For those considering construction on a new home, starting a build on an Additional Residential Unit (ARU) or making some changes to an existing home, be prepared to save a little cash.
On April 22nd at Saugeen Shores Council meeting, they approved a 10 per cent reduction in residential building permit fees. Extensive residential building permits are required when building new houses or renovating existing properties.
The reduction was one of the recommendations from the Municipal Services Fees and Charges Review presented to Committee of Whole on April 8. The report assessed a wide range of municipal fees and charges to ensure they align with the cost of providing services while reflecting the needs and financial capabilities of the community.
While most of the recommendations from the report will begin being applied in 2025, Council felt strongly that the immediate reduction of building permit fees would benefit the community.
“The Saugeen Shores Building Services division have done an excellent job to ensure they work efficiently and cost effectively which has provided us with the ability to lower this fee,” says Mayor Charbonneau. “Council understands that every dollar counts towards supporting the supply of new homes and jumped at the opportunity to put a little money back into the pockets of our residents.”
The report also highlighted that the Town’s residential building permit fees were in line or lower than benchmarked municipalities such as Owen Sound and Wasaga Beach.
Updated Building Permit Fees here.
This report fulfills a carried over Division Highlight for Corporate Services’ Finance Division, as outlined in the 2023 Business Plan.
