Before you hire in Richmond
Do you need a permit for plumbers in Richmond?
In Ottawa replacing an existing hot water tank does not require a building permit.
Creating a basement apartment can require a plumbing permit on its own. Exempt from a building permit still means the work must comply with the Ontario Building Code and any applicable law, such as the Zoning By-law.
Designated heritage buildings and properties inside a Heritage District Overlay are not covered by these exemptions, and the City asks owners to confirm with a Building Client Service Centre before starting.
Source: City of Ottawa: Projects not requiring Building Permits. Confirmed 2026-08-23. Thresholds change, so check before you build.