The fees collected before a permit can be issued are dependent on the scope of each project. Information on this page can help you estimate the cost of your building permit with respect to permit fees, development charges, and other fees based on City policies. A building permit can only be issued once all fees and applicable charges have been paid.

Building Permit Fees and Deposits

A minimum application fee is due upon submitting a building permit application. This application is required to be paid before the application is processed for review. Staff use the approved schedule of fees to calculate the building permit fees associated with each project. To view the building permit fees and deposits in Port Colborne, please view the Schedule of Fees. 

Development Charges and Other Fees

Municipal and Regional development charges may be required depending on the scope of your project. Generally if new development or re-development of land is proposed, additional development charges and fees are collected. The information on this page is a guide only to the development charges by-laws. You should review the development charges by-laws or consult with the Development and Legislative Services Department to determine the charges that may apply to your proposed project.

City Development Charges

The City collects development charges to cover the cost of providing infrastructure to new developments or to upgrade existing infrastructure for the purpose of redevelopment. The collection of development charges ensures that property taxes of existing residents and businesses do not increase. These charges help pay for infrastructure such as roads, water and wastewater services, fire protection, indoor and outdoor recreation services, library and administrative services. 

NOTICE OF PASSING OF A DEVELOPMENT CHARGES BY-LAW

City Development Charges Exemptions

There are a number of exemptions and reduction of fees offered within the Development Charges By-law. A few examples of developments that are not subject to development charges include:

  • An addition to an existing dwelling or dwelling unit
  • One or two new dwelling units in an existing single-detached dwelling or residential building
  • Non-residential farm buildings
  • Development within the downtown core area.

Additional exemptions and details can be found in the Development Charges By-law. 

Region of Niagara Development Charges (RDC's)

The City of Port Colborne also collects development charges on behalf of the Region of Niagara. These development charges can be found through the Niagara Region Development Charge Webpage

Niagara Catholic District School Board Development Charges

The City of Port Colborne also collects development charges on behalf of the Niagara Catholic District School Board.

Parkland Dedication Fee

Similar to development charges, your project may be subject to a parkland dedication fee. Please read through the Parkland Dedication By-Law to determine if these fees are applicable for your project, and if you need to reappraise your property for parkland dedication purposes.