In a demolition control area, for example, you will not be able to demolish a residential property until you have received a building permit for new construction. Or, because of the building s historic or architectural importance, it may be designated, or be intended for designation as a heritage building under the Ontario Heritage Act. In that case demolition will require council s approval and there may have to be negotiations over how some of the unique character of the building can be preserved. If you want to change the way you use all or part of your building you may need a change of use permit, even if you re not planning any construction. A building evaluation may have to be done to make sure that the existing building can support the proposed use.
Different uses have different code requirements.
Call the Town s building department to find out whether you will need a change of use permit. Fines can also be imposed if you don t follow an order from the building department. In addition to the planning approvals and building permit which are required for a building project, there are other permits and approvals required in particular circumstances. For example, a septic tank permit is required for a new septic system.