When managing a construction or renovation project in the City of Brampton, plans can change even after your building permit has been issued. Depending on the scale of your changes, the City processes these updates as either a Revision or a Re-siting. Both processes require your original building permit to be fully issued before you can request changes. Understanding the difference ensures your project stays compliant and moves forward without unnecessary delays.
Revisions: Modifying an Existing Plan
A Revision applies when you are making minor design changes to an already approved permit, but you are keeping the core structure or model the same. Examples include:
- Kitchen Renovations: You originally applied for a permit to renovate your kitchen with two windows and a door. You later realize the windows will not work and decide to install a single door instead.
- Interior Layouts: Changing a bathroom layout, enlarging interior arches, or moving non-structural walls.
How the Process Works
- Submit a Revision Application: You apply for a revision through the online portal, clearly indicating that the application is for a revision within the workflow.
- Review and Update: City staff review the modified drawings to ensure they comply with the Ontario Building Code and local zoning bylaws.
- Permit Connection: Your original Residential (RR) permit stays active. The approved changes are tied directly to it, typically denoted as a sequential update (e.g., RR-XXXXXX-01). Once reviewed and approved, you are ready to build.
Re-sitings: Changing the Entire Model
A Re-siting occurs when a builder or homeowner decides to completely change the certified house model originally selected for a specific lot. Changing the overall model is never processed as a revision. Examples include:
- Model Swaps: You initially selected "Model A" (a 2-story, 4-bedroom home) for your lot. Before construction begins, you or your client decide to switch to "Model B" (a 2-story, 5-bedroom home).
- Flipping to a Mirror Image or Alternative Layout: A builder initially selects Model 35A (a 3,200 sq. ft. floor plan with a left-side garage) for Lot 42. Due to underground utility conflicts or buyer preference, they decide to build Model 35B (a 3,200 sq. ft. plan with a right-side garage, altered window placements, and a completely different foundation footprint) instead.
Even though the total square footage might remain similar, switching the model footprint completely alters how the house sits on the lot lines. This requires a re-siting application to review the new site plan, rather than a simple revision.
How the Process Works
Since you are changing the entire scope of the build, the process requires a fresh submission:
- Apply for a New Permit: Submit a brand-new application through the online workflow.
- Identify as a Re-siting: You must explicitly state that this application is for a re-siting in the online portal.
- Fee Adjustment: Because a new model often means a change in total square footage, your permit fees may be recalculated based on the new dimensions.
- Revocation of the Old Permit: Once the new re-siting application is fully reviewed and approved, the City will close and revoke the original issued permit, marking it clearly in the system as a re-siting.
