Launches new digital residential building permit application

RICHMOND HILL – Richmond Hill now accepts online applications for residential building permits. Council endorsed the new option to provide better service and offer greater convenience for residents and landowners who require a permit to build at their home.

Residents can now submit online applications for the following residential building permits:

• Alterations and additions to existing homes
• Miscellaneous residential permits such as decks, porches, finished basements, basement walkout, garages and accessory buildings
• Demolition permits

Eligible applications are reviewed and processed electronically, making the process faster and easier for applicants. They are no longer required to drop off or pick up hard copies of documentation.

This is the latest step in the City’s drive to modernize its services for residents and increase the availability of online tools. Richmond Hill already offers many services digitally including Healthy Yards plant and garden sale, temporary parking permits and dog licences. Later this year, the City plans to also introduce digital permits for new homes and an online payment option.

Quick Facts

• Building permits are issued before work starts on a new building, an addition or any material alterations to an existing building. Requirements of the Ontario Building Code such as permits are in place for the health and safety of current and future residents, businesses, tenants and the community.
• In 2019, Richmond Hill issued 1,972 building permits for a total construction value of more than $450 million. This includes 1,069 residential building permits.  

Additional Links

• RichmondHill.ca/BuildingPermits

Quotes

“Our residents and businesses want access to City services in the ways that are most convenient for them. Council is fully behind digitizing more services – like residential building permits. Online tools not only improve services for residents, but can also result in efficiencies that lead to cost savings.”   - Mayor Dave Barrow 

Media Contact

Libbi Hood, Communications Advisor, 905-747-6320, libbi.hood@richmondhill.ca