Here’s what most homeowners don’t know:
You can’t just start tearing out walls or reworking plumbing and hope for the best. In Ontario, you probably need a permit to renovate a bathroom.
And yes, even if it feels like a “simple” remodel.
Whenever your project involves plumbing work, electrical systems, or structural changes, you must obtain permits. It’s not just red tape. Permits exist to protect your property, your safety, and your wallet.
When Do You Need a Bathroom Renovation Permit?
You need one if you’re doing more than painting or tiling.
Here’s when a permit is required in Ontario:
Moving or removing structural walls
Changing plumbing fixtures (toilet, sink, tub) location
Running new electrical wiring or changing electrical systems
Installing or updating HVAC systems
Adding a second unit
Increasing the square metres of your home
Any change in the use of a building (e.g., turning storage into living space)
This applies to all housing types, like detached homes, condos, townhomes, and even mobile homes.
What Work Doesn’t Require a Permit?
Cosmetic changes typically don’t require approval.
For example:
Replacing a toilet or kitchen sink in the same spot
Painting, tiling, and other interior design updates
Installing custom cabinetry if you don’t touch plumbing or electrical
Still, always check with your local building department. Rules can vary slightly between cities.
Average Cost of a Permit in Ontario
So, how much does a permit cost?
It depends on your location and the size of the construction project.
Standard bathroom permit: $150 to $300
Projects with structural work or second units: $300 to $700
Extra permits for electrical, plumbing, or HVAC: $100 to $200 each
Some municipalities add extra fees for multiple inspections or plan reviews. Always ask upfront.
Why the Ontario Building Code Matters
All of this comes back to the Ontario Building Code. It sets the safety standards for construction work in the province.
The code covers:
Electrical systems and wiring
Plumbing fixtures, water supply, and drainage systems
Structural framing and fire separation
HVAC systems
If your renovation changes the building’s use, affects fire safety, or adds new square metres, the Building Code Act applies. Following it isn’t just a legal requirement; it protects you long term.
How the Building Permit Process Works
Step-by-step:
Draft detailed renovation plans. Show layout, fixtures, wiring, and changes.
Submit to your municipal building department. Online portals make this easier.
Pay the fee. Depends on size, type, and systems involved.
Wait for approval. Smaller projects = a few business days. Bigger ones take longer.
Pass inspections. Your local building department and the Electrical Safety Authority will check at multiple stages:
After the plumbing rough-in
After electrical systems are installed
Before drywall
Final inspection when work is done
Without approved inspections, you don’t get the green light to move forward.
The Mistake to Avoid
Don’t start demolition before permits are approved.
Cities like Toronto and Ottawa treat this as unauthorized construction. That means fines, delays, or tearing out finished work.
Get your approved plans first.
Local Details: Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge
Each city handles things slightly differently.
Kitchener focuses heavily on Basement Renovation and second unit compliance. You’ll need zoning bylaw approval and fire code clearance.
Waterloo pays extra attention to living space updates near universities. Older buildings face more inspection points.
Cambridge encourages pre-application meetings. If your project is simple, they may speed up approval. But structural changes go through more steps.
Contact Building Code Services in your area before doing anything.
Should You Hire a Contractor?
If this is your first home renovation, trying to manage the entire process alone is risky.
Experienced Bathroom Contractors understand:
The Building Code Act and local building codes
How to create compliant renovation plans
The full renovation process, including inspections
When electrical permits or demolition permits are required
Plus, most offer a Free Estimate. That alone can save you time and help with budget planning.
Hiring home renovation contractors with years of experience is the best way to avoid missteps.
Why This Matters
Skipping the legal side might seem faster now, but it can hurt you in the long run.
Here’s what happens without the necessary permits:
Insurance companies can deny your claim
Real Estate deals can fall through
Regulatory authorities can order changes or the removal of unapproved work
If you want to protect your home, follow the rules. That means understanding applicable law and the building permit process from day one.
Final Advice
- If your bathroom remodel involves plumbing, electrical work, or square metre changes, get permits
Check with your local building department for project-specific answers
Follow the full approval process, from application to final inspection
Budget for permit costs and potential additional permits
Work with professional contractors who know the system
Following Ontario’s building code might seem like extra work now, but it’s the best way to stay protected.
Before your upcoming renovation, talk to your local officials and get everything in writing. Start smart, stay compliant, and make your home safer in the process.
