Building, By-Law & Planning Department

The Building, By-Law & Planning Department is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Building Code, the Building Code Act and all other applicable regulations. The enforcement of these codes and applicable laws are carried out to protect public health, safety and welfare.

When considering construction, it is highly recommended that you schedule a pre-consultation with staff to review your proposed plans so that you may become aware of Building Code requirements or any other approvals that you may need, such as a Minor Variance. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Building, By-Law & Planning Department at 705-848-2287 ext. 2119 or E-mail Us.

Basement Apartments in Residential Homes

In order to address the increasing shortages of affordable housing throughout the province, the Ontario government has recently legislated that all municipalities are required to approve legally constructed basement apartments in residential homes. Accordingly, the City of Elliot Lake has amended the Zoning By-Law to permit this construction. 

Well constructed basement apartments can provide additional living space for family or additional income as a rental property. This is a good way to increase the value of your home. However, poor construction decreases property value and in many cases, can create danger to the occupants of the basement space. Unpermitted work, or permits that are not closed, create legal liability in any real estate transaction. 

In order to ensure proper insurance coverage and mitigate owners liability, it is imperative that basement sleeping room construction be conducted under a building permit issued by the City.  A qualified designer is recommended to prepare your plans in accordance with the Building Code and Fire Code. A qualified builder is recommended to ensure a quality product.

Significant considerations include: 

• Sleeping areas require multiple exits. There are different ways to achieve this code requirement.
• Fire exit routes have specific code requirements. 
• Fire separations between basement and upper floors. 
• Fire detection systems are a must and suppression options should be reviewed.
• HVAC, including fresh air and exhaust, to limit humidity, mildew and improve occupant comfort. 
• Plumbing for kitchens and bathrooms requires licensed installers and permits. 

 Please refer to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Website or Guide for the process. 

Official Plan and Zoning 

The City of Elliot Lake Official Plan guides development within the municipality by stating what lands can be used for which purpose. The Official Plan recognizes that the demographic and economic make-up of Elliot Lake is always changing. It protects the city's quality of life through responsible and proactive development. The Zoning By-Law refines and outlines permitted uses in various zones within the municipality. 

You can download and view the City's Official Plan, Zoning By-Law and related land use schedules below:

• Official Plan
• Zoning By-Law
• Urban Map Schedule A (Zoning)
• Rural Map Schedule B (Zoning)
• Urban Map Schedule A (Official Plan)
• Rural Map Schedule B: Land Use and Mineral Overlays and Hazards 
• Natural Heritage and Hazards Overlay Rural Map Schedule 

Inquiries regarding the Official Plan and Zoning please contact the Clerk's Department at 705.848.2287 ext. 2103 or E-mail Us.