Permit Sets in the City of Toronto
A permit set is a coordinated package of technical documents, zoning analysis, code compliance, and consultant input that all need to align.
On paper, the City of Toronto outlines what’s required. In reality, every project carries its own nuances, interpretations, and edge conditions. That’s where things get complex, and where we come in.
What a Typical Permit Set Includes
At a baseline, a permit submission in Toronto will require:
1. Architectural Drawings
This is the core of the submission. It typically includes:
Site plan
Floor plans
Roof plan
Building elevations
Sections and details
These drawings must clearly describe the proposed construction, dimensions, materials, and spatial relationships. But more importantly, they must demonstrate compliance with zoning by-laws and the Ontario Building Code.
2. Zoning Review / Planning Analysis
Before anything is drawn, we assess how the project fits within Toronto’s zoning by-law. This includes:
Floor Space Index (FSI)
Building height and angular planes
Setbacks
Lot coverage
Parking requirements
and more
If the proposal doesn’t comply, a Committee of Adjustment application may be required which adds months to the timeline and introduces another layer of strategy.
3. Ontario Building Code (OBC) Compliance
Every permit set must demonstrate compliance with the OBC, including:
Fire safety and spatial separation
Egress and exiting
Structural design criteria
Energy efficiency (SB-12 for houses)
We coordinate everything to ensure OBC compliance. All of the required information is embedded into the drawings, notes, and specifications.
4. Structural Drawings
Prepared by a professional engineer, these include:
Foundation design
Framing plans
Load calculations
Beam and column sizing
Even small residential projects often require structural input, especially when altering load-bearing elements or adding floors.
5. Mechanical / HVAC Design (When Required)
Depending on the scope, this may include:
HVAC layouts
Heat loss/gain calculations
Ventilation strategies
This becomes especially important when airtightness and energy compliance are factors.
6. Energy Compliance Documentation (SB-12)
For residential projects, energy efficiency must be demonstrated through SB-12 packages. This often involves selecting compliance paths and coordinating insulation, glazing, and mechanical systems.
The Nuances
The real challenge is navigating how all of these pieces interact.
Zoning Isn’t Black and White
Toronto’s zoning by-law is layered, and properties often fall under multiple overlays, exceptions, or historical conditions. Two houses on the same street can have completely different permissions.
We spend a significant amount of time interpreting zoning and have a solid understanding of how it’s applied in practice.
Drawings Must Communicate
City reviewers are interpreting the design intent through our drawings. If something is unclear, inconsistent, or missing, it can trigger rounds of revisions. We design drawings to be legible and strategic, reducing back-and-forth with the City.
Small Design Decisions Have Big Impacts
Moving a wall by 300mm might:
Trigger a zoning variance
Affect structural spans
Change energy compliance
Impact window-to-wall ratios
Everything is interconnected. That’s why permit drawings need to be thoughtfully considered and carefully calibrated.
Consultants Need to Be Coordinated
Structural, mechanical, and energy consultants all produce their own documents. If these aren’t aligned with the architectural set, it can delay approvals.
We coordinate all consultants so the submission reads as one cohesive package.
Timelines Are Not Linear
Even a “simple” permit can take months. Add zoning relief (Committee of Adjustment) is another layer of complexity. We map timelines early so there are no surprises.
How We Handle This for You
At Post Architecture,
We Start With Strategy
Before drawing anything, we analyze zoning, identify risks, and map the most efficient path forward. If a variance is needed, we design with that in mind from day one.
We Integrate Code Into the Design
Rather than checking code at the end, we embed it into the design process so there are no late-stage surprises.
We Coordinate Everything
We manage structural, mechanical, and energy consultants, ensuring all documents align and support the architectural intent.
We Design for Approval
Our drawings are clear, precise, and intentional. We know what the City looks for, and we structure submissions to move smoothly through review.
We Navigate the Nuance
Every project has edge conditions and zoning quirks, site constraints, or regulatory gray areas. We handle these proactively so you don’t have to.
The Reality
Done poorly, a permit submission can lead to delays, redesigns, and unexpected costs. That’s where Post Architecture comes in.
Thinking About a Project?
If you’re planning a renovation, addition, or new build in Toronto, we can help you navigate the process from the start.
We handle the drawings, the coordination, and the conversations with the City so you can focus on the bigger picture.