Residential Building Permits

Why a Permit is Required

The permit approval and inspection process is intended to ensure that your project meets all necessary codes and regulations, in order to promote the health, safety and well-being of current and future occupants.As a homeowner, you are responsible for obtaining the necessary permit(s). A permit must be obtained before the project gets started, whether or not you choose to have a contractor take out a permit on your behalf.  Obtaining a permit means that the work will be inspected by an experienced, professional City of Winnipeg Inspector to ensure that required standards are met (Manitoba Building Code, applicable zoning regulations, and Building By-law requirements).

Work that is done without a permit may not meet the minimum building code requirements and could result in substandard construction that may not be structurally adequate.  This could lead to costly repairs in the future to correct the problem or even a complete failure of the construction. Work that cannot be made to comply will require removal. The cost of a permit “after the fact” will be doubled and legal action may be initiated to ensure compliance.