Basement entrance permits

Check whether you need a permit

The following is a list of common projects that require a building permit. The list is not exhaustive.

• Constructing a basement entrance
• Basement underpinning
• Excavating and/or constructing foundations

Prepare your plans0 of 18

• General Information4
• Site Plan4
• Basement / Foundation Plans for Underpinning3
• Floor Plans1
• Sections3
• Construction Details and Notes2
• Protect Your Privacy1

You need an account to see these 18 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 set6 forms

• Application to Construct or Demolish FormBuilding permit application form required for all submissionsForm3 editions
• Schedule 1: Designer Information FormRequired for all designers, except Engineers and Architects when applying for any Construction Permit. Property Owners, if exempted from Qualification/Certification, must fill-in the form to specify the reason for exemption.Form
• Assumption of Responsibility for Engineering Content FormWhere the permit drawings and/or documents submitted with a building permit application for a design of a new house or material alteration to an existing house bear the seal of a professional engineer, the professional engineer who sealed drawings and/or documents shall confirm the content for which the engineer is assuming professional responsibility by completing the Assumption of Responsibility for Engineering Content Form.Form
• Commitment to General Reviews by Architect and EngineerProfessional design and field review is required where the foundations of a of a building are to be constructed below the level of the footings of an adjacent building and within the angle of repose of the soil, or the underpinning exceeds 1200 mm (≈ 3 ft 11¼ in) of Laterally unsupported height, or the soil is clay or silt. This Commitment form must be signed by the owner or agent and the professional architect, engineer, or consultant.Form
• Tree Declaration FormRequired for all projects where there is a potential for damage to private or City trees. Applicant is also responsible to comply with other tree protection bylaws.Form
• Rental Renovation Licence Screening FormRequired to be submitted for all permits related to the repair or renovations of a residential unit, and will assist in determining whether the work proposed in your building permit application will also require you to obtain a rental renovations license under Toronto Municipal Code Ch 662.Form

Submit your application

You may now apply for a permit for a residential basement entrance permit online using the Toronto Building Online Services Application Submission Tool.

• This service allows applicants to see what documents are required and which outside approvals, if any, are applicable to the submission.
• It also allows the applicant to track their submission from start to completion of the submission portion of the application process.
• A User Guide is available to support your submission.
• Access the Online Services Portal by selecting the appropriate guide, clicking the “Apply Online” dropdown, and then selecting the blue “Apply for…” button.
• Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions to proceed.
• Enter your project address. If applicable, include the unit number in the “Unit Number” field.
• Provide a detailed description of the proposed work.
• Answer screening questions to help ensure accurate processing of your application.
• Enter the applicant’s contact information, ensuring accuracy- especially the email address, which will be used for all communications.
• Upload your application documents
• Required Documents must be submitted to proceed.
• Frequently Provided and Supporting Documents may be requested later. Use the “More Information” link beside each document to determine if it is needed for your proposal.
• Save your application as a draft if needed. You’ll receive an automated email with a reference number, access code, and instructions to return and complete your submission later.
• Submit your application once all required documents are uploaded.
• Receive confirmation on-screen and via email. You’ll also be given the option to apply for related child permits (e.g., plumbing, mechanical, HVAC) and provided with next steps and contact information for support.
• Once the application has been submitted, it will be assessed by our intake staff. If any required documentation is missing or incorrect, you will be notified, and the application will need to be re-submitted. If the application is submitted with all required documentation, it will be processed and an Examiner will review the application within 3 days.

Pay the fee

Fee Effective Jan. 1, 2026

• Underpinning: $12.37/linear metre
• Minimum fee of $214.79 (2026) shall be charged for all work.
• Depending on the outcome of the review, the examiner may request payment of the permit fee. Once the permit fee is received, the permit will be issued.
• If payment of the application fee is requested, the fee must be paid by the due date in the communication from the examiner. Otherwise, the application will be cancelled.
• Building Permit Fees may be paid by credit card or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)/ wire transfer. Payment by cheque is no longer accepted.
• Permit Fees to a maximum of $20,000.00 may be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express), either online or by telephone.
• The Toronto Building Payments Online service allows applicants of Building Permits or other Toronto Building services to pay the required fees online, by credit card, at any time of the day.
• To make a payment online, you must be the Applicant listed on the application form.
• To use the Toronto Building Fee Payment Line service, please call 416-397-5222.