Apply to alter a site

Apply for a Site Alteration Permit if you plan to remove or dump large amounts of soil, rock or other materials that could change drainage on your property.

On this page:

1. Check if you need a permit
2. Check if you need a Heritage Impact Assessment
3. Check fees
4. Apply in person
5. Contact us

1. Check if you need a permit

Site alteration permits are required for projects that involve removing or dumping large quantities of soil, rock, or other materials that could alter drainage conditions.

Most do-it-yourself projects do not require a permit. 

You’ll need a permit if you’re removing or dumping more than 20 cubic metres of material.

For full regulatory details, read the Site Alteration Bylaw.

2. Check if you need a Heritage Impact Assessment

If your property, or a nearby one, is designated or listed as heritage, you may need to submit a Heritage Impact Assessment as part of your permit review.

Visit the Check if you need a Heritage Impact Assessment page to learn more.

3. Check fees

There’s a standard application fee of $154 to submit your permit request.

Your permit fee depends on the size of your property:

• 1 hectare or less = $538
• each additional hectare = $89 (to a maximum of $1000)

Pay when you apply:

• in-person at the IPPW counter on the second floor of City Hall
• pay be cash, debit or cheque payable to City of Waterloo

4. Apply in person

Follow these steps to apply for a Site Alteration Permit:

1. Download and complete a site alteration permit form (PDF)
2. Submit your form and supporting documents in person at the IPPW counter (second floor, City Hall)
3. Pay the application and permit fees

Contact us

If you have questions about your application, contact us at 519-747-8752 or sitealterationpermits@waterloo.ca.