Permit Plans Barrie Ontario
We’ve been getting building permits in Barrie Ontario for decades now. Over the past 15 years the process has been more than challenging.Try to get details stamped by an Engineer in Barrie Ontario– If you call 15 and you might be lucky to actually speak to one. The only way to make a project happen is to find an Engineer in the outskirts that has not been subjected the local building department.
Summary
Getting permit plans in Barrie can be a challenge. While many inspectors are helpful, the system itself creates roadblocks. The BCIN process was supposed to speed up approvals and shift liability, but in practice it slows projects down and makes it nearly impossible to get details stamped by an Engineer in Barrie, Ontario. If you call 15 Engineers, you’ll be lucky if one even answers. The only reliable path is often finding an Engineer outside the city who hasn’t dealt with the local building department.
Working with the Barrie Building Department
We’ve worked with Barrie’s Building Department for decades. Many inspectors are excellent, but we’ve also seen serious problems that cause delays and frustration. Some inspectors admit the issues exist, but won’t discuss them openly. Staff turnover is part of the fallout.
Permit and Planning in Ontario – BCIN Rules
BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) was created to:
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Standardize construction details (often oversimplified).
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Speed up approvals.
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Shift liability from municipalities to designers.
In reality, delays are still common. What should take a week can drag on for months, even a year.
BCIN Basics
Under Canadian law, “your home is your castle.” Engineers pushed back against BCIN because they already carried liability and had the expertise to design safely. Two exemptions were made:
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Homeowners can take responsibility for their own projects.
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Engineers can stamp drawings without BCIN certification.
Three Ways to Apply for a Building Permit in Barrie
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As a homeowner – You accept responsibility for your design. Works for simple projects like decks, windows, or non-loadbearing walls.
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Hire a BCIN Certified Designer – Good for most renovations, but the building department often forces standardized details. If you go beyond that, they’ll ask for an Engineer’s stamp.
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Hire an Engineer – In theory, they can handle the project. In practice, many Engineers refuse Barrie jobs due to conflict with the department.
The Barrie Permit Plans Problem
Barrie’s Building Department has added its own rules. That’s not unusual, but the way they deal with Engineers is the real issue. Non-engineering staff often question professional Engineers, which most Engineers find insulting.
The result? Many won’t take Barrie projects at all. If you need stamped details for permit plans in Barrie, good luck. Calling 15 Engineers to find one who will even talk isn’t uncommon. The only way forward is often finding someone outside Barrie who hasn’t dealt with the local building department.
For example, one of our deck permits took nine months of back-and-forth between the department and our Engineer. At the end, the Engineer told us never to call him again for a Barrie project.
Because of this, any project beyond standard detailing in Barrie carries a premium — usually an extra $2,000 to $10,000 depending on how much fighting is required.
FAQ – Permit Plans Barrie
Why are permit plans in Barrie so hard to get approved?
Because the Building Department often disputes Engineers’ work, causing long delays.
Can I submit my own permit plans?
Yes, homeowners can apply directly for simple projects like decks or window replacements.
Do I need a BCIN designer?
Usually. For renovations or additions, a BCIN Certified Designer can prepare plans. But if your design isn’t standard, you may want to seek out a specialist architectural designer like Designyourreno.com and you may need an Engineer’s stamp if it is a complex construction that is beyond the capability of the building department..
Why won’t Engineers in Barrie take my call?
Most Engineers avoid Barrie projects. If you call 15, you’ll be lucky to reach one. Many refuse due to constant disputes with the department.
What’s the workaround?
Find an Engineer outside Barrie who hasn’t dealt with the local building department. They’re far more likely to take on your project.
Will my Barrie permit plans cost more?
Yes. Expect an added $2,000 to $10,000 if engineering is involved.
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