Permits


We Offer
Express Building Permit & Drawing Services For

Wall Removals & Home Renovation

Thinking about that open concept floor, or simply just maximizing your floor space? We've got you covered.

Basement Walkouts & Decks

Are you looking to improve accessibility to your home? Let us figure it out for you.

Underpinning

Add value to your home via basement lowering! From A to Z, we'll provide you with a strong & safe design, tall foundations included.

Garden Suites

Another dwelling in your backyard. Design & Permits for your cost-effective living space.

A split graphic showing a miniature house model with keys on a blueprint, alongside an engineer pointing to technical site plans.
A female engineer in a white hard hat reviews a set of large blueprints in front of a house with exposed roof rafters.

Why Permits Through Us?

Structural Specialists

As a structural engineering firm, we take part in optimizing your design as cost-effectively and as safely as possible. We are a one-stop shop for in-house designing and structural consulting, effectively improving our turnaround time.

Certified & Insured

With full liability insurance, licensed staff, and a certificate of authorization commissioned by the Professional Engineers of Ontario, the onus is on us to serve you well and maintain a high level of care.

Great Communication

We always take the approach to work collaboratively with our clients. We hear you out, and optimize the design accordingly. With in-house structural engineers, we can discuss the feasibility of your vision as early as possible.

Projects

Testimonials

5/5
StrongBuilds did an amazing job on my home renovation! Shady and his team were professional, fast, and always ready to help. Highly recommend!
Jessica Peterson
Customer
5/5
As a contractor, I rely on quick service, and StrongBuilds delivered! Shady’s expertise and fast response made my project seamless.
Mark Johnson
Customer
5/5
Shady and his team at StrongBuilds were fantastic! They made my garage and deck project easy with their expert design and permits.
Rachel Turner
Customer

Testimonials

Official black and white logo for Ashford Homes featuring the initials 'AH' in a square frame above the full company name.
"We highly recommend Shady from StrongBuilds. We use him on all of our jobs. In addition to being highly professional and very knowledgeable, he’s responsive and accessible. StrongBuilds is our directional engineering firm of choice for the foreseeable future."
Emmett Ashford
Owner (Ashford Homes)
Official logo for Atlas Designs featuring a stylized blue 'A' intertwined with a circular arc, representing precision and structural integrity.
"We work with Shady and the team at StrongBuilds quite often and always find their level of professionalism, attention to detail, and customer service to be unmatched. From initial consultations to engineering solutions & permit approvals, we see no need to look any further."
George Saeed
Owner (Atlas Designs)
Circular headshot of a male homeowner providing a testimonial review for completed structural engineering services.
"Shady worked with me to make big changes on the supporting beams and columns in my home. His level of care, understanding, and efficiency is not found amongst today's other engineers. I will be using his services again."
Justin Raie
Homeowner

The Process

Your Permit in Five Easy Steps

Step One

Call us for a quote! We'll then schedule the initial site visit and discuss the expected turnaround times.

Step Two

The intial house visit will take place, where we measure the entire dwelling.

Step Three

Preliminary existing layouts of your house will follow, to which you would confirm the exact proposed scope of work with us.

Step Four

We update our drawings with your proposed changes, engineer the new proposed structure, and then send you back a final set for your review & approval for the permit application.

Step Five

We apply for the permit application on your behalf (optional), and address any change marks or notices issued by the municipality.

After The Permit is Granted?

Our work is not yet complete!

We understand homes are full of surprises. Therefore, we offer a discounted site visit to come out and document any existing significant site conditions. 

You can always contact us before construction to make sure you’re on the right track, so your project runs smoothly.

You or the contractor might come accross unforeseen roadblocks and propose alternative solutions. We work responsively to tackle those roadblocks.

We always anticipate a potential for design changes and revisions throughout the project.

The municipal building inspector may call for the review of a professional engineer for purposes of a sign-off.

We offer services to inspect completed framing and provide full sign-offs, either for the municipalities requirement to close your permit, or for your own peace of mind.

We understand homes are full of surprises. Therefore, we offer a discounted site visit to come out and document any existing significant site conditions. 

Close-up of two engineers discussing structural blueprints with a 3D house model and yellow hard hats on a project table.

After The Permit is Granted?

Our work is not yet complete!

Before Construction

We understand homes are full of surprises! 

A discounted site visit is offered to come out and document any existing significant site conditions. helping your project run smoother.

 

During Construction

We work responsively to tackle roadblocks. 

Design changes & revisions? No problem.

Signoffs may be provided upon satisfactory review of the work, either request by the city, contractor, or for your peace of mind!

After Construction

Structural is closed, then it’s smooth finishing over a blank canvas until you finish the project!

Testimonials

Projects
Sunlight shining through the exposed wood joists and wall studs of a house under construction, looking out toward a grassy field.
Get Started
Hire Us For Your Next Project
Get in touch with us today! Simply send us a message, email or call us to start discussing your project with one of our Engineers.
An upward view of dense parallel wooden floor joists and a main support beam during the framing stage of a building.

