What work can I do without a permit in Ottawa?

Most minor interior work and basic maintenance can be done without permits in Ottawa, but anything involving structural, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC changes typically requires permits to ensure safety and code compliance.

In Ottawa, homeowners can tackle quite a few projects without pulling permits. Basic maintenance and cosmetic updates are generally permit-free, including painting, installing flooring (hardwood, laminate, tile), replacing kitchen cabinets without moving plumbing or electrical, and basic drywall repairs. You can also replace windows and doors of the same size in the same opening, install built-in shelving, and do most landscaping work.

Minor plumbing work that doesn't require opening walls is also typically exempt - this includes replacing faucets, toilets, or other fixtures in the same location without moving supply lines or drains. Similarly, you can replace light fixtures on existing circuits and install new outlets or switches on existing circuits (though this still requires ESA inspection for safety).

However, permits are mandatory for any work that affects your home's structure, safety systems, or building envelope. This includes moving or removing walls, adding windows or doors in new locations, finishing basements, electrical panel upgrades, new circuits, any plumbing that involves opening walls or changing drain locations, and HVAC modifications. Secondary suite conversions always require permits - this is non-negotiable in Ottawa and involves both building permits and zoning compliance.

The key rule in Ontario: if you're unsure, call the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424. Unpermitted work can create serious problems when selling your home, filing insurance claims, or if safety issues arise. Permits aren't just bureaucracy - they ensure proper inspections and that work meets current safety standards.

For electrical work specifically, even simple additions require Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) permits and inspection. While homeowners can do their own electrical work in Ontario, it must still be inspected and approved - skipping this step can void your home insurance.

When in doubt, it's always better to pull the permit. The peace of mind and legal protection far outweigh the modest permit fees, and proper permits actually add value when you sell your home.