Typical temporary structures are tents, stages, and bleachers. In most cases, you will require a building permit and inspections to confirm compliance with the Ontario Building Code and Fire Prevention Measures.
Building Services regularly posts bulletins regarding industry-related developments that may impact customer experience.
Planning Your Project
Our Temporary Structures Guide (PDF) outlines the City's project requirements and provides instruction on what you will need, who to contact, and how to apply.
Zoning
- Temporary Structures must comply with the Zoning By-law. For specific setback and lot coverage requirements, please contact the planning department at planneroftheday@barrie.ca to determine where a Temporary Structure may be permitted on the lot.
- Temporary Structures must be in compliance with your property’s zoned land use
Permits
A building permit for temporary structures is required in all cases except for tents with an aggregate area less than 60 m2 and spaced more than 3 metres apart, and structures occupying an area less than 10 m2.
Public Property: All temporary structures on municipal property are required to have a Special Events Permit and meet City requirements to ensure a safe and successful event for all involved. Anyone who would like to plan a public event must first contact the Ctiy's Specials Events Office. Email events@barrie.ca or visit our Special Events Permit for more information.
Private Property: If you plan to erect a Temporary Structure(s) on private property, you must ensure that you have obtained a building permit when required.
Completing Your Project
Complete the appropriate Temporary Structures Forms (PDF) and submit together with your application. Always apply for a building permit prior to starting any work.
Apply Online to Obtain Permit
Skip the trip to City Hall and use our online e-permitting tool APLI to apply for your building permit. APLI provides enhanced online features that allow you to conveniently submit your application. You can save and resume your permit application at any time, check the status of your application, schedule your inspection(s), receive real time results, and receive automatic email notifications to keep you informed along the way.
Call Before You Dig
Construction shall not commence until a building permit (if required) has been issued. Always contact Ontario One Call before you dig, even if it’s just with a shovel, to locate any underground cables or lines below the surface.
Arrange for Inspections
Listed below are typical inspections required for tents and stages. Other temporary structures may require additional inspections. Please note: inspections are only conducted Monday through Friday during regular business hours. All construction must be completed prior to inspection. Occupancy is not permitted until all inspections are passed.
| Inspection | To Confirm | Who to Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Final | Completion of construction, anchorage, occupancy, structural framing via engineer's report (if required), washroom requirements, and barrier-free access. | Service Barrie 705-726-4242 ServiceBarrie@barrie.ca |
| Fire Separation | Verification of the flame spread rating for tent fabrics. Completion of all exit signs, emergency lighting, fire routes, and fire protection systems (fire extinguishers). | Barrie Fire 705-728-3199 Fire.Prevention@barrie.ca |
Fire Prevention for Special Events
Once your structure is raised, please adhere to the following Fire Prevention Measures (PDF). A copy of these measures must be maintained on-site. Visit our fire prevention page for more information on general fire prevention measures.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is meant for guiding purposes only. Temporary Structures projects vary in scope and may require additional steps to ensure proper completion. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure work conforms to any restrictive covenants, caveats or other restrictions that are registered on the land title. The information above has no legal status and cannot be used as an official interpretation of the various bylaws, codes and regulations currently in effect. The City of Barrie accepts no responsibility to persons relying solely on this information. Web pages are updated periodically.