Looking to build a deck? Want to renovate your home, or build an entirely new property? From the smallest DIY undertakings to the largest commercial or industrial construction projects, they all have one thing in common. Permits!
What is a permit and why do you need one?
A Permit is an official approval, usually provided by a local government agency, to allow you or your contractor to proceed with a construction or redevelopment project on a particular property. It’s the legal permission to proceed according to the specific plans and drawings pertaining to your project. The Permit is granted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, or AHJ, and is critical in controlling the standardization of construction materials, methods and technologies and their implementation in field.
What are the different types of permits?
The types of permits can vary according to your location, but they typically are arranged to include:
(1) a pre-construction permit (often called a development permit): provides the issuing agency the opportunity to review the site plans and grant high level project approval.
(2) construction permit (often called a Building Permit or Footing Permit): issued after a detailed review of the construction plans. This is often followed up by a review of the actual building location on the ground, using surveyed coordinates, to make sure it’s positioned as expected before further construction is allowed.
(3) post-construction permit: typically takes the form of a permit which allows the construction project to be recognized as complete and ready to be occupied. This is typically called an Occupancy Permit
When are permits required?
Construction permits are required when constructing a new building, an addition, or a renovation to an existing building.
What documents are required when submitting a permit?
Depending on your jurisdiction, when applying for a construction permit the following documents typically may be required when submitting the application.
Full set of drawings, including Architectural, Civil, Structural and Mechanical (fully labelled)
Letters of Undertaking from property owner and professionals from all disciplines (ie. Consultants)
Application fees
Completed application
Who submits the permit application?
For residential developments, permit applications are typically submitted by the property owner, but for larger scale construction such as multi-unit residential buildings, the general contractor or construction manager may apply for the permit.
Where does the permit application go to get approved?
Permit applications are submitted to the body of government that holds jurisdiction over the location and type of development. For example, applying for a building permit would typically happen through the local municipal government, but the provincial level Department of Lands and Forestry may have to issue approval if the development is on or near certain wildlife areas. Further, if a development is on or near the ocean, the federal level Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada may have to be involved.
Conclusion
Now that you have a better understanding on how to be permit ready don’t forget to be proactive and thoroughly research your municipalities’ requirements. The key to an effective project is being tenacious in the pursuit of knowledge.
Adam Clarke, Project Manager
adam@tateengineering.com
Tara Cook, Assistant Project Manager
tara@tateengineering.com
Tom Perry, Assistant Project Manager
tom@tateengineering.com