You are here: Building permits.

When is a building permit needed ?

A recent article in The Whig about a property owner paving some of his front lawn for parking generated some interest and correspondence to the Editor. Regardless, this attempt at a “parking solution” contravenes city by-laws and policy, the intent of which is to protect the nature of neighbourhoods; converting front yards to parking lots would have a dramatic and negative effect.

To save time and expense, not to mention the possible expense of having to undo improper work, it is always a good idea to check with the Building Department to see if a permit is needed. Here are some common situations, some of which which may surprise people.

Finishing a basement: A building permit is needed. There may also be a requirement for inspections for electrical and plumbing work.

Adding a deck: If the deck is more than two feet off the ground, a building permit is required. Here the intent is to review the design to ensure that it meets building code for supporting the anticipated load, including the guards/railings - in other words, safety.

Converting a garage: A building permit is required, for much the same reasons as for finishing a basement. Residents should note that converting a garage to living space may cancel the ability to park in a driveway, as parking adjacent to living space is not allowed.

Widening a driveway: An entrance permit may be required. By-laws also restrict the maximum allowable width of a driveway. Residents should check both with the Planning Department to ensure their proposal is compliant with the Zoning By-Law and with the Building Department for the necessary permit.

Swimming pools: A building permit is required if the pool is capable of holding two feet or more of water depth.

Fences: Fences are required for swimming pools, and governed by those regulations. Otherwise, fences are governed by the fence by-law. A permit is probably not required, but in most cases, fences may not be more than six feet high.

I would strongly recommend that residents check with the Building Department (613-546-4291 x3280) or the Building Department city web site: http://www.cityofkingston.ca/business/licences/buildingpermit.asp



613.549.1900
www.billglover.org
bglover@cityofkingston.ca


^ Top

Previous page: Ejecting Occupy.
Next page: School closures possible ?