Building Permits

Please note, beginning January 1, 2023 all building permit applications must be made using the Cloudpermit online platform.

For questions, please contact 519-728-2700 ext. 205 or email Building@Lakeshore.ca.

Prior to submitting:

• Consult with Conservation Authorities
  • Essex Region Conservation Authority
  • Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority

• Consult with the County of Essex if located on a County road
  
• Please have your designer fill out the Schedule 1: Designer Information Form

• For electrical and natural gas related projects, please contact your utility provider for permitting requirements.

• In many cases, designers or contractors will obtain permits on your behalf. This requires you to complete and authorization form to allow the contractor to apply for permits. Regardless, as the building owner, you are responsible for complying with all building requirements.Some projects may require a letter of commitment from an Architect / Engineer.

• Grading Plan are Required with each submission.  The grading plan shall bear the signature and seal of an Ontario Land Surveyor.  A site grading plan shows the location of the proposed house and the proposed grading of the site along witht he proposed setbacks.  It often shows the existing and proposed water, sanitary, and storm connections to the new house.

Permit requirements

Please note, when building permits are finalized, the information of the improvement, construction or change to the property is provided to the Municipal Assessment Corporation (MPAC). This will result in an increase to the assessed value of the property. Information of this increase is provided to the Municipality and will result in Supplementary bills being charged. The Revenue department offers pre-authorized payment options to assist with the future bills.

Failure to obtain Building permits can result in costly construction delays or legal action.

You must comply with the Ontario Building Code.

Please note: 24-48 hours notice is required for all inspections.

Reviewed drawings shall be made available on site to the inspector at all times.

Timelines and fees

Most permits require 10 business days to process. The Ontario Building Code stipulates timelines for permit issuance. Processing timelines commence once all required information is received (including ERCA / LTVCA / County Roads approvals).

Permit fees vary based on the type of project and location within the municipality. All fees are payable upon issuance of permit. The Tariff Fee Bylaw 11-2023 will indicate the permit fees applicable along with the Schedule of Development Charges (if applicable)

Cloudpermit instructions and support materials

Learn how to log in to Cloudpermit as a registered user, or check Cloudpermit Support for a quick tutorial on the basics.

• Search topics in the Applicant User Guide

These instructional videos may also help you navigate the system:

• 'Cloudpermit - How to Submit a Building Permit Application' - video
• 'How to Send a Message on Cloudpermit' - video
• 'How to Request Inspections' - video