Building Permit for 2nd floor addition in Toronto

Toronto 2nd-Floor Additions: Your Guide to Building Permits

Planning to add a second floor to your home in Toronto? This type of home expansion can add space, value, and modern style—but it also requires a building permit to ensure your project is legal and safe.

Do You Need a Permit?

Yes! A second-floor addition almost always requires a permit, including:

• Structural work (walls, beams, floor framing)

• Electrical, plumbing, or HVAC modifications

• Roof changes or new windows/doors

Before

After

Steps to Get a Permit

1. Prepare Accurate Drawings

   • Floor plans, elevations, roof plans, and structural plans

   • Include as-built drawings of your existing home

2. Submit Your Application

   • Online or at the City of Toronto building department

3. City Review

   • Ensures compliance with Ontario Building Code, zoning, and setbacks

4. Inspections During Construction

   • Foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and final inspections

5. Final Approval

   • Once inspections pass, your second-floor addition is officially approved

Common Challenges

• Ensuring proper structural support for added floors

• Zoning and lot coverage compliance

• Party wall or shared property approvals

• Accurate drawings to avoid city delays

Tips for a Smooth Approval

• Hire a BCIN-certified designer for precise permit drawings

• Collect as-built drawings for the existing structure

• Confirm zoning, height restrictions, and setbacks

• Coordinate with contractors and inspectors early

Cost and Timeline

• Costs: Vary based on project size; second-floor additions are typically higher than single-story additions due to structural complexity

• Timeline: Small second-floor additions: 2–3 months; complex additions: 4–6 months

Planning ahead helps prevent delays and unexpected costs.

Why Proper Permitting Matters

A second-floor addition is a major investment. Skipping permits risks fines, legal issues, and construction delays. Working with Cadaxx Design ensures your drawings are accurate, compliant, and your project runs smoothly from start to finish.