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Find out how to submit your permit or application electronically by visiting the Electronic Permits and Applications page.
Building permits and building inspection requests can now be submitted using online services.
Most renovation, construction or demolition projects require a building permit. You need a permit to make sure your project complies with the requirements in the Ontario Building Code, the Town of Oakville Zoning By-law and any other approvals you may need.
You will need to meet zoning regulations even if your project doesn’t require a building permit.
Please remember it is illegal to start construction before receiving a building permit. Find out more about the Province of Ontario's Building code on the Building Code Updates page. The Ontario Building Officials Association have also published a Guide to the Building Code Amendments (pdf).
A permit is required prior to building, renovating, demolishing or installing any of the following:
If you’re not sure whether you need a permit for your specific project, email service@oakville.ca or call 905-845-6601.
If you’re not sure whether you need a permit for your specific project, email service@oakville.ca or call 905-845-6601.
Before you start a new project, check the zoning of your property on our interactive map to find out if there are any restrictions on what or where you can build.
The total fees depend on the size, type and use of the proposed project or building. The exact cost of your permit will be calculated once we pre-screen your request. The minimum fee for a building permit is $200.
You will need to pay a $60 pre-screening fee when you submit your request online. This non-refundable deposit will be credited towards the total cost of your permit.
Review the 2021 Building Permit Fees (pdf).
Review how residential floor areas and permit fees are calculated (pdf)
There may be additional fees such as development charges or deposits you need to pay before your permit is issued.
Depending on the type of project you’re working on and where your property is located, you may need other approvals before your building permit can be issued. Property owners are responsible for getting all necessary approvals for their proposed project. Proof of approval must be submitted to Building Services with the permit package. Obtaining consent may be a lengthy process so please establish early what is required to satisfy the pertinent requirements.
If your property is located on land that’s regulated by a conservation authority you’ll need to get written approval from one of the following, depending on where your property is:
Each conservation authority has a screening map that shows which properties need approval.
If you own a listed or designated heritage property, the Ontario Heritage Act may limit the types of construction or changes you can make.
You can check the heritage status of your property online.
Learn more about heritage permits.
If your property is close to a provincial highway you may need approval from the Ministry of Transportation. Check the Ministry’s interactive map as a guide to see if the location of your project falls in an area requiring additional permits or approvals.
Building or development in certain parts of the town is subject to “site plan control” which means that your application may need to be approved by the Planning department before you receive your building permit.
If you’re planning to build or make changes to your property that will not meet current zoning by-law requirements, you may need to apply for approval from the Committee of Adjustment.
Additional approvals may be needed from other town departments/areas including:
Additional approvals may be needed from other agencies/organizations including:
Property owners are responsible for getting all necessary approvals for their proposed project. Proof of approval must be submitted to Building Services with the permit package.