Building and Development Services

The following is a list of typical projects that require a permit:

❑ A building permit is required for the construction or installation of a new structure, or for the construction of an addition or alteration of any structure which results in a building area of over 10m2 (108sqft).  Note that the Building Code Act provides that storage sheds under 15m2 (161sqft) do not require a building permit provided they are: detached; no more than one storey in height ; not connected to plumbing; and used for storage purposes only (no human habitation)

❑ Any addition to a structure, regardless of the size of the addition

❑ Interior alterations for non-residential units

❑ Interior alterations for residential units if; a bedroom is created, a garage is converted to living space, a seasonal room is converted to a year round use, a new dwelling unit is being created

❑ Building a new fireplace or installing a wood stove

❑ Any structural changes or repairs

❑ A new entrance or a new window opening

❑ A deck

❑ Adding new dormers

❑ Enclosing a porch

❑ Any change of use to one of greater hazard (reference table 2.4.1.A of the O.B.C)

❑ Signs installed on an exterior building face or roof

❑ Free standing signs (A-frame signs please contact By-law Department)

❑ Any installation or alteration of a plumbing system (water supply, drain, waste or vent). Including an irrigation system

❑ Converting from a septic system to Town sewer or water

❑ Pools/Hot tub/Spas

Before starting your project, make sure to check the zoning of your property in order to find out if there are any restrictions on what can be built. 

Visit the Planning Department to check the zoning of your property and applicable zone provisions.

❑ Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority

• In the event that your property is located on land regulated by a conservation authority, you will need to obtain written approval from the applicable conservation authority before receiving a building permit. To determine whether your property requires approval visit the:
  • Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA), which provides a screening map that indicates the properties that require approval.

❑ Ontario Ministry of Transportation

• If you are planning a construction project on or near a provincial highway, you may need a permit from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation. To learn more about the permits and approvals issued by the MTO visit the:
  • Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO)       

❑ Committee of Adjustment 

• If you intend to construct or modify your property in a way that does not comply with the existing zoning by-law requirements, you may need to apply for approval from the Committee of Adjustment. 

        ❑ Minor Variance Application

        ❑ Consent Application 

❑ Lot Grading and Drainage 

• A Grading Plan is required for new home construction on all infill lots. Additions and Accessory structures may require a grading plan as well. Please refer to the Town of Wasaga Beach: Lot Grading and Drainage Policy

Do I need a Road Occupation Permit?

Prior to starting a demolition, renovation and/or construction project you will require a Road Occupation Permit obtainable from the Public Works Department.

❑ When is a Road Occupation Permit required?

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 Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) by accessing their on-line Public Registry (QuARTS).  The designer must provide you with a valid Building Code Identification Number (BCIN).

The Ontario Building Code requires that people who prepare drawings for the purpose of acquiring a building permit must be qualified and registered with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Quarts system, except when the project is residential AND the designer is the owner.

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 stamped by a professional, registered engineer.

❑ Different forms, drawings and other documents are required depending on the type of your project. You’ll need to submit these when you apply for your permit.

❑ Refer to the applicable permit guides and checklists the required forms and documents for your project:

           ❑ Residential Projects 

           ❑ Non-residential Projects 

❑ Different forms, drawings and other documents are required depending on the type of your project. You’ll need to submit these when you apply for your permit.

❑ Refer to the applicable permit guides and checklists the required forms and documents for your project:

           ❑ Residential Projects 

           ❑ Non-residential Projects 

Your Building Permit Application must include:

           ❑ Completed application forms 

           ❑ Drawings and supporting documentation 

           ❑ The applicable permit fee

When you have compiled all your drawings and required signed forms you are ready to submit your application.

The Town of Wasaga Beach Building Department is now fully digital. All applications for building permits must be submitted using The Corporation of the Town of Wasaga Beach Web Portal. Paper applications are no longer accepted. The portal will allow you to submit your application, pay fees and book inspections for your permit. 

Submit 

❑ Registration is required prior to using The Corporation of the Town of Wasaga Beach Web Portal

❑ Once an account is created, follow the steps to complete your application

❑ Credit card payment is required to pay your applicable permit fees

Review 

❑ Once your application is successfully submitted through the The Corporation of the Town of Wasaga Beach Web Portal, staff will complete a pre-screen of your application to review for completeness, as well as compliance with the Ontario Building Code and Applicable Law. A status update will then be sent via email within the mandated timelines.

❑ You can also view the status of your application under "My Items" on The Corporation of the Town of Wasaga Beach Web Portal.

❑ Application review comments are provided during the review to identify any outstanding requirements and to summarize permit fees. 

❑ Resubmit revised plans and documents for further review, until approval. 

❑ The Permit will be issued when review is complete and all fees are paid. 

Approval

❑ A notification via email will be sent once plans review is completed. 

❑ Once the permit is issued, login and download the approved plans and documents.

❑ It is the Applicants responsibility to print the permit card, permit placard and one set of approved plans for use on site.