Frequently Asked Questions

We work with:

• Anyone unsure how to begin the permitting process
• New and existing property owners who are planning renovations, additions, or new builds
• Builders and Contractors needing permit support
• Sewage system designers and installers
• Residential Designers and Architects
• Small-scale developers requiring assistance
• Local Conservation Authorities
• Anyone who dislikes filling out endless paperwork!

For Property Owners:

• Simplifies the permit process - we handle the paperwork, jargon, and timelines so you don't have to
• Local knowledge advantage - familiar with your municipality's specific requirements and timelines
• Rural property expertise - specializing in rural builds, and Conservation Authority requirements
• Clear, friendly communication - you will always know what's happening and what's next

For Contractors & Builders:

• Streamlined submissions - get projects off the ground faster with complete and accurate applications
• Avoid costly delays - we know what inspectors look for (minimizing rejections and revisions)
• Document management done for you - we organize and submit complete application packages, sewage system applications, and more
• Keeps projects moving - regular updates mean you can plan crews, materials, and timelines with confidence

For Both:

• One point of contact - you'll deal with one experienced consultant, not multiple departments
• Experience you can trust - Over 12 years of municipal experience across multiple departments, including permit coordination, zoning review, and familiarity with municipal by-laws, plus 4 years of administrative experience working for a General Contractor
• Fast response times - prompt communication with both customers and building departments
• Full-service options - from plot plan advice to planning application guidance or Conservation Authority applications, we do more than just submit forms

You can book online through our website or by email - permitsbypeg@gmail.com 

Consultations can be in-person, or over the phone. Meeting times can be flexible to suit your schedule.

Yes! We offer full support with building permit applications, including preparing documentation, working with your contractor and/or designer, and submitting the application(s) to the municipality.

An authorized agent must have written permission from the owner to obtain any permits. We can complete an agent authorization form to make this happen.

• Construction of a new home or cottage
• Building an accessory structure, like a storage shed or greenhouse, which is over 15 square meters without plumbing
• Renovating, altering, repairing, or adding to an existing building, including finished basements 
• Demolishing or removing part or all the building
• Changing the building’s use or part of it
• Installing, changing or removing partitions and load-bearing walls
• Creating or altering doors and windows
• Constructing a garage, porch, deck, or enclosing an existing one
• Installing, altering, or repairing on-site sewage system
• Making structural changes or building a designated structure 
• Excavating a basement to increase headroom or construct a foundation
• Installing or modifying heating, plumbing, and air conditioning systems 
• Installing or reconstructing chimneys, wood-burning fireplaces, or fireplaces inserts 
• Adding new plumbing, relocating a hot water tank, or installing a tankless water heater
• Building a deck larger than 10 square meters (108 square feet or about 10 feet by 10 feet) or two feet above the ground
• Installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels mounted on buildings
• Installing a swimming pool enclosure
• Installing signs

Building permits are essential for several reasons - They ensure that construction meets the Ontario Building Code, which includes standards for structural integrity, fire safety and accessibility. Permits help confirm that projects adhere to local zoning bylaws and protect property owners from potential legal issues related to unpermitted work.

We are based in Verona and serve South Frontenac, Central Frontenac, and North Frontenac Townships, as well as customers in surrounding areas within Ontario. 

A building permit consultant plays a crucial role in guiding homeowners, new property owners, builders, and designers through the complex process of obtaining building permits for various construction projects. This professional ensures compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and municipal regulations, facilitating a smooth approval process from start to finish.

Hiring a permit consultant will save you time, reduce stress, and avoid costly delays. I make sure your application is complete, so you can focus on your build.

Permit fees vary by municipality and are usually based on estimated project value, project size and type. We offer building fee reviews to ensure you are not surprised when the Township notifies you of your building permit fee at time of permit issuance.

Yes! We can review your file, identify missing information or issues, and work with the municipality to get your project back on track. 

A homeowner has a right under the building code to create their own drawings. If you feel you have a good working knowledge of construction practices, some knowledge of the Ontario Building Code or experience in construction, you can draw your own plans. All plans should be legible, and drawn to scale in either metric or imperial measurements. They should be detailed enough, that someone could build the project from looking at your plans. If the drawings are not up to standard you may be asked by the building inspector to provide the required information (which may hold up the processing of the application) or be asked to have the plans drawn up by a qualified designer. 

The setback is measured from the respective property line to the closest outside wall.

No. Hydro One requires a minimum of 15 ft. separation between hydro lines and any construction. For more information, contact Hydro One at 888-664-9376. 

Yes, you will require approval prior to altering, replacing, or installing any new sewage system. This includes greywater leaching pits, septic tanks, tiles beds, and holding tanks. 

Architectural drawings are detailed plans that illustrate the design, layout, and dimensions of a building project. They are necessary for obtaining a building permit as they provide the building department with the information needed to ensure the project complies with building codes and regulations. 

Structural drawings include detailed information about the building's framework, such as the foundation, beams, columns, floor plans, and roof structure. They ensure the building's stability and safety, adhering to OBC 2024 standards.