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Building a home or addition in Markham requires more than blueprints. You need a grading plan that ensures proper drainage, stormwater control, and municipal compliance. This grading permit Markham guide walks you through the Residential Infill Grading & Servicing (RGS) process, helps you avoid common delays, and positions Elmid Design Inc—certified by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO)—as your trusted partner.
Key Takeaways
- Grading permit Markham refers to the RGS permit for residential projects.
- You must submit detailed plans via ePLAN to get approval.
- Only licensed engineers or surveyors may prepare grading plans.
- Elmid Design Inc brings expertise, authority, and trust to your application.
What Is a Grading Permit in Markham?
A grading permit in Markham is officially called a Residential Infill Grading & Servicing (RGS) application. You need one when you build a new detached home, make large additions over 50 m², or install service connections. Only licensed professionals such as a Professional Engineer or Ontario Land Surveyor can prepare these plans.
Why Is a Grading Plan Essential?
First, a grading plan prevents water pooling and protects your home and neighbour’s property. Second, the RGS plan is mandatory for your building permit. Without it, Markham won’t issue approval to dig or build. Finally, accuracy matters—city staff review drainage, slope, and servicing. Flaws lead to revisions and costly delays.
Who Reviews Your Grading Permit in Markham?
Your application first undergoes prescreening. Next, it gets reviewed by Engineering, Roads, Waterworks, Tree Preservation, and possibly by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) if your site is regulated. Each reviewer checks that your grading plan meets city standards and environmental guidelines.
What Documents Must You Submit for Your RGS Application?
You must submit:
A detailed grading and/or servicing plan
Signed RGS Requirements Checklist
Topographic survey
Arborist or tree preservation reports (if needed)
TRCA clearance, utility locates, CCTV video, stormwater brief, and plumbing data.
You upload everything through Markham’s ePLAN system—hard copies or emails are no longer accepted.
Why Work with Elmid Design Inc?
Markham requires plans to be prepared by authorized professionals. Elmid Design Inc, with a PEO Certificate of Authorization, ensures your grading plan is accurate and complete. Their expertise helps you pass prescreening and peer review quickly. That saves time, money, and hassle.
RGS Application Types and Fees in Markham
When you apply for a grading permit in Markham, the city assigns your project to an RGS application type based on the work you plan to do. If you are building a new detached infill home, your project will be classified as Type I with a fee of three hundred and fifty dollars plus HST. If you are constructing an addition that alters fifty square metres or more of existing surface, the city categorizes it as Type II with the same fee. Service connections without other work fall under Type V, and fees are determined after your application is reviewed. If you are revising an already approved plan, the city calls it Type VI, and the cost depends on the extent of the changes. Knowing your type before you apply helps you prepare the right documents and avoid delays.
How to Submit Your Grading Permit Application in Markham
The City of Markham requires that all Residential Infill Grading and Servicing applications are submitted through the ePLAN portal. This system allows you to upload your grading plan, servicing details, surveys, and all supporting reports in digital form. Once your documents are uploaded, the application enters a prescreening phase where staff check for completeness. If your application passes, it moves on to a multi-department review that may involve engineering, roads, waterworks, and environmental staff. During this stage, you may receive comments and must respond with revisions before approval. The ePLAN system keeps a record of your submissions and reviewer feedback so you can track your progress. Only when all departments give their approval will the city issue the acceptance you need to continue with your building permit process.
Importance of Compliance with Markham’s Standards
Markham’s grading standards exist to protect both the property owner and the surrounding community. A compliant grading plan ensures that rainwater flows away from foundations, prevents flooding in neighbouring lots, and safeguards public infrastructure. Non-compliance can result in costly delays, re-submissions, and even fines. By hiring a qualified engineering firm like Elmid Design Inc, which holds a Professional Engineers Ontario Certificate of Authorization, you gain the assurance that your grading plan meets all city requirements from the start. This reduces the risk of back-and-forth with reviewers and helps you move forward with construction sooner.
Final Approval and Lot Grading Certificate
Once your project is built according to the approved grading plan, you must arrange for a final grading inspection. Your engineer or surveyor will assess the site to confirm that the constructed grading matches the approved design. They will then issue a Lot Grading Certificate to the City of Markham, confirming compliance. Only after this certificate is accepted can the project be considered fully complete. This step is essential to close your file with the city and to protect you from future disputes over drainage or slope issues.
Take Action Early
If you are planning a new build or major addition in Markham, begin your grading permit process as soon as possible. Early engagement with a licensed firm like Elmid Design Inc can help you prepare accurate plans, navigate the ePLAN system efficiently, and avoid costly mistakes. Acting early also gives you more time to address any comments from city staff without slowing your overall construction timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions about Grading Permit Markham
Do I need a grading permit for a small home renovation in Markham
If your renovation changes the ground elevation by less than fifty square metres and does not affect drainage patterns, you may not need a grading permit in Markham. However, if the work impacts the slope, stormwater flow, or requires new service connections, the city will require you to submit an RGS application before you begin. It is always best to confirm with Markham’s engineering department before starting any construction to avoid unexpected delays.
