Do you need a fence permit for your Toronto home?
There are standards for fence height and structure in Toronto. If you have a swimming pool, you need to have a particular type of fence. If you need your fence to be taller for a specific reason, you have to apply for a fence exemption permit. Home fences cannot be made of:
Do I need a building permit to build or replace my fence?
A building permit is not required to build or replace your fence, however, you are required to comply with the Fence By-law.
What is the line fence law in Ontario?
The Line Fences Act provides a dispute resolution procedure between the owners of adjoining properties in most of Ontario. Line fences are fences that mark the boundary between properties and are often referred to as boundary or division fences. The Act does not deal with disputes about fences that are not on a boundary line.
What is a building permit in Ontario?
Building permits A building permit is a document issued by the body responsible for enforcing Ontario’s Building Code in your area. A building permit is necessary when you wish to construct, renovate, demolish or change the use of a building.
Do I need a permit to put a fence around my yard?
Even where you will be installing the fence within your own property makes a difference. A privacy fence in your backyard will often not require a permit unless it is to be over 6 feet tall, depending on where you live, while the cut-off for the same type of fence in your front yard may be just 3.5 feet.
What happens if you build without a permit in Ontario?
Consequences for violating the Building Code Act, 1992 An individual who is charged and found guilty of an offence under the Building Code Act, 1992 , such as building without a permit, can be fined up to $50,000 for a first offence and up to $100,000 for subsequent offences.
How close to the property line can I build a fence?
Check Rules and Regulations Typically, fences are installed anywhere from 2 to 8 inches from a property line in most areas. Some areas might allow to go right up to a property line, especially if you live in an urban row house where every inch makes a difference!
Do you need a permit to pour concrete in your backyard Ontario?
When you are pouring concrete for a patio, the concrete may not need a permit if it is less than 30 inches above grade. If it is 30 inches or more above grade, you will likely need a permit before pouring concrete.
How much does a building permit cost in Ontario?
For a residential property, a permit will cost a minimum of $174. Permits for non-residential properties will cost a minimum of $292. You will need to pay a $20 administrative fee when you submit your request online.
Do you need a permit to build a deck in Ontario?
Do I need a permit to construct a deck or porch? Generally, a Building Permit is required for a deck or porch that is attached to the principal dwelling or used in conjunction with an on-ground or above-ground swimming pool.
Can my neighbor build a fence on the property line Ontario?
A property owner can build a fence anywhere on their side of the dividing line between two properties (also called the property line). If a property owner wants to put a fence right along the property line, they can do so only if the owner of the adjacent property agrees.
Who owns the fence between two houses?
When looking at the plans, the ownership is indicated by a “T” marked on the plans on one side of a boundary. If the “T” is written on your side of the boundary, you're responsible for maintaining it. If there's an H (although actually it's two joined Ts) the boundary is the joint responsibility of both parties.
How close can I build to my Neighbours boundary?
As a rule of thumb, a build that reaches 7.2 feet is considered acceptable and anything over that we do recommend speaking to your neighbour.
What is the penalty for building without a permit?
It is also an offence to use or permit the use of a building which is dangerous or insanitary, or if it has inadequate means of escape from fire. This offence carries a fine of up to $100,000. If you continue this offence, there is a further fine not exceeding $10,000 for every day the offence is continued.
How big can I build a shed without a permit in Ontario?
160 square feetThe Ontario Building Code was recently changed to allow for sheds up to 160 square feet to be built WITHOUT a building permit. Any structure larger than 160 square feet requires a building permit. For structures over 160 square feet, we will handle the permit process for you.
What happens if I finish my basement without a permit in Ontario?
There are consequences for not getting a permit. You could face a fine, or the municipality may force you to remove walls, ceilings, cabinets and other finishes so that an inspector can determine if the work complies with the building requirements. In the worst case, they'll have the renovation removed entirely.
What is the penalty for building without a permit?
It is also an offence to use or permit the use of a building which is dangerous or insanitary, or if it has inadequate means of escape from fire. This offence carries a fine of up to $100,000. If you continue this offence, there is a further fine not exceeding $10,000 for every day the offence is continued.
What happens if you build without planning permission?
If you build without planning permission, you may not be breaking any rules. However, if there is a planning breach, you may have to submit a retrospective application or even appeal against an enforcement notice.
How big can I build a shed without a permit in Ontario?
160 square feetThe Ontario Building Code was recently changed to allow for sheds up to 160 square feet to be built WITHOUT a building permit. Any structure larger than 160 square feet requires a building permit. For structures over 160 square feet, we will handle the permit process for you.
What happens if I finish my basement without a permit in Ontario?
There are consequences for not getting a permit. You could face a fine, or the municipality may force you to remove walls, ceilings, cabinets and other finishes so that an inspector can determine if the work complies with the building requirements. In the worst case, they'll have the renovation removed entirely.
Height Regulations of Residential Fences
On the sides of your property and in the backyard, your fence can be up to 7 feet high. This provides all the privacy a person needs to feel comfortable. However, go beyond that, and you’ll have the by-law police at your door. When it comes to your front yard, you’re more limited. Fences erected in your front yard can be, at maximum, 3 feet tall.
Materials You Can and Cannot Use
Even though it may add an extra layer of security, there are certain materials that you can’t use when building your fence. This includes anything that could be potentially dangerous to another person or an animal. Your fence can’t have barbed wire, chicken wire, or an electric current running through it, for instance.
