Shed, cabana and accessory structure 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.

• Construct a shed with an area of 15 square meters (≈ 161 sq ft) (161 square feet (≈ 15 m²)) or more.
• Workshop
• Pool house or cabana
• Detached Garage
• Carport
• If you are constructing an accessory structure and it is attached to an existing building and/or has plumbing, regardless of its size, a building permit is required.

Prepare your plans0 of 13

• General Information4
• Site Plan4
• Accessory Structure to be shown on Site Plan3Accessory Structure to be shown on Site Plan, including:
• Construction Details and Notes2

You need an account to see these 13 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 forms5Download the set5 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.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
• 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 By-laws.Form
• Declaration Form - Overhead Electrical ConductorsThe purpose of this form is to confirm compliance with Article 3.1.20.1 (as may be referenced by 9.1.1.5) of Division B of the Ontario Building Code (“Article 3.1.20.1”), and it shall be submitted with every permit application for the construction of a new building or the construction of an addition to an existing building. The form must be signed by the designer who has prepared the designs in support of the building permit application.Form

Submit your application

You must now apply for a permit for an accessory structure online using Toronto Building’s Online Services – Application Submission.

• This service allows applicants to see what documents are required.
• 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

• Residential Decks, Porches, Carports: $214.79
• 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.