Barrie Accessibility Fee Exemption Bylaw

Civil Rights and Equity Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario · By Daniel Roy

Barrie, Ontario property owners or managers considering accessibility upgrades can request a fee exemption under municipal rules that govern building and permit charges. This guide explains eligibility, how to prepare an application, where to submit evidence, and what to expect from By-law Enforcement and Building Services. It summarizes official sources and practical steps so you can act confidently and meet provincial accessibility obligations while seeking municipal relief.

Who may apply and why: owners, landlords, or their authorized agents may seek an exemption for fees tied to accessibility upgrades required to meet barrier-free standards or to implement AODA-related modifications. For local accessibility policy and advisory processes see the City of Barrie accessibility information: City of Barrie Accessibility[1].

Start early and contact the city to confirm document lists before you submit.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for non-compliance with permit, building, or bylaw requirements related to accessibility upgrades is typically handled by City of Barrie By-law Enforcement and Building Services. Specific fine amounts and escalation rules for failing to obtain required permits or for non-compliant work are not specified on the cited municipal pages; refer to the fees and charges bylaw for formal penalties and fee schedules: Fees and Charges Bylaw[2].

If work begins without a required permit, enforcement action and fees may follow.
  • Common violations: starting construction without a permit, altering exits or paths of travel without approvals.
  • Typical administrative actions: stop-work orders, orders to remedy non-compliant work, and notices of offence.
  • Escalation: initial notices progressing to fines or court proceedings if unresolved; precise fine ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer: City of Barrie By-law Enforcement and Building Services handle inspections, orders, and prosecutions; contact the city for inspection requests or complaints.

Applications & Forms

The municipality may require a formal application for fee relief or an exemption as part of a permit or variance request. The specific form name or number for an "accessibility upgrade fee exemption" is not published on the cited pages; applicants should submit supporting documents with their building permit or contact the municipal office listed in Help and Support / Resources below for the current process and any application forms.[2]

  • What to include: project description, drawings showing accessibility changes, cost estimates, and justification for exemption.
  • Fees: fee amounts and whether exemptions apply are set in the Fees and Charges Bylaw; the bylaw lists fee categories and schedules.[2]
  • Deadlines: submit with permit application where possible; late submissions may not be accepted for retroactive exemptions.

FAQ

Who can apply for an accessibility fee exemption?
Owners, landlords, or authorized agents can apply; include documentation proving authorization and project scope.
Is there a specific application form published online?
No specific exemption form is published on the cited municipal pages; provide required documents with your permit application or contact the city for the current form.
How long does the review take?
Review times vary by workload and complexity; contact Building Services for an estimated timeline.

How-To

  1. Gather documents: drawings, scope, cost estimate, owner authorization, and accessibility rationale.
  2. Submit a building permit application including a written request for fee exemption and all supporting materials.
  3. Contact Building Services or By-law Enforcement to confirm receipt and ask for any additional requirements.
  4. If approved, follow directions for fee adjustment or exemption; if denied, follow appeal steps provided by the city.

Key Takeaways

  • Start discussions with Building Services early to confirm required documents and possible exemptions.
  • Include exemption requests with permit applications to avoid delays or enforcement.
  • Official municipal pages list policies but may not show a specific exemption form; call the city to verify.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Barrie - Accessibility
  2. [2] City of Barrie - Fees and Charges Bylaw

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Daniel Roy

Daniel Roy

Municipal Bylaw Analyst

Daniel analyses municipal bylaws across Canadian provinces and territories. He checks every guide against official municipal and provincial sources.