What is an occupancy permit?
An occupancy permit confirms that a building or a portion of a building is safe to occupy and complies with the Ontario Building Code, the Ontario Fire Code, and all City of Wrenford by-laws. You must receive this permit before moving people, furniture, or equipment into the space.
Who needs an occupancy permit?
Under the Ontario Building Code, an occupancy permit is required for:
- Commercial buildings
- Multi-unit residential buildings (apartments, condominiums, townhouses)
- Institutional buildings (schools, hospitals, places of worship)
- Any building or space that has undergone a major change of use
You do not need an occupancy permit for single detached houses, semi-detached houses, or duplexes. However, if you are a homeowner or contractor who wants an occupancy certificate for insurance or resale purposes, you may apply voluntarily. A processing fee applies for voluntary applications.
How to apply
You can only apply for an occupancy permit after your building permit has been issued and all required construction inspections have been passed. Submit your application at least three weeks before your planned occupancy date.
Follow these steps:
- Complete the Occupancy Permit Application Form (PDF).
- Attach all required supporting documents, including final inspection reports, fire safety plans (if applicable), and landscaping agreements (if required).
- Submit your application by email to our planning desk or drop it off in person at Room 308, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1.
Fees
The occupancy permit fee is determined by the size and type of the building. All fees are set out in the Fees and Charges By-law 2025-151. You can use the Building permit fee calculator to estimate your total cost. Voluntary occupancy permits for single-family homes or laneway houses carry a flat processing fee of $175.00.
Processing times and inspections
Staff will review your application and coordinate with the Wrenford Fire Rescue Service for any necessary fire prevention inspections. If the building meets all code requirements, staff will issue the permit within ten business days of a complete submission. If additional work is needed, you will receive a Notice of Correction outlining the required changes.
Once issued, the occupancy permit must be displayed at the job site or provided to the property owner before any occupancy occurs. Temporary occupancy is not permitted. Construction trailers and site offices must remain on site until the final occupancy permit is issued. If you need to occupy a portion of a building before the rest is complete, you may apply for a temporary occupancy permit. Contact the planning desk for more information.
Contact us
If you have questions about whether your project requires an occupancy permit or need help with the application, contact the Planning and Development desk.
Phone: 519-555-0100
Email: [email protected]