Finished Basements
What's on this page
↓Overview
↓Who this is for
↓What you need
↓Zoning requirements
↓How to apply
↓After you apply
↓Book a building inspection
Overview
Finishing your basement can create additional living space and increase the functionality of your home. A building permit is required in Milton before finishing any portion of a basement.
Basement renovations can affect building safety, fire protection, ventilation, insulation, and plumbing systems. Before starting your project, review the permit requirements, required drawings, zoning regulations, and inspection requirements to help avoid delays during the approval process.
This information is for:
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Homeowners finishing an unfinished basement
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Homeowners renovating an existing finished basement
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Contractors applying on behalf of homeowners
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Property owners creating additional living space within an existing dwelling
Before you apply, gather the required forms and supporting drawings.
Required forms
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Schedule 1 – Designer Information Form (required when someone other than an architect or engineer prepares the design)
Construction drawings
Submit the following drawings with your application:
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Existing floor plan showing walls, windows, plumbing, and HVAC
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Proposed basement layout plan showing the extent of the renovation
If your project includes new exterior window or door openings, or the addition of a bedroom, you must also submit an overall site plan. Refer to the sample drawings for specific drawing requirements, including the number of copies required. Review the application guidelines before submitting your application.
Building permit fees for finished basement projects are listed on the Building Permit page. Depending on the scope of your renovation, additional fees may apply. This may include work related to new plumbing fixtures, fireplaces, windows, or doors.
Applicable fees must be paid when you submit your application.
Before applying, review the Zoning By-law to ensure your project complies with all applicable zoning requirements. Cooking facilities are not permitted in a finished basement unless the space is approved as a secondary dwelling unit. If you are planning to add a kitchen, review the basement apartment guidelines before applying.
Confirming zoning compliance before applying can help prevent delays during the permit review process.
Once you have gathered the required forms and construction drawings:
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Complete the Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish.
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Complete the Schedule 1 – Designer Information Form, if required.
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Submit your completed application package through the online portal, including all supporting drawings and documents.
Town staff will review your application and supporting drawings to confirm compliance with the Ontario Building Code and applicable zoning regulations.
If additional information is required, staff will contact you.
After your permit has been issued and construction is underway, you must book the required building inspection. Inspections help ensure your renovation complies with Ontario Building Code and zoning requirements.
Typical finished basement inspections may include:
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Framing inspection
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Insulation and air barrier inspection
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Below-grade plumbing, above-grade plumbing, and final plumbing inspections
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Heating rough-in and final heat inspection
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Final building inspection