Building Permits

Apply for a building permit before you start your next project in the Municipality of Trent Hills. Building permits allow you to build, add to or renovate a building. They ensure everyone's safety and that your project follows our by-laws and the Ontario Building Code.

Apply for a building permit

NEW - Submit your building permit application online through the Trent Hills Permit Portal - Citywide.

Complete a Permit to Construct or Demolish Application to apply. A Septic Permit Application might also be required if you're installing, replacing or repairing a septic system. Use the Building Application Checklist to ensure that you follow all the steps and have a complete application for review.

It is a violation under the Building Code Act to build without a permit.

When do I need a building permit?

You must get a permit if you are:

Constructing any new building or structure
Demolishing part or all of a building
Extension or repairing a building
Fire Protection
HVAC - New or Alterations
Installing new or alterations to plumbing
Installing solid fuel burning appliance (ie: fireplace or woodstove)
Installing solar panels or wind turbines
Making material alterations
Renovating or converting an existing building
Septic - New or Repairs
Sign Installation
Swimming pool installation

Building Permit Exceptions

You don't need a building permit for the following:

Erecting a fence
Fixing a roof without any structural work
Installing eavestroughs, if drainage is contained on your property
Installing siding on small residential buildings
Painting or decorating, including interior finishes
Reinstalling kitchen or bathroom cupboards without plumbing
Replacing an existing door or window - if same size and location

Building Department Guides and Forms

Building Permit Guide

View our Building Permit Guide

Accessory Building Foundation Design

View our Accessory Building Foundation Guide

Deck Design Guide

View our Deck Design Guide

Site Plan Example

View a Site Plan Example

Tent Permit Guide

View our Tent Permit Guide

Building Department Forms

Application to Construct or Demolish (Building Permit)

Building Permit Application Checklist

Energy Efficiency Design Summary

Letter of Authorization (Appointing An Agent)

Sewage System Permit

Sign Permit

Swimming Pool Permit

Commitment to General Review Form

Have a question? Submit a Building Department Inquiry Form

Request an Inspection

Land Acknowledgement

We recognize the traditional keepers of this land and, specifically our neighbours of the Alderville First Nation, with a formal territorial acknowledgement.

Welcome to the Gunshot Treaty Lands of 1788. It is on these lands and on the shores of the big lake, the Mississauga Anishinabeg met with the Crown to facilitate the opening of these lands for
settlement.

Let us be reminded of the responsibility we all have in making sure that we respect these lands and waters that give us life and sustain our livelihoods.