What you can transfer
A building permit is tied to a specific property and a specific set of approved plans. You can transfer a permit in two main situations:
- Change of ownership: You bought a property that already has an active building permit, or you sold a property and the buyer wants to take over the permit.
- Change of project: You need to move the permit to a different address within the city, or you are transferring it to a different contractor or project team.
Transferring a permit does not change the approved plans or the conditions attached to it. If the new owner wants to make changes, they must apply for a new permit or an amendment. The original applicant remains responsible for the work until the transfer is fully processed and approved by a building official.
When a transfer is not allowed
You cannot transfer a building permit if:
- The permit has already expired or been cancelled.
- More than twelve months have passed since the permit was issued and construction has not started.
- The property has been sold to a new owner and the original applicant is not listed on the title.
- The work described in the permit no longer matches what will be built.
- There are outstanding compliance orders or unpaid fines tied to the permit.
How to apply for a transfer
Follow these steps to transfer a building permit to a new owner or project:
- Complete the Building Permit Transfer Request Form. Both the current permit holder and the new applicant must sign it.
- Pay the transfer fee of $175.00. We accept credit cards, e-transfers, or in-person payment at City Hall.
- Submit the form and proof of payment through the Wrenford Permit Portal or drop it off at the Planning and Development counter in Room 105, Wrenford City Hall.
- Wait for a confirmation email. Staff will review the application within five business days.
What happens to your inspections and conditions
When a permit is transferred, all existing inspection schedules and permit conditions move with it. The new permit holder is responsible for booking inspections and meeting all requirements. If you need to cancel or reschedule an inspection, use the portal as usual. You will not get a refund for the transfer fee, and the twelve-month validity period from the original issue date still applies. If the new holder needs more time, they must apply for an extension before the original date passes.
Need help?
If you have questions about transferring a permit or need help with the form, contact the Building Permits team.
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 519-555-0100
- Visit: Planning and Development office, Room 105, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1