How Long Does a Building Permit Take in Ontario?
Building permit approval times in Ontario vary by municipality and project type. This guide covers typical timelines and tips to avoid delays, based on our experience with hundreds of Ontario permit applications.
Typical Permit Approval Times
- Residential (simple): 10–15 business days — deck, interior renovation, wall removal
- Residential (complex): 15–25 business days — additions, new homes
- Basement apartment: 15–20 business days
- Commercial: 20–40+ business days — see our commercial timeline guide
- New construction: 20–30 business days
Factors That Affect Timeline
Completeness of your drawing submission, municipality workload, zoning compliance, need for variances or Committee of Adjustment approvals, required third-party reviews (structural engineering, geotechnical), and seasonal demand.
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Related Resources
- How the Ontario Permit Process Works
- Building Permit Drawing Cost Guide
- Permit Rejected? We Can Help
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get a building permit in Ontario?
Submit a complete, OBC-compliant application the first time. Missing information and deficiency notices are the #1 cause of delays. Working with an experienced BCIN-certified designer significantly reduces the risk of deficiencies.