At a Glance
Do I need a building permit?
Usually for new construction, additions, structural changes, plumbing, or significant alterations.
Will I still need Site Plan Control?
Yes. In the Trout Lake Influence Area, Site Plan Control is generally required before a Building Permit can be issued.
Projects that commonly require a permit:
- new homes or cottages
- garages and accessory buildings
- decks and additions
- porches and sunrooms
- plumbing work
- retaining walls (in some cases)
- structural renovations
Projects that often do not require a permit:
- small storage sheds
- painting and decorating
- replacing cabinets (without plumbing)
- replacing shingles only
- some landscaping work
Not sure where to start?
Contact your municipality’s Building Department before beginning work.
What this means
A Building Permit is legal permission to begin construction or renovation work.
Building permits help ensure projects:
- meet Ontario Building Code requirements
- are safe for occupants
- comply with zoning and municipal regulations
- protect environmental features in the Trout Lake Influence Area
In this area, Building Permits are often connected to Site Plan Control and other approvals.
When do I need a Building Permit?
A Building Permit is commonly required for:
New construction
- new homes or cottages
- garages and accessory buildings
- carports
- boathouses with any portion located on land
Additions and exterior projects
- decks
- porches
- sunrooms and solariums
- one- or two-storey additions
- siding (in some cases)
- structural roofing work
Interior or structural changes
- plumbing
- moving or constructing load-bearing walls
- changes to windows or doors
- change of building use
Retaining walls and site features
A permit may be required for retaining walls greater than 1 metre in height when adjacent to:
- building access points
- public property or waterways
- private property accessible to the public
What does not usually require a permit?
A permit may not be required for:
- accessory storage buildings under 15 m²
- small accessory buildings for human occupancy under 10 m² without plumbing
- painting and decorating
- replacing kitchen or bathroom cabinets without plumbing changes
- replacing plumbing fixtures
- roofing where only shingles are replaced
- free-standing satellite dishes
- some landscaping work
- retaining walls under 1 metre in height
Even if a permit is not required, zoning regulations and Site Plan Control requirements may still apply.
What is the process?
1. Contact your municipality
Speak with Building or Planning staff about your project.
In some cases, approvals from the Conservation Authority may be required before a Building Permit application can be reviewed.
2. Submit an application
Applications are submitted through municipal online portals.
You may need to provide:
- drawings or plans
- project details
- supporting documentation
3. Application review
Municipal staff review the application to ensure compliance with:
- Ontario Building Code
- zoning regulations
- Site Plan Control requirements
- other applicable approvals
4. Permit issuance
If approved, a Building Permit is issued and construction may begin.
5. Inspections
Required inspections must be scheduled during construction.
Before you begin
Before starting construction:
✔ Confirm whether a permit is required
✔ Make sure Site Plan Control requirements are addressed
✔ Check zoning and setbacks
✔ Confirm whether Conservation Authority approvals apply
Need help?
For questions about Building Permits, contact:
- City of North Bay Building Services 705-474-0400 Ext 2415
- Municipality of East Ferris Building Department 705-752-2740
- North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (where applicable) 705-474-5420
Definition
A Building Permit grants legal permission to begin construction, renovation, or structural alteration work.
Permit exemptions
Some accessory structures may not require a Building Permit, including:
- storage buildings less than 15 square metres
- accessory buildings for human occupation under 10 square metres without plumbing
Municipal zoning regulations and Site Plan Control requirements still apply.
Online applications
- North Bay applications are submitted through the municipal online portal.
- East Ferris applications may be submitted through the municipal online portal.