As a homeowner, you may find that you have outgrown your present home. Renovation is often the answer to overcrowding and may include everything from adding a room or garage to remodeling the basement or other areas of the house.
If you are planning home improvements, this general guide outlines what you need to know about applying for a building permit from the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
Building permits are issued by the Building, Enforcement and Licensing Services Division, Community Development and Planning Services.
Why are building permits needed?
Building permits are necessary to ensure that zoning requirements, fire and structural safety standards and other building standards are met.
You may authorize your contractor or designer to apply for the building permit; however, as the homeowner, it is your responsibility to ensure that the permit has been issued prior to any work starting.
What projects require a building permit?
Under the Ontario Building Code Act, a building permit is required for the construction of an addition or alteration of any structure which results in a building area of over 10m² (108 square feet).
The following is a list of typical projects that require a permit:
- installation of wood-burning stoves
- porches
- sunrooms
- carports
- attached or detached garages and sheds
- dormers or finishing of attic space
- one or two storey additions
- plumbing and/or drains (except replacing fixtures)
- new structural alterations to windows or doors
- interior structural alterations
- adding or removing most walls [ie. creating different room sizes and/or uses]
- basement or main floor walkout alterations
- conversion from septic to sanitary sewer
- installation or repair of septic systems
If you are unsure if a home improvement project requires a building permit, please contact Building Services at 519-360-1998.
What projects do not require a building permit?
A building permit is not required for a detached accessory structure (gazebo, tool shed, etc.) which measures less than 10m² (108 square feet) in area.
The following is a list of projects that do not require a permit:
- fences other than for swimming pools
- asphalt roof shingling
- eaves troughs
- minor repairs to masonry
- damp proofing basements
- kitchen or bathroom cupboards without plumbing
- replacing siding or windows (provided there are no structural changes)
- decks not forming part of a principle entrance to a dwelling unit and less than 600mm (24 inches) above grade
- pool heaters
- painting and decorating
- landscaping
SPECIAL NOTE: Although a building permit may not be required, you must still comply with the requirements of the Zoning By-law and Ontario Building Code.
For more information, please contact:
Building, Enforcement & Licensing Services
519-360-1998
CKbes@chatham-kent.ca