health and Safety Review

If you are doing an industrial construction project you may need a pre-start health and safety review of the project before your begin. For more information see Guidelines for Pre-Start Health and Safety Review: How to Apply Section 7 of the Regulation for Industrial Establishments.

Electrical Permits and Inspections

Ontario Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) enforces electrical safety and requires electrical permits on projects where new, renovation, or maintenance work is being done on electrical systems. During the construction phase ESA inspectors will also inspect the safety of the electrical work. For more information on the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.

Building and Health and Safety Inspections

There are many different inspections that happen during a construction project. Municipal building inspectors and health and safety inspectors, like those from the Electrical Safety Authority or the Ministry of Labour, will conduct electrical, fire and random health and safety inspections during different phases of construction.

Some inspections are mandatory during the construction phase and others must happen before the building in occupied.

Contact the Building and Planning Department of the municipality you will be building in for more specific information. For a list of municipal websites see the AMO List of Municipalities.

Ministry inspectors also investigate accidents, work refusals, complaints and fatalities on projects. Contact the Ministry of Labour Regional Offices for more information, to file a complaint, or to speak to an inspector.

Technical Safety Inspections and Approvals

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is responsible for the delivery of various safety programs and services including the administration of Ontario's Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000. Get more information about TSSA services including certification and inspections.

See also: Construction Health and Safety Forms.