All Your Bathroom Renovation Permit Questions Answered

Each city and province in Canada have their own set of rules and regulations when it comes to building and construction permits. You may have to apply for a permit and go through an inspection process if you’re making some major changes to your bathroom’s structure. The permit process, requirements, documentation and fees differ depending on your neighbourhood and the details of your project. We have listed some of the tasks in which you may require to get a permit from your local municipality…

1. Changes to the New Sewer Line

You should get your home’s sewer lines cleaned every 2 years to ensure their smooth running. However, if the line is old and damaged, you can get it replaced. There are certain safety codes that need to be followed when replacing a major sewer line. That’s why you will need to go through a permit application process for this particular task.

2. Building Exterior Doors and Windows

There are very few bathroom renovation projects that involve building an exterior door to the bathroom but if your new design includes this big change, then you will require a building permit. Also, if you’re replacing or building a new window in your bathroom, you may need a permit as well. These permits are mostly in adherence to fire safety and construction guidelines of the local government.

3. Installing New Plumbing

You may not need a permit to install basic plumbing fixtures like a sink or a bathtub but if you’re rerouting your current plumbing system, then you might need to apply for a special permit. Rerouting, replacing or in any other way changing your plumbing system including pipes, valves, and sewer lines will require a building permit.

4. Major HVAC Changes: A New Furnace or AC Installation

Many cities in Canada require a permit to install a new ventilation system in the bathroom. If you’re getting a new exhaust fan, a new furnace or making any other major HVAC changes, make sure whether you need a small permit for it or not. Talk to your local HVAC specialist to understand the permit requirements and process if you’re confused about it.

5. New Electrical Wiring or Adding Circuits

Any type of new electrical wiring or circuit installation should be done by a licensed electrician irrespective of your location and neighbourhood. It’s safer to hire a professional electrician for the job who will also assist you with any permit requirements for the job.

6. Parking Dumpster on a Public Street

A bathroom renovation project involves dealing with a huge pile of debris and junk. When you demolish your bathroom you end up with old and rotting bathroom fixtures, hardware, accessories, drywall and flooring debris. You can’t put it in your garbage bins and will have to get a big dumpster for junk removal. If you plan to park this dumpster on the roadside until the whole bathroom renovation project is completed, you will need a dumpster parking permit. You can get in touch with the local parking permit authority via email, phone or in person to get the appropriate permit.

7. Replacing Water Heater

An improperly installed water heater can be a big safety hazard. Be it a gas or electric-powered water heater, if not installed or replaced properly, it can lead to fire, flooding, gas leakage and explosion. Most Canadian cities require a strong permit to replace a water heater and highly recommend hiring a licensed professional for the job. Replacing a water heater DIY style can be extremely dangerous and unsafe.

8. Structural Changes: Demolishing a Load-Bearing Wall

Legally, you are allowed to demolish your load-bearing wall but make sure you get a permit to do so considering any future damages. If there is an accident of any sort that happened because you demolished a load-bearing wall without a permit, you may not be able to submit an insurance claim. If there is a major loss of property and life, you may end up in a huge legal battle because you did not have a permit. Check with your local building code to understand the demolition and permitting process related to a load-bearing wall.

All these permits fall under different categories, have different names and fees structure, require different documents, and have different timelines and rules that change based on the city you live in. You can go to your local municipality office or visit their official website to understand specific permit structures and requirements as per your project details. If you feel like you’re circling the drain with all these red-tape requirements, simply hire a bathroom renovator from HomeStars who will help you with the process and also assist with the project.