- Erecting, installing, extending, altering or repairing any building that occupies an area greater than 10 square metres (107 square feet)
- Construction of a new home
- Addition of a carport, garage or room(s) to an existing home
- Construction or finishing of rooms in a basement or attic
- Structural work including alterations to interior partitions or the installation of new skylights, windows or doors
- Addition of dormer(s)
- Enclosing a porch or deck
- Addition of a deck to an existing home if it will be over 2 feet above the adjacent perimeter grade or if it is to be attached to the house
- Raising a house to provide a full basement
- Excavating a crawl space to construct a full basement
- Constructing or installing accessory buildings such as a garage, tool shed, or playhouse larger than 10 square metres (107 square feet); structures smaller than and external equipment are subject to setback regulations under the zoning by-law. Please check with the Building Services department.
- Wood-burning fireplaces and any changes to furnace ductwork
- Construction of any size building with plumbing
- Converting a garage space into a living space
- Constructing basement walkouts
Complying with zoning by-laws
During the planning stages of your project, you must determine what zoning by-laws apply to your property. These by-laws regulate the use, size, location and types of buildings permitted on a parcel of land. You will require the following zoning bylaw information:
- Minimum build setbacks (distance from the building to the property line)
- Building height restrictions
- Total building floor area and lot coverage permitted
What if my project does not comply with a zoning by-law?
Zoning by-laws are designed to regulate the use and massing of buildings on a lot. However, in some situations, it may be impossible for you to work within the set regulations. As the homeowner, you can apply for a minor variance to the Committee of Adjustment which is made up of citizens, appointed by the Town of Oakville Council. If the Committee considers your project appropriate, it has the authority to grant you permission to vary from set regulations. You need an appointment to file your application to the Committee of Adjustment. Contact the Building Services Department. at 905-845-6601, ext. 3144 to make an appointment.
Applying for a building permit
To apply for a building permit in person, visit the Building Services department Town Hall. You must submit detailed construction drawings with your application and sufficient information to help us ensure your project complies with by-laws and other applicable laws. Your application must also include any required fees. You must submit two copies of all documents with your application. It's essential that your plans be of professional quality, drawn to scale and show full dimensions. Only complete applications will be accepted.
The review process
Please ensure your application is supported by all the necessary completed documents and drawings. Building Services staff will review your application to ensure compliance with the town's zoning by-laws, the Ontario Building Code and other applicable provincial and municipal regulations including any development charges by-law requirements. Please remember it is your responsibility to identify the applicable approvals and take the necessary steps as they apply to your project.
View the list of downloadable building permits and applications.
