Temporary tents, stages and event structures

Check whether you need a permit

• A single tent with an area of 60 m2 (≈ 646 sq ft) or more
• A group of tents with an aggregate area of 60 m2 (≈ 646 sq ft) or more
• A tent of any size that is attached to a building
• Tents that are less than 3 m (≈ 9 ft 10⅛ in) from adjacent structures
• The platform(s) has an aggregate area more than 60 m2 (≈ 646 sq ft) and any part of the platform(s) is more than 3 m (≈ 9 ft 10⅛ in) in height above adjacent ground level
• The platform(s) has an aggregate area more than 225 m2 (≈ 2,422 sq ft)
• Any part of the platform(s) or any roof, wall or structure attached to or located on any platforms is 5 m (≈ 16 ft 4⅞ in) or more in height above adjacent ground level
• The demountable support structure is more than 3 m (≈ 9 ft 10⅛ in) in height above adjacent ground level
• The demountable support structure is designed to carry a superimposed specified load greater than 115 kg
• The demountable support structure would create a hazard to the public

Prepare your plans0 of 6

• General Information2These requirements apply to all building permit types.
• Required Documentation3
• Required Drawings1

You need an account to see these 6 items.It’s free. Use Sign in at the top of the page to create one, then tick the items off on any device and print them as a checklist.

Complete the forms6Download the set7 forms

• Building Permit Application Formnot required for ePLAN applicationsForm
• Applicable Law ChecklistChecklist
• Temporary Event Structure AuthorizationForm
• Commitment to General Reviewrequired for single tents with an area exceeding 225 m2 (≈ 2,422 sq ft) and for all stages and demountable support structuresForm
• General Review Commitment Authorizationrequired when a tenant signs the General Review Commitment formForm
• 2024 OBC Transition DeclarationForm

Apply as a non-housing (NH) permit, at least 6 weeks ahead

• Temporary tents, stages and demountable support structures require a non-housing (NH) permit application.
• Refer to our Quick Guide for Temporary Event Structures for information on submitting the application through our ePLAN system and the applicable Submission Standards for the drawings and documents.
• In order to ensure there is sufficient time to process your application, the Applicant Upload Task must be completed at least 6 weeks before the event.

Submit your application

• All applications for building permits, demolition permits, plumbing permits, certified models, shop drawings, Zoning Preliminary Reviews sign permits and pool enclosure permits must be submitted using ePLAN. Paper applications are no longer accepted.
• Applicant creates a Customer Account with Markham’s ePLAN system.
• Once logged into ePLAN, Applicant requests a new application. A non-refundable Pre-Application Fee of $100 must be paid before drawings can be uploaded.
• Applicant uploads drawings directly to ePLAN.
• Markham staff conduct a Pre-Screen review to confirm the project complies with our Submission Standards.
• Once the submission passes the Pre-Screen Review, it becomes a permit application. The date of application is the date that Pre-Screen is approved.
• All plans review and any required resubmissions are conducted electronically.
• When the permit is issued, login to download the approved plans and documents.
• Applicants are responsible for printing the permit card, permit placard and one (1) set of approved plans for use on site.

Pay the fee

• Building permit fees are estimated at the time of application.
• The estimate must be paid in full before plans review begins.
• Any balance owing must be paid before the permit is issued.
• Pre-Application Review: $100
• Temporary Building (Tent, Stages): $314 each

Book your inspections

• Please book inspections through our Inspections Portal by selecting "Request a Building Inspection".
• Upon submission of an inspection request, confirmation of a scheduled inspection will be emailed to the listed owner on the Building Permit.