FAQ

A BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) is issued to designers by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

In general, designers who are not professional engineers or architects and engage in the following design activities are required to meet the qualification and registration requirements under the Building Code:

Preparing a design as part of a building permit application.
Providing information or an opinion on whether a building or part of a building complies with the Building Code, if the information or opinion is to be submitted to a Chief Building Official in connection with a building permit application.
Preparing a written report for submission to the Chief Building Official based on a general review, where a general review is required by the Building Code.

Homeowners who perform their own design work are not required to obtain a BCIN.

What are the consequences of not obtaining a building permit?

Administrative Penalty Fees
Under the Building Permit Bylaw, administrative penalty fees apply for "Work Prior to Permit Issuance at Any Stage of Construction." For specific fees, please refer to the bylaw.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Order to Comply: If you receive an Order to Comply, you will need to obtain a building or demolition permit. This Order may be registered on title, which could impact your ability to refinance or sell the property.
Order to Stop Work: An Order to Stop Work may also be issued and could be registered on title, potentially affecting your ability to refinance or sell the property.

Additional Costs and Liabilities

Repairs or Removal: If construction does not comply with the Ontario Building Code or other applicable laws (such as regulations from the Niagara Escarpment Commission, Conservation Authorities, or Zoning By-law), it may require costly repairs or removal.
Professional Inspections/Reports: You may incur additional expenses for inspections and reports conducted by professional engineers.

Potential Legal and Financial Penalties

Fines and Legal Action: Failure to comply with building regulations can result in significant fines and legal action against all involved parties. Under Section 36 of the Building Code Act, maximum fines for a first offense can be up to $50,000 for an individual or $500,000 for a corporation.

How long is my building permit good for?

Building Permit Validity
Your building permit remains valid for up to six months before construction must begin.

If construction does not commence within six months, your permit may be revoked in accordance with Section 8 of the Building Code Act.

Need More Time?
We understand that delays can occur. If your project is delayed, please reach out to the Building Division at 905-309-2022 or building@grimsby.ca. We're here to assist you and explore possible solutions!

What are the most common things that delay a building permit from being issued?

Common Reasons for Application Delays or Rejection

a) Missing Information: Incomplete applications, missing dimensions, or missing drawings.

b) Poor Quality Plans: Submissions with poorly drawn diagrams or missed information due to a lack of drafting knowledge.

c) Inaccurate or Incomplete Septic Information: Missing or incorrect septic details (if applicable).

d) Incomplete Designer Information: The Schedule 1: Designer Information page of the application form is either not completed or not signed.

e) High Application Volume: The highest volume of applications is typically received between May and September, which may cause delays.

I've been issued my building permit, do I need to post it in a visible location?

Yes, you are required to post your Building Permit in a visible/conspicuous location on-site for the entire duration of construction. This allows both the public and the Building Inspector to easily view the permit.

Do I need an electrical permit?

Electrical Work and Permits

Electrical work is regulated by the Ontario Electrical Safety Code and overseen by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). As such, the Town of Grimsby does not issue permits or conduct inspections for electrical work.

It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that an electrical notification (permit) and electrical inspection are completed as required by the ESA.

For more information on ESA requirements, please visit esasafe.com.

Are my neighbours notified about my building permit?

Your neighbours are not notified about your building permit providing the proposed work meets all current zoning regulations. Once a building permit has been issued, you are required to display the permit visibly from the street, road or waterway.

Who is responsible for obtaining a building permit and arranging the required inspections?

While contractors often act as authorized agents, the homeowner remains ultimately responsible. Homeowners should discuss roles and responsibilities with their contractor before applying for a building permit. Where a permit is required, no work may begin and no inspections will occur until the permit has been issued.

Are zoning regulations still applicable when a building permit is not required?

Even if a building permit is not required, all construction projects must still comply with applicable zoning regulations. Regardless of the size or scope of the project, property owners are encouraged to contact the Town of Grimsby Planning Department at 905-945-9634 ext. 2128 or email planning@grimsby.ca to confirm zoning requirements and permitted uses for the property.

What should I do if the address of a new property is unknown?

Municipal addresses for new properties are assigned at the time a building permit is issued.

What does a building inspector do on a project?

Building inspectors conduct inspections at various stages of construction to verify compliance with the Building Code and the approved permit drawings. The number of inspections depends on the scope of the project. Visit our Inspections page to leave more about the specific type of inspections your project may require and what the Inspector will generally be looking for at each stage.

Am I allowed to do my own drawings for a permit application?

Yes. Owners may create their own drawings under the Ontario Building Code if the design falls within Division B, Part 9. If the drawings do not meet the required standard or are missing information, the owner will be asked to update them or hire a qualified designer as required by the Code.

I plan to carry out construction on a new home. Can I apply for a building permit before ownership is transferred?

No. You must be the legal owner of the property before applying for a building permit. If you purchase a property where construction is already underway, you are required to apply to have the permit transferred from the previous owner to yourself.

Are there currently any grants or rebates available to support energy-efficiency initiatives?

There are a variety of grants, rebates, and incentives available to help you save money on energy-efficient upgrades. These programs can help reduce the cost of home improvements such as insulation, heat pumps, smart thermostats, solar panels, and more. Be sure to check with Enbridge Gas to see which incentives are currently available.

Keep up to date with Enbridge for any available grants or rebates

Click Here for Enbridge

If you require further assistance or have any questions, please feel free to contact us. You can email building@grimsby.ca, or call 905.309.2022 to speak with a Building Technician, who will be happy to offer guidance.