Apply for a Building Permit

The Cloudpermit building permit system allows you to apply for and to see the status of your application anywhere, at any time.  You can start an application and finish it later, and receive email updates on the status of your permit application.

Apply for a Building Permit

Please review the Building Permit Application Checklist to ensure you have all the required documents.

Need Help?

To get started with Cloudpermit, you need to Create an Account.

Note you will need an email address to use the system.

To Create an Account:

1. Go to the Cloudpermit site at https://ca.cloudpermit.com

2. Click on “Create a New Account” found under the "continue" arrow.

3. Provide your email address.

4. Evolve will send an email to the address you have provided.

5. Open the email and complete the registration process. The next time you visit the site, you'll login using your email and password.

 6.  View the video for tips on how to complete your building permit application using Cloudpermit

https://support.cloudpermit.com/support/solutions/articles/67000710153-how-to-submit-an-application

Cloudpermit Support

Building Permit Fees may vary depending on the type of work required. Review the Building Permit Fees for details on specific fees. For more information or questions, please contact the building department.

• New Online Payment Options are available: Hastings Highlands now accepts E-Transfer Payments for Building Permit Applications. Our E-Transfer form can be found here. Payment can also be made using Debit, Cheque, and Cash in-person at the Municipal Office during hours of operation. If you have any questions or for more information, please contact 613-338-2811 or [email protected]

The Ontario Building Code requires that a complete building permit application for small projects and houses will be processed within 10 business days.

You will be advised at the time of application or within 2 business days, if the application is incomplete.

Projects that REQUIRE a Building Permit

Under the Ontario Building Code Act, a building permit is required to construct, demolish, renovate, alter, install, or change the use of a building. The following is a list of typical projects or situations that require the issuance of a building permit prior to construction:

• New buildings or structures of any size that include services. 
• New buildings or structures greater than 10 square metres (108 ft²) in total floor area, measured by the outside dimensions. This includes sleeping cabins, boathouses or other accessory buildings or structures.
• Single storey sheds greater than 15 square metres in area.
• Additions to existing buildings or structures.
• Renovations that involve structural framing, altering means of egress and for exits.  
• New or replacement decks.
• Wood burning appliances, including new or replacement of existing components.
• Replacement of windows or doors if the rough opening size is enlarged.
• Relocation or addition of plumbing fixtures.
• Replacement of interior water supply or drainpipes.
• Wind turbines that generate more than 3 kW of electricity.
• Solar panels on new/existing structures will require a permit.
• Quonset huts and pre-engineered metal buildings.
• Repair or replacement of all types of building foundations.

Projects that DO NOT REQUIRE a Building Permit

It isn’t necessary to obtain building permits to perform the following work. However, you must still comply with the requirements of the Municipality of Hastings Highlands Zoning Bylaw and, if applicable, the Ontario Building Code.

• Fences but still must be 30 m from water body.
• Replacement of plumbing fixtures (toilet, sink, bathtub, shower, hot water tank) in their original locations.
• Replacement of windows or doors where the rough opening size does not change.
• Replacement of shingles or other non- structural roofing material. Replacing or adding new roof trusses or rafters, requires a building permit.
• Installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels on a pole. Note: an electrical permit may be required. Check with an electrician or the Electrical Safety Authority.
• Wind turbines that generate 3 kW or less of electricity.

Technical Resources

• Adding a Second Unit to your House
• Ontario Provincial Standards – Straw Bale Fence Drawing
• Ontario Provincial Standards – Light Duty Silt Fence Barrier
• MMAH Guards for Housing and Small Buildings
• MMAH Tiny Homes

Septic System Resources

• FOCA Septic System Video
• A Guide to Operating and Maintaining Your Septic System
• A Homeowners Guide to a Healthy Septic

• 2023 Annual Report on Building Permit Fees
• 2022 Annual Report on Building Permit Fees
• 2021 Annual Report on Building Permit Fees
• 2020 Annual Report on Building Permit Fees
• 2019 Annual Report on Building Permit Fees
• 2018 Annual Report on Building Permit Fees