
Building
Before You Start
There are requirements you must meet depending on the project. Before you begin your home/business build or renovation, we recommended that you first:
- Look into zoning and planning requirements
- If you are building on a waterfront lot, site plan approval may be required
- Review the Building Permit Checklist
Getting Started
What is the definition of a building? |
A structure occupying an area greater than 10m2 consisting of a wall, roof and floor or any of them or a structural system serving the function thereof including all plumbing, works fixtures, and service systems appurtenant thereto
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What is a building permit? |
A building permit is your approval to start construction. It means that plans for any new structure, addition or renovation have been reviewed by the Building department. The Building department ensures the plans meet the Ontario Building Code, local Zoning By-Laws and other applicable laws and regulations. |
Why do I need a building permit? |
A building permit is a way to regulate development in the Township of Muskoka Lakes to meet health, fire, structural and general safety standards. This is to protect individuals and the Community as a whole. It is illegal to conduct work without a permit. Conducting work without a building permit is against the Ontario Building Code Act. |
When is a building permit required? |
A building permit is needed when a person constructs or demolishes a building or causes a building to be constructed or demolished. The Township of Muskoka Lakes also requires a building permit to be taken out when processing an application to connect to the District Water and Sewer. A permit to connect must be taken out first from the District of Muskoka. This permit must go with your application to the Township of Muskoka Lakes, along with the needed drawings. |
What type of renovations require a permit? |
The following is a list of common renovation projects that require a building permit:
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Permits
Applicants are encouraged to review our building by-law and the building permit guide to verify that all documents being provided meet the requirements.
Some applications may require a copy of your property deed, proof of entrance approval, septic or water and sewer approval and/or payment of development fees (District and/or Township).
Building Permit - Build a Home, Structure, Garage |
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Building Permit - Renovations |
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Demolition Permit |
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Septic System Permit |
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A septic permit is required when you are looking to install a new septic system, change the location of an existing system, or replace an old system. View the Sewage System Permit Guide. To apply, please submit:
Useful Resources |
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Docks and Boathouses |
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Construction work on Docks and Boathouses require separate building permit applications. View our dock and boathouse permit guide to help with applicable law requirements. Approval from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF), the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Navigation Protection Program, and Parks Canada may be required. Refer to the dock and boathouse permit guide. Construct a Dock or BoathouseBoathouse application will not be accepted until a Dock permit has been inspected and closed. If a dock is required to support an upper structure (boathouse or boat port), it has to be constructed in the following sequence.
Permit RequirementsReview the guide to applying for a building permit for all structures. Fees
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Outdoor Tents |
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For safety reasons, depending on the size and use, tents may be subject to provisions under the Ontario Building Code, and/or the Fire Code. If your tent is larger than 30m2, you will need to complete and submit a building permit application. Use this Tent Construction Checklist to help prepare you. Frequently Asked Questions
Apply for a Permit
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Energy Efficient Design Summary |
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Development Charges
Development Charges for the Township and District will be charged as follows:
Township Development Charges
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In accordance with By-law 2019-074, as of July 17, 2019:
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District Development Charges
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View the District of Muskoka Development Charges Pamphlet. District Development Charges do not apply if the addition to a non-residential building is 50% or less of floor area. In accordance with By-law 2019-49, as of January 1, 2021: Rural
Urban
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