As the days grow warmer this spring, many residents in King Township are gearing up for outdoor construction projects, including building decks, installing pools and hardscaping their properties. While these projects can enhance your property and enjoyment of outdoor spaces, it's crucial to remember the importance of obtaining the necessary building permits.
Obtaining a building permit from the Township is not only a legal requirement but also a key step in ensuring that your construction project complies with the Ontario Building Code and other regulations. Failure to obtain a building permit can lead to various consequences, including increased fees and penalties under the Building Code Act and Provincial Offences Act.
To help residents navigate the process, King Township offers the following guidance:
Ask King Planning: Before starting your construction project, use the Ask King Planning service early in the planning stages. It can assist you in identifying all required steps and potential restrictions that may affect the size and scope of your project. Best of all, you can access this service online at king.ca/askkingplanning, saving a trip to the King Township Municipal Centre. The online service is available 24/7 and offers users a personalized opportunity to connect with a Township planner either in-office, by phone, email or online video call.
Building permit application: A building permit is your formal permission to begin construction, demolition, addition or renovation on your property. You must submit a building permit application, which will be reviewed by Township staff to ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code and other regulations.
Pool permits: If you plan to install a pool on your property, additional requirements must be met, including obtaining a pool permit, submitting site plans and meeting grading and drainage requirements.
Softscaping and hardscaping: Hardscaping refers to non-living elements like brick patios, stone walls, or wooden arbours, while softscaping includes living elements like trees, flowers and grass. If you plan to do any hardscaping, it’s important to understand your lot’s regulations regarding the maximum allowable hardscaping amount. Hardscaping can’t be installed within 0.6m (2ft) of any property line and the drainage swales must not be disturbed. Visit king.ca/HardLandscapingExemption for more information. King can also provide property owners with their approved lot grading plan.
Be a good neighbour: While working on your outdoor projects, be mindful of your neighbours. Keep noise levels down, avoid blocking roadways and driveways and ensure that your project area is safe and clean. This includes cleaning up mud or dirt tracked onto roadways. If you need to occupy or close any road in the Township for construction-related activities—including placing equipment on roads—you will require a permit from Public Works. You can apply for a road occupancy permit here.
Remember, obtaining a permit is not just about compliance; it's about ensuring the safety, integrity and value of your property. Plan ahead, obtain the necessary permits and enjoy a successful and stress-free construction season in King.
To learn more about building permit applications and requirements, visit king.ca/buildingpermits.
For regular updates on Township programs and events, follow the official corporate social media channels on X, Facebook and Instagram or visit king.ca.
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Media Contact
Township of King
Jason Ballantyne, Communications Officer
Township of King | Phone: 905-833-5321 | Email: media@king.ca