How long does it take to get a grading permit in Markham
The time it takes to get a grading permit in Markham depends on how complete your submission is and how quickly you respond to reviewer comments.
If you submit accurate plans prepared by a licensed engineer, such as Elmid Design Inc, and respond promptly to any requests, you can often secure approval within a few weeks.
Delays happen when plans need multiple revisions or when you must obtain additional approvals from agencies like the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.
Can I prepare my own grading plan for a Markham permit
You cannot prepare your own grading plan unless you are a licensed Professional Engineer or Ontario Land Surveyor. Markham’s RGS requirements specify that all grading and servicing plans must be prepared, stamped, and signed by a qualified professional. This ensures the city’s standards for drainage, slope, and servicing are met and reduces the risk of costly construction issues later.
What happens if my grading does not match the approved plan
If your final site grading does not match the approved plan, the City of Markham can require corrections before issuing your Lot Grading Certificate. This may involve regrading portions of your property, adjusting slopes, or modifying drainage features. Failing to correct issues could delay your final building occupancy and may result in additional costs.
Why should I hire Elmid Design Inc for my grading permit application
Elmid Design Inc holds a Certificate of Authorization from Professional Engineers Ontario and specializes in preparing grading plans for Markham projects. Their experience with the RGS process means they understand exactly what city reviewers expect, helping you avoid resubmissions and costly delays. By working with them, you gain both technical expertise and a smoother path to permit approval.
Why Choose Elmid Design Inc for Your Grading Permit in Markham
Elmid Design Inc is a trusted engineering firm with a Certificate of Authorization from Professional Engineers Ontario.
We specialize in grading plans and permit approvals in Markham. Our team has deep expertise in the Residential Infill Grading and Servicing process. We deliver precise, compliant designs that meet city standards the first time. We use the ePLAN system to streamline applications, reduce delays, and save clients time and money. Our technical excellence and strong understanding of municipal requirements set us apart. With Elmid Design Inc, your project moves smoothly from design to approval.
Geographic Locations That We Service:
Our Licensed Professional Engineers specializing in Engineered Site Grading Plans offer the best-engineered site grading plan, lot grading and erosion plan, and drainage plan to obtain site plan approval and building permits in Ontario, including a wide range of municipalities. Each area boasts unique features and requirements, making our tailored approach essential for success.
Toronto and Surrounding Areas
In the vibrant heart of Ontario, we service Toronto (City of Toronto) and surrounding areas. Additionally, we cover Oshawa (City of Oshawa), Pickering (City of Pickering), and Clarington (Municipality of Clarington). Furthermore, our expertise extends to Ajax (Town of Ajax), Whitby (Town of Whitby), Brock (Township of Brock), Scugog (Township of Scugog), and Uxbridge (Township of Uxbridge).
Halton Region
Moving to the Halton Region, our services encompass Burlington (City of Burlington) and Halton Hills (Town of Halton Hills). Also included are Milton (Town of Milton) and Oakville (Town of Oakville).
Peel Region
In the Peel Region, we provide services in Brampton (City of Brampton), Mississauga (City of Mississauga), and Caledon (Town of Caledon).
York Region
Our services in the York Region cover Vaughan (City of Vaughan), Aurora (Town of Aurora), and East Gwillimbury (Town of East Gwillimbury). We also cater to Georgina (Town of Georgina), Markham (City of Markham), Newmarket (Town of Newmarket), Richmond Hill (City of Richmond Hill), Whitchurch-Stouffville (Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville), King (Township of King), and Bradford-West Gwillimbury (Town of Bradford-West Gwillimbury). Each municipality here offers a distinct setting, requiring our specialized approach.
Other Southern Ontario Cities and Towns
We also serve many other cities and towns in Southern Ontario. These include Hamilton (City of Hamilton), St. Catharines (City of St. Catharines), Niagara on the Lake (Town of Niagara on the Lake), Brant (County of Brant), Cambridge (City of Cambridge), Kitchener (City of Kitchener), Waterloo (City of Waterloo), and Woodstock (City of Woodstock). Furthermore, we operate in Guelph (City of Guelph), Centre Wellington (Township of Centre Wellington), Shelburne (Town of Shelburne), Orangeville (Town of Orangeville), New Tecumseth (Town of New Tecumseth), Essa (Town of Essa), Collingwood (Town of Collingwood), Wasaga Beach (Town of Wasaga Beach), Barrie (City of Barrie), Midland (Town of Midland), Orillia (City of Orillia), Ramara (Town of Ramara), Minden Hills (Town of Minden Hills), North Kawartha (Town of North Kawartha), Kawartha Lakes (City of Kawartha Lakes), Peterborough (City of Peterborough), Selwyn (Town of Selwyn), and Brighton (Municipality of Brighton).
