A development permit ensures that your project fits with the community’s zoning and land-use rules, such as where buildings can be located, how tall they can be, and what the property can be used for.
A building permit focuses on the construction itself, making sure that the work meets building codes, safety regulations, and technical standards like structural strength, plumbing, and electrical systems.
In short, a development permit answers “Can I build it here?” and a building permit answers “Is it safe to build it this way?”
Development and Building
Developments that require a permit are as follows:
- New building construction
- New dwelling
- Structural Changes
- Building Relocation or demolition
- Change of use
- Installing bay, bow, or box window in new or existing opening, or changing of size
- Installing doors different in size of current doors or creating new ingress/egress
- Interior Structural alterations
- Decks
- Roof enclosure over an existing deck or new deck
- Re-Roofing of dwelling if support structure is being replaced
- Accessory buildings greater than 100sqft
- Retaining walls over 2ft
- Guest House
- Fence greater than 6.5ft
Developments that DO NOT require a permit are as follows:
- Fence less than 6.5ft
- Sidewalks/patios/ minor landscaping
- Cosmetic repairs such as painting, exterior finishes, siding or stucco
- Replacing existing windows/doors if same as existing size
- Accessory buildings less than 100 sq ft
Shoreline Work Permits
A shoreline work permit (Aquatic Habitat Protection Permit) is needed for projects along the water’s edge, such as building or repairing docks, retaining walls, or erosion control. It helps make sure the work protects the shoreline, water, and habitat while allowing safe use of the area.
Energy Code Compliance Permits
Energy compliance means following the building rules that make homes and buildings more energy efficient.
This includes things like proper insulation, efficient heating and cooling systems, and reducing wasted energy. Meeting these standards helps lower utility costs and makes buildings more comfortable and sustainable.
Roadside Development
Roadside Development
When building a structure, planting trees, constructing approaches or excavating near a provincial highway, you may need a roadside development permit.
A permit is needed for any work within 90 metres (approximately 295 feet) of the property line (or right-of-way edge) of a provincial highway. This is done to:
- Keep sight lines clear and provide safe driving;
- Leave space for future highway improvements;
- Control snow drifting; and
- Maintain the integrity of the highway
Application for Approach
An application for approach is a request to build or modify an access point from a public road to private property, such as a driveway or lane. It makes sure the new approach is safe for traffic, doesn’t damage public infrastructure, and meets local standards.
In short, it’s permission to create a safe and approved way to enter your property from a roadway.
Development & Building Checklist
- ☐ Application for Development Permit
- ☐ Site Plan
- ☐ Geotechnical Report (if applicable)
- ☐ Topographical Lot Survey with Elevations
OR - ☐ Benchmark Survey
- ☐ Real Property Report
- ☐ Letter from Water Security for Flood Elevations (if applicable)
- ☐ PBI Requirements – Residential OR Commercial
- ☐ Energy Code Compliance (if applicable)
- ☐ Application for Demolition (if applicable)
Permits
Application for Development Permit (fillable or printed)
PBI Building Application Forms – RESIDENTIAL
PBI Building Application Forms – COMMERCIAL
Roadside Development Permit
Approach Application (fillable or printed)
Aquatic Habitat Protection Permit (fillable or printed)
Energy Code Compliance Permits
Application for Demolition Permit (printable)
Please contact the village office should you have any questions or are unsure if you require a permit.