Do I Need a Permit to Renovate a Spa, Gym, or Aesthetic Clinic in Ontario?

Everything You Need to Know—And How Lush Designs Handles It All for You

Opening or renovating a wellness business like a spa, personal training studio, or aesthetic clinic? If you’re altering the layout, adding treatment rooms, or installing new plumbing or ventilation—yes, you likely need a building permit.

At Lush Designs Studio, we take care of everything: from design to OBC compliance to full permit approval. Whether you're launching a new med spa or refreshing your studio's look, we manage every technical and regulatory detail behind the scenes.

When Do You Need a Permit for Wellness Business Renovations?

You’ll likely need one if you're:

• Adding or relocating walls (e.g., treatment rooms or changerooms)

• Installing or modifying plumbing fixtures

• Adding showers, sinks, or bathtubs

• Upgrading HVAC or electrical systems

• Changing accessibility features (ramps, washrooms)

• Expanding into adjacent space or changing the use

Even interior cosmetic updates can trigger permits if they impact any building systems or fire separations.

What’s Included in a Permit Drawing Set for Spas & Clinics?

We prepare detailed permit-ready plans that comply with the Ontario Building Code (OBC) and your local municipal guidelines.

Our permit sets typically include:

• Existing & Proposed Floor Plans

• Treatment Room Layouts & Circulation Paths

• Barrier-Free Washroom Design (AODA compliant)

• Plumbing & HVAC Layouts

• Lighting & Reflected Ceiling Plans

• Fire Separation Details

• Occupancy Load Calculations

• Construction Details & Notes

• Engineer or BCIN Stamp

• OBC Matrix & Municipal Forms

We also prepare design concept boards, finish schedules, and optional 3D renderings so you can visualize the space before building begins.

Common Fees to Expect

Here’s a rough cost outline for a spa or wellness studio renovation:

Item	Estimated Range
Permit Drawing Set	$20,000 +
Engineer Review (if needed)	$5,000 +
City Permit Fees	$0.40–$0.60/sqft
Health Department Submission	$1,000+
Barrier-Free Accessibility Audit	Optional but recommended

We handle all coordination between the city, health inspectors, and consultants.

How to Get Your Permit Approved (Without the Headache)

Here’s how Lush Designs makes your process seamless:

1. Site Visit & Consultation We meet with you to understand your business model and layout needs.

2. Feasibility & Zoning Review We confirm your proposed use (e.g., aesthetician clinic, yoga studio) is permitted in your unit and that barrier-free paths are possible.

3. Design & Development Floor plans, room flow, and plumbing/electrical needs are mapped out. We incorporate your branding, lighting preferences, and wellness ambiance.

4. Full Permit Set Preparation Everything is drawn to scale and compliant with OBC and municipal rules. Engineer stamps are included where necessary.

5. Submission & Coordination We manage the entire submission through the city’s e-permitting system, respond to revisions, and track status.

6. Permit Issued. Construction Begins.

Real Client Example: Aesthetic Clinic in Mississauga

We recently worked with a med-spa owner launching a clinic offering laser, injectables, and wellness treatments. The space required:

• Fire-rated separation between treatment and staff areas

• A barrier-free accessible path and washroom

• Multiple sinks with correct plumbing

• Health and city permits

Lush Designs delivered:

• Full design and code-compliant permit package

• Coordination with Region of Peel health department

• Permit approval in under 3 weeks

The result? A luxurious, code-compliant clinic that reflected the client's brand and passed inspection on first review.

Why Clinics & Studios Choose Lush Designs Studio

✔ We specialize in spa, gym, and wellness studio layouts

✔ We are fully certified (BCIN/Engineer Stamped)

✔ We work fast—so you can open faster

✔ We handle all technical, code, and health department coordination

✔ We offer beautiful, functional design with complete permit compliance

Planning a Spa, Studio, or Clinic Renovation?

Let’s make your space beautiful and compliant. Whether you’re opening your first location or scaling your wellness brand, Lush Designs Studio is your one-stop solution for design, permitting, and peace of mind.

👉 Book a Consultation