How long does commercial site plan approval take in Toronto?

Most commercial projects in Toronto take 6 to 12 months for site plan approval, depending on project complexity and the number of review cycles required.

Do I need an architect for commercial permits in Toronto?

Yes. Commercial projects in Toronto typically require an architect to prepare Ontario Building Code compliant drawings and coordinate approvals with the City.

What causes delays in Toronto commercial approvals?

Delays are commonly caused by incomplete submissions, consultant coordination issues, zoning conflicts, or missed pre-application requirements.

Commercial