BUILDING AND BYLAW DEPARTMENT

Overview

Building Services is responsible for the administration of the Building Code Act of Ontario in the Township of West Lincoln, the issuing of building permits and site inspections.

The Act provides for the regulation of building activities in the province and delegates the responsibility for enforcement of the Building Code to local municipalities.

Permits are required for most construction activities, including sheds greater than 108 square feet, swimming pools. Accurate drawings and a site plan are necessary in order that the project maybe assessed for compliance with the Code and other applicable laws including zoning bylaws.

Applications are completed at the Building Department in the Town Office. To complete a application basic information including name and address of the owner and contractor, 2 sets of drawings and site plan and an accurate project description is required. Location details including lot and plan number of the property are helpful. The building permit fee is required to be paid at the time of application for permit.

Prior to issuance of permits it is sometimes necessary to obtain the approvals of other agencies or other levels of government depending on the type of project or project location. It is often beneficial to contact the building department at 905-957-3346, early in the planning of a project to ascertain if other approvals maybe required.

What Requires a Permit:

• Fireplace (Gas, Wood inserts) and solid fuel burning appliances
• Porches, decks, pools, towers
• Renovations and alterations to existing building, additions, new buildings over 108 sq. ft.
• Building systems: heating and plumbing
• Demolition of buildings
• Change of use of building
• Portable Buildings

Building without a Permit:

Minimum Fine: Double Permit Fees

Maximum fine: $50,000.00

Section 36(3) of the Building Code Act

Other Risks of not getting a Building Permit:

• Structure not complying with the Building Code, may involve the removal of the structural
• All buildings/structures must be in compliance with the Township’s Zoning Bylaw this could prevent a permit being issued, minor variance or zoning amendment maybe required in order to proceed.