Process Maps
These overviews of the Building Permit process outlines the key steps, from submitting your application to receiving approval to average processing times. It guides you through the necessary requirements and helps you understand the typical project timeline. Following these steps will ensure your application is complete and meets all regulations.
step-by-step
Minor Project Guide
Determine if a Permit is Required
 |
Not all renovations or construction require a permit. Minor repairs, interior painting, or fixture replacements typically don’t need one. However, new builds, significant alterations, structural changes, or additions do. If your project involves a septic system, it must be approved by the Niagara Region based on your construction plans. Always check with your local building division if you’re unsure. For more details, go to our Do I Need a Building Permit? and always check with your local building division if you are still unsure. |
Understand the Purpose of a Building Permit
 |
A building permit is a legal requirement for most construction projects in Ontario. It ensures that your plans meet local building codes and regulations, protecting both you and the community. Failing to obtain a permit can result in fines, delays, or even the need to dismantle unauthorized work. More information about the consequences of not obtaining a permit can be found on our FAQ page. |
Understand the Zoning By-laws
 |
Zoning by-laws dictate what can be built on your property, including height restrictions, setbacks, and land use. Review Grimsby’s zoning by-law to ensure your project complies or consult with your local municipal planner to avoid costly revisions. Confirm whether your property is subject to conservation authority or heritage approval. Contact: 905-309-2019. |
Grading Plans
 |
For some large additions or new buildings, a grading plan stamped by an engineer may be required. The plan should include existing and proposed conditions, distances between buildings and property lines, driveways, surrounding streets, landscaped areas, municipal address, service locations, easements, and drainage characteristics such as swales and elevations. Contact: 905-309-2014 |
Find Out If You Need Additional Approvals
 |
Depending on the type of project you’re working on and where your property is located, you may need other approvals before your building permit can be applied for. Common examples of additional approvals, include
|
Prepared Detailed Plans
 |
Before applying for a permit, ensure you have thorough plans for your project. These should include architectural drawings, site plans, and any structural, mechanical, and electrical layouts. Accurate and detailed plans will help streamline the review process. Visit our |
Submit Your Application
 |
Submit your completed application to Grimsby’s building division, or have your builder or designer handle this for you. Ensure all forms are accurately completed to avoid delays. Visit our Application Portal page to get more details about the submission process and how to access and use Cloudpermit. |
Pay the Permit Fees
 |
Building permit fees vary based on your project's size and scope. These fees cover plan review and inspections. Check with Grimsby's building division for the fee structure and be prepared to make the payment when you submit your application. For detailed information on rates and fees, requirements, and refund policies, refer to Grimsby’s Rates and Fees page. |
Wait for the Permit Review
 |
After submission, your application will be reviewed by a building official, zoning planner, and development engineer (if applicable) to ensure it meets all codes and regulations. This process can take a few weeks, depending on your project's complexity and the building division’s workload. Visit our Process Timeframes section below to get more info on potential review times. |
Schedule Inspections
 |
Once your permit is approved and construction begins, you'll need to schedule inspections at various stages of the project. Inspections ensure that the work complies with the approved plans and building codes. Common inspection points include foundation, framing, insulation, fireplace/flue, HVAC, plumbing, and final completion. Consult your builder if you have questions. Visit our Inspections page to get more information of the types of inspections you may require and a list of what may be inspected at each stage. |
Obtain the Final Occupancy Permit
 |
After completing your project, you’ll need an inspection to receive an occupancy permit. This permit confirms that your new building is safe and meets all building standards. You can only legally occupy your new building once you have this permit. Visit our Inspections page to see what will be inspected at your occupancy inspection. |
Complete
 |
Navigating the building permit process in Ontario can be complex, but with proper planning, it can be smooth and efficient. In Grimsby, we provide assistance throughout the entire process, from planning to final inspection, ensuring the success of your construction project. If you need help with your building permit application, our expert team is ready to assist you. |
