Building Permits and Inspections

You need a building permit for:

• all new construction and extensions
• additions
• structural changes
• floor layout changes
• relocation of existing buildings
• occupancy changes

What's included in this list? Here are some common examples:

• building a shed, porch, fence or house
• renovating office space
• erecting a sign for a business

Apply for a permit

Get your permit before you start work. Even if you have someone else doing the work for you, the owner is responsible to get the permit.

Apply for a building permit

You will need to include supporting documentation with the application, like building plans, specifications and surveys. The accompanying information required varies depending on the scope of the work.

Learn more about the fees and rates for permits.

Minor repair

For minor repair work, you need a building permit that can usually be issued in two to five days. Repair examples that may require a building permit include:

• installing siding (not in a heritage area)
• repairing steps or fences
• re-paving an existing driveway
• exterior painting

Our staff are here to help. Contact the Permit Counter.

Understanding the inspection process

Building Inspection staff review applications and plans for construction. They carry out inspections to ensure compliance work complies with:

• the National Building Code
• the St. John's Building By-Law
• other related regulations

They check for a variety of things. Examples include:

• the quality of the concrete poured for a foundation
• the sizing and spacing of joists
• the location of smoke detectors

Depending on the size of your job, you may need to see the Inspector more than once. There are mandatory stages of inspections for new buildings, extensions or renovations. These are on the back of the permit. Remember, it is the owner's responsibility to make sure inspections are requested, carried out and approved.