What is the cost of a building permit in Ottawa?

Building permit costs in Ottawa vary significantly based on your project type and value, ranging from around $100 for simple projects to several thousand dollars for major renovations or additions.

The City of Ottawa calculates permit fees using a combination of base fees plus a percentage of your project's construction value. Here's how it breaks down for common projects:

Simple Projects:

• Deck construction: $100-$300


• Fence installation: $100-$200


• Shed or accessory building: $150-$400

Renovation Projects:

• Bathroom renovation: $200-$800 (depending on scope and value)


• Kitchen renovation: $300-$1,200


• Interior renovations without structural changes: $200-$600

Major Projects:

• Home additions: $500-$2,500+


• Structural modifications: $400-$1,500


• Secondary dwelling units: $800-$3,000+


• New home construction: $2,000-$8,000+

The City uses a formula that includes a base application fee (typically $100-$300) plus a percentage of your declared construction value. For most residential renovations, this works out to roughly 0.5% to 1% of your project cost.

Getting Your Exact Cost:
Call City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 with your specific project details. They can provide an exact quote based on your project scope and location. You can also use the online permit portal at ottawa.ca/building to get preliminary cost estimates.

What Affects Your Permit Cost:
The construction value you declare is crucial - this should reflect the total cost including materials and labor. Don't underestimate this value to save on permit fees, as it can cause problems during inspection and may not provide adequate coverage if issues arise.

Payment and Timeline:
Permit fees are due when you submit your application. Simple permits typically process in 10-15 business days, while complex projects can take 4-8 weeks. The permit fee includes your initial plan review and standard inspections.

Money-Saving Tip:
If you're doing multiple projects, ask about combining them into one permit application when possible. This can sometimes reduce overall fees compared to separate applications.

Always verify current fees directly with the City, as rates are updated annually and can change based on Ottawa City Council decisions.