Building

Complete the Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish found below and attach the following:

1. Copy of a Site Plan that includes any other structures, wells, septics, distance from lot lines and if applicable distance from any waterbodies or creeks.
2. Two copies and an emailed copy of structural drawings showing construction method. Architectural or Engineered plans are required for all Industrial/Commercial Buildings, and any buildings more than 600 sq. ft. or 3 or more floors. See Part 1- Division C, Table 1.2.2.1 of the Ontario Building Code for more information.
3. Approvals or permits required from other Authorities (e.g. Ministry of Transportation if your property is along Highway 523, Highway 127 and Highway 60. Visit the MTO website listed below for further information.
4. Any Applicable Fees (see link to fees below)
5. Any other information specified by the Chief Building Official

Note: Information that you enter in the form cannot be saved, so it is important to PRINT the form once you have entered all the information. The form can then be submitted, along with all other required information, by mail or in person.

The application process should be started well ahead of when you plan to start the project.

To avoid delays you should ensure all of your submission is complete along with applicable fees. Property owners are encouraged to pre-consult with the building department prior to submitting your application.

Division C-Part 1, Table 1.3.1.3 of the Ontario Building Code provides timelines for municipalities within which a permit is to be issued or denied. In most cases the timeline is 10 days, however larger classes of buildings allow municipalities longer timelines.

Under the Ontario Building Code Act, a building permit is required to construct demolish, renovate, alter, install or change the use of a building. The following is examples that require a building permit prior to construction.

• Sheds outside dimensions exceeding 160 ft2, or 15m2.
• Other accessory structures exceeding 108 sq. ft. or 10m2 (guest cabins/bunkies, gazebos etc.)
• Additions to existing buildings or structures, including decking/stairs
• Renovations that involve structural framing.
• Replacement of doors or windows if the opening size is altered.
• Repair or replacement of all types of building foundations.
• Swimming pools and fence enclosures.

The following examples are work that does not require a building permit however, you must still comply with the Township of South Algonquin’s Comprehensive Zoning By-law and, if applicable the Ontario Building Code.

• A shed is exempt from the requirement to obtain a permit, provided that the shed,

a) is not more than 15 m² in gross area,

(b) is not more than one storey in building height,

(c) is not attached to a building or any other structure,

(d) is used only for storage purposes ancillary to a principal building on the lot, and

(e) does not have plumbing

• Fences.
• Replacement of plumbing fixtures (toilet, sink, bathtub, shower, hot water tank) in their original location.
• Replacement of doors and windows provided the opening size is not changed.
• Replacement of shingles or other roofing materials. However, if you are replacing or adding new roof trusses or changing from shingles to steel or vice versa a building permit is required.

Note: Zoning By-Law requirements must be followed.

As a property owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that a building permit is obtained, even if you’re hiring a builder or contractor. If you’re unsure whether you need a permit, contact the Building Department to find out.

Fees for building without a Building Permit are equal to a permit fee or a minimum $100.00. Penalties of up to $50,000 upon conviction for illegal construction may apply per the Ontario Building Code Act.

If you have an open building permit, you are required by law* to notify the Building Department for an inspection.

It is also in your best interest to do so, as having an open building permit may affect the following:

• Future real estate transactions
• Mortgage financing.

Please contact the Building Department to arrange an inspection of your property.

*Ontario Building Code Division “C” section 1.3.5.1.(2)

A Demolition Permit is required to demolish any building that is larger than 10 square metres (108 sq ft) or any part of a building that is attached to an existing structure. A Demolition Permit Application is the same application as the Building Permit Application.

In addition to an application and the permit fee, the Building Department requires  the following:

• A site plan showing the location and setbacks of the building being demolished in relation to the lot lines and other buildings and structures on the lot; and
• Information on where and how the demolition material will be disposed.

When obtaining a demolition permit, a property owners may apply to the CAO/Clerk Treasurer for the cancellation, reduction or refund for all or part of taxes levied in the year in respect of which the application is made.  Application Form – Adjustment of Taxes (Accessible) can be found below.

Landfill Site Disposal Fees can be found in By-law 20-619 Schedule of Fees – see link below.  Additional fees apply if access to a Landfill Site is required outside of regular operational hours. Contact the office at least one day prior to the day you wish to access a Landfill Site outside regular operational hours. Staff will do our best to accommodate the request, however there is no guarantee the requested day will be granted due to the availability of the Works Department Staff.

The Township of South Algonquin may be able to retrieve septic system information for systems that were previously installed. Please complete the Septic File Search Form and forward the completed form along with $50.00 file search fee to the Township Office.

In accordance with Part 8 – Sewage Systems of the Ontario Building Code all new septic systems, alterations or repairs requires a permit.

The following is the required information to apply for a Sewage System Permit:

• Completion of Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish (incorrect or missing information may result in delays).
• A detailed drawing is required by the installer (not sketch).
• Permit fee.
• A test hole must be dug and approved by the Inspector prior to commencement of work.

Septic System Permits and Inspections

Electrical permits and inspections fall under the jurisdiction of the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). It’s the responsibility of the homeowner or builder to contact the ESA for proper approvals.

An entrance permit is required to install a new entrance on your property, to change the location of an existing one, or to install a second entrance. Entrance approvals are handled by the Public Works Department. If the entrance is on Highway 60, Highway 127 or Highway 523, the Ministry or Transportation is the approval authority.

New civic addresses (9-1-1 numbers) for vacant lots are acquired through the Public Works Department.

Proof of demolition permit or proof of civic address number must be provided.

Commercial Contractor Construction/Demolition Waste and Brush