Do I need a permit to renovate my basement in Ontario?
You usually need a building permit to renovate a basement in Ontario when the work is structural, adds or moves plumbing, changes electrical or creates a new unit. Purely cosmetic work, such as painting, often does not. Rules vary by municipality, so confirm with your local building department.
All of our trades are licensed and insured
Mon to Fri: 8:00am to 6:00pm · Sat and Sun: Closed
Work that usually needs a permit
The Ontario Building Code sets the framework. Municipalities administer it and can add requirements.
- Lowering the floor or underpinning
- Adding or moving walls that are structural
- Adding a bathroom, kitchen or any new plumbing
- Creating a separate unit or a legal apartment
- Enlarging windows or adding an egress window
- Changes to heating or ventilation systems
- Electrical work, which also needs an ESA permit and inspection
Work that often does not
Painting, replacing flooring on top of an existing floor and swapping fixtures one-for-one generally do not need a permit. Even then, hidden problems such as moisture can complicate matters, so it is smart to check before you start.
Why permits are worth it
A permit means the plan is reviewed and the work is inspected at key points. That protects you when you sell, when you insure the house and when you rent a space. Unpermitted work can create problems later, such as a buyer asking for it to be redone, or an insurer questioning a loss.
We handle the drawings and the application as part of the project, and we schedule inspections so walls are not closed before they pass. See our basement renovations page for how a finishing project runs.
How the permit process usually runs
- Define the scopeLayout, structure, plumbing and electrical are decided.
- Prepare drawingsPlans are drawn, with engineering where required.
- ApplyThe application is submitted to the municipality.
- Build and inspectInspectors visit at set stages.
- Close the permitFinal inspection and sign-off.
Moisture and structure first
A basement that leaks or has a weak foundation should be fixed before it is finished. Our basement waterproofing page explains how that fits in. All of our trades are licensed and insured. This is general information, not legal advice.
Related questions
How long does a permit take?
It varies by municipality and the complexity of the plans. We tell you what to expect once we know the scope.
Does the permit cost extra?
Municipal fees apply, and we include them in the written scope.
What if I already did work without a permit?
Talk to your municipality. We can review the work and explain the options.
Request a quote
Tell us what you need and we will get back to you. In a hurry? Calling is fastest.
Thinking about your basement?
Call us for a free assessment, then a written scope and price. All of our trades are licensed and insured.
Call now (416) 398-8017