Do you need a permit to demolish a shed in Ottawa?
It depends on the size. City of Ottawa guidance says detached garages, workshops, and sheds larger than 10 square metres (about 108 square feet) need a demolition permit. Smaller sheds usually don't, but check with the City before you start, disconnect any power, and request free Ontario One Call locates before digging out footings.
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Taking down an old shed looks simple until you’re standing in front of it with a pry bar. Before any work starts, there are three things to check: whether you need a permit, whether anything is connected to it, and whether you’ll be digging.
When a shed demolition needs a permit in Ottawa
The City of Ottawa’s building permit guidance treats sheds differently depending on size:
- Sheds, detached garages, and workshops over 10 square metres (about 108 sq ft) are listed as needing a demolition permit.
- Smaller sheds generally fall below that threshold.
- Anything with plumbing, a foundation, or a structural connection to the house deserves a call to the City first, whatever its size.
Rules and fees change, so confirm with the City of Ottawa (3-1-1, or the “Do I need a building permit?” pages on ottawa.ca) before demolition day.
Measure your shed
Measure the outside footprint, length times width:
| Shed size | Area | Over 10 m²? |
|---|---|---|
| 8 x 8 ft | 64 sq ft (5.9 m²) | No |
| 8 x 10 ft | 80 sq ft (7.4 m²) | No |
| 10 x 10 ft | 100 sq ft (9.3 m²) | No |
| 8 x 14 ft | 112 sq ft (10.4 m²) | Yes |
| 10 x 12 ft | 120 sq ft (11.1 m²) | Yes |
| 12 x 16 ft | 192 sq ft (17.8 m²) | Yes |
Before anyone swings a hammer
- Empty the shed. Pull out anything you want to keep. Gas cans, paint, and chemicals need to go to a City of Ottawa household hazardous waste collection event, since haulers can’t take them.
- Disconnect power. If the shed has lights or outlets, have a licensed electrician disconnect and make the wiring safe.
- Call before you dig. Pulling posts, footings, or a concrete pad means digging. Request free underground locates from Ontario One Call first.
- Check the neighbours’ side. If the shed sits near a property line or shared fence, plan how the walls come down without landing on the fence.
What removal involves
A typical shed removal is roof first, then walls, then the floor and base. Wood sheds come apart panel by panel; metal sheds unbolt; resin sheds often break down into large pieces. Concrete pads are broken up separately and priced by weight because concrete is heavy.
If you’d rather not spend the weekend on it, our shed removal service clears the contents, takes the shed down, and hauls every piece away in one visit.
Related questions
How big is 10 square metres?
About 108 square feet. A 10 x 10 ft shed is 100 square feet, just under the line. An 8 x 14 ft shed is 112 square feet, just over it.
Who applies for the demolition permit?
Usually the property owner, through the City of Ottawa. Call 3-1-1 or check ottawa.ca for the current application process and fees.
Do I need a permit to remove a deck?
Permit rules depend on the structure, so ask the City of Ottawa about your specific deck before removal, especially if it's attached to the house or has a roof.