Your path to building a legal, hassle-free garden suite starts here.
Do You Need a Permit to Build an ADU?
Yes—if you’re planning to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Brant County, you’ll need to go through a permitting process that ensures your build meets all local zoning and safety regulations. Whether you’re building a detached garden suite, converting a garage, or adding a basement in-law suite, obtaining a permit is essential to:
- Ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code
- Avoid costly fines or forced removal
- Legally rent or use the ADU in the future
- Maximize Your Home’s Potential
Learn more about ADU benefits in our Complete Homeowner’s Guide to ADUs in Rural Ontario.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your ADU Permit in Brant County
Step 1: Check Zoning Eligibility
Your property must be zoned to allow a secondary unit. In Brant County, most single-detached, semi-detached, and townhouse lots qualify—especially in areas with larger lots or rural zoning.
You’ll need to verify:
- Minimum lot size
- Setback requirements
- Max building height
- Parking regulations
Pro Tip: Book a free lot assessment with Frontier Building Group to confirm your property qualifies. Call 519.448.3946 to book yours.
Step 2: Choose Your ADU Type
The type of ADU you plan to build will impact your application and approval process. Your options include:
- Detached garden suite
- Garage conversion
- Basement apartment
- Above-garage suite
Knowing your structure type helps determine:
- Required drawings and documentation
- Servicing requirements (water, sewer, electrical)
Need help deciding? Check out: Garage Conversion or Garden Suite: Which ADU is Right for You?
Step 3: Prepare Your Site Plan and Drawings
The County of Brant requires detailed documentation, including:
- Site plan showing the ADU placement
- Floor plans with dimensions
- Elevation drawings
- Utility and servicing plans
- Structural details for detached units
Feeling overwhelmed? Our in-house design team takes care of everything.
Step 4: Submit Your Permit Application
Submit your application to the County of Brant Building Division, either in person or via email. Documents you’ll need:
- Completed building permit form
- Full drawing package
- Owner authorization form (if required)
- Permit application fee
View the official application form here: Brant County Building Permit Portal
Step 5: Wait for Review & Inspections
Expect a 2–4 week review period depending on project complexity. Once construction begins, inspections will occur at key stages:
- Foundation
- Framing
- Rough-ins (plumbing, HVAC, electrical)
- Final occupancy
Common Roadblocks (and How to Avoid Them)
- Submitting incomplete drawings
- Violating setbacks or lot coverage
- Not accounting for private servicing (well/septic)
- Hiring contractors unfamiliar with local requirements
Avoid delays by working with a contractor who understands local codes—like Frontier Building Group.
Why Homeowners Trust Frontier Building Group
We don’t just build—we navigate the entire permitting process so you don’t have to. Which includes:
- Verifying your eligibility
- Creating all required drawings and plans
- Handling permit submission and communications with the municipality
- Building your ADU to code with inspections passed the first time
We’ve helped countless homeowners across Brant, Norfolk, and Haldimand Counties turn ideas into reality—with complete permitting, planning, and construction support for:
- Garden suites
- Garage ADUs
- In-law apartments
- Secondary rental units
We handle the paperwork, permits, inspections, and build—all under one roof.
Planning to Build an ADU? Start with a Free Assessment
Before you fill out forms or break ground, let’s make sure your lot qualifies. Book your free zoning and permit consultation today!
📞 Call 519.448.3946
🌐 www.frontierbuildinggroup.com
📍 Serving Brantford, Paris, Simcoe, Hamilton, and surrounding areas.