Accessory Buildings

Accessory buildings in the Township of Cavan Monaghan

What is an accessory Building?

Accessory buildings are buildings that are separate from the principle building.

They could be used for either residential or agricultural purposes.

Garages, shops, sheds, gazebos, barns and shelters are all examples of accessory buildings.

Do I need a building permit?

You do need a building permit if your accessory building meets any of the following criteria for the definition of a building. [OBC Div. C 1.3.1.3 (4)]

(a)  a structure occupying an area greater than ten square metres (108 sq. ft.) consisting of a wall, roof and floor or any of them or a structural system serving the function thereof including all plumbing, works, fixtures and service systems appurtenant thereto,

(b  )a structure occupying an area of ten square metres (108 sq. ft.) or less that contains plumbing, including the plumbing appurtenant thereto,
(c)  plumbing not located in a structure,
(c.1)  a sewage system, or
(d)  structures designated in the building code; 

You do not need a building permit for a shed which meets the following requirements [OBC Div. C 1.3.1.1 (6)] : 

  • Is not more than 15 sq. m (161.5 sq. ft.).
  • Is not more than one storey in building height.
  • Is not attached to a building or any other structure.
  • Is used only for storage purposes ancillary to a principle building on the lot.
  • Does not have plumbing.

Important!   Whether you need a building permit or not, please contact the Planning department first by using the Land Use Inquiry form. This ensures your project will meet all the requirements of the Zoning By-laws and other regulations.

Building permit

Please go to the Building Permits page to see how to apply for a building permit.