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Why Do I Need a Building Permit?

​​​​​​​​​​​There are numerous laws and regulations that relate to construction and renovation work. Building Permits will only be issued for work that is allowed under these regulations.

Issued permits are followed by inspections at specific stages. Inspections confirm that the work is constructed according to the issued permit plans and in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and all applicable laws and regulations.

If you do not have a permit for work that has already started, you could face serious and costly consequences, including:

  • A “constru​ction prior to issuance" administrative fee. This is an additional fee equal to 50 percent of the permit fees for the project.
  • Possible legal action.
  • Possibly having to undo the work that was done.

As the owner of the property, you are responsible for paying penalties even if you have hired a contractor who assured you that permits were not needed.

For further information on the types of projects that do or do not require permits, use the drop-downs below.​

  • constructing a new building or addition 
  • constructing or altering a deck over 0.6 metres (2 feet) or other regulated structure; 
  • finishing or renovating a basement
  • creating or altering a dwelling unit
  • constructing or altering structural components
  • installing or altering plumbing
  • altering heating, ventilation or other regulated building systems
  • changing the use of a building or part of a building
  • carrying out demolition where a demolition permit is required​

The examples above are provided for general guidance and are not a complete list of work that may or may not require a building permit. Whether a permit is required depends on the nature and scope of the proposed work.

If you are unsure whether your project requires a building permit, contact the City of Brampton Building Division before starting work.​

  • installing siding on a small residential building, depending on the distance between the building and the property line, contact the Building Division for more details
  • replacing asphalt shingles on a roof, without any alterations to the structure of the roof or building
  • install eavestrough to drain water onto your own property
  • damp-proof basements
  • paint or decorate rooms
  • install kitchen or bathroom cupboards without changes to the existing plumbing
  • erect a fence (except for fences around a swimming pool or hot tub)
  • replace an existing forced air furnace or air conditioner where there are no alterations to the existing duct work
  • electrical work (the Electrical Safety Authority must inspect electrical installations – 1-877-372-7233 or http://www.esasafe.com)
  • storage sheds under 15 square meters
  • door and window replacements that match the existing size
  • decks under 0.6 meters (2 feet) in height and not connected to a building
  • constructing retaining walls less than one meter in height.​

​Visit www.brampton.ca/bbportal. Under Non-Registered Services, submit a Building Inquiry to report possible illegal construction in Brampton.  ​