To download or print off a PDF version of the Minor Construction Step-by-step guide
Determine if a Permit is Required
 |
|
Not all renovations or construction require a permit. Minor repairs, interior painting, or fixture replacements typically don’t need one. However, new builds, significant alterations, structural changes, or additions do. If your project involves a septic system, it must be approved by the Niagara Region based on your construction plans. Always check with your local building division if you’re unsure. For more details, go to our Do I Need a Building Permit? and always check with your local building division if you are still unsure. |
Understand the Purpose of a Building Permit
 |
|
A building permit is a legal requirement for most construction projects in Ontario. It ensures that your plans meet local building codes and regulations, protecting both you and the community. Failing to obtain a permit can result in fines, delays, or even the need to dismantle unauthorized work. More information about the consequences of not obtaining a permit can be found on our FAQ page. |
Understand the Zoning By-laws
 |
| Zoning by-laws dictate what can be built on your property, including height restrictions, setbacks, and land use. Review Grimsby’s zoning by-law to ensure your project complies or consult with your local municipal planner to avoid costly revisions. Confirm whether your property is subject to conservation authority or heritage approval. Contact: 905-309-2019. |
Grading Plans
 |
|
For some large additions or new buildings, a grading plan stamped by an engineer may be required. The plan should include existing and proposed conditions, distances between buildings and property lines, driveways, surrounding streets, landscaped areas, municipal address, service locations, easements, and drainage characteristics such as swales and elevations. Contact: 905-309-2014 |
Find Out If You Need Additional Approvals
 |
|
Depending on the type of project you’re working on and where your property is located, you may need other approvals before your building permit can be applied for. Common examples of additional approvals, include
|
Prepared Detailed Plans
 |
|
Before applying for a permit, ensure you have thorough plans for your project. These should include architectural drawings, site plans, and any structural, mechanical, and electrical layouts. Accurate and detailed plans will help streamline the review process. Visit our |
Submit Your Application
 |
|
Submit your completed application to Grimsby’s building division, or have your builder or designer handle this for you. Ensure all forms are accurately completed to avoid delays. Visit our Application Portal page to get more details about the submission process and how to access and use Cloudpermit. |
Pay the Permit Fees
 |
|
Building permit fees vary based on your project's size and scope. These fees cover plan review and inspections. Check with Grimsby's building division for the fee structure and be prepared to make the payment when you submit your application. For detailed information on rates and fees, requirements, and refund policies, refer to Grimsby’s Rates and Fees page. |
Wait for the Permit Review
 |
|
After submission, your application will be reviewed by a building official, zoning planner, and development engineer (if applicable) to ensure it meets all codes and regulations. This process can take a few weeks, depending on your project's complexity and the building division’s workload. Visit our Process Timeframes section below to get more info on potential review times. |
Schedule Inspections
 |
|
Once your permit is approved and construction begins, you'll need to schedule inspections at various stages of the project. Inspections ensure that the work complies with the approved plans and building codes. Common inspection points include foundation, framing, insulation, fireplace/flue, HVAC, plumbing, and final completion. Consult your builder if you have questions. Visit our Inspections page to get more information of the types of inspections you may require and a list of what may be inspected at each stage. |
Obtain the Final Occupancy Permit
 |
|
After completing your project, you’ll need an inspection to receive an occupancy permit. This permit confirms that your new building is safe and meets all building standards. You can only legally occupy your new building once you have this permit. Visit our Inspections page to see what will be inspected at your occupancy inspection. |
Complete
 |
| Navigating the building permit process in Ontario can be complex, but with proper planning, it can be smooth and efficient. In Grimsby, we provide assistance throughout the entire process, from planning to final inspection, ensuring the success of your construction project. If you need help with your building permit application, our expert team is ready to assist you. |
To download or print off a PDF version of the Minor Construction Step-by-step guide
step-by-step
Major Project Guide
Determine if a Permit is Required
|
