A building permit is required for all structural alterations (or material changes) within single family dwellings, semi-detached dwellings and townhouse dwelling units.
Example: permit to remove a load bearing wall.
A permit is also required for removing any wall regardless if it is load-bearing or not.
A Building Permit is not required for painting, replacing countertops, replacing an old window or a door, adding a lighting fixture, or replacing tiles or floors.
It is always best to check with the Municipality first, and always hire a certified insured contractor to do the work.