Questions? Call or Email Us Now!

Projects

Testimonials

5/5
StrongBuilds did an amazing job on my home renovation! Shady and his team were professional, fast, and always ready to help. Highly recommend!
Jessica Peterson
Customer
5/5
As a contractor, I rely on quick service, and StrongBuilds delivered! Shady’s expertise and fast response made my project seamless.
Mark Johnson
Customer
5/5
Shady and his team at StrongBuilds were fantastic! They made my garage and deck project easy with their expert design and permits.
Rachel Turner
Customer

After The Permit is Granted?

Our work is not yet complete!

We understand homes are full of surprises. Therefore, we offer a discounted site visit to come out and document any existing significant site conditions. 

You can always contact us before construction to make sure you’re on the right track, so your project runs smoothly.

You or the contractor might come accross unforeseen roadblocks and propose alternative solutions. We work responsively to tackle those roadblocks.

We always anticipate a potential for design changes and revisions throughout the project.

The municipal building inspector may call for the review of a professional engineer for purposes of a sign-off.

We offer services to inspect completed framing and provide full sign-offs, either for the municipalities requirement to close your permit, or for your own peace of mind.

We understand homes are full of surprises. Therefore, we offer a discounted site visit to come out and document any existing significant site conditions. 

Close-up of two engineers discussing structural blueprints with a 3D house model and yellow hard hats on a project table.

Testimonials

Residential Building Permit Services

Begin your construction faster with expert permitting services that ensure your project is legal, compliant, and ready to start without unnecessary delays.

Technical Drawing Packages

We provide architectural, structural, and HVAC drawings for all residential construction projects.

City Approval Coordination

We handle the technical back-and-forth with permit examiners.

Reliable Timelines

We aim for rapid turnarounds, with examiners typically responding within 10–14 business days for our packages.

OUR SERVICES

Building Permit & Drawing Services

We offer express drawing and building permit services for the following projects.

Wall Removals and Home Renovation

If you are planning an open-concept floor plan or major renovations, we provide the structural engineering required to safely remove load-bearing walls and reconfigure your home in accordance with the building code.

Basement Walkouts and Decks

We design solutions to improve accessibility to your home. Our team handles the site plan and structural details required for new decks or separate basement entrances, ensuring the project remains within your legal property lines.

Underpinning

Add value to your home via basement lowering. From A to Z, we provide a strong and safe design, including tall foundations. We ensure your foundation is properly deepened to create functional, high-ceilinged basement spaces.

Lane & Garden Suites

Build another dwelling in your backyard. We provide the full design and permit packages for cost-effective living spaces, often referred to as the Strong Suite.

A female engineer in a white hard hat reviews a set of large blueprints in front of a house with exposed roof rafters.

WHY US

The StrongBuilds Difference

Our professional oversight ensures that your building permit application complies with the Ontario Building Code before you start construction. 

Structural Specialists

As a structural engineering firm, we help optimize your design as cost-effectively and safely as possible. We are a one-stop shop for in-house design and structural consulting, which helps improve our turnaround time for the permit review process.

Certified & Insured

With full liability insurance, licensed staff, and a certificate of authorization commissioned by the Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO), the onus is on us to serve you well and maintain a high level of care. We are insured for up to $2,000,000 per occurrence for errors and omissions.

Great Communication

We always take a collaborative approach with our clients. We listen to you and optimize the design accordingly. With in-house structural engineers, we can discuss the feasibility of your vision as early as possible.

THE PROCESS

Your Permit in Five Easy Steps

Step One

Call us for a quote. We will then schedule the initial site visit and discuss the expected turnaround times.

Step Two

The initial house visit will take place, where we measure the entire dwelling to ensure accuracy.

Step Three

Preliminary existing layouts of your house will follow. You will then confirm the exact proposed scope of work with us.

Step Four

We update our drawings with your proposed changes, engineer the new proposed structure, and then send you back a final set for your review and approval for the permit application.

Step Five

We apply for the permit application on your behalf as an optional service and address any change marks or notices issued by the municipality.

BEFORE & AFTER

After The Permit is Granted?

Our work is not yet complete!

Before Construction

We understand homes are full of surprises! 

That’s why we offer a discounted site visit to document any existing significant site conditions, helping your project run more smoothly.

During Construction

We work responsively to tackle roadblocks. 

Design changes & revisions? No problem.

Sign-offs may be provided upon satisfactory review of the work, as requested by the city, the contractor, or for your peace of mind!

After Construction

Once the structural phase is closed, it is a smooth finish over a blank canvas until you finish the project!

OUR WORK

Residential Structural Engineering Projects Across the GTA

Our services cover every corner of the Greater Toronto Area, providing tailored residential building permit services for complex projects in Toronto, Mississauga, Richmond Hill, Leslieville, Hamilton, Oakville, Scarborough, and more. 

OUR CLIENTS

Solutions for Every Type of Customer

We support homeowners, architects, and contractors through the entire permit approval process.

