Finished basement and exterior opening permits

Check whether you need a permit

• A building permit is required in Milton before finishing any portion of a basement.
• Basement renovations can affect building safety, fire protection, ventilation, insulation, and plumbing systems.

Check the zoning requirements

• Before applying, review the Zoning By-law to ensure your project complies with all applicable zoning requirements.
• Cooking facilities are not permitted in a finished basement unless the space is approved as a secondary dwelling unit.
• If you are planning to add a kitchen, review the basement apartment guidelines before applying.
• Confirming zoning compliance before applying can help prevent delays during the permit review process.

Prepare your plans0 of 3

Refer to the sample drawings for specific drawing requirements, including the number of copies required. Review the application guidelines before submitting your application.

• Construction drawings3Submit the following drawings with your application:

You need an account to see these 3 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 forms2Download the set2 forms

Before you apply, gather the required forms and supporting drawings.

• Application for a Permit to Construct or DemolishForm
• Schedule 1 – Designer Information Formrequired when someone other than an architect or engineer prepares the designForm

Prepare your files

• The application and necessary drawings and forms are required to be submitted in PDF format electronically.
• Digital files must be in PDF format and generated directly from the software used to create them (AutoCAD, Softplan, Revit, etc.) using a PDF printer or converter (no scanned copies)
• All PDF files must have the document properties/restrictions/security settings/permissions set to allow "Printing" and "Adding markups" so staff can apply redline notes and approval stamps to the documents
• If you would like to send files electronically that are larger than 10MB, please contact Building Services to request a secure file link to accommodate larger file requirements.

Submit your application

Once you have gathered the required forms and construction drawings:

• Complete the Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish.
• Complete the Schedule 1 – Designer Information Form, if required.
• Submit your completed application package through the online portal, including all supporting drawings and documents.

Pay the fee

Building permit fees for finished basement projects are listed on the Building Permit page.

• Finished basement: $6.55/m² (≈ $0.61 per sq ft) - Minimum $264.20
• Depending on the scope of your renovation, additional fees may apply. This may include work related to new plumbing fixtures, fireplaces, windows, or doors.
• New plumbing or alteration: $264.20 (flat rate)
• Fireplace or woodstove: $264.20
• Applicable fees must be paid when you submit your application.
  Another Milton page says this differently: “Once the building permit application package has been accepted, you will receive notification with an invoice for permit fees, including payment options. Permit fees are due upon receipt to begin the full permit review.” (Building Permits). Confirm before you apply: Building Services, 905-878-7252 ext 2397.