Do you need a permit for a bathroom renovation in Ontario?
The short answer
Not to replace fixtures in the same spots. Moving or adding a toilet, sink, tub or shower, or changing drains and vents, needs a plumbing permit. Moving walls or adding a window needs a building permit too.
Last verified 2026-10-06What the Building Code checks
- Drain and vent sizes and how they tie into the stack.
- A pressure-balanced or thermostatic shower valve.
- An exhaust fan vented outside.
- Waterproofing in wet areas and safety glass in shower doors.
Bathrooms by city
The local rule and fee, linked to each City’s own source.
| City | Rule | Fee | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchener | Not for fixtures replaced in place. Adding or moving fixtures, drains or vents needs a plumbing permit. | $11 per fixture, minimum $95 | 2026-10-06 |
| Waterloo | Adding or moving fixtures, drains or vents needs a plumbing permit. | 1% of the construction cost | 2026-10-06 |
| Toronto | Not to repair or replace fixtures. Installing or changing plumbing, such as adding or moving a fixture, needs a plumbing permit. | $23.20 per fixture, minimum $214.79 | 2026-10-07 |
| Ottawa | Not to swap a fixture in the same spot. Adding, changing or extending plumbing needs a permit. | $117 for plumbing-only work | 2026-10-07 |
| Mississauga | Not for fixtures replaced in the same spot. Adding, removing or moving a sink, tub, toilet or shower needs a permit. | $42.23 per fixture, minimum $244 | 2026-10-07 |
| Brampton | Adding new plumbing fixtures or changing existing plumbing needs a permit. New cupboards with no plumbing changes don't. | $326.21 | 2026-10-07 |
| Hamilton | Not for fixtures replaced in the same spot. New or moved plumbing needs a permit. | Minimum $291 | 2026-10-07 |
| London | Not for fixtures replaced in the same spot. Adding, removing or moving a sink, tub, toilet or shower needs a permit. | Minimum $260.37 | 2026-10-07 |
| Oakville | Not for fixtures replaced in the same spot. Adding, removing or moving a fixture needs a permit. | $100 per fixture | 2026-10-06 |
| Cambridge | Any plumbing or drain work needs a permit. New cupboards with no plumbing don't. | $18 per fixture, minimum $107 | 2026-10-07 |
| Guelph | Adding or moving plumbing fixtures needs a permit. | $30 per fixture | 2026-10-07 |
What you’ll submit
- A plumbing layout: fixtures, drains, vents and the tie-in to the stack
- The fixture count for the fee
- A floor plan if walls or openings change
Common questions
From the guide: Bathroom renovations and plumbing permits
Do I need a permit to renovate a bathroom in Ontario?
Not to replace fixtures in the same spots. Moving or adding fixtures, drains or vents needs a plumbing permit.
How much is a plumbing permit in Kitchener?
$11 per fixture with a $95 minimum (checked October 2026).
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