Second suite and Two-Unit house permits

Check whether you need a permit

• Aurora’s Zoning Bylaw No. 6000-17 permits second suite dwelling units in detached dwellings, semi-detached dwellings and link house dwellings subject to certain zoning provisions.
• (i) Where three (3) or more link house dwelling units are joined, a second suite dwelling unit shall be permitted, provided that the link house dwelling unit is joined only below grade.
• Owners of Two-Unit houses which were in existence after November 16, 1995, or owners proposing to create a Two-Unit house by constructing a second suite dwelling unit are required to comply with the Zoning Bylaw, the Ontario Building Code and the Registration Bylaw No.5429-12.
• A Change of Use Permit or Building Permit is required for the existing Two-Unit house and for the creation of a Two-Unit house.

Complete the forms2Download the set6 forms

• Application for a Permit to Construct or DemolishForm2 editions
• Plumbing Drain Permit ApplicationPlease note if you are applying for a New Building, Addition or Alteration permit a separate plumbing permit maybe required.Form

Prepare your files

All documents/reports/drawing must be provided as separate submittals and saved by proper file naming conventions of (application, architectural, plumbing, structural, foundation etc.).

• Keep filename consistent.
• Avoid the use of characters, symbols, and extra spaces in your filenames. (For example, &, *, {}, <>, _)
• Avoid inappropriate language in filenames.
• All electronic documents, plans and drawings must be submitted in PDF format, version 7 or not be locked, or password protected.
• Plans/Drawings with multiple pages and sets must be combined into a single Electronic Document (PDF format), flattened, and saved as separate submittal.
• Drawings and Specifications must be in black and white only. Full-colour renderings and photos may be submitted, but only as supplements to a sufficient set of plans.
• The scale and page size of the plans/drawings on the PDF must match the scale and page size of the full-sized plans/drawings on paper.
• Documents must be properly labelled.
• File Naming Requirements for Electronic Submission
• If you do not have an electronic copy, you can either request an electronic copy from the designer or have the drawings scanned at a copy centre.
• Plans/drawings must be at a resolution that is easily legible on screen, and the pages must not be skewed.
• Scanned resolutions of 1-bit black and white 300 dpi is usually acceptable. For plans/drawings containing fine lines and detail, 600 dpi resolution is required.
• Do not reduce the scanned document size.
• Scanning documents in full colour is only necessary if it contains photographs.

Submit your application

All applicants including homeowners are required to provide the required information electronically:

• Go to Portal
• Create an account
• Follow the steps to apply and pay for your application
• Send complete application including drawings and application forms to building@aurora.ca
• Payment information will be provided upon receipt of the application
• We also accept permit application submissions through the Building Division email which has a maximum file size of 16mb or on a USB drive in person.
• Upload all the permit application and related drawings and documentation on a USB drive.
• Bring USB drive to Building Division in person
• Provide payment at counter
• A USB drive containing the PDF files must contain only the PDF files for the Building Permit application, and not contain documents that are compressed or zipped.
• Please note all electronic submissions will be reviewed for completeness. Should any items be missing applicant will receive notification through the Portal or by email.
• Note: Missing information or payment may delay the processing time.
• For further information on electronic submission, please email building@aurora.ca or call (365) 500-2081.

Pay the fee

• All application submissions must be accompanied by a payment by either cheque, debit or credit card (Visa or Master Card).
• Permit Fees

Schedule the Electrical Safety Authority inspection

• Owners are also required to schedule an inspection with the Electrical Safety Authority (formerly Ontario Hydro) at 1 (877) 372-7233.

Register the Two-Unit house

• Two-Unit houses shall be registered with the Building Services Division.
• Registration Application for a Secondary or Third Dwelling Unit
• Registration By-law No. 6660-24
• If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact the Building Services Division at (365) 500-2081.