Local Service Cables in Your Neighborhood
Wires and service cables run underground. Before you dig, make sure you know where they are to avoid hitting one. You are liable for any damage you do to these cables. To get a map of the local service cables, you’ll have to call Hydro One at least five days in advance.
Who is responsible for building permits in Ontario?
Both the owner and the builder/contractor are responsible for the process and are equally liable under the Ontario Building Code Act. Building Permits are necessary to ensure that zoning requirements, fire and structural safety standards and other building standards are met. I want to upgrade my electrical service.
When is a final occupancy permit issued?
A Final Occupancy Permit is issued when construction is complete , all outstanding Code deficiencies noted in Inspection Reports have been addressed, the minimum occupancy requirements have been met and there are no outstanding Building Code Orders.
What is a partial occupancy permit?
A Partial Occupancy Permit is issued where the permit holder wishes to allow occupancy to occur in an unfinished building or part thereof. In order to be eligible for a Partial Occupancy Permit, Occupancy Permit, there must be no outstanding Building Code Orders and certain building components and systems must be completed and inspected under Division C, Part 1, Articles 1.3.3.1. or 1.3.3.2. of the 2006 Ontario Building Code.
How long does it take for a building permit to be revoked?
Construction can commence once the Building Permit has been issued. The construction must seriously commence within six months of the Building Permit being issued, or the Permit can be revoked.
Can I get a building permit before I take possession of my house?
Yes, you may apply for a Building Permit before you take possession of the house; however, you must provide proof of ownership before the permit can be issued, i.e. copy of deed.
What forms do I need to file a fence viewer complaint?
Depending on the circumstances, you may need to complete: Form 1: Request for Fence-Viewers. Form 2: Clerk’s Notice to Parties (Dispute) Form 3: Clerk’s Notice to Fence-Viewers (Dispute) Form 4: Award. Form 5: Owner’s Notice of Appeal from Fence-Viewers’ Award. Form 6: Affidavit of Service of Notice of Appeal.
What is a line fence?
Line fences are fences that mark the boundary between properties and are often referred to as boundary or division fences. The Act does not deal with disputes about fences that are not on a boundary line. The arbitration of fencing disputes is the responsibility of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in Ontario’s unorganized ...
What is a fence viewer?
A fence-viewer is: Three fence-viewers are required to be present at a viewing, and they are only authorized to address one or both of the following issues:
How long does it take to appeal a fence?
Appeals. An owner who is dissatisfied with an award has 15 days from the date of receiving a certified copy of the award to initiate an appeal. An award is deemed to have been received seven days after being sent by registered mail. Only the original award of the fence-viewers can be appealed.
Who has the authority to pass a by-law to exempt all or part of a municipality from the Act
A municipal council has the authority to pass a by-law to exempt all or part of a municipality from the Act and, instead, pass a by-law assigning the costs of line-fences between owners. Contact your local municipality to find out if such a by-law exists.
Do municipalities have jurisdiction over fences?
Municipalities and their fence-viewers have no jurisdiction to deal with boundary issues. As many municipal staff members and fence-viewers are aware, property owners involved in a boundary dispute often approach the municipality in the hope that the matter can be resolved without the need for them to obtain legal advice and a survey. ...
How to get a pool fence permit in Toronto?
For further information please call Toronto Building Customer Service at 416-397-5330. Step 2: If your Zoning Certificate is approved , you need to submit the following to apply for a Pool Fence Enclosure Permit:
What is the fence bylaw in Toronto?
The Fence Bylaw sets standards for fences in Toronto and includes rules for fence height, material, and structure. These rules vary depending on whether the fence is on residential or non-residential property, where the fence is located on the property and whether the fence encloses a pool.
What type of fence is allowed in a pool?
Permitted fence types are chain-link fencing (small gauge), wood fencing (either vertical or horizontal boards), a metal picket fence, a glass panel fence, and a masonry wall.
How far from the lot line is an open fence?
For safety reasons, all fences within 2.4 metres of a driveway must be of open-fence construction (for example, open mesh chain-link) for at least 2.4 metres from the lot line where the driveway begins. This applies to the fence or hedge, as well as vegetation growing on the fence and any objects placed on the fence.
Can you use chicken wire on a fence?
Fence Restrictions. Material: fences generally cannot contain barbed wire, chicken wire, or any other barbed or sharp material. Metal: sheet metal and corrugated metal panels are not allowed. Electric fences: most fences cannot be used to conduct electricity, unless the fence is on agricultural land used for raising livestock.
Do you have to comply with the property standards for a fence?
If a fence is used as a guard, it must comply with the Property Standards Bylaw . If the guard forms part of a swimming pool enclosure, it must also comply with the Fence Bylaw . In circumstances where more than one applies, the more restrictive rule applies.
How tall is a privacy fence?
A privacy fence in your backyard will often not require a permit unless it is to be over 6 feet tall, while the cut-off for the same type of fence in your front yard is just 3.5 feet.
Can you be out of the woods if your application is accepted?
Even if your application is accepted, you are not out of the woods. Some municipalities will give you a list of inspections that must take place during installation. Successfully passing these inspections sets you up for one, last inspection that puts the government's seal of approval on your structure.
