Can I widen my driveway in Ottawa?

Yes, you can widen your driveway in Ottawa, but you'll need a permit from the City of Ottawa and must comply with specific zoning requirements and setback rules.

The City of Ottawa requires a permit for driveway widening because it affects drainage, property lines, and municipal infrastructure. You'll need to contact City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building to start the process.

Key Requirements for Ottawa Driveway Widening

Your driveway expansion must meet Ottawa's zoning bylaws, which typically require minimum setbacks from property lines (usually 1-2 feet depending on your neighborhood). The total driveway width cannot exceed a certain percentage of your front yard - generally around 50-60% of the frontage width, but this varies by zone.

The permit process involves submitting a site plan showing your proposed expansion, existing utilities, and drainage plans. Ottawa requires proper drainage to prevent water runoff onto neighboring properties or city infrastructure. You'll need to show how stormwater will be managed.

Permit Process and Timeline

Expect the permit review to take 15-25 business days for a standard driveway widening. The permit fee typically ranges from $200-500 depending on the scope of work. You'll need to provide a detailed drawing showing dimensions, materials, and drainage solutions.

Before starting, call Ontario One Call (1-800-400-2255) to locate underground utilities. This is mandatory and free - hitting a gas line or electrical cable during excavation can be extremely dangerous and expensive.

What to Watch For

Check if your property has any easements or right-of-way restrictions that could affect your expansion. Some Ottawa neighborhoods, especially older areas like the Glebe or Westboro, have specific heritage or design restrictions. Properties in newer subdivisions like Kanata, Orleans, or Barrhaven may have builder covenants limiting driveway modifications.

Make sure your contractor understands Ottawa's specific requirements for base preparation and drainage. Poor drainage can cause frost heaving in our climate and create problems with neighbors or the city.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Look for contractors experienced with Ottawa permit processes and familiar with local soil conditions. Verify they're registered for WSIB coverage and have proper liability insurance. Get multiple quotes that include permit costs, proper base preparation for Ottawa's freeze-thaw cycles, and drainage solutions.

For detailed permit requirements and applications, visit ottawa.ca/building or call 613-580-2424. The Building Code Services team can walk you through the specific requirements for your property and neighborhood.