Building Permits
Homeowners, housing developers, and industrial, commercial and institutional developers looking to start certain building and renovating projects may need to get a building permit before starting a project. Building permits are necessary to ensure that zoning requirements, fire and structural safety standards, and other building standards are met. These standards are primarily in place to ensure occupants' safety.
You may need a permit
Property owners are responsible for obtaining a building permit when required. If you aren't sure, call 705‑329‑7258 or email building staff for more information.
Applying for a building permit
Step 1: Plan your project
Check requirements early to avoid delays in your permit process.
- Confirm Zoning regulations for your property. Obtain your Zoning Certificate (If applicable)
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Hire a design professional, such as an architect, professional engineer, or a Building Code-qualified designer (optional but recommended for complex projects).
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Gather required documents, including drawings and forms.
Step 2: Submit your application
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Ensure you have complete and accurate drawings, supporting documentation, and application forms.
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Apply online using the e-Permit Portal.
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Pay the required permit fee.
Processing timelines vary based on the size of the project, time of year, and application completeness. An estimate can be provided after your application is submitted.
Step 3: Permit review and approval
After you submit your application, the City will conduct a pre-screening review to ensure all required documents and fees are included.
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Processing time varies depending on project complexity.
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If corrections are needed, you’ll be contacted by email.
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All corrections must be completed before moving to the next stage.
Once your application is complete, it will be circulated for a detailed review to confirm compliance with the Building Code, Zoning By-law, and other applicable approvals.
Planning Division: Reviews zoning compliance, including land use, building size, density, setbacks, and parking requirements. If your project does not meet zoning requirements, you may need to apply for a minor variance through the Committee of Adjustment. Applications will also be reviewed for compliance with the Planning Act, Environmental Protection Act, and Ontario Heritage Act.
Engineering Division: Entrance Permits
Building Code Review: A Building Inspector will review your plans for compliance with:
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Health and safety standards
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Fire protection
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Structural requirements
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Plumbing and mechanical systems
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Lot Grading Plan
Some projects require additional approvals before a Building Permit can be issued:
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Ministry of Transportation (MTO): If your property is near a provincial highway, you may need MTO approval.
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Site Plan Approval: If your project falls under Site Plan Control, approval from the Planning Division may be required.
Re-submission and additional reviews
If any approvals are withheld, you will need to resubmit revised documents.
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Include your Application Number with all re-submissions.
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Each re-submission cycle may add two or more weeks to the review process.
After receiving your building permit
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Your permit must be posted visibly at the construction site.
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Permit drawings must be kept on site
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Book mandatory inspections at key stages of construction. All new construction in Ontario requires and inspection by the City.
Work must begin within six months of the permit being issued, or it may be revoked. An inspection must be booked within six months of the permit being issued, or it will expire.
Take steps to prevent your permit from expiring:
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If construction has started: Begin booking inspections based on the mandatory inspections listed on the Building Permit card you received when the permit was issued.
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If construction has not started: Request a Building Permit extension in email to building staff. An extension fee will be applicable if approved. Extensions are valid for a maximum of six months from the original expiration date.
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If your permit has expired: The Chief Building Official may revoke your Building Permit. To proceed with construction, you need to complete a new permit application.
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If you no longer require your Building Permit: Request a Building Permit cancellation by an email to building staff. The request may be denied depending on construction progress.
Contact Us
City of Orillia
50 Andrew Street South
Orillia, Ontario, L3V 7T5
Phone: 705-325-1311
Email us
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