City of Toronto · Local guide · Checked November 2026

Home projects in Toronto: rebates, permits & who fixes what

Toronto runs its own basement flooding subsidy, its own fence bylaw and its own sewer service. Here's what that means for your next project and your next quote.

Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy

Toronto pays up to $6,650 per property for flood protection work, covering up to 80% of the invoice. The higher amounts apply to eligible work done on or after November 12, 2025.

WorkAmount
Backwater valve (up to two)up to $1,600 each
Sump pumpup to $2,250
Sump pump battery backupup to $300
Home plumbing assessmentup to $500
Weeping tile disconnectionup to $400

Get the building permit before the backwater valve goes in. The City has to be able to inspect it. Program rules change; confirm with the official program before you book the work.

Bylaws & permits in Toronto

  • Fences: up to 2.0 metres in back and side yards. Front yard fences are lower, generally 1.2 metres near the street. Taller needs an exemption from community council.
  • Pools and hot tubs: a new or replaced pool fence or gate needs a Pool Fence Enclosure Permit, and a zoning certificate before you apply.
  • Building permits come from Toronto Building. Backwater valves, sewer or drain replacement, structural changes like a wider garage door opening, and most additions need one.

Digging for fence posts, a deck or a pool anywhere in Ontario? Request a free Ontario One Call locate at least 5 business days ahead. It's the law.

Who fixes what

  • Your sewer line is split at the property line. The City owns the part under the street; you own the part to the house.
  • Blocked main drain? Call 311 first. City crews check the City side with a camera through your cleanout and fix it at no cost if the problem is theirs.

Power and gas

Toronto Hydro supplies power across the city, so it handles the disconnect and reconnect for a 200-amp service upgrade. Enbridge Gas supplies natural gas. Toronto's Home Energy Loan Program can finance energy upgrades, including a Level 2 EV charger.

Toronto cost guides

Prices in the Toronto area follow the GTA ranges in each guide.

Heating & cooling: Furnace · AC & heat pump · Water heater

Exterior: Roof · Windows & doors · Eavestroughs · Fence · Garage door

Basement & structure: Waterproofing · Foundation cracks · Insulation

Interior renovation: Kitchen · Bathroom · Flooring

Plumbing & electrical: Plumbing & drains · Panel & EV charger

Pools & hot tubs: Pool repair · Hot tub repair

Common questions

How much is Toronto's basement flooding subsidy in 2026?

Up to $6,650 per property, covering up to 80% of the invoice: backwater valves up to $1,600 each (two max), a sump pump up to $2,250, a battery backup up to $300, a plumbing assessment up to $500 and weeping tile disconnection up to $400.

Who fixes a blocked sewer line in Toronto?

The City fixes the part under the street; you pay for the part on your property. Call 311 first so City staff can check their side through your cleanout.

How tall can a backyard fence be in Toronto?

Up to 2.0 metres in back and side yards under the City's fence bylaw. Front yard fences are lower.

Sources