When do you need a permit?

Permits are typically required for:

• All new residential and commercial buildings
• Residential additions
• Commercial additions and renovations
• Residential renovations (decks, garages, basement development, structural alterations, etc.)
• Electrical installations
• Plumbing and gas systems
• Heating ventilation and air conditioning systems
• Demolition and building relocation
• Gas and solid fuel fireplaces 

A permit is NOT required for:

• Minor repairs, painting, decorating or re-roofing if there are no structural changes to the building and matters affecting health or safety are not at risk.
• A single story accessory building no greater than 10 m² in building area providing it does not create a hazard, where it meets the setback requirements of the Land Use Bylaw and where matters affecting health or safety are not involved.
• Repair or alterations to any heating, ventilation or air conditioning system which are of a minor nature and which, in the opinion of the Safety Codes Officer, will not hinder the satisfactory operation of the system and does not involve the health or safety of the occupants of the building.
• Landscaping on a parcel including concrete and paving - unless required by a development permit.
• Family Day Homes with 6 or fewer children.
• Renting of a room to no more than 4 people - provided that there is only one cooking facility for the dwelling.