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Norfolk County is reminding residents and contractors to secure proper permits before starting construction as part of Building Safety Month in May.
The provincewide campaign, led by the Ontario Building Officials Association, highlights how permits and inspections protect public safety and ensure projects meet the Ontario Building Code.
Permits are required for many common projects, including new homes, additions, garages, decks, plumbing work, structural changes, and septic systems. County officials say permits ensure work is properly reviewed and inspected.
Starting construction without a permit is an offence under the Ontario Building Code Act. The County may issue stop-work orders until approvals are obtained, and charges can lead to fines.
Recent Provincial Offences Court rulings show the risks. One property owner was fined $1,125 for building without a permit and failing to follow an order. Another was fined $2,000 for constructing a home addition without approval. In a third case, property owners were fined $500 after ignoring an order tied to a garage built without a permit. All later worked with staff to meet requirements.
“Building permits protect public safety and help make sure construction work meets required standards,” said Fritz Enzlin, Norfolk’s Director of Building and Bylaw Services.
Residents are encouraged to contact the County before starting projects.
Written by Jeremy Hall
