Why You Need a Basement Apartment Permit
Adding or converting a basement into a secondary suite requires a building permit from the City of Toronto.
Permits confirm your design meets fire-separation, egress, ceiling-height, HVAC, and structural standards under the Ontario Building Code.
Without a permit, you risk fines and insurance issues — with Cadaxx, the process is fast, accurate, and fully approved.
Our Process for Toronto Basement Apartment Permits
Step 1 – Site Measure & As-Built Plans
Detailed on-site measurements of existing layout and structure.
Step 2 – Zoning & OBC Review
Verification of setbacks, lot coverage, and secondary-suite eligibility.
Step 3 – Design & Layout
Functional floor plan including all code-required elements.
Step 4 – Permit Drawings
Plans, sections, and details covering fire-rating, egress, plumbing, HVAC, and structure.
Step 5 – Submission & Coordination
Cadaxx manages submission and communication with City examiners until approval.
Comprehensive Basement Services
Legal Basement Apartments
Full secondary-suite design with fire-rated assemblies and OBC compliance.
Underpinning Permits
Structural drawings for basement lowering and foundation reinforcement.
Basement Walkouts
Exterior access design with retaining walls, grading, and drainage details.
Interior Renovations
Layout optimization, wall removal, and upgraded finishes.
Featured Basement Projects
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Legal Basement Apartment – West Point, Scarborough
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Underpinning Permit – Riverdale Ave, Leslieville
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Basement Walkout – Lonsmount Dr, Forest Hill
Each project shows how Cadaxx Design delivers precise, code-compliant drawings that achieve fast City of Toronto approval.
Why Choose Cadaxx
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Licensed Ontario BCIN designers specializing in basement permits
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Proven record of fast approvals across Toronto
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Coordination with structural, HVAC, and fire consultants
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Accurate drawings that pass inspection the first time
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Trusted by homeowners and builders throughout the GTA
FAQs — Basement Apartment Permits in Toronto
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What makes a basement apartment legal?
It must comply with OBC requirements for fire separation, egress, ceiling height, ventilation, and plumbing. -
How long does a basement permit take to approve?
Usually 4–8 weeks, depending on the City’s workload and project complexity. -
Can Cadaxx design underpinning and walkouts together?
Yes — our integrated approach allows underpinning, walkout, and apartment design to be approved under one coordinated submission.
Start Your Basement Apartment Permit in Toronto
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Cadaxx Design provides reliable, code-compliant basement apartment permit drawings for homeowners and builders across Toronto, Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, and the GTA.
Contact us to start your legal basement apartment, underpinning, or walkout permit today.
This project involved converting an unfinished basement into a bright, modern legal apartment. Cadaxx Design managed the permit drawings, underpinning coordination, and code compliance for ceiling height, egress windows, and fire separations. The result is a comfortable secondary unit that adds both functionality and property value for the homeowner.
This Leslieville home underwent a full basement underpinning to increase ceiling height and improve livability. Cadaxx Design prepared detailed house and structural drawings, coordinated inspections, and ensured compliance with Toronto Building Code. The new basement layout provides a functional, bright, and comfortable space ready for future finishing or conversion to a rental suite.
At West Point, Cadaxx Design transformed an existing unfinished basement into a legal secondary unit. The project included egress windows, soundproofing, fire separations, and proper HVAC design to meet Ontario Building Code requirements. The result is a fully compliant, modern, and comfortable living space that adds long-term value to the property.
This Forest Hill home received a new basement walkout designed by Cadaxx Design to improve access, natural light, and functionality. The project required careful grading, drainage, and structural detailing for retaining walls and steps. The walkout seamlessly integrates with the main house, creating a comfortable and safe secondary entrance to the lower level.
