Change of use. When is it needed?

What is a “Change of Use Evaluation” ? 

A “Change of Use Evaluation” is required when the existing use of the building will be converted to another (ex: house to a boutique, office building to a restaurant, etc.). 

The evaluation ensures that: 

1. The building can withstand the new use, and 
2. Upgrades are provided (when required) to safely convert the space. 

Change of use examples:

• An old warehouse will be converted to an apartment building. Items like exits, adequate lighting, fire separations between suites will most likely be required. The evaluation will determine all of the items to be upgraded. 

• A landlord would like to rent an existing, large office space to a restaurant. A change of use evaluation will be required to determine all of the items requiring upgrading. 

• A homeowner would like to transform their existing garage into a thrift shop boutique. A change of use evaluation is required to determine all of the items requiring upgrading. 

A change of use permit is not the same as a building permit. 

A change of use permit is only applicable when absolutely no work is being proposed. As soon as something requires upgrading (ex: something as small as an extra light or adding a layer of drywall), a building permit is required and a change of use permit can no longer be used. 

As a side note, it is extremely rare that a change of use evaluation deems that the existing space is compliant with the new use, without requiring any upgrading or renovations. Therefore, official “Change of use permits”are seldomly seen/used. 

The next step once the evaluation is completed is to obtain a building permit for the work. Building permit applications require more information than what is provided in the change of use evaluation. Refer to our blog entitled “Building permits. Two little words that mean so much“. For more information on building permit applications (and how we can help). 

Not sure if your proposed work is considered a “change of use”? Contact us with your idea and we will be happy to guide you.