What is the permit process for a second-storey addition through Ottawa Building Code Services?

A second-storey addition is one of the more involved residential permits, because it changes the loads on the existing house and has to show that the structure can carry them. Knowing the steps helps you prepare a cleaner application and avoid back-and-forth with the City's Building Code Services.

Start with design and structure. The application needs a structural review showing that the existing foundation and first-floor framing can support the new storey, or what reinforcement is needed. A structural engineer does that work, and older houses often need some reinforcement. Identifying it early prevents surprises mid-project. Ask your designer who will prepare and sign each part of the drawings and confirm with the City what it requires.

Check zoning before you draw. Your zoning sets maximum height, lot coverage and setbacks, and a second storey is most likely to run into the height limit. Ottawa has two zoning by-laws in effect while appeals are resolved, so check your property's zone. If the design exceeds a rule, you apply to the Committee of Adjustment for a minor variance (the 2026 urban fee totals $3,759) before the permit can proceed.

Assemble the package. Expect floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, a site plan and structural details, along with energy efficiency documentation. Under SB-12, an addition must meet a compliance package or the addition table, which includes an attic ceiling at R-60 and above-grade walls at R-19 plus R-5 continuous insulation.

Submit and respond to comments. After you apply, a plans examiner reviews the drawings and may send comments asking for more detail. That is normal and isn't a rejection. Common items are structural details, fire safety details and energy calculations. How quickly your designer responds affects how long the process takes. Ask the City for current review timelines rather than relying on a general estimate.

Pay the fee. Under the 2026 schedule, additions and alterations cost $12.75 per $1,000 of construction value (materials, labour, overhead and professional fees), minimum $117. A $300,000 valuation would be about $3,825, though the City confirms the valuation. Design and engineering fees are separate and can be significant, so budget for them.

Inspections during construction. The City inspects the work at stages during construction, and failing an inspection means a correction and a re-inspection. Electrical work is handled separately through an ESA notification. Ask your contractor how they schedule inspections and keep the job moving.

Remember that the owner and the contractor are equally responsible for making sure the permit is in place. You can browse contractors who have built second-storey additions in the Ottawa Construction Network directory at justynrookcontracting.com.

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Looking for experienced contractors? The Ottawa Construction Network connects homeowners with qualified professionals:

• Justyn Rook Contracting
• JC Carpentry
• Vanguard Environmental
• Grunt Work 4 Grunts
• Jaiko Cleaning Services