Building Permits
The Building Services Division is the authority having jurisdiction over the Building Code Act and the Ontario Building Code. Our team of Building Officials issues building permits to help create safe, accessible, and sustainable buildings in the Municipality of Port Hope.
Permit process | ||||||||||||||||
The property owner is responsible for ensuring work does not proceed unless the required permits have been issued. Building and demolishing without a permit can result in fines and penalties as set out in the Building Code Act. Follow these steps to obtaining a permit for your project: | ||||||||||||||||
Review your project with the Planning Division | ||||||||||||||||
The Planning Division is required to review proposals for most projects, including, but not limited to, new construction, additions, accessory structures (such as a shed or detached garage), and decks. The process ensures your project meets the requirements of the Zoning-By-law. Additional applications and requirements may be identified. The planning review can be completed with your building permit application. Ensure your site plan drawing is included with your submission. Apply for your planning review |
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Review the building permit requirements | ||||||||||||||||
To submit a complete application, requirements must be met according to the Ontario Building Code. This varies from project to project. Basic requirements All projects require an Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish. This form must have all applicable fields and schedules completed and attached. The applicant must be the legal property owner, or an authorized agent of the owner. Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish Drawings Provide the required building drawings and specifications as outlined in the Municipality of Port Hope Building By-law. Drawings can be prepared by the property owner for construction related to a house. A BCIN Designer, Architect or Engineer can prepare drawings for projects within their qualifications. |
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Complete any additional forms and items | ||||||||||||||||
Depending on the scope of work and circumstances, additional forms, drawings and/or documents may be required.
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Submit your application | ||||||||||||||||
We have two options on how to submit your application:
Drawings are appreciated in electronic format to provide the best resolution for review. PDF is preferred. |
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Pay the associated fees | ||||||||||||||||
Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive an invoice by email and payment can be made. Visit our fees and charges webpage for a breakdown of the permit fees in Port Hope. New construction and some non-residential additions are also subject to Development Charges as prescribed by the Municipality of Port Hope and Northumberland County. To make a payment you can:
If paying by cheque, make payable to the Municipality of Port Hope. Please note there is a $30 charge for NSF cheques. For assistance, contact the Building Services Division at 905-885-2431 or email us. |
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Wait for the permit card | ||||||||||||||||
The Building Services team will complete a final review of your complete application before your permit is issued. If anything is outstanding, the applicant will be notified. Work is not permitted to begin until the permit has been issued. With a complete application and all deficiencies addressed, the official permit card will be emailed bearing signature. This document is to be posted on the property in a visible location, typically on the front door or window. Ensure the project drawings are on-site for viewing as well. The project can begin with these requirements met. If you're planning any project that requires digging, you're responsible for getting locates on all utilities and services before digging. Don't forget, you must click before you dig! |
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Schedule the inspections | ||||||||||||||||
Your permit card also acts as an inspection checklist:
Note: Your list may not be exhaustive, and additional inspections may be required. You can request a building inspection online, or contact us at 905-885-2431 or by email. Results are sent to the applicant. Northumberland County is responsible for plumbing inspections in the Municipality of Port Hope. |
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Enjoy your finished project | ||||||||||||||||
If you have any questions or need an accessible version of one of the PDFs on this page, please contact us by phone at 905-885-2431 or by email.