Non-residential Interior Alterations

Before you get started, consult the Zoning By-law to ensure your proposed plans for the unit are permitted under the Town of Oakville's zoning by-laws which regulate the use, shape and location of buildings on properties. Visit our Zoning page or contact us at 905-845-6601 ext. 3955.

Anytime there is a change of use for the building or unit, a Zoning Certificate of Occupancy is required. You may also require this certificate to obtain a business licence.

If you are a new owner or tenant moving into a space or if a change of use is occurring, development charges for the Region of Halton may apply. A non-residential development charge form (pdf) will need to be submitted so the region can review the scope of work and determine if charges are applicable. Development charges must be paid prior to building permit issuance. For more information on development charges, including current rates, please visit the development charges page.

If your project is deemed to be substantial redevelopment, then Planning approval is required from the town. If you are opening a daycare centre, site plan approval may be required. Learn more at planning applications or contact planningapps@oakville.ca.

In certain instances, approvals from additional agencies are required.

• Business owners or operators are required to notify Halton Region Public Health when they are planning to open to the public, reopen (seasonal), undergo renovations or change in operation and/or services provided to the public including food premises, personal services setting, class A&B pools and tobacco/vapour product retailers. For more information visit Halton Region Public Health Notification of Business Opening, Reopening & Renovation.
• If your project changes the use of the building or unit to a more sensitive use, you will need to provide a record of site condition from the Ministry of the Environment. An example, of a change to more sensitive use is proposing a daycare centre in a former industrial unit.  
• If your project is for a daycare centre, Montessori school or private school you will need to provide a letter of approval from the Ministry of Education.
• If your project is for a long-term care facility, you will need to provide a letter of approval from the Ministry of Long-Term Care.

Demolition activities may be eligible  for a reduction in property tax assessment under Section 357 of the Municipal Act which provides municipalities with the authority to cancel, reduce  or refund taxes based on specific criteria.

If you think you are eligible to apply for a property tax adjustment please complete the Application for Cancellation/ Reduction/Refund of Taxes under Section 357 form (pdf) and send to propertytaxrebates@oakville.ca. 

Deadline for submission is the last day of February, the year following the issuance of a demolition permit. 

A fee will apply, updated fees can be found on the Administrative Service Fees page.

Learn more about property tax assessments.