Builder must demonstrate to the local building official that the structure complies with all applicable requirements of the Ontario Building Code (OBC).
Inspections:
Be prepared for mandatory on-site inspections during the installation phase to confirm the work aligns with the approved permit and plans.
The core process to gain an approval to build a house involves: engineering review, third-party certification (if applicable), and obtaining a building permit.
We recommend the following steps:
1
Engage an Ontario Professional Engineer (P.Eng.)
The most critical step is hiring an Ontario-licensed professional engineer to be responsible for:
-
The P.Eng. will evaluate the structural design, materials, and calculations (based on the engineering documentation provided by the manufacturer) to ensure compliance with local regulations, standards, and Ontario Building Code requirements, including loads such as snow, wind, and seismic factors relevant to the building's proposed site in Ontario.
-
The engineer will assess if the design, based on the provided engineering drawing and documentation, complies with Ontario requirements as a standard option or if it be accepted as an alternative solution. If needed, the engineer may create a design basis to validate the alternative solution, effectively translating other standards, such as the European Eurocodes, into the Ontario regulatory framework.
-
The engineer will develop and validate reports that detail how the design complies with the performance established by the OBC, highlighting any variations in material specifications or approaches. Should an alternative solution require modifications to design, the engineer is responsible for preparing and certifying the engineering documentation package, which includes calculations and drawings.
2
Obtain Third-Party Certification (if applicable)
For prefabricated structures or specific innovative materials, independent third-party certification is usually required:
-
Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC): The CCMC (part of the National Research Council Canada) provides a service to evaluate innovative products for code compliance. A CCMC evaluation report is highly respected by building officials and can streamline the approval process.
-
Standards Council of Canada (SCC) Accredited Bodies: Look for certification bodies accredited by the SCC, such as the CSA Group. These bodies can inspect the manufacturing process in the European factory to ensure compliance with Canadian standards (e.g., CSA A277 for modular buildings).
3
Prepare the Building Permit Application
Once you have the stamped engineering documents and any necessary certifications, you can apply for a building permit from the local municipality where the structure will be installed. The application must include:
-
Completed Forms:
The required building permit application forms.
-
Plans and Specifications:
Multiple copies of detailed construction drawings sealed by the P.Eng.
-
Supporting Documentation:
CCMC reports, certification listings, and the engineer's compliance reports.
-
Inspection Agreement
(for modular/prefabricated):
If the structure is fully or partially prefabricated, the local municipal building official may need to agree to either inspect the factory in Europe or accept inspections by an accredited third party to ensure the modules were built to code.
4
Work with the Local Building Official
The municipal building official has the final authority to approve or refuse the permit.
Alternative Solutions:
If the European design uses materials or methods not explicitly listed in the OBC's prescriptive requirements, the P.Eng. can propose it as an "alternative solution". The building official will review the evidence to ensure it provides the same level of safety and performance as the code requires.
-
Inspections:
Be prepared for mandatory on-site inspections during the installation phase to confirm the work aligns with the approved permit and plans.