Building Services

Building Services is responsible for the administration of the Building Code Act of Ontario in the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, and the issuing of building and site inspections. The Act provides for the regulation of building activities in the province and delegates the responsibility for enforcement of the Building Code to local municipalities.

Permits are required for most construction activities, including sheds greater than 108 square feet, swimming pools, and decks greater than 24” above grade. Accurate drawings and a site plan are necessary to assess the project for compliance with the Code and other applicable laws, including zoning by-laws. 



Applications are submitted online via Cloudpermit. Required information includes the name and address of the owner and contractor, 2 sets of drawings, a site plan, and an accurate project description. Location details, including the lot and plan number of the property, are helpful. The building permit fee can be paid online using a credit card or in person using cash, cheque or debit. Prior to the issuance of permits, it is sometimes necessary to obtain the approvals of other agencies or levels of government depending on the type of project or project location. Contact Building Services early in the project planning to ascertain if other approvals may be required.