Temporary Tents and Garden Centres

A building permit is required for a temporary structure (tents and garden centres) if it is greater than 60 metres square. Regardless of the size of the temporary structure, if it is located within three metres of another structure or attached to a structure you will require a building permit.

If locating the temporary structure in a public park, a special events permit is required.

Project preparation

Zoning

Verify that your plans, proposed dimensions and location are permitted under the Town of Oakville's zoning by-laws which regulate the use, shape and location of structures on properties.

Development charges

Development charges may apply to some tents, such as a garden centre ancillary to a retail use, or an industrial tent. A non-residential development charge form may need to be submitted so the town, region and school boards can review the scope of work and determine if charges apply.

Development charges must be paid prior to building permit issuance. Learn more about development charges, including current rates.

Submission materials

Digital copies of drawings and documents are required, scaled to size and flattened. Typically, an engineer is retained for the project.

Prepare the following documents:

Site plan - to identify location of temporary and existing structures
Floor plan including seating arrangement, aisle width and exits
Elevations
Location of sanitary facilities if the structure has bleachers, side walls or exceeds 225 square metres
Supporting framing structures and anchorage system
Fabric certification document
Commitment to general review (pdf) if structure exceeds 225 square metres
Letter of use indicating dates of structure set up and removal
Non-residential development charges form (pdf)
Oakville Permit Application Authorization (pdf)
Fees