Exterior of a grey-sided house featuring a modern multi-level roofline, stone water table, and an integrated garage.

Homeowners

We simplify the whole process, helping you avoid the most common mistakes that lead to incomplete applications and delays.

Designers & Architects

We provide the necessary structural calculations and markup services to assist other licensed professionals with their development permits.

Close-up of two engineers discussing structural blueprints with a 3D house model and yellow hard hats on a project table.

Contractors

We offer fast turnaround times and direct communication with our engineers to tackle roadblocks or design changes during the permit review process.

TESTIMONIALS

Trusted by Homeowners & Professionals

Official black and white logo for Ashford Homes featuring the initials 'AH' in a square frame above the full company name.
"We highly recommend Shady from StrongBuilds. We use him on all of our jobs. In addition to being highly professional and very knowledgeable, he’s responsive and accessible. StrongBuilds is our directional engineering firm of choice for the foreseeable future."
Emmett Ashford
Owner (Ashford Homes)
Official logo for Atlas Designs featuring a stylized blue 'A' intertwined with a circular arc, representing precision and structural integrity.
"We work with Shady and the team at StrongBuilds quite often and always find their level of professionalism, attention to detail, and customer service to be unmatched. From initial consultations to engineering solutions & permit approvals, we see no need to look any further."
George Saeed
Owner (Atlas Designs)
Circular headshot of a male homeowner providing a testimonial review for completed structural engineering services.
"Shady worked with me to make big changes on the supporting beams and columns in my home. His level of care, understanding, and efficiency is not found amongst today's other engineers. I will be using his services again."
Justin Raie
Homeowner

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to obtain building permits in the GTA?

Once all relevant permit documents and drawings are complete and sent to the municipality, permit examiners typically respond within 10 to 14 business days. For larger projects, such as an addition or custom home build, the municipality may take approximately 4 to 6 weeks. The response will be either permit approval, a request for information (RFI), or a request for updates to the drawings.

What documents are required for a residential building permit application?

While requirements vary by municipality or project scope, you generally must provide:

  • Complete architectural and structural drawings stamped by a professional engineer (P.Eng) or architect.
  • Standard permit application forms, like Schedule 1, and general review forms.
  • Homeowner declaration forms.
  • A legal survey of your property for site plan approval, which is essential for additions and accessory structures.

Do I need a building permit for major renovations or most construction projects?

Yes. Under the Ontario Building Code, a building permit is required for most construction that affects the structural integrity of the home. This includes additions, second storeys, load-bearing wall removals, and basement walkouts.

How does the city determine permit fees?

The city calculates permit fees based on the type of construction and the total floor area being developed. These fees are paid directly to municipal affairs at the time of your application.

If the city issues building permit change requests, do you complete them free of charge?

StrongBuilds does not charge additional revision fees for minor change requests that keep the project under the same scope of work. Technical clarifications requested by an examiner are handled promptly at no extra cost.

What happens if my building permit application is refused?

If a municipality refuses an application due to zoning issues, you may need to apply to the Committee of Adjustment (CoA) for a minor variance or site plan approval. The CoA process can take between 2 and 6 months on average. While we provide the technical designs, representation at hearings is a separate billable service.

GET STARTED

Secure Your Permit Today

Ready to secure your building permit? Talk to an engineer today to discuss your project requirements and receive a professional opinion.

Projects
Sunlight shining through the exposed wood joists and wall studs of a house under construction, looking out toward a grassy field.
Get Started
Hire Us For Your Next Project
Get in touch with us today! Simply send us a message, email or call us to start discussing your project with one of our Engineers.
An upward view of dense parallel wooden floor joists and a main support beam during the framing stage of a building.

Questions? Call or Email Us Now!

Projects

Testimonials

5/5
StrongBuilds did an amazing job on my home renovation! Shady and his team were professional, fast, and always ready to help. Highly recommend!
Jessica Peterson
Customer
5/5
As a contractor, I rely on quick service, and StrongBuilds delivered! Shady’s expertise and fast response made my project seamless.
Mark Johnson
Customer
5/5
Shady and his team at StrongBuilds were fantastic! They made my garage and deck project easy with their expert design and permits.
Rachel Turner
Customer

After The Permit is Granted?

Our work is not yet complete!

We understand homes are full of surprises. Therefore, we offer a discounted site visit to come out and document any existing significant site conditions. 

You can always contact us before construction to make sure you’re on the right track, so your project runs smoothly.

You or the contractor might come accross unforeseen roadblocks and propose alternative solutions. We work responsively to tackle those roadblocks.

We always anticipate a potential for design changes and revisions throughout the project.

The municipal building inspector may call for the review of a professional engineer for purposes of a sign-off.

We offer services to inspect completed framing and provide full sign-offs, either for the municipalities requirement to close your permit, or for your own peace of mind.

We understand homes are full of surprises. Therefore, we offer a discounted site visit to come out and document any existing significant site conditions. 

Close-up of two engineers discussing structural blueprints with a 3D house model and yellow hard hats on a project table.

Testimonials