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
The Two Phases of the Timeline
The total time to a building permit is really two separate clocks, and understanding the difference helps you plan:
- Drawing preparation (you control this): a complete BCIN drawing set is typically ready in 5–10 business days with Ontario Design Studio. This is the part a good designer can move quickly.
- Municipal review (the city controls this): Ontario legislation sets target review times once a complete application is received - about 10 business days for houses, 15 for small buildings, and 20-30 for larger and commercial projects. Incomplete drawings reset this clock.
Factors That Affect Your Timeline
- Completeness of the drawing submission - the single biggest factor
- Municipality workload and seasonal demand (spring and summer are busiest)
- Zoning compliance, or the need for a minor variance or Committee of Adjustment approval
- Required third-party reviews such as structural engineering or conservation authority sign-off
- How quickly you respond to examiner comments
How to Speed Up Your Permit
The fastest permits share three things: a complete, code-compliant first submission, a zoning check done before drawing (so there are no surprise variances), and fast responses to the examiner. A minor variance can add two to four months, so confirming zoning early is often the single biggest time-saver. This is exactly where an experienced BCIN designer earns their fee - our submissions are built to clear review the first time.
What If Your Application Is Rejected?
If the examiner issues a deficiency notice, the review clock pauses until you resubmit corrected drawings - which is why a rejection can add weeks. We routinely take over stalled applications, correct the deficiencies, and resubmit. See Permit Rejected? We Can Help.
Ready to get started?
Call 416-558-9607 for a free consultation or request a quote online.
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.