Fighting Building Permit Charges: Construction, Demolition, or Renovation, Among Other Projects

Question: What are the potential consequences of constructing or demolishing a building without a permit in Ontario?

Answer: Failing to obtain a building permit can lead to significant fines, project delays due to stop work orders, and safety risks from non-compliance with the Building Code Act, 1992, making it essential to understand these requirements before starting your project.

Consequences Include Fines, Delays, Destruction, and Jail

Constructing or demolishing a building without a permit is an issue that private individuals, contractors, and business owners, might inadvertently become entangled in with the risk of serious consequences.  The complexity of understanding the Building Code Act, 1992, S.O 1992, Chapter 23, and especially section 8(1), can be a daunting task.  Engaging with experienced legal professionals or building consultants experienced in municipal law and building codes is crucial for managing Building Code, 1992, concerns effectively.

The failure to obtain a proper building permit is a concern that usually stems from the legal requirement under the Building Code, 1992, which stipulates that "no person shall construct or demolish a building or cause a building to be constructed or demolished unless a permit has been issued therefor by the chief building official."  Understanding and adhering to this requirement is fundamental to lawful construction and demolition practices.

Failure to comply with the Building Code, 1992, can lead to various concerns including:

• The legal repercussions:
  With fines and penalties which can mount to significant sums, depending on the scale of the project.
• The delays in construction:
  With a stop work Order until the necessary permits are obtained, thereby impacting project timelines.
• The safety concerns:
  With unpermitted work that may fail to meet the safety standards set out by the Building Code, 1992, thereby posing risks to occupants and the general public.

Conclusion

Understanding and complying with the Building Code, 1992, including permit requirements, is crucial for anyone looking to construct or demolish a building within Ontario.  If charged for failing to obtain a building permit, or other Building Code, 1992, violation, promptly obtain professional legal advice before issues get worse.