Building and Renovating

Where do I start?

Before applying for a building permit, you must first check if your construction plans meet legal zoning and property uses.

How do I find out the permitted uses for my property or setbacks from lot lines for buildings?

Permitted Uses and Setbacks can be found in the Arran-Elderslie Comprehensive Zoning By-Law. We urge home owners to look their properties up on the Bruce County Interactive Maps to find their current zoning. A computerized Kiosk for public use is also located at the front entrance of the Administrative office.

For further information, contact the Chief Building Official/Zoning Administrator.

How do I obtain a permit?

1. Complete an Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish or pick up a paper copy at the Municipal Office
2. Include the following documents:
   • A site plan
   • A lot grading and drainage plan (where applicable)
   • Plans and specifications (digital or paper)
3. Submit your completed paper application to the Municipal Office

OR

Submit your completed permit through Arran-Elderslie Online E-Permitting at the online kiosk at the Municipal Office

OR

Submit your completed permit through Arran-Elderslie Online E-Permitting on your home computer. Need Help? Download a Step-by-Step illustrated guide to apply for a building permit.

Are there any other permits required?

Depending on the location of your property, permits may be required by the Conservation Authority. A building permit cannot be issued until all regulatory bodies have been satisfied, including Zoning, Conservation, Heritage, etc.

How do I pay for my building permit?

 Payments are accepted :

• Online through your bank.  Arran-Elderslie>General>Account number off your invoice
• Cheque, made payable to 'Municipality of Arran-Elderslie' mailed to PO Box 70 Chesley On, N0G 1L0 or put in drop box at 1925 Bruce Rd 10, Chesley On
• Debit Card or Cash

How much does a building permit cost?

View our Building Fees By-Law for more information on building permit costs.

How long will it take?

Review and issuance depends on the type of permit which is being applied. For a detailed description, refer to Section 1.3.1.3 Division C of the Ontario Building Code. Note that the timelines prescribed in the OBC commence once a complete application package has been submitted.

What if I do not obtain a building permit before construction commences?

Where construction commences prior to the issuance of an Approved building permit, permit fees will be doubled.

What if I build without a permit?

Convicted persons or corporations can be subject to fines ranging from $50,000.00 to $1,500,000.00.

What are my responsibilities regarding building permits?

It is the owner's responsibility to obtain a building permit, ensure that the building permit is posted and that the approved plans are kept on the job site.

What projects do you need a permit for?

The Building Code Act defines a building as:

"a structure occupying an area greater than ten square metres consisting of a wall, roof and floor or any of them or a structural system serving the function thereof including all plumbing, works, fixtures and

service systems"

Common examples include:

• Construct a new building or structure over 108sq.ft. (This includes temporary and/or movable structures)
• Repair, renovate, add to, or demolish an existing building
• install a swimming pool
• Build a deck
• Erect a sign that requires a Professional Engineer
• Alter most buildings and structures on your property
• New or modified septic systems

What projects do you not need a building permit for?

You do not need a building permit for some non-structural or cosmetic works, such as:

• Painting
• Landscaping
• Kitchen cupboards
• Siding
• Shingling
• Window/Door replacement (excluding structural)
• Residential decks under 23 5/8" above grade.
• Fences (Fences are subject to Zoning regulations where applicable)

Swimming Pools 

• Bylaw No. 40-10 - A By-law to Amend the Municipal Code – Schedule B: Protection to

  Persons and Property – Outdoor Swimming Pool Enclosures

When does a project need inspection?

Please notify Building Services at least 48 hours in advance to arrange for a building inspection if you are approaching the following milestones (ensure to refer your approved building permit for a list of all applicable inspections):

• Before pouring footings
• Before pouring foundation
• Before backfilling foundation
• Completion of plumbing rough in- a water or air test is required
• Completion of framing

You must complete the following before you request a framing inspection:

• Have approved plans on site (including engineered Truss drawings)
• Have the stairs installed
• Have the roof completed
• Have the mechanical systems such as the plumbing and heating installed (water or air test required)

• Completion of insulation.
You must complete the following before you request an insulation inspection:
• Have all windows and doors installed
• Have a vapour barrier installed
• Final inspection of plumbing
• Occupancy
You must complete all items on the Occupancy Permit Checklist before you request an occupancy inspection.
• Final inspection
Refer to the issued permit for a detailed list of inspections required for your particular project.

How do I sever my property?

If you're interested in severing your property, you will need to complete the Property Inquiry Form.
This needs to be sent to the Bruce County Planning Dept.
There is no fee for this process, and it will give you a reasonable idea of whether it is possible.

Do I need a permit to put up an advertising sign?

Signs on Bruce County roads are regulated by the Bruce County Transportation and Environmental Services department By-Law 3809. You need to fill out an Advertising Sign Permit and submit this to Bruce County for approval.