Applying for a Building Permit
When a Building Permit Is Required
A building permit is required for all buildings with a floor area greater than 15 square metres (161.46 square feet), including accessory buildings.
All construction within the Township of Conmee must comply with:
Minimum setback and separation distance requirements apply and vary by zoning category and building type. Zoning requirements are established by the Township of Conmee. Certain land use and planning applications (such as zoning by‑law amendments or severances) are reviewed and approved by the Lakehead Rural Planning Board (LRPB) under the Planning Act.
Applicants are encouraged to confirm zoning requirements with the Chief Building Official, who can advise whether review by the Lakehead Rural Planning Board is required.
Ontario Building Code and Building Inspections
The Ontario Building Code governs permitted construction materials and methods and requires inspections at various stages of construction by a qualified Building Official. The Ontario Building Code is available at www.e-laws.gov.on.ca.
The Township of Conmee’s Chief Building Official (CBO) is:
John Ostrowski
Phone: 807‑630‑9726
Email: CBO@neebing.org
All questions related to building permits, construction standards, inspections, or building permit fees should be directed to the Chief Building Official.
How to Apply for a Building Permit
Building permit applications are available at the Municipal Office or may be downloaded from the Township website.
Each application must include the following:
Site Plan / Property Sketch
A sketch of the property showing:
- All existing and proposed buildings
- Distances from property lines
- Distances between buildings
- Significant natural features, such as watercourses or steep slopes
Building Drawings
Two sets of building drawings are required with each application. These may consist of blueprints or, where permitted, detailed construction drawings.
Where blueprints are not submitted, a cross‑section drawing illustrating the proposed construction from footings to rafters will be required. Sample drawings are included with the application package.
One approved set of drawings will be returned to the applicant once the permit is issued.
Building Permit Fees
Building permit fees are based on the type and size of the proposed building.
Applicants should refer to Building By‑law 930, Schedule “A,” or contact the Chief Building Official for general fee guidance.
Emergency Locator (911) Sign – New Dwellings
Applications for new dwellings must include the purchase of an emergency locator number.
- Current cost: $50.00
- The sign is installed by the Township’s Public Works Department
The Township of Conmee participates in Enhanced 911 service, which allows the Township‑assigned property identifier to automatically appear on the 911 operator’s screen. This enables emergency services to be dispatched even if the caller is unable to speak.
Culvert Requirements for New Dwellings
New dwellings require an inspection by the Public Works Manager to determine whether a culvert is required at the property entrance.
If a culvert is required, the property owner is responsible for the cost of the culvert, plus a $400.00 installation fee payable to the Township of Conmee. The Township will supply and install the culvert. The installation fee includes one load of gravel and machine time.
Once installed, the Township will assume responsibility for ongoing maintenance of the culvert.
Property owners are not required to purchase or install the culvert themselves.
Septic System Approval – New Dwellings
Applications for new dwellings must include a copy of the Approval for the Installation of a Septic System issued by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit – Septic Division.
Septic system approvals are issued by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, not the Township of Conmee.
Septic permit applications are available:
- At the Municipal Office as part of the Building Permit Package, or
- Directly from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit
Required Inspections During Construction
Applicants are required to notify the Chief Building Official as construction progresses so that mandatory inspections can be scheduled. Sufficient notice must be provided.
A checklist of required inspections specific to the project will be provided. Inspections are scheduled by the Chief Building Official and are subject to availability, particularly during peak construction periods.
Contact Information
For further information regarding building permits:
Municipal Office
19 Holland Road West
Phone: 807‑475‑5229 (during regular business hours)
Chief Building Official
John Ostrowski
Phone: 807‑630‑9726
Email: CBO@neebing.org
