Getting Started

Why do I need a building permit?

A building permit regulates the development by protecting individuals and the Township of Ramara by meeting the minimum standards for health, fire, structural and general safety as outlined in the Ontario Building Code. It is illegal to conduct work without a permit.

When is a building permit required?

• Construct a new building or structure greater then 10sqm;
• Additions to existing buildings;
• Repair, renovate, add to, or demolish an existing building;
• Prefabricated and relocation of buildings;
• Build a deck, shed, retaining wall, towers, etc;
• Alter most buildings and structures on your property;
• Install a new septic system, plumbing, drains, sewers, etc;
• Install solar panels

If you are unsure if your projects requires a permit, always contact the Building Department and they will help you with all of your questions and inquiries. If you build without a building permit, you are subject to increased fees.

What other approvals will I need to get?

Prior to submitting your building permit, you may require approvals from other agencies such as;

• County of Simcoe Transportation & Engineering Department 1-800-263-3199
• Ministry of Transportation Building Land Use Entrance Permit, 1-800-255-7814
• Lake Simcoe Regional Conservation Authority, 1-800-465-0437
• Electrical Safety Authority, 1-877-372-7233
• Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, 705-725-7500

A complete list of Applicable Law can be found in Section 1.4.1.3. of the Ontario Building Code.

What is included in the Building Permit Submission

• Building Permit Application Form (digital file)
• Schedule 1 – Design Information (digital file)
• Digital copy of complete building drawings
• A digital copy of your Pre-Permit Zoning or Site Plan Approval or other applicable law

• Digital copies of all other applicable applications to your project (see details in checklist) 

For a detailed checklist, click on the Building Permit Checklist.

All applications must be submitted by PDF and/or Word format.  We're happy to provide you a copy of applications forms and submission instructions. If you are submitting an application by phone, please follow the instructions on how to scan documents to PDF by phone. Priority will be given to digital applications.

Building Permit Application Forms

• Building Permit Application Forms
• Schedule 1 Designer Information
• Owner/Designer Declaration Form
• Authorization Form (Agent)
• Energy Efficiency Design Summary Form
• Septic Permit Application
• Commitment to General Review by Architect and Engineer

All applications must be submitted to building@ramara.ca by PDF and/or Word format.  We're happy to provide you a copy of applications forms and submission instructions. If you are submitting an application by phone, please follow the instructions on how to scan documents to PDF by phone. Priority will be given to digital applications.

Send in your application

Building Permit Information Package

Check out the New Home Package that provides details on everything you need to build a new house.

Are you building a deck?  Check out the Township's Deck Design information guide to help you with your deck projects.

Please note that Planning Services approval and all other applicable law must be obtained separate to this package.

How long is a Building Permit valid?

The construction of your approval project should start within the first 6 months from the date the permit was issued. If construction is delayed, please contact the Building Department as soon as possible.

 Building Permit Fees

Fees for building permits may vary depending on the type of work required. Review the Building Permit fees for details on specific fees. For more information or questions, please contact the building department.

When developing a vacant property, development charges do apply.

 Building Inspections

Building inspections require a minimum of 48 hours notice. To book an inspection, please call 705-484-5374 ext. 298. When calling for an inspection, please provide the following information:

• Civic Address
• Type of Inspection
• Date of inspection
• Contact Details