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Residential building permits in London: applications and inspections
London, Ontario, Canada
Before starting a London home addition, basement conversion or structural project, confirm the permit and zoning requirements.
Key information
Before starting a London home addition, basement conversion or structural project, confirm the permit and zoning requirements. Submit complete drawings, wait for issuance and book the inspections on your permit card.
On this page
Common residential permit triggers
| Project | City-listed treatment |
|---|---|
| Addition or basement living space | Permit required |
| Deck above 0.61 m | Permit required; suite-entrance decks can also require permits |
| Shed above 15 sq m or any plumbing | Permit required |
| New or enlarged door or window opening | Permit required |
| Same-size door or window replacement | Not listed as requiring a building permit |
| Same-location plumbing fixture replacement | Not listed as requiring a building permit |
Drawings and other approvals
Check zoning before paying for a final design. Setbacks, lot coverage and permitted uses can limit a project even when its construction meets the Building Code. A conservation-authority permit, heritage approval, MTO approval, site-plan approval, tree permit or Committee of Adjustment decision may also be needed.
Prepare a site plan showing property lines, setbacks, existing structures and the proposed footprint. Residential submissions can also need architectural plans, structural details, energy forms, HVAC design, grading documents and engineered floor or roof packages. The exact set depends on the work. An agent who is not the owner needs an authorization letter.
Upload unprotected PDF files. The city asks for greyscale, landscape drawings and separate files by drawing type. Qualified designers, architects and engineers have different roles under the Building Code; a homeowner drawing must still show all required dimensions and construction details.
Published fees and complete-application review periods
| Item | Published figure | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum permit fee | $260.37 | Deposit is credited to the final calculated fee |
| Part 3 minimum | $557.91 | Applies to relevant larger-building category |
| Single, semi or duplex demolition | $430.33 | Email demolition applications; portal does not support them |
| Typical new house, addition or renovation | 10 business days | Review clock starts only after completeness |
| Secondary dwelling unit in a house | 15 business days | Check the ARU-specific guidance and project category |
Application to construction
- Submit
Create a portal account, choose Add New Permit, upload documents and pay the deposit.
- Correct
Complete pre-screen corrections before the full review clock starts.
- Build and inspect
After approval, keep the card and plans on site and schedule required inspections.
Sources: Applying for a permit
Inspection readiness and revisions
Use the portal Processes view to see reviewer status. Approval from all assigned teams is required before issuance. Send requested revisions to revisions@london.ca with the address and application number in the subject; address the related deficiencies together.
Book building or plumbing inspections through the portal, building@london.ca or 519-661-4555. Fire-inspector details appear on the permit card. Keep approved plans and the card at the site, provide access between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and give any special access instructions.
Cancel at least 24 hours ahead. A site without plans or access may be marked Not Ready and charged a fee. Pay outstanding fees before the final inspection. Green means passed, yellow means partly passed with conditions, and red means deficiencies remain. Forward results to the contractors and trades.
Building Services counter
Path 2 Approval counter
300 Dufferin Avenue, London, Ontario, Canada
Building payment and in-person assistance are at the second-floor Path 2 Approval counter. Call 519-661-4555 or email building@london.ca for application help.
Questions and answers
Can I start while the application is being reviewed?
No. The city says construction starts after the permit is approved and issued.
Source: Applying for a permit
When does the review clock start?
When pre-screening confirms a complete application with required documents, fees and applicable-law clearances.
Source: Applying for a permit
Does replacing a window always need a permit?
A same-size replacement is listed as not requiring one. Adding or enlarging the opening requires a permit.
Can I submit locked PDF plans?
No. Secure or protected PDFs are not accepted.
Can an agent apply for me?
Yes, with the owner’s authorization letter and the required drawings and forms.
Where do I check reviewer status?
In the portal’s Processes view. The city asks applicants not to contact reviewers directly before their review is complete.
How do I book inspections?
Through the portal, by email to building@london.ca or by calling 519-661-4555. Fire inspections use the assigned inspector.
What must be on site for inspection?
The approved drawings and permit card, plus access to the work. Missing plans can cause a Not Ready result.
What does a yellow notice mean?
The inspection passed in part with specified comments or conditions. It is not an unconditional pass.
What if the project changes?
Submit a permit revision to revisions@london.ca with the municipal address and permit number. Do not build a different scope without review.