Planning Your Project

To plan your project you will need to know:

  1. Some knowledge of construction practices and the Ontario Building Code
  2. Site plan requirements
  3. Grading requirements
  4. Septic system requirements
  5. Other applicable law
  6. Fee requirements
  7. Plan preparation

If you have a good working knowledge of house construction and the Ontario Building Code, you may consider designing your own project. Many publications are available in bookshops, libraries and at lumber dealers that may assist you. You can purchase copies of the Ontario Building Code by contacting Orderline at 1-888-361-0003. The Building Code Act and regulations can also be viewed on the Province's website: http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca.

Examples of drawings in both metric and imperial are provided in this guide to illustrate the quality of submission necessary for a permit application. You can avoid delays in permit issuance if all drawings and specifications provide sufficient information for the Chief Building Official and/or Building Official to verify that the work will conform to the Ontario Building Code and applicable law, such as the zoning by-law.

If you find the permit process complicated, or you are not sufficiently familiar with the requirements and the preparation of drawings, we recommend that you hire an architect, designer, or other knowledgeable individual experienced and familiar with the Ontario Building Code and municipal by-laws, to prepare your final plans and specifications. Before hiring a design consultant (engineer, designer or builder), please confirm their qualifications by contacting the MMAH or by accessing their on-line Public Registry (QuARTS).

The Ontario Architects Association (OAA) has a parallel system for pre-qualifications and administers their own registration system called "Building Code Designation System." You can contact the OAA by telephone at 416-449-6898, Toll Free: 1-800-565-2724, or access their online registry system (BCDS).

It is important to note that drawings for some prefabricated (engineered) structures require certification by a Professional Engineer licensed to practice in Ontario. Examples include prefabricated greenhouses and sheds. Whenever buying a prefabricated structure ensure that you are provided with a copy of the professional design drawings.
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