Avoid Top 5 Building Permit Denial Reasons Toronto
Submitting your building permit application in Toronto or Ontario can feel like a major milestone — until you get that dreaded “application denied” notice. Understanding the top building permit denial reasons is the first step to avoiding costly delays and keeping your construction project on schedule.
Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or developer, permit delays or denials can push back your entire project and cost thousands in lost time. At MBC Groups, we specialize in simplifying the permit process for residential, commercial, and industrial projects across the GTA. Our team ensures your drawings, documents, and submissions meet every municipal requirement.
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Drawings
One of the leading building permit denial reasons in Toronto and Ontario is missing or inaccurate technical information. Municipal reviewers look for precise details — from structural specifications to code references — and even a small oversight can trigger a rejection.
Common mistakes include:
- Unsealed or unsigned drawings
- Outdated design codes
- Missing floor plans, elevations, or cross-sections
- Lack of structural or HVAC information
How to avoid it:
Always work with a licensed designer, architect, or engineer familiar with your local building department’s requirements. A pre-submission review can catch errors before your application is submitted.
2. Zoning & Bylaw Conflicts
Even if your drawings are perfect, your project might not comply with Toronto’s Zoning By-law 569-2013 or your municipality’s local regulations.
Typical zoning-related permit denial reasons include:
- Exceeding height, setback, or lot coverage limits
- Using a property for a purpose not permitted under its zoning category
- Building too close to neighboring properties or easements
How to avoid it:
Review your property’s zoning designation before applying. If your design doesn’t fit existing rules, you may need to apply for a Minor Variance through the Committee of Adjustment.
3. Missing Documentation or Authorization
A surprising number of applications are denied due to missing or incomplete documentation.
Examples:
- Missing property surveys or title ownership proof
- Incomplete application forms
- Missing professional seals or certifications
Lack of owner or applicant signatures
In some Ontario municipalities, even a missing PDF upload or incorrect file name can lead to immediate rejection.
How to avoid it:
Create a submission checklist before applying. Confirm that all documents, including schedules, surveys, and professional drawings, are attached and signed.
4. Ontario Building Code Non-Compliance
The Ontario Building Code (OBC) sets out the minimum requirements for structural safety, fire protection, plumbing, and accessibility. If your design fails to meet these standards, your permit will likely be denied.
Common Building Code issues:
- Insufficient fire separation between units
- Improper egress window sizing
- Structural beam or column undersizing
- Energy efficiency or insulation gaps
Municipal reviewers in both Toronto and Ontario cities check these details closely before granting approval.
How to avoid it:
Hire a qualified designer or engineer who understands the latest OBC updates. Conduct a Building Code compliance review before submission.
5. Incorrect Fee Payment or Submission Errors
It may sound simple, but incomplete applications or incorrect payments are another top building permit denial reason.
Typical issues include:
- Incorrect fee amount or missing payment receipt
- Submitting the wrong form type (e.g., residential vs. commercial)
- Uploading incomplete or corrupted files in the e-submission portal
Missing project description or address details
How to avoid it:
Double-check all fees and required forms on your municipality’s building permit portal. If your project includes multiple scopes (e.g., addition + plumbing), ensure each is covered in the fee schedule.
Common Building Permit Denial Reasons: Toronto vs. Ontario
While the building permit denial reasons Ontario-wide are similar, Toronto’s system tends to be stricter due to its electronic application portal and detailed review process.
Smaller municipalities may still accept manual submissions, but denials often result from incomplete paper documentation or missing professional seals.
If you’re building in the GTA, familiarize yourself with Toronto Building’s electronic review system (ePlans) — and remember that digital precision matters as much as design quality.
What to Do If Your Building Permit Is Denied
Don’t panic — a denial isn’t the end of your project. You have options:
- Review the Notice of Rejection: The city will outline why your permit was denied.
- Revise Your Application: Correct the issues or update your drawings.
- Seek Professional Help: A building permit specialist can prepare a compliant resubmission.
- Appeal (if necessary): For zoning-related rejections, file with the Committee of Adjustment or Ontario Land Tribunal.
Work with MBC Groups for Faster, Hassle-Free Approvals
At MBC Groups, we help clients across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area navigate complex permit requirements — from design and code compliance to submission and approval.
Whether your permit was denied or you want to avoid delays from the start, our experienced consultants are here to help.
Keep your construction
on track with trusted building
permit experts in Toronto
Permit denied in Toronto or Ontario? Our experts can fix issues fast. Get Permit Help Now and move your project forward today.