Accessory Structures
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What is an accessory building or structure?
Accessory structures are separate from your main home, but must be on the property. Here are some examples of accessory structures: detached garages, garden sheds, swimming pools, gazebos and play equipment. Our zoning by-law regulates their size, type and location. These structures must also meet the Ontario Building Code. The fence by-law regulates the height and location of fences on your property.
Contact the Building Services Division before you begin construction or submit a building permit. We can help you determine if you need to meet the requirements of the zoning by-law.
Do I need a building permit?
You need a building permit for all construction over 10 square metres (107 square feet). Your accessory building or structure must still comply with the zoning requirements even if you do not require a building permit.
If you're building a fence around your swimming pool you will need a pool enclosure permit. Contact the Building Services Division to determine if the building or structure you want to construct requires a building permit or pool enclosure permit.
Learn how to apply for a building permit.
Where can accessory buildings and structures go on your property and how large can they be?
The minimum distance between an accessory building and a property line, maximum floor area and maximum height of the accessory building is regulated by the zoning by-law and varies between urban and rural areas. Please contact the Planning and Infrastructure Department for information on these regulations.
What drawings are required?
Drawings prepared by the homeowner are acceptable for submission as long as they are drawn to scale and accurately describe the construction. You may use standard garage drawings to submit with your permit application or use the information contained to prepare your drawings.
The following drawings are usually required:
- Site plan: A site plan or survey of your lot showing all lot lines and dimensions, size and location of all existing buildings, the size and location of the proposed building and location of any septic system. Indicate all setbacks from the proposed building to the property lines. Show location of all easements and right-of-ways.
- Floor plan: A floor plan of the proposed structure, complete with window and door locations, all dimensions and identification of construction materials being used, including foundation. Specify the wall height.
- Cross section: A cross section showing the proposed construction is required.
- Engineered trusses: Shop drawings sealed and signed by a professional engineer.
Designers other than the homeowner of an accessory structure that exceeds 50 square metres (538 square feet) in building area must be qualified. For more information on qualification, visit the Government of Ontario Qualification and Registration page.
Apply for a building permit
Apply for a building permit with our new Service Clarington portal. To get started, visit the Service Clarington portal and register for a new account.
All documents uploaded with your application must be in PDF format. Once you’ve submitted your application, it will be reviewed to ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code, Clarington’s Zoning By-law and other applicable regulations. Please allow some time for us to process your application.
How much will it cost?
The cost of the building permit is $5.54 per square metre of floor area, with a minimum $127.54 charge.
What inspections are required?
Building Inspections
| Footing |
| Readiness to construct footings with formwork and reinforcing in place prior to placing concrete. |
| Backfill |
| Substantial completion of footings and foundation, including drainage and damproofing prior to commencement of backfilling. |
| Framing |
| Substantial completion of structural framing after heating and ventilation, mechanical and plumbing rough-in with windows and roofing in place. |
| Final |
| Completion of the construction and installation of components required to permit occupancy, as required by the Ontario Building Code. In most cases this inspection is not required, as a final inspection may be carried out at the same time as the framing inspection. Your Building Inspector will determine if a final inspection is necessary. |
Plumbing inspections (if required)
| Outside Services |
| Installation of building storm sewer and sanitary sewer and water service pipe. |
| Inside Services |
| Installation of underground building storm drain, sanitary drain and water supply. |
| Rough-In |
| Installation of drainage system, venting system and the water distribution system throughout the building. |
| Final |
| Installation of required plumbing fixtures and plumbing appliances as required to permit occupancy by the Ontario Building Code. |
Heating inspections (if required)
| Heating Rough-In |
| Substantial completion of ductwork and piping for heating and air-conditioning. |
| Heating Occupancy |
|
Completion of the construction and installation of components required to permit occupancy. |
To arrange for an inspection, please call 905-623-7876. Call before 3 p.m. for next day inspection.
Electrical inspections (if required)
Electrical inspections are conducted by the Electrical Safety Authority.
Need help?
Contact the Building Services Division for more information.
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