Suspect Illegal Construction? How to Check Permits on Your Street
See a dumpster on your street but no permit posted in the window? Look up the address right now.
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Enter an address to see if there's an active building permit on file.
Signs That Construction Might Be Unpermitted
Not all construction requires a permit, but major work does. Here are red flags that suggest work might be happening without proper approvals:
No Permit Posted
Active permits must be posted in a window visible from the street. If you don't see one, that's a warning sign.
Structural Changes
Removing walls, adding rooms, building additions—all require permits. If the house is changing shape, there should be a permit.
Weekend/Night Work
Professional contractors usually work weekdays. Around-the-clock DIY work might indicate someone avoiding inspectors.
Basement Windows Added
New basement window wells or enlarged windows often indicate a basement apartment conversion—always requires a permit.
Work That Usually DOESN'T Require a Permit
How to Search for Permits by Address
Get the Exact Address
Note the street number and name of the property. For example: "123 Queen Street West"
Search Our Database
Enter the address in our search tool. We'll show you all building permits associated with that property— active, closed, or pending.
Try It NowReview the Results
Look for permits with "Active" status and recent application dates. The permit description will tell you what work is approved.
If you find an active permit: The work is likely authorized. Check if the scope matches what you're seeing.
If no permit exists: The work might be unpermitted, or it might be minor work that doesn't require one.
How to Report Unpermitted Construction
If you believe construction is happening without a permit, you can file a complaint with the City of Toronto. Here's how:
Option 1: Call 311
Toronto's general city services line. Available 24/7. Request a building inspector to investigate the property.
Call 311Option 2: Online Complaint
Submit a service request through the City of Toronto's online portal. You'll need the property address and a description of the work.
Submit Online RequestWhat Happens Next?
A building inspector will visit the property to investigate. If work is being done without a permit, they may issue a stop-work order and require the owner to apply for permits retroactively. In serious cases, fines can be issued.
Why Unpermitted Construction Matters
Safety: Permits ensure work meets building codes. Unpermitted electrical or structural work can be dangerous.
Property Values: Unpermitted work can affect your property if it impacts shared structures, drainage, or property lines.
Insurance: Damage caused by unpermitted work may not be covered by insurance— for the homeowner or affected neighbors.
Future Sales: When the property sells, unpermitted work must be disclosed and can complicate the transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I report anonymously?
Yes. You can file a complaint through 311 without providing your name. However, providing contact information helps if inspectors have follow-up questions.
What if my neighbor is just doing a small renovation?
Not all work requires a permit. Painting, flooring, and minor repairs are typically exempt. Use our search tool to check—if there's no permit but the work seems minor, it might be fine.
How long does a city investigation take?
It varies based on workload, but inspectors typically respond within 5-10 business days for routine complaints. Urgent safety issues are prioritized.
Should I talk to my neighbor first?
This is a personal choice. Some people prefer to ask their neighbor about the work before filing a complaint. Others prefer to let the city investigate to avoid conflict.
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