According to the Ontario Building Code a farm building does not allow for residential occupancy and is primarily located on land used for farming and used essentially for housing farming equipment, livestock, or the production, storage or processing of agricultural and horticultural produce or feeds.
A building permit is required for all buildings having an area greater than 10 square metres (108 square feet).
Learn how to apply for a building permit.
Note: The designer may need to be registered and/or qualified. Designers of farm buildings of low human occupancy, greater than or equal to two storeys in height and greater than 600 square metres in building area are not required to be qualified and/or registered. Designers of farm buildings other than above must be qualified and/or registered. For more information, see the Qualification and Registration section of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing website. The Municipality will not issue a building permit if the designers are not appropriately qualified and/or registered. This includes architectural and engineering firms or drafting firms that provide design services.
We will review your submission to ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code, Ontario Building Code Act, zoning by-law, and all applicable laws. We will issue your building permit promptly if the proposed construction meets all the requirements.
Note: Section SB-11 of the Ontario Building Code prescribes the structural requirements for low human occupancy farm buildings. A Professional Engineer must seal the drawings for all structures beyond the scope of Section SB-11.
Building inspections |
Note 1: For most farm buildings, such as barns, where there are no finished interior spaces, no other inspections beyond framing are required. Note 2: Additional inspections, such as insulation, may be required if finished concealed space contained within the building or the building inspector is of the opinion they are necessary. |
Plumbing inspections (if required) |
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Heating inspections (if required) |
To arrange an inspection, please call 905-623-7876 before 3 p.m. for next day inspection. |
Electrical inspections (if required) |
Completed independently by the Electrical Safety Authority. Call 1-877-372-7233. |
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