May is Building Safety Month!

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The City of Brampton Building Division works with residents and businesses to ensure proper safety standards are met during all stages of construction. Our team of professionals are here to assist you with any questions you may have throughout the construction process.

What is a Building Permit?

A building permit is a license which grants legal permission to start construction of a building project. Obtaining a permit ensures that construction meets the standards set out in the Ontario Building Code and any other relevant laws and regulations.

What is the Ontario Building Code?

The Ontario Building Code is a Provincially regulated mandatory document that sets out minimum standards for design and construction.

At the City of Brampton, it is the responsibility of Building Officials to enforce the Building Code Act and the Code; and ensure that these minimum standards are met. By doing so, we are reducing the health and safety risks to the public and building occupants.

If I know what I'm doing, then why bother?

You may be wondering what use a permit is if you already know what you're doing or if you choose to hire an engineer or architect. The truth is, it's for your own safety and the safety of others!

Building permits are issued by the City once the permit application and plans are examined to verify compliance with the requirements of the Ontario Building Code and applicable laws. After issuance of a permit, inspections are performed by professional, qualified inspectors at various stages of the construction project.

There are several reasons why getting a permit is important:

• The building permit process helps you to understand, not only what the Ontario Building Code requires, but also other local by-laws and regulations, such as Zoning
• Building permits provide the means for local building officials to review the design and to inspect the construction to ensure that minimum standards are met and appropriate materials are used
• Building permits provide the means for building officials to ensure the health, safety and welfare of building occupants

I didn't get a per​mit. What could go wrong?

We rarely question our safety when we are in buildings; we simply go about our daily lives, working, shopping or playing. This is due to the high standard in which buildings in Ontario are constructed. When permits are not issued and these standards are not met, it results in safety concerns that may have short-term and/or long-term implications.

If you are considering a renovation or new construction project, do not hesitate to contact staff at the Building Division. We are here to help.