ADHERING TO THE BUILDING CODE

Building Permits

Ottawa Building Permit

Applying for a building permit in Ottawa is a critical step in the construction process that requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Obtaining a building permit involves:

Submitting an application to the City of Ottawa’s Building Code Services.
Providing detailed plans and specifications.
Obtaining approvals from various departments.

The permit process ensures that all construction projects in Ottawa comply with the city’s building codes, zoning by-laws, and other regulations, guaranteeing the safety and integrity of the structure. Applying for a building permit can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is necessary to ensure that your construction project is legal, safe, and meets all applicable regulations.

Types of Home Additions

Building Permit Requirements in Ottawa

Under the Building Code Act, a building permit is required for the construction of a new building, an addition, or an alteration of any building or structure with a building area of over 10 square metres (approximately 108 square feet). Minor exceptions may apply to one-storey storage sheds. The following list provides examples of common projects that require building permits. If the scope of your project does not appear on the list below or you are unsure of the permit requirements, please contact Magnolia Construction for more information.

Other Projects requiring building permits

Additions
Coach houses
Interior and exterior structural alterations, such as:
- adding or removing walls, i.e., creating different room sizes and/or uses
- new windows where there were none before
- enlarging or relocating a window or door
- Plumbing – Alterations, additions or extensions to a plumbing system (except replacing existing fixtures)
- Structural foundation repairs and drain tile replacement
- Structural repairs or alterations
Change over from septic to sanitary sewer
Green building initiatives, such as:
- Storm and grey water use
- Roof top storm water retention systems
- Structures used in the support of a wind turbine generator with a rated output of more than 3kW

Magnolia Construction can help ensure that all necessary inspections are scheduled and conducted on time, so that your building project is completed successfully and in compliance with the Ontario Building Code.