The different types of building permits in Quebec
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 12
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
When it comes time to build, renovate, or expand a house, cottage, or garage, an essential step in the process is obtaining the necessary permits. This step can seem overwhelming or complex, especially for someone who has never had to deal with municipal regulations.
However, a good understanding of the types of building permits in Quebec is essential to avoid penalties, unexpected delays, and costly mistakes. At Plan Maison Québec, we support our clients throughout every stage of their project, from designing plans to obtaining the required authorizations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the types of building permits available, their purposes, and the steps to follow for each category.
Why is a building permit necessary in Quebec?
A building permit, or any other type of urban planning permit, is intended to ensure that construction, alteration, or expansion projects comply with municipal laws and regulations. These regulations cover a wide variety of areas, from occupant safety to the architectural harmony of a neighborhood, and environmental protection.
Whether you plan to build a detached garage, convert your cottage into a permanent residence, or add a floor to your house, you must obtain the appropriate municipal authorization before beginning work.
Failure to comply with this requirement can lead to serious consequences: fines, immediate cessation of work, the obligation to demolish the non-compliant structure, and even legal action. This is why Plan Maison Québec always emphasizes the importance of carefully planning the regulatory aspects of a project in advance.
The building permit: the basis of any project
The building permit is the most common and fundamental document. It is required for almost all structural projects, whether building a new home, converting a basement, adding a floor, demolishing part of an existing building, or even simply rebuilding a roof. This type of permit certifies that your project complies with municipal zoning, siting, fire safety, and architectural regulations. It also guarantees that the project is compatible with its surrounding environment.
The procedures for obtaining this permit vary depending on the municipality, but generally include the submission of detailed architectural plans, an estimated cost estimate for the work, an up-to-date certificate of location, and sometimes even specific studies such as a soil study or a hydrogeological study if the land is located in a sensitive area.
In some municipalities, such as Montreal, this permit is valid for a period of twelve months, provided that work begins within six months of its issuance. Otherwise, it may expire and you will have to submit a new application. The costs associated with this permit also vary depending on the value of the work and the scales of each city. Fees are often calculated based on a base amount plus a rate proportional to the estimated cost of the work.
Permit categories according to the nature of the project
At Plan Maison Québec, we know that not all projects are alike. That's why it's important to understand the different permit categories that may apply to your situation.
The first category concerns so-called "minor" work, such as an interior renovation or replacing existing windows. In these cases, the process is generally quick and easy. These permits are often processed without the involvement of an advisory committee.
The second category covers work that is visible from the street or that impacts the volume or aesthetics of the building. This includes, for example, replacing an entrance door with a glass door or adding a balcony. These projects often require evaluation by an Urban Planning Advisory Committee (CCU), which can extend approval times to several weeks or even months. This step is crucial to protect the architectural character of neighborhoods and ensure visual consistency.
The third category targets large-scale projects, often with an estimated value exceeding $100,000. These projects, in addition to going through the CCU, must sometimes be submitted to the municipal or borough council for approval. This requires a more in-depth assessment of the project as a whole, including its impacts on the neighborhood, the environment, and urban infrastructure.
Finally, there is a specific category called PPCMOI (Special Project for the Construction, Modification, or Occupancy of a Building). This procedure allows for approval of a project that does not fully comply with current regulations by demonstrating its benefits to the community. It is primarily intended for unique and innovative projects, but it involves a long, rigorous, and often costly process.
Authorization certificates: an essential complement
In many situations, planned work does not require a building permit per se, but rather a certificate of authorization. This document is required particularly when you wish to change the use of a building, for example, by converting a garage into a habitable space. It is also required for work in heritage areas, for the installation of commercial signs, or for the temporary occupation of a public roadway during construction.
The conditions for obtaining a permit, the documents required, and the deadlines are similar to those for a building permit. This type of certificate allows municipal authorities to ensure that even minor work complies with local standards. At Plan Maison Québec, we help you gather all the necessary elements to build a solid and compliant application.
The certificate of occupancy: the final step to legalize your project
When construction or renovation work is completed, one final document is often required: the certificate of occupancy. This certificate attests that the work was carried out in accordance with the permit granted and that the premises can now be legally occupied.
This document is required for new construction, major renovations, or a change of use. Without this certificate, the municipality may consider the building's occupancy illegal, which can lead to legal or administrative complications.
Specialized permits: signs, temporary occupation and sensitive areas
In addition to general permits and certificates, some projects require more specific permits. For example, if you are installing a sign visible from the public highway, a signage permit is required, especially in urban or heritage areas. The criteria are highly regulated, and the municipality may require its removal or modification if the sign does not meet aesthetic or safety standards.
For construction sites that encroach on public highways, such as the installation of scaffolding, containers, or machinery, a temporary occupancy permit is required. This type of authorization is intended to regulate the safe use of public spaces during the construction period.
Finally, some sites are located in so-called sensitive areas: flood zones, wetlands, agricultural lands, and heritage zones. In these cases, additional authorizations are required, sometimes even at the provincial level. Environmental studies, public consultations, and impact analyses may be required.
Municipal regulations: a headache that Plan Maison Québec simplifies for you
Each municipality in Quebec has its own regulations, forms, processing times, and documentation requirements. It's not uncommon for a project to be approved in one city and rejected in another for regulatory reasons. That's why working with a team that's familiar with these intricacies makes all the difference.
Plan Maison Québec works closely with several municipalities across the province. Our team ensures that plans are produced in compliance with urban planning regulations, that permit applications are properly completed, and that we support you throughout the approval process. We understand that every day of delay can impact your timelines, your finances, and your peace of mind.
Which projects require which permit?
Here's an overview of the types of permits and certificates required for different types of work you might be considering:
Project | Permit required | Details |
Garage extension | Building permit | Addition of living space, foundations and structures modified. |
Kitchen renovation | Basic license | Interior work with no exterior impact or change of use. |
New French window on the facade | License + CCU | Work visible from the street requiring analysis by the advisory committee. |
Barn conversion into a chalet | Building permit, certificate of use | Change of purpose of the building. |
Sign installation | Certificate of authorization | Depends on the type of zoning and the appearance of the sign. |
Scaffolding on the street | Temporary occupation permit | Temporary use of public domain. |
Renovation in a flood zone | Special permit + environmental authorization | Requires increased studies and compliance. |
Conclusion: Simplify your procedures thanks to Plan Maison Québec
Understanding and managing building permits is an essential step in any residential project, whether it's building a new home, remodeling a cottage, or expanding a garage. This step, while regulated and sometimes complex, helps ensure the safety, harmony, and compliance of your building within your community.
At Plan Maison Québec, we do much more than draw up your plans. We support you through every step of the regulatory process to ensure your work is carried out according to professional standards, without wasted time or unpleasant surprises. Our expertise allows you to gain efficiency, avoid costly rejections or delays, and focus on what matters most: bringing your project to fruition.
Together, let’s build better, and above all, let’s build intelligently.
Comments