Building and Renovating
COVID-19 - Our office is closed to the public at this time; however, we have modified our normal procedures to continue receiving building permit applications and providing inspections.
Permit Applications: Apply by email at [email protected]. Please allow for two business days after sending in a permit application to receive a response from our staff on acceptance and how to contact us for payment.
Paper Applications: Paper building permit applications will still be accepted for minor projects, however: there will be a delay in their review due to COVID-19 isolation and then the conversion to digital.
We encourage applicants to submit digital documents for faster service. Most of our staff are currently working from home, but have access to both email and voicemail.
Timeframes for Permit Issuance: The period within which a permit shall be issued or refused is regulated by the Ontario Building Code. However, due to pandemic challenges, transition from paper to digital applications, staff working remotely, and the large volume of applications, we cannot guarantee that we will meet the review timeframes. Please account for this when applying for your building permit.
Building Inspection Services: Building inspection requests may be made by calling your inspector’s extension directly and leaving a message as per normal procedure. Same day service inspections are no longer guaranteed, but are currently being performed within 2 business days after the request. Remote live video inspections are being performed but with limitations. If an inspection is not passed then work must stop until a physical inspection may be performed. To learn more please visit our frequently asked questions webpages.
It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure that construction is undertaken strictly in accordance with all applicable laws, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the regulations made under it.
The owner shall operate in compliance with the advice, recommendations and instructions of public health officials, including any advice, recommendations or instructions on physical distancing, cleaning or disinfecting.
If you are going to build or renovate, you may require a building permit. If you are uncertain if a permit is required, please contact Building Services at 905-436-5658 or by email at [email protected].
Oshawa's building officials strive to ensure the work complies with the Ontario Building Code, related standards and other applicable laws; including Oshawa's Zoning By-law and Sign By-law. They review architectural, structural, mechanical and plumbing drawings before issuing a building permit.
Our Building Inspectors inspect all buildings and structures at every construction stage.
For all complaints regarding construction without a building permit, please call our office at 905-436-5658 or email [email protected]
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday - 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Please visit the webpages on the left for more information.
Forms to get you started:
- Permit application form, submit it along with your permit plans and pay a permit fee
- Owner's authorization form will be required if you are not the property owner
- General Review commitment certificate
- Letter of Undertaking
- Building by-law
- Temporary Crane Permit, required for all construction using a crane.