Question 1

Does Ottawa require a site plan approval for a patio over 65 square metres?

Accepted Answer

Great question, and it's one that catches a lot of Ottawa homeowners off guard. Site plan control in Ottawa is primarily aimed at commercial, institutional, and multi-residential developments — for the vast majority of single-family residential patio projects, site plan approval is not required regardless of size. However, there are still important regulatory considerations that apply to larger patio installations that you need to understand before breaking ground.

What does apply to residentia

Question 2

What are Ottawa's rules for building a patio on a corner lot with sight line restrictions?

Accepted Answer

Corner lots in Ottawa come with specific setback and sight line requirements that directly affect where you can build a patio, retaining wall, or any raised structure near the street. The City of Ottawa's Zoning By-law 2008-250 establishes a corner visibility triangle — a clear zone near the intersection of two streets where structures, fences, and landscaping must remain below a certain height to preserve driver and pedestrian sight lines.

Understanding Ottawa's Corner Visibility Triangle

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Permits & Regulations

Does Ottawa require a site plan approval for a patio over 65 square metres?

What are Ottawa's rules for building a patio on a corner lot with sight line restrictions?