This bulletin replaces the previously published version (March 2023) and summarizes the City’s policy for grade plan requirements in accordance with the Building By-law (By-law No. 2026-066). These provisions apply to projects not subject to Site Plan Control, Site Alteration Permits, or Subdivision Agreements.
Grade plans must be submitted with the following types of projects:
- Infill houses
- Detached secondary dwelling units (DADU’s)
- Additions greater than 37.2 m2 (400 ft2)
- Any project where excavation is required (other than pier footings) and is within 1.2 meters of a property line
- i.e., foundation, basement entry, retaining wall
Grade plans can be provided by:
- A Professional Engineer
- A Certified Engineering Technologist
- An Ontario Land Surveyor
- An Architect
Grade plans must show:
- Proposed and existing grades/elevations, and swales (including direction and slope) necessary to demonstrate adequate drainage
- Location of any discharge outlets for sump pump (if required)
- Proposed underside of footing, top of foundation wall, high water table (if known), and finished floor elevations
- First floor elevation and garage floor elevation
For a complete list of permit submission and grading requirements, please refer to our:
- Individual application checklists, and
- Building By-law
Paul Evans, CBCO
Chief Building Official