Building
The Building Department is responsible for the administration and enforcement of various Provincial legislation and policies including the Ontario Building Code Act Planning Act as they apply to buildings, structures and their occupancy.
The main role of the Building Department is to ensure that the building environment in which we live and work is safe and healthy. This is accomplished through permit application reviews and ensuring they comply with The Ontario Building Code, The Township Building By-Law, The Township Zoning By-Law , and Site Plan Control By-Law.
Building Permits
| When a building permit is required |
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A building permit is required for new construction, additions, alterations, renovations, relocations, demolitions, and repairs or rehabilitation of a building or structure. Some minor repairs do not require a permit. Here are some common projects and whether or not they require a permit. Heating Ventilating and Air Conditioning permits (HVAC), and/or plumbing permits may also be required as a separate permit but are usually reviewed as part of the building permit. It is the responsibility of the owner to obtain a building permit. The approved drawings should be kept on the building site and be readily accessible at all times.
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| When a building permit is not required |
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The following are examples of projects that do not require a building permit: Note: Although your project may not require a building permit, it does not relieve you of your responsibility to comply with the zoning by-law.
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| Getting a building permit |
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You may now apply for a Building Permit online through Cloud Permit! Create an account for fast and simple submission of your application. Here is a Cheat Sheet staff have created to help you through the steps. Building permit applications may be downloaded from the Township website or retrieved from the Township office. It is recommended that building permit process begin well ahead of the construction schedule in order to avoid any untimely delays. View permit guidelines, an explanation of how to obtain a permit, as well as complete application package. |
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Building Permit Costs |
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Building permit fees are calculated depending on the type of construction and size of building. In addition to permit fees, additional fees might apply such as township development charges, county development charges, septic permit fees, deposits, etc. |
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If you don't get a permit |
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It is unlawful to commence construction without a building permit! If the work does not comply with the Ontario Building Code requirements:
If you are still not certain whether or not your project requires a building permit, contact the Building Department. Our staff will be able to assist you in making that determination. |
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Property Compliance Request |
| The Township makes information available for zoning, building, by-law & Fire, finance and tax matters. This property information is generally requested by lawyers and real estate agents who want to ensure that properties are in compliance with Township of Blandford-Blenheim by-laws. This information is however, also available to any home owner. Property Compliance Information Request Form. |
Septic System Maintenance
Septic systems are the responsibility of the homeowner. It is up to you to keep your system working properly to protect your environment, your health, and your investment. When properly designed, constructed, and maintained, a septic system should provide long-term, effective treatment of your household wastewater. If you take good care of your system, you will save yourself the time, money and worries involved in replacing a failed system. Failed systems can be hazardous to your health, the environment and your pocketbook. It can degrade water supplies and reduce your property value. For more information regarding the the maintenance of septic systems please look at the Septic Smart Brochure.
