Garage Addition Permit Requirements in Durham Region — City-by-City Guide
Thinking about adding a garage to your home in Durham Region? Whether it’s an attached garage, a detached workshop, or expanding your existing space, there’s one thing you must do before picking up the hammer: get a building permit.
Adding a garage isn’t just about extra space; it’s about doing it safely, legally, and efficiently. Each city and town within Durham — like Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and Clarington — has its own process and zoning rules. That’s why many homeowners partner with B&P Contracting, a trusted local contractor that handles design, permits, and construction. With their expertise, you can ensure your garage addition meets all building codes, zoning requirements, and inspection standards.
In this guide, we’ll break down the garage addition permit requirements city by city, and show how working with B&P Contracting can make the process smooth and stress-free.
Why You Need a Garage Addition Permit
In Ontario, any structural addition or alteration to your home requires a building permit under the Ontario Building Code (OBC).
A permit ensures your new garage:
- Meets safety and structural standards.
- Complies with zoning (setbacks, height, and lot coverage).
- Doesn’t negatively affect drainage, utilities, or neighboring properties.
Skipping a permit can lead to fines, stop-work orders, or future resale complications, so it’s worth getting it right from the start.
Durham Region Overview
Durham Region includes several municipalities, each responsible for its own building permits and inspections:
- City of Oshawa
- Town of Whitby
- Town of Ajax
- City of Pickering
- Municipality of Clarington
- Townships of Uxbridge, Scugog, and Brock
While the region provides general guidance, permits are always issued by the local municipality. Partnering with a contractor like B&P Contracting ensures you navigate all local rules efficiently, from initial design to final inspection.
City-by-City Garage Permit Requirements
1. City of Oshawa
Oshawa requires a building permit for any new garage, garage addition, or conversion.
You’ll need:
- Completed Application to Construct or Demolish form
- Schedule 1 – Designer Information form
- Survey or site plan showing distances to property lines
- Construction drawings – floor plan, elevations, cross-section
- Foundation details and engineered truss drawings if applicable
2. Town of Whitby
Whitby lists garages (attached or detached) as projects that always require a building permit.
Required documents:
- Building permit application
- Designer Information form
- Site plan / lot survey
- Construction drawings (floor plan, elevations, sections)
- Energy efficiency compliance (for heated garages)
- Letter of authorization if you’re not the property owner
3. Town of Ajax
Ajax requires a permit for garages and accessory structures.
You’ll typically need:
- Site plan and construction drawings
- Structural or truss details
- Grading review for larger additions
- Separate electrical permit from ESA
Detached garages must meet side/rear yard setbacks, and total lot coverage limits apply.
4. City of Pickering
Pickering requires a permit for garages that:
- Are attached to a dwelling
- Exceed 10 m²
- Are more than one storey or contain plumbing
Documents needed:
- Building permit application + site plan
- Drawings (floor, elevation, cross-section)
- Structural details and energy code summary (if heated)
Pro Tips for a Smooth Process
- Start early – zoning, grading, and permit reviews can take weeks.
- Hire a qualified designer or contractor familiar with the Ontario Building Code.
- Submit complete applications digitally if the municipality uses an online portal.
- Never build before approval – fines and rework can be costly.
Why Choose B&P Contracting for Your Garage Addition
For homeowners in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, and surrounding Durham Region, B&P Contracting is a trusted choice.
Why B&P stands out:
- Expertise in local building codes, zoning, and permit processes.
- Handles design, drawings, and permit applications, saving you time and stress.
- Provides quality construction and project management, ensuring your garage meets safety standards and looks great.
- Transparent pricing and free consultation to plan your garage addition effectively.
Learn more about their services here: B&P Contracting – Home Additions Pickering