Building Department

What is a building permit?

A building permit is a document that gives written permission for the construction of any new structure, addition or renovation.  

You can only get a building permit if the plans for construction comply with:

• the Ontario Building Code;
• Township of Perth South zoning by-laws;
• other applicable laws and regulations.

How to get a building permit

You can get a building permit application online (Building Permit Application) or at the Township Office. 

You have to fill out a building permit application, sign it and pay the permit fee paid.  You will also have to submit sketches, building drawings, plans and other documents to the municipality for processing. 

The Building Official will review completed plans and documentation to help ensure that minimum building standards are met.  Each application requires 2 complete sets of building plans and specifications unless otherwise specified. Missing or incomplete information can delay the time it takes to process and issue the Building Permit.

The following requires a building permit approved by the Chief Building Official:

• New buildings greater than 10 sq. m. (107 sq. ft.)
• Additions (including carports, garages, porches, etc.)
• Renovations
• Demolitions
• Prefabricated structures
• Mobile homes
• Plumbing systems, heating, ventilation
• Fireplaces, pools, decks
• Temporary buildings
• Farm buildings
• Change of Use 

• For exterior work, a floor plan, a cross section, a site plan and elevations will be required.
• For interior work, a floor plan and a cross section drawing will be required. Buildings that are over 3 stories or greater than 600 square metres will require an architect or an engineer to design and prepare plans for the building.

Do not start construction until you have your permit.  If you start work without a permit it can lead to  delays, increased permit fees or legal action.

Permit fees 

Fees are determined by the cost per square foot, dollar value, and flat rate for some buildings and are due when application is submitted.

Inspections

Two business days' notice must be given for required inspections. Have one set of plans and specifications that were returned to you with the Building Permit on site and available for the Building Inspector.

Call before you dig

Before you start work on your property, contact Ontario One Call at 1-800-400-2255 to be sure it is safe to begin.

When is a building permit required for a tent?

• If the area of the tent is greater than 60 meters squared (645 square feet).
• Tents greater than 225 meters squared (2,421 feet square) must have the tent framing and anchorage system designed and the installation inspected, by a professional engineer
• All tent fabric must comply with CAN/ULC-S109 or NFPA 701 flammability standards.

Building Codes - Standards

Building Permits allow municipalities to regulate the types of construction in the community and ensure that proper building standards are met. The enforcement of building codes serves to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.

Fences

A building permit is not required for a fence.

Additional fees

Additional fees for services such as water, parkland dedication, and deposits for protection to public property may also be required.