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Building Division

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I do my own drawings?
Yes, as the owner of the property, the Building Code under Div. C - 3.2.4 provides an exemption for you to create your own drawings. However, if the drawings are below standard and missing information you will be asked to complete them.

Can my contractor or designer apply for the Building Permit on my behalf?
You can have either the contractor or designer apply on your behalf if you fill out a Letter of Authorization (Available on the Building Division's Forms and Applications web-page. Although the contractor or designer is acting on your behalf, you are responsible for ensuring your agent is calling for the inspections and constructing in accordance with the Building Permit drawings. Ultimately, under the Ontario Building Code, the owner is responsible for all construction on their property.

What inspections are required?
Each project is given a cover sheet explaining which inspections are required and when to call for an inspection. The sheet also describes how and when to request the inspection.

How do I find out what agencies to apply to for my proposed building project?
There may be external agencies that are Applicable Law such as Lake Simcoe Regional Conservation. If your property is along the lake or close to a water body, it is likely to be regulated by Lake Simcoe Conservation Authority. Drop by to the Building Division service counter or call (905)476-4301, (905)722-6516, (705)437-2210 Ext. 252, 263 and discuss your proposal with our staff. They will be pleased to answer your questions.

I am moving to a new house and wish to do some renovations and / or an addition; can I apply for my building permit before taking ownership?
You need an authorization letter from the current owner of the house prior to applying for a building permit. If you have bought a house that is in mid project from the previous owner, you must apply for a Transfer of Permit. You can also submit for the permit, have all approval and zoning in place, then apply for the final Building Permit once you own the property.

How long is my permit good for?
If after 6 months construction has not yet commenced, your permit may be revoked as per section 8 of the Building Code Act. If you find you cannot start the project within the 6 months, you can write to the Chief Building Official for an extension on the permit.

Why have I not been informed that my neighbour applied for a building permit?
The Ontario Building Code Act and municipal Zoning By-laws allow construction to be carried out in accordance with the Ontario Building Code and applicable law. This is not a public process where neighbours would be notified.

Where the proposed construction would not comply with Zoning By-law 500, an application to the Committee of Adjustment for a Minor Variance to the zoning requirements may allow the applicant some relief. This is a public process where neighbours within 60 meters would be notified.

What do I do if I decide to change my plans before I get my Building Permit?
You must submit the revised drawing(s) to the Building Division. There may be a fee associated with the submission.

What do I do if I decide to change my plans after I get my Building Permit?
You must submit the revised drawing(s) to the Building Division prior to changing the construction from the plans on which the permit was issued. Any construction completed not in accordance with the permit drawings, will result in orders being placed on the project. If you have a contractor doing the work, ensure the contractor submits revised drawings prior to commencing the change. There will be a fee associated with the revised submission.

Do I need a permit to demolish a building?
Yes you need a permit to demolish any building over 108 square feet. If the structure in connected to municipal water and services, the property owner must call the Building Division to have the capping off of the services inspected. It is the responsibility of the property owner have the utilities (i.e. Hydro, Gas) located prior to demolition. Once the site is to left clear of debris another inspection is required to clear the permit. Any material or soil must be disposed in an approved site.

Do I need a Permit if I want put in a new bathroom?
Yes a Permit is required for the installation of water and drain pipes and the fixtures.

What if someone is constructing without a building permit?
If someone is constructing without a permit, you can call the Building Division to register a complaint. Since illegal construction can be a safety hazard, the Building Division does not require a written complaint or the name of the complainant. All complaints are investigated in a timely manner.

Who do I see about installing a septic system or repairing an existing septic?
All septic designers and installers are licensed through the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The Building Division in the Town of Georgina takes in applications and issues for installation or repair of septic systems.

Do I require a permit for landscaping?
Most types of landscaping do not require permits such as hedges, patio stones, etc. However, items such as retaining walls that are over the height of 1000mm (3'-3"), decks over 24" above grade and gazebo's over 10m2 (108 ft2) does require a permit. Landscape stones used to create a stairway may also require a permit. Please contact the Building Division for more information.

Do I need a permit for doing electrical work?
For electrical permits and information contact the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) at 1-877-372-7233. They are the regulatory body who is responsible for this type of work across Ontario.

What is Tarion?
Tarion is the new name for the Ontario New Home Warranty Program. It is a private corporation to serve as the Regulator of the home building industry in Ontario. Tarion licenses all home and condominium builders pursuant to provincial legislation. This statute requires home builders to provide purchasers with warranty coverage that is guaranteed by Tarion. It also establishes minimum time standards for after-sales service, and adjudicates issues between homeowners and builders. For more information, please visit http://www.tarion.com/Pages/default.aspx.

I am the property owner and I want to build my own home, will my home be covered by Tarion?
Property owners who act as your own general contractor (i.e. you are personally hiring each of the various construction trades) and intend to live in the home after construction. Your home will not be covered by warranty under the Ontario New Home Warranties plan Act.

If I am going to hire a designer for my project, how do I find out about their qualifications?
As the owner of the property, you are responsible for ensuring that you have hired qualified people. For more information regarding designer qualification and exemptions, please contact the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). Designer qualifications can be viewed through the MMAH or by accessing their on-line Public Registry (QuARTS).