About permit fees
Building permit fees cover the cost of reviewing your plans, scheduling inspections, and making sure your project meets the Ontario Building Code and our local by-laws. All fees are set out in the Fees and Charges By-law 2025-151. We adjust them every year to keep pace with the cost of living and to stay within the limits set by the province.
How fees are calculated
Your permit fee depends on the type of project, the size of the building, and the total value of the work. For new homes and large commercial projects, the city uses a valuation-based formula. This means the fee is based on the total construction cost you estimate. For smaller jobs, like adding a deck or changing a plumbing fixture, the fee is a flat rate. Some permits, like trade permits for electrical or plumbing work, have a set price regardless of the project size. You can use our online fee calculator to get an estimate before you apply.
Fee schedule
| Project type | Fee |
|---|---|
| New single detached house | $1,850.00 |
| New duplex | $2,100.00 |
| New commercial building (base fee) | $2,400.00 |
| Commercial building (per $10,000 of estimated construction value) | $45.00 |
| Demolition permit (per $10,000 of estimated demolition value) | $35.00 |
| Residential renovation or addition (per $10,000 of estimated value) | $12.50 |
| Plumbing trade permit | $145.00 |
| Electrical trade permit | $160.00 |
| Gas trade permit | $130.00 |
| Mechanical trade permit | $155.00 |
| Fire safety permit | $175.00 |
| Temporary building permit | $95.00 |
| Permanent sign permit | $85.00 |
| Building permit status check | Free |
| As-built plan review | $120.00 |
Residential decks still use the flat rate of $150.00. Development permits for decks remain $75.00. Backyard suites have a development permit fee of $600.00, plus the standard building permit rate based on construction value.
Payment and refunds
You can pay for your permit online through the permit portal, in person at City Hall, or by mail. We accept credit cards, debit, and bank transfers. If you pay by mail, please include your application number on the cheque.
If you need to cancel or extend a permit, refunds and credits follow these rules:
- Extension fee: 10 per cent of the original permit fee.
- Reinstatement fee: 50 per cent of the original permit fee for expired permits.
- Partial refund: Available if you cancel within 30 days of issuance and no inspections have been booked.
- Reinspection fees: Apply under By-law 2025-151 if work is unready, inaccessible, requires uncovering, or if you cancel late.
Contact
For help calculating your fee or to discuss a special case, visit the Planning and Development office on the third floor of City Hall at 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1. You can also email [email protected] or call the main line at 519-555-0100. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.