Building an addition to your home? Adding a fence or deck?
Planning a renovation, interior or exterior, for your home or place of business?
Planning a new construction project, a new home, store or restaurant?

Then, consider the following:

1. The Codes in Canada

2. The Permit System

3. Building Departments

Information on all three is provided at this site.
It is important to understand how each affects you and your project.
This is especially relevant for a do-it-yourself plan.

The codes apply to all types of construction, whether
it is a new building, an addition or a complete renovation.
Most provinces have their own provincial codebooks.
Some follow the National Codes.

As well as construction codes, electrical, plumbing and fire codes must also be followed. All these codes apply to both residential and commercial properties.
Refer to the “Codes” section for more information on codes.

A permit is required for many residential projects.
Often, even for a new deck or fence.
View the "Permits" section to determine when a permit is required or not.
For basic home decorating projects, a permit is not required.
Provided there are no physicals changes to the ‘structure’ of the home.

Commercial projects, new construction, addition or renovation, all do require a permit.
These are public spaces.

This applies to projects such as stores or restaurants whether located on a street, in a mall or in any type of structure. As well as any buildings intended for residential or commercial use or both.

Construction drawings must be submitted with the
permit application.
Interiors designers or architects are hired for their knowledge of design, codes and permits.

Always check with your local building department before beginning any project.
A listing is provided for many of the towns and cities in Canada, under the “By Province” section.
Permit application requirements vary in different locations.

There is a variety of other information provided here as well.
There are topics on energy efficiency, planning out your project, often forgotten spaces, construction drawings and much more.

Please select a topic from the headings in the column above on the left side.
Or start here Energy Saving

It’s all about construction in Canada.
And how it relates to projects, big or small, residential or commercial.