London, Ontario Building Permit for Structural Work

Housing and Building Standards Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Ontario

In London, Ontario, structural alterations to a building typically require a building permit administered by the City of London Building Services. Start by confirming permit requirements and submission methods on the City website City of London - Building permits[1], and review applicable technical rules in the Ontario Building Code Ontario Regulation 332/12 - Building Code[2]. For local process details and contacts, consult the City planning and building pages City of London - Planning & Building[3].

When a permit is required

Most structural work that affects load-bearing elements, foundation systems, roof framing, or major lateral support requires a building permit. Minor non-structural finishes generally do not, but always verify with Building Services before starting work.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of London enforces building and bylaw requirements through its Building Services and By-law Enforcement branches. Specific monetary fines for unpermitted structural work are not specified on the cited pages; see the official links for enforcement processes and statutory instruments cited above [1][2].

  • Enforcer: City of London Building Services and By-law Enforcement, including building inspectors and municipal enforcement officers.
  • Typical non-monetary actions: stop-work orders, orders to comply, requirements to pull a permit or to restore approved conditions; specific remedies are described on City pages.
  • Prosecution and court action: the City may proceed to court for persistent breaches; specific penalty amounts or statutory sections are not specified on the cited municipal pages.
If in doubt, stop work and contact Building Services before continuing.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes application instructions and forms for building permits on its website; exact form names or numbers and detailed fee schedules are available on the City pages cited above and on the Ontario Building Code/regulations [1][2]. If a form name or fee is not shown on those pages, it is not specified on the cited page.

  • Where to get forms: City of London permit pages and planning/building pages list downloadable applications and online submission routes.
  • Fees: consult the City fee schedule and the permit application; if a precise fee is not listed on the City page, it is not specified on the cited page.
  • Submission: the City provides online and in-person options; check the Building Services page for current submission methods and hours.

How the process usually works

Below is a concise overview of the standard flow for structural permits. Local variance or site-specific issues may change steps; always confirm with Building Services.

  1. Pre-application check: confirm whether your project is classified as structural and which drawings are required.
  2. Prepare and submit application: include drawings, structural calculations (if required), and designer information.
  3. Pay fees: pay the applicable permit fee as instructed by the City.
  4. Review and permits issued: the City reviews submissions and issues a permit or requests revisions.
  5. Inspections: required inspections are scheduled during construction; do not conceal structural work before inspections.
Inspections must be booked through the City prior to concealing structural elements.

Common violations and examples

  • Altering load-bearing walls without a permit or engineering review.
  • Replacing foundation or structural framing without approved plans.
  • Failing to schedule required structural inspections during construction.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a bearing wall?
Yes — removing or altering a load-bearing wall is structural work and normally requires a building permit; confirm details with City of London Building Services.
How long does a permit take?
Processing times vary by application complexity and workload; specific turnaround times are not specified on the cited City pages.
Can I start work before I get a permit?
No — starting structural work without a permit risks stop-work orders and other enforcement; contact Building Services first.

How-To

  1. Confirm whether the work is structural by consulting Building Services online or by phone.
  2. Collect required documents: plans, structural drawings, designer declarations as requested.
  3. Submit the application and pay fees through the City’s accepted submission route.
  4. Respond to review comments and obtain the issued permit before starting work.
  5. Book and pass required inspections at designated construction stages.
  6. If you receive an order or refusal, follow the notice instructions and consult the City for appeal or review options.

Key Takeaways

  • Structural changes usually require a permit; verify before you begin.
  • Contact City of London Building Services early to avoid delays and enforcement.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of London - Building permits
  2. [2] Ontario Regulation 332/12 - Building Code
  3. [3] City of London - Planning & Building

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