Not all renovations or construction require a permit. Minor repairs, interior painting, or fixture replacements typically don’t need one. However, new builds, significant alterations, structural changes, or additions do. If your project involves a septic system, it must be approved by the Niagara Region based on your construction plans. For more details, go to our Do I Need a Building Permit? and always check with your local building division if you are still unsure. |
Understand the Necessity of a Permit
|
A building permit is a legal requirement for most construction projects in Ontario. It ensures that your plans meet local building codes and regulations, protecting both you and the community. Failing to obtain a permit can result in fines, delays, or even the need to dismantle unauthorized work. More information about the consequences of not obtaining a permit can be found on our FAQ page. |
Find Out What Agencies Conditions or Approvals Apply to Your Project
 |
Depending on the type of project you’re working on and where your property is located, you may need other approvals before your building permit can be applied for. It is recommended to use the free pre-application meeting process managed through our planning division where all relevant agencies will be notified about the project and will provide comment or exemption to help ensure that your permit application goes as smooth as possible. Email: planning@grimsby.ca Phone: 905-945-9634 ext. 2128 |
Prepare Detailed Plans
 |
Once you have satisfied the relevant applicable law agencies requirements and before applying for a permit, ensure you have thorough plans for your project. These should include architectural drawings, site plans, and any structural, mechanical, and electrical layouts. Accurate and detailed plans will help streamline the review process. Visit our Application Guides page to get and in-depth list of everything your project drawings should include as well as sample drawings and checklists to assist you in ensuring your drawings sets are complete before you submit your application. |
Submit Your Application
 |
Submit your completed application to Grimsby’s building department, or have your builder or designer handle this for you. Ensure all forms are accurately completed to avoid delays. Visit our Application Portal page to get more details about the submission process and how to access and use Cloudpermit. |
Pay the Permit Fees
 |
Building permit fees vary based on your project's size and scope. These fees cover plan review and inspections. Check with Grimsby's building division for the fee structure and be prepared to make the payment when you submit your application. Development Charges, Park land Dedication and CBC fees will be collected at the end of the application process. For detailed information on rates and fees, requirements, and refund policies, refer to Grimsby’s Rates and Fees page. |
Wait for the Review Process
 |
After submission, your application will be reviewed by a building official, zoning planner, and development engineer (if applicable) to ensure it meets all codes and regulations. This process can take a few weeks, depending on your project's complexity and the building division’s workload. Visit our Process Timeframes section below to get more info on potential review times. |
Schedule Inspections
 |
Once your permit is approved and construction begins, you'll need to schedule inspections at various stages of the project. Inspections ensure that the work complies with the approved plans and building codes. Common inspection points include foundation, framing, insulation, fireplace/flue, HVAC, plumbing, and final completion. Consult your builder if you have questions. Visit our Inspections page to get more information of the types of inspections you may require and a list of what may be inspected at each stage. |
Obtain the Final Occupancy Permit
 |
After completing your project, you’ll need a final inspection to receive an occupancy permit. This permit confirms that your new building is safe and meets all building standards. You can only legally occupy your new building once you have this permit. Visit our Inspection page to see what will be inspected at your occupancy inspection. |
Complete
 |
Navigating the building permit process in Ontario can be complex, but with proper planning, it can be smooth and efficient. In Grimsby, we provide assistance throughout the entire process, from planning to final inspection, ensuring the success of your construction project. If you need help with your building permit application, our expert team is ready to assist you. |
To download or print off a PDF version of the Major Construction Step-by-step guide
Determine if a Permit is Required
 |
|
Not all renovations or construction require a permit. Minor repairs, interior painting, or fixture replacements typically don’t need one. However, new builds, significant alterations, structural changes, or additions do. If your project involves a septic system, it must be approved by the Niagara Region based on your construction plans. For more details, go to our Do I Need a Building Permit? and always check with your local building division if you are still unsure. |
Understand the Necessity of a Permit
 |
|
A building permit is a legal requirement for most construction projects in Ontario. It ensures that your plans meet local building codes and regulations, protecting both you and the community. Failing to obtain a permit can result in fines, delays, or even the need to dismantle unauthorized work. More information about the consequences of not obtaining a permit can be found on our FAQ page. |
Find Out What Agencies Conditions or Approvals Apply to Your Project
 |
|
Depending on the type of project you’re working on and where your property is located, you may need other approvals before your building permit can be applied for. It is recommended to use the free pre-application meeting process managed through our planning division where all relevant agencies will be notified about the project and will provide comment or exemption to help ensure that your permit application goes as smooth as possible. Email: planning@grimsby.ca Phone: 905-945-9634 ext. 2128 |
Prepare Detailed Plans
 |
|
Once you have satisfied the relevant applicable law agencies requirements and before applying for a permit, ensure you have thorough plans for your project. These should include architectural drawings, site plans, and any structural, mechanical, and electrical layouts. Accurate and detailed plans will help streamline the review process. Visit our |
Submit Your Application
 |
|
Submit your completed application to Grimsby’s building department, or have your builder or designer handle this for you. Ensure all forms are accurately completed to avoid delays. Visit our Application Portal page to get more details about the submission process and how to access and use Cloudpermit. |
Pay the Permit Fees
 |
|
Building permit fees vary based on your project's size and scope. These fees cover plan review and inspections. Check with Grimsby's building division for the fee structure and be prepared to make the payment when you submit your application. Visit our Rates and Fees page for the fee structure and our current rates. |
Wait for the Review Process
 |
|
After submission, your application will be reviewed by a building official, zoning planner, and development engineer (if applicable) to ensure it meets all codes and regulations. This process can take a few weeks, depending on your project's complexity and the building division’s workload. Visit our Process Timeframes section below to get more info on potential review times. |
Schedule Inspections
 |
|
Once your permit is approved and construction begins, you'll need to schedule inspections at various stages of the project. Inspections ensure that the work complies with the approved plans and building codes. Common inspection points include foundation, framing, insulation, fireplace/flue, HVAC, plumbing, and final completion. Consult your builder if you have questions. Visit our Inspections page to get more information of the types of inspections you may require and a list of what may be inspected at each stage. |
Obtain the Final Occupancy Permit
 |
|
After completing your project, you’ll need a final inspection to receive an occupancy permit. This permit confirms that your new building is safe and meets all building standards. You can only legally occupy your new building once you have this permit. Visit our Inspection page to see what will be inspected at your occupancy inspection. |
Complete
 |
| Navigating the building permit process in Ontario can be complex, but with proper planning, it can be smooth and efficient. In Grimsby, we provide assistance throughout the entire process, from planning to final inspection, ensuring the success of your construction project. If you need help with your building permit application, our expert team is ready to assist you. |
To download or print off a PDF version of the Major Construction Step-by-step guide
Process Timeframes
If your application is considered complete, the initial review time will be:
- Residential applications: 10 business days
- Second unit/ Small non-residential applications: 15 business days
- Non-residential applications: 20 business days
Applications that are incomplete will not adhere to the above timelines.
For resubmitted revised drawings, there is no guaranteed review time, as these do not fall under the legislated timeframes mentioned. Each resubmission could potentially extend the review period by two or more weeks.
The total duration for obtaining a permit can vary based on the submission quality and your responsiveness as an applicant. Any request for additional information due to an incomplete application will prolong the review process.
Here are the average processing times for incomplete permits applications:
- New residential (detached, semi): 13 weeks
- Residential alterations (detached, semi): 7 weeks
- Second unit: 10 weeks
- New non-residential: 12 weeks
- Non-residential alterations: 9 weeks
We advise applying for your building permit well before your planned construction date.
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.
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