Bathroom Renovation Permit Requirements in St. Catharines
If you’re planning a bathroom renovation in St. Catharines, one of the most common questions is:
“Do I need a permit for this?”
The answer depends on the scope of work. At St. Catharines Bathroom Renovations, we help guide you through the permit process and ensure your project meets all local building codes and municipal requirements — so you can renovate with peace of mind.
🏗️ When Is a Bathroom Renovation Permit Required?
In the City of St. Catharines (and throughout Ontario), a building permit is typically required for any work that involves structural changes, plumbing relocation, or alterations to electrical systems.
✔️ You WILL Need a Permit If You Are:
Moving or adding plumbing (e.g., relocating a toilet or sink)
Removing or altering load-bearing walls
Installing new windows or enlarging existing ones
Changing the location of fixtures like showers, bathtubs, or drains
Adding new ventilation or altering HVAC systems
Making major electrical changes (requires ESA notification/inspection)
Expanding the bathroom into another part of the home
Installing or modifying structural framing (walls, ceilings, or flooring)
❌ You May Not Need a Permit If You Are:
Replacing a vanity, toilet, or tub in the same location
Painting, retiling, or updating flooring
Installing a new mirror, lighting, or towel bars
Upgrading fixtures without modifying plumbing or wiring
Doing cosmetic upgrades (cabinetry, caulking, accessories)
However, just because something seems minor doesn’t mean it’s exempt. We always recommend checking with the City of St. Catharines Building Services Division if you’re unsure.
📝 Who Handles the Permit?
At St. Catharines Bathroom Renovations, we take care of the permit process for you.
Our team will:
Assess your renovation plans
Prepare the required drawings or layouts
Submit the application on your behalf
Schedule inspections with city officials
Ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code
We make sure your project is fully compliant, inspected, and approved — so you don’t have to deal with confusing paperwork or municipal wait times.
🛑 Why Skipping Permits Can Cost You
Doing work without a required permit may seem like a shortcut, but it can lead to big problems:
🚫 Fines or Stop-Work Orders from the city
🧾 Problems with home insurance claims or coverage
🏠 Issues during home resale — unpermitted work can reduce your home’s value or delay closings
🔧 Safety risks from uninspected plumbing or electrical work
Don’t take chances. We renovate the right way — with the permits and inspections your project requires.
⏱️ How Long Do Permits Take in St. Catharines?
For typical bathroom renovations, permits can be approved in as little as 5–10 business days after submission, depending on the scope and documentation.
We’ll let you know up front if your project requires a permit, and we’ll build the timeline accordingly.
📍 Permit & Code Authority Contact (for reference)
City of St. Catharines – Building Services Division
Address: 50 Church Street, St. Catharines, ON L2R 7C2
Phone: 905-688-5600 ext. 1660
Website: www.stcatharines.ca
(Please note: We will handle all official interactions with the city for your renovation when you work with us.)
✅ Renovate With Confidence
At St. Catharines Bathroom Renovations, we understand the importance of doing things right — legally and safely. We’ll never cut corners or put your home at risk. From permit applications to final inspection, our licensed and insured team handles every step with professionalism and care.
Whether you’re updating a powder room or remodeling a master ensuite, we’re here to guide you every step of the way — including the paperwork.