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farfromhome
Member
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# Posted: 1 Jun 2011 10:34
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I am having difficulty obtaining simple explanations on what the building code requirements are for a seasonal cabin in Ontario. I managed to find the size permitted for a dwelling based upon the local zoning bylaw. Anybody have any web references for me.
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CabinBuilder
Admin
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# Posted: 1 Jun 2011 12:21 - Edited by: CabinBuilder
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I had the same problem getting a clear answer (also in Ontario).
All I understood was that I can build a cabin under 10 sq m (~100 sq ft) without permit, but anything more requires permit - and the minimum in that case is ~1000 sq.ft (or similar number, don't remember exactly).
In other words, I could not build anything between 100 sq ft and 1000 sq ft (or so) - with or without permit. Stupid! That's the sq ft range I wanted for my recreational use cabin.
I had no choice and eventually decided to build ~100 sq ft cabin.
Although, to my knowledge, the rules are not Ontario-wide - they vary from municipality to municipality.
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project_north
Member
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# Posted: 1 Jun 2011 15:08
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It varies by municipality. Ontario Building Code stipulates a permit is required for anything above 10 m2 (107 sq. ft.) but be careful with the 10 square metre max without a permit. in my municipality that cannot be a dwelling. i got dinged and now am applying for a permit to expand to 650 sq. ft. which is the minimum requirement where i am.
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Anonymous
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# Posted: 18 Oct 2011 15:51
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You may also want to talk to the planning department. Where I am at (North of Kingston, Ontario) you are able to apply for a minor variance. The planning department also recommended that I make the building look bigger i.e. wrap around deck. That I am finding is the easy hurdle to clear as far as septic I was told by the same department that I may use a composting toilet (Class 1 sewage system) and a leaching pond (class 2) pottable water on the other hand I was not able to get a strait answer on. Hydro again was another issue, according to the Municipality by-law I require hydro to get an occupancy permit. After some research it appears that we may have to wire the cabin with a 100 Amp service and have the appropriate inspections done after which we would not get the actual connection done.
In a nutshell I would recommend calling your local building department the Ontario Building Code would consider this a dwelling and it would be subject to the requirements. No separate requirements for a "seasonal" resident.
If you are on a waterfront lot there may also be some opportunities that will differ from a non lot i.e. boat house.
Good luck as I too am finding out there is a lot of hoops to jump through.
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