Building Permit Drawings in Toronto
Ontario Design Studio prepares BCIN-certified building permit drawings for residential and commercial projects across Toronto, including Scarborough, Etobicoke, North York, and downtown Toronto. We work with the City of Toronto building department daily and are experienced with Toronto-specific requirements, submission portals, and review processes.
Toronto Building Permit Services
- Residential permits — new homes, home additions, major renovations
- Legal basement apartment permits — including Toronto's specific second unit requirements
- Laneway suites and garden suites — Toronto's unique laneway housing program
- Commercial tenant fit-outs and change of use applications
- Deck and porch permits
- Multiplex conversions — up to 4 units per lot under Ontario's housing policy
Toronto-Specific Requirements
Toronto has several unique building permit requirements that differ from other Ontario municipalities:
- Laneway Housing: Toronto's laneway suites bylaw permits detached residential units on properties abutting a public laneway. Specific setback, height, and lot coverage rules apply.
- Garden Suite Program: Toronto permits garden suites on most residential lots, subject to size limits based on lot area and main dwelling footprint.
- Toronto Green Standard: New construction and major additions must meet Toronto's sustainability performance requirements.
- Ravine and Heritage Overlay: Properties in ravine protection areas or heritage conservation districts may require additional approvals before a building permit can be issued.
- Digital Submissions: The City of Toronto accepts online permit applications through its portal, which can speed up the process.
Toronto Neighbourhoods We Serve
We prepare building permit drawings for projects in all Toronto neighbourhoods including: Scarborough, Etobicoke, North York, East York, York, Downtown Core, Midtown, The Beaches, Leslieville, Riverdale, High Park, Junction, Roncesvalles, Danforth, Willowdale, Don Mills, and all other areas within the City of Toronto boundary.
Also in the Toronto Area
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a building permit take in Toronto?
The City of Toronto typically reviews residential permit applications in 10–15 business days for simple projects and 15–25 business days for complex projects. Commercial permits can take 20–40+ business days. These timelines depend on application completeness and current department workload.
Does Toronto allow laneway suites?
Yes. Toronto's Laneway Suites bylaw permits the construction of detached residential units on laneways. Laneway suites must have access from a public laneway, meet setback requirements, and comply with height and size limits. Ontario Design Studio prepares BCIN-certified drawings for Toronto laneway suites.
How much does a building permit cost in Toronto?
The City of Toronto charges permit fees based on construction value — typically $12.49 per $1,000 for residential and $15.60 per $1,000 for commercial. In addition to city fees, you'll need BCIN-certified drawings which range from $1,000 to $10,000+ depending on project type.