Permit guideKitchenerBuilding PermitsGarages & Carports
Garage and carport permits
You need a building permit for a carport or attached garage that is 108 square feet (≈ 10 m²) or larger or attached to another structure, and for a detached garage or accessory structure (other than a shed) that is 108 square feet (≈ 10 m²) or larger, attached to another structure or has plumbing.
The municipality lists what to submit. CodeEase shows what the building code asks of it. See CodeEase →
Check whether you need a permit
The list below includes examples of projects that need a building permit. It is not a complete list.
- building a detached garage or accessory structure, other than a shed, 108 square feet (≈ 10 m²) or greater (measured to the outside face of exterior walls)
- building an attached carport or other roof structure of any size
Under 108 square feet: no building permitThe list below includes examples of projects that do not need a building permit.
- building a detached structure, other than a shed (like a garage or gazebo) that's less than 108 square feet (≈ 10 m²) in size, measured from the outside face of walls (that does not have plumbing)
- Only if you are building a carport or attached garage
Adding a carport or attached garage
Permit needed
You need a building permit to build a carport or attached garage when:
- 108 square feet (≈ 10 m²) or larger (new or replacement)
- when it’s attached to another structure, like your home
Process guide
Site plan
Show these items on your site plan:
- location of the proposed carport or attached garage
- dimensions and distance from proposed structure to property lines
- other structures in the area (example: deck, pool)
Plan view
- window and door sizes
- floor, wall and roof construction
- connection to existing structure (only if attached)
Front and side view
- height of structure
- exterior materials
Forms
- Another Kitchener page says this differently: “The Ontario Building Code requires us to ensure all drawings submitted are prepared and reviewed by a qualified, registered designer, architect or professional engineer.” (Apply for a building permit). Confirm before you apply: City of Kitchener, 519-741-2312.
Fees
- permit fee: $95 per bay
- rebate fee: $250 (automatically refunded when the final building inspection is approved)
- Only if you are building a detached garage or accessory structure (other than a shed)
Building a detached garage or accessory structure (other than a shed)
Permit needed
You need a building permit to build a detached garage or accessory structure (other than a shed):
- the proposed structure, new or replaced, is 108 square feet (≈ 10 m²) or larger measured to the outside of exterior walls
- the proposed structure is attached to another structure (like your home)
- the proposed structure has plumbing
Process guide
Site plan
Show these items on your site plan:
- location of the proposed accessory building or garage
- dimensions and distance from building to property line
- other structures in the area (example: deck, pool)
Plan view
- window and door sizes
- floor, wall and roof construction
- connection to existing structure (only if attached)
Front and side view
- height of structure
- exterior materials
Forms
- application form
- Project Information: Residential
- If the proposed structure is larger than 592 square feet (≈ 55 m²), you need a schedule 1 designer form. You will need to complete the drawings with a qualified designer.
Qualified designers
Qualified designers need to include their:
- name
- BCIN #
- designer statement
- signature on the plans
- completed schedule 1 form
Fees
- permit fee: $95 per accessory building or per bay of garage
- rebate fee: $250 (for garages only, automatically refunded when the final building inspection is approved)
Check the drawing requirements
- be fully dimensioned - elevation and construction floor plans shall be drawn to scale: min. 1:75 or 3/16” = 1’
- note all sizes and types of construction materials that will be used, as well as the locations of these materials
- note finishes to all walls, ceilings and floors
- all existing and proposed fire separations
Submit your application
You can apply for your building permit online or in person. All projects must follow our zoning bylaw.
- Use our online services.
- To apply for a building permit in person, please book an appointment. Please bring your completed forms and drawings to your appointment.
Written from Kitchener’s own pages as published on 23 October 2026. The municipality decides what a permit needs: confirm with it before you apply. Legal notice