Upload these forms with your building permit application (unless they don't apply to your project):
- Owner Declaration Form (PDF) – most homeowners
- Schedule 1 Designer Form (PDF) – if a designer is involved
Sheds and detached garages
Follow these steps to plan your shed or garage, apply for a permit and book inspections.
If your property has 4 or more units, additional requirements may apply.
Tip: print this page and use it as a checklist.
On this page:
1. Check if you need a permit
You need a building permit if your shed or detached garage:
- is over 15 m² (161 ft²) for a shed
- is over 10 m² (107 ft²) for a detached garage
- includes plumbing (any size)
You do not need a permit if your structure is smaller and has no plumbing.
Even if you don't need a permit, you must still follow zoning rules.
2. Confirm zoning rules – optional
You don’t have to confirm zoning before you apply. It might be helpful if your project is complex or your property has unique zoning.
To check zoning in advance, contact zoning at zoning@waterloo.ca or 519-747-8752.
Be ready to provide:
- distance from property lines (setbacks)
- size and lot coverage
- height and placement
Check the zoning bylaw.
3. Confirm site conditions
Call Ontario OneCall at 1-800-400-2255 for a free locate of underground utilities before you dig.
Check the floodplain map (PDF) to determine if your property is in a regulated area. If it is, contact the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) at 1-866-900-4722 (toll-free) or 519-621-2161.
4. Confirm who can prepare your drawings
- Homeowner – can draw plans for their own shed or garage
- Anyone – if the structure is 55 m² (592 ft²) or smaller
- Architect, engineer or BCIN-qualified designer – required for larger or more complex projects
5. Prepare your drawings
You'll need:
- site plan – lot size, location of shed or garage, distances to property lines, all existing buildings
- foundation plan – material and depth, helical piles if applicable
- floor plan – use of building, dimensions, framing, door/window sizes, and lintel sizes
- plumbing layout – if plumbing is included
- cross section – wall and roof materials
- engineer’s stamped truss layout – if proposed
- exterior elevations – height from grade to peak, roof slope, include doors and windows
6. Prepare your forms
Complete the forms that apply to your project.
Most homeowners complete the Owner Declaration Form. If you hire a designer, they must also complete the Schedule 1 Designer Form.
Contact us if you’re not sure which forms you need.
Forms you need if you’re applying online
Forms you need if you’re applying in person
Bring these completed forms to the service counter on the 2nd floor of City Hall:
- Permit Application Form (PDF)
- Owner Declaration Form (PDF) – most homeowners
- Schedule 1 Designer Form (PDF) – if a designer is involved
7. Check permit fees
HST does not apply.
- Shed: $118
- Detached garage: $118 per bay
Pay when you apply:
- online: credit card only
- in person: cash, debit or cheque – payable to City of Waterloo
We’ll start reviewing your application once payment is received.
8. Apply online
Submit your application through the building permit portal.
Upload your drawings and forms.
9. Wait for review
The typical time to review an application is 10 business days.
We may ask for more information before approval.
10. Get your permit
Your permit package will be available on the portal. We’ll email you instructions on how to access it.
Print the whole package and keep it visible at the work site.
11. Book inspections
Under the Ontario Building Code Act, you must book inspections before the work is covered.
Find the required inspections listed on your building permit under "Mandatory Inspections".
Book an inspection through the portal (find it on the left menu):
- the earliest you can book an inspection is the next business day
- you'll need your permit number