Building Permit in Quebec: The Process, Simplified

In short — In Quebec, the building permit is issued by the municipality. For a modular home, the process is the same as for a traditional home: submit the plans and documents, demonstrate compliance with the local zoning bylaw and the Quebec Construction Code, obtain authorization, and then submit to site inspections. The key to avoiding delays: start early, because review timelines vary from one municipality to the next.

"The permit" sounds intimidating, but it is a well-mapped process. Poorly prepared, it delays everything; well anticipated, it fits into the schedule without friction. Here is how it works.

Who issues the permit

It is the municipality (or the MRC for certain territories) that issues the building permit and verifies compliance with the local zoning bylaw and the Quebec Construction Code. A modular home is exempt from none of these requirements: it is treated as a standard dwelling.

What you generally need to submit

The exact documents vary by municipality — the first step is to ask them for the list.

The steps, in order

1. Confirm the zoning with the municipality (before anything else).
2. Prepare the file (plans, site plan, documents).
3. Submit the application and pay the fees.
4. Municipal review (the variable timeline — which is why starting early matters).
5. Permit issued → construction can begin.
6. Site inspections (foundation, connections, assembly).

In rural areas, the septic system and the well often require a separate authorization — see wells, septic systems, and rural hookups.

Worth remembering — The permit review timeline is the most variable item in any project. Start the process as soon as the lot is confirmed — see whether your lot is ready.

Pitfalls to avoid

• Ordering the home before confirming the zoning — the logical order is the reverse.
• Underestimating the review timeline of the municipality.
• Forgetting ancillary authorizations (septic, well, tree removal in some cases).
• A contractor without a valid RBQ licence — a red flag to check; see the clauses to watch before you sign.

For the full project sequence, see where to start and the regulatory framework in modular construction and the RBQ.

Sources: Régie du bâtiment du Québec (Construction Code and permits). Guide written by Jeremy Soares. Last updated: June 26, 2026. Permit requirements and timelines vary by municipality.