A building permit is required for a temporary structure (tents and garden centres) if it is greater than 60 metres square.
Regardless of the size of the temporary structure, if it is located within three metres of another structure or attached to a structure you will require a building permit.
If locating the temporary structure in a public park, a special events permit is required.
Project preparation
Verify that your plans, proposed dimensions and location are permitted under the Town of Oakville's zoning by-laws which regulate the use, shape and location of structures on properties.
Development charges may apply to some tents, such as a garden centre ancillary to a retail use, or an industrial tent. A non-residential development charge form may need to be submitted so the town, region and school boards can review the scope of work and determine if charges apply.
Development charges must be paid prior to building permit issuance. Learn more about development charges, including current rates.
Submission materials
Digital copies of drawings and documents are required, scaled to size and flattened. Typically, an engineer is retained for the project.
Prepare the following documents:
- Site plan - to identify location of temporary and existing structures
- Floor plan including seating arrangement, aisle width and exits
- Elevations
- Location of sanitary facilities if the structure has bleachers, side walls or exceeds 225 square metres
- Supporting framing structures and anchorage system
- Fabric certification document
- Commitment to general review (pdf) if structure exceeds 225 square metres
- Letter of use indicating dates of structure set up and removal
- Non-residential development charges form (pdf)
- Oakville Permit Application Authorization (pdf)
- Fees
- Building Permits & Inspections
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- Construction Projects
- Non-residential Interior Alterations
- Non-residential Additions and Alterations
- Non-residential New Construction
- Non-residential Demolition
- Temporary Tents and Garden Centres
- Shelf and Rack Storage System
- Part 3 New Residential Construction
- Part 3 Residential Addition and Alteration
- Part 3 Residential Alteration
- Site Servicing
- Solar Panel Installation
- Rates & Fees
Need help?
Contact Building Services:
buildingrequests@oakville.ca
905-845-6601 ext. 7377
Build smart. Build safe. Build with a permit.