Not all homeowners realize that many of the projects they might want to complete in their landscaping require a permit. Whether you’re doing the project yourself or having a professional complete it, it is important to know whether you need a permit and to get one, or you could face some unpleasant consequences.
Why Do You Need a Landscaping Permit?
Building and landscaping permits are about safety, zoning laws, environmental protection and being respectful of your neighbours. Permits are designed to ensure that people make safe developments on their property, that don’t endanger them, the people who buy their home next, their neighbours, or even wildlife in protected areas.
The permit process can be frustrating for people who have never done it before, and it can take some time, but it is important not just for your neighbourhood, but also to protect the value of your property and its safety.
Dreaming of building your backyard oasis? You may need to consider getting a permit depending on your projects. Contact our professionals at Natural Landscape Group to learn more about landscaping permits and whether it is necessary for your project.
What If You Don’t Get a Permit?
What happens if you start a landscaping project and you didn’t get a permit? Here are some of the possibilities:
You’re told to stop: If someone notices that you are doing work without a permit, you may be ordered to stop the work until you can get a permit.
You could get a fine: You may be fined for starting or completing a project without a permit.
There’s an accident: Perhaps the worst potential issue from completing work without a permit is that you or your contractor overlooked a safety issue and caused an accident or injury.
Your insurance is denied: You can void your insurance if you complete a project without a permit.
You void a warranty: You can void a warranty on a material or item involved in the project if you don’t get a permit.
When Do You Need a Permit?
There are many situations where you may need a permit. Here are just a few:
You are in a valley or stream corridor, wetland, waterfront, or another protected natural area.
You’re adding hardscaping, such as a deck, gazebo, or patio.
You will be filling or re-grading part or all of your property.
You’re building a fence over four feet in your front yard, or over six in your backyard.
You’re adding electrical, gas, or plumbing lines.
Pools and accessory structure typically requires permits.
If you’re not sure whether or not you need a permit, we can help you at the Natural Landscape Group.
Planning on creating your backyard oasis? We’ve got you covered. You’ll also need a building permit. Contact us at the Natural Landscape Group for more information on permits and for all of your landscaping needs.
Sources:
https://www.scoutservices.com/important-reasons-apply-building-permits
https://www.bluentcad.com/blog/the-importance-of-building-permit-why-do-you-need-one/
https://www.surroundslandscaping.com/when-you-need-a-permit-for-your-landscape-project/
https://trca.ca/planning-permits/landscaping/
https://www.naturallandscapegroup.com/blog/building-permits-and-your-landscape-project/