Do I need a building permit? What does it cost?

Building permits — St. Catharines, Ontario: Building By-law No. 2011-334

In the City of St. Catharines, Ontario, building permit rules are set by Building By-law No. 2011-334, verified 2026-08-29. Permit required for: Construction, demolition, change of use, or plumbing of a building or part thereof. Permit fees: Based on gross floor area; in unusual circumstances, estimated value of the Works. Fees set in: Schedule of Rates and Fees approved by Council from time to time.

Building By-law No. 2011-334 adopted bylaw

permit required for	Construction, demolition, change of use, or plumbing of a building or part thereof.	s. 3(1)
fee basis	Based on gross floor area; in unusual circumstances, estimated value of the Works.	s. 12(3)-(4)
fees location	Schedule of Rates and Fees approved by Council from time to time.	s. 12(1)
authority	Chief Building Official; Fire Chief for Schedule "B" systems on behalf of Chief Building Official.	s. 10; s. 2(1)(d)
fine range	Administrative fee for commencing without permit: 25%, 50%, or 100% of regular permit fee, minimum $100, maximum $5,000.	s. 13(1)

scout note

Regulates matters pertaining to building permits and the Ontario Building Code within the City of St. Catharines.