Building permits are accepted electronically by applying online. Click on the Cloudpermit icon below:
For step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a building permit through Cloudpermit, please see our How to apply for a building permit document. If you are having difficulty with Cloudpermit, please contact the Building Department for assistance at 519-832-2008 ext. 118 or building@saugeenshores.ca.
Saugeen Shores Building Services can help with your building projects. We issue building permits and assist with:
- Additions and renovations
- Demolitions
- New main buildings or structures (i.e. decks)
- Accessory buildings (i.e. sheds, garages, shops)
- Energy efficiency certifications
- Swimming pool enclosures
- Septic systems and permits
- Sign permits and variances
- Temporary tent permits
- Zoning and property usage requirements
If you are thinking of doing work to your home or property, we can help you create safe, accessible and sustainable buildings, and apply and follow building standards. We also evolve with the changing construction industry.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Where do I start? |
Before applying for any building permits, you must first know whether your construction plans meet legal zoning and property uses. One example of a zoning requirement is the minimum distance needed between an addition and your property line. |
What else must I know? |
You must comply with all applicable laws when starting a build. This may include:
|
How do I obtain a building permit? |
Building permits are accepted electronically by applying online. Click on the Cloudpermit icon below: For step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a building permit through Cloudpermit, please see our How to apply for a building permit document. If you are having difficulty using Cloudpermit, please contact the Building Department for assistance at building@saugeenshores.ca or 519-832-2008 ext. 118. Once the application has been reviewed and payment has been received, applicants will be notified the Building Permit has been issued via Cloudpermit. |
What information must be provided to obtain a permit? |
Please see Section 3.2 of our Building By-law for more detailed information about complete application requirements for specific types of buildings. |
How much will a building permit cost? |
View the following list for fees associated with building new buildings or structures:
View a list of our classes of permits and permit fees. Contact our office at 519-832-2008 x118 if you need help determining your fee. |
How long will it take? |
Our permit review process depends on many factors, such as the class of building, completeness of the building application and volume of permit applications. 10-day time period
15-day time period
20-day time period
30-day time period
If your application is approved, we will call you to advise that your building permit has been issued. If your application cannot be approved, we will send you an email or letter with further information on what is still needed. |
How many inspections do I need? |
The number of inspections depends on the complexity of the work and will normally be assigned with the building permit. Visit Building Inspections for more information. |
What are my responsibilities regarding building permits? |
It is the owner's responsibility to obtain a building permit, ensure that the building permit is posted and that the approved plans are kept on the job site. |
When is a building permit not required? |
You do not need a building permit for non-structural work, such as:
|
What are my responsibilities once I obtain my permit? |
|
What must I do if changes to the building plans are required? |
During construction, if changes or modifications are made to the original design, the owner is responsible to make an application to Building Services. We may require drawings. |
How can I learn more about secondary suites? |
A secondary suite is a self-contained unit within a dwelling that has its own kitchen, bathroom facilities and separate entrance. Secondary suites are not permitted in detached structures within Saugeen Shores (i.e., detached garages, bunkies and/or granny flats). Before beginning renovations to add a new secondary suite to an existing dwelling, review the Government of Ontario's innovation guide to help you understand the safety implications and requirements needed to begin your application process for a building permit with the Municipality. Learn more about secondary suites with this helpful article. |
Call before you dig
If you are planning a home improvement project that requires digging such as planting a tree or putting up a fence, you are responsible for getting locates on all utilities and services before digging. These services include:
- Natural gas pipes
- Telephone lines
- Hydro
- Cable lines
- Water and sewer pipes
Before you call
You will need to know:
- Who is digging (it is recommended that the person doing the digging submits the locate request).
- When and where you are digging (address and description of the area that the digging is happening within).
- The type of work being done (fence, pool, landscaping, etc…) and the method of digging that will be used (by hand, machine, shovel, pick or spade).
Ontario One Call
Once you have this information, call Ontario One Call at 1-800-400-2255 for a free, 24/7 locate service or visit their website to submit an e-ticket.
For more information on locates and areas to avoid, visit Dig Safe.