Building Permits

Most renovation, construction or demolition projects require a building permit.

Build safe. Build with a permit.

The purpose of a building permit is to make sure your project follows the requirements of the Ontario Building Code, the Town of Oakville Zoning By-law and any other approvals you may need.

It is illegal to start construction before receiving a building permit. 

Your project must meet zoning regulations even if it doesn’t require a building permit. 

Coming soon! New online tool for building permits

The town is modernizing building permit applications, from intake to approvals, bringing all processes into a single online platform - ePlan. This will help with faster and easier collaboration to speed up the process and improve  user experience. 

Anticipated launch is in early 2025 when you will be able to access the new system through oakville.ca. Stay tuned for details. Town staff will be available to support you with using the new system. Any existing building permit applications before the launch of ePlan will continue to progress in the current system.

Common building projects

Before applying for a permit

It's important that you learn about the specific drawings and documents you need to apply for a building permit for your construction project. 

We've listed some common projects below.