Permits

Under the Ontario Building Code Act, a building permit is required to construct, demolish, renovate, alter, install, or change the use of a building.

The following is a list of typical projects or situations that require the issuance of a building permit prior to construction:

• New buildings or structures greater than 15 square metres (161 ft²) in area, measured by the outside dimensions. This includes sheds, sleeping cabins, or other accessory buildings or structures, including sheds and shed packages purchased from a store.
• Sleeping cabins of any size, including those 15 square metres (161 ft²) or less in area.
• Additions to existing buildings or structures.
• Renovations that involve structural framing.
• New or replacement decks or stairs.
• Replacement of windows or doors if the rough opening size is enlarged.
• Relocation or addition of plumbing fixtures.
• Replacement of interior water supply or drain pipes.
• Installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels mounted on buildings.
• Wind turbines that generate more than 3 kW of electricity.
• Greenhouses, if it is to be a permanent structure.
• Quonset huts and pre-engineered metal buildings, including shipping containers.
• Replacement of piers under buildings
• Swimming pools
• Hot tubs if being placed on a deck

It isn’t necessary to obtain building permits to perform the following work.  However, you must still comply with the requirements of Township of Madawaska Valley Zoning By-law and, if applicable, the Ontario Building Code.

• One accessory building per lot with a total floor area of 15 square metres (161 ft²) or less.
• Fences
• Replacement of plumbing fixtures (toilet, sink, bathtub, shower, hot water tank) in their original locations.
• Replacement of windows or doors provided the rough opening size does not change.
• Replacement of shingles or other roofing material.  However, if you’re replacing or adding new roof trusses or rafters, a building permit is required.
• Installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels mounted on a pole.
• Floating or pole docks.
• Wind turbines that generate 3 kW or less of electricity.
• Temporary portable shelters, constructed of metal tubing and fabric, used for the storage of vehicles, boats, etc.
• Wood burning appliances, including new or replacement of existing components.

If the above lists do not include specifics related to your project, or if you are not sure whether a permit will be required, please contact the Building Department.

Provided the permit application is complete and all necessary information and documentation accompanies the application, you should receive your permit within about two weeks. More complex structures may require up to 30 days. 

You are encouraged to insure all required information is submitted with your initial application. If the Building Inspector reviews your application and requires more information than was submitted, you will be contacted to provide the missing documentation and your application may fall to the bottom of the queue.

In order to apply for a building permit, you must have a completed entrance permit and completed civic address. 

Entrance Permit

Entrance permits are issued by the Township to ensure the safety, regulation, efficient drainage, and property maintenance of roadways within the Township. If you live on a road maintained by the County or province, you are required to contact the appropriate office to provide comment on your proposed entrance prior to applying for an entrance permit with the Township.

Click here to apply for an entrance permit.

Civic Address

Civic addresses (911 numbers) are required for all properties, including vacant lots, in the Township. Use the link below to apply for a new or replacement sign for your property. 

Click here to apply for a civic address.

The municipality is responsible for delivery of the Ontario Building Code Part 8: On-Site Sewage System Permitting and Inspection Services for properties not serviced by the municipal sewer system.

To apply for a permit to construct or demolish a septic system, complete this form and submit it to us via email, or stop by our office for a paper copy. Alongside your application, your submission should also include:

• Authorization, if required
• Site plan, depicting all buildings, including size and exact setbacks from all property lines, hydro lines, septic systems, wells, and propane vessels (tanks or cylinders)
• Copy of Transfer Registration/Deed
• Confirmation of the test hole status

If you are seeking information on existing septic systems on your property, staff are able to complete a search to attempt to find previous records for a fee. Click here to complete a Septic Search Form.

Fees apply. Find more information on current fees on our Fees & Charges page.

Fees are associated with issuing of permits and other activities undertaken by the Building Department. Visit our Fees & Charges page for the most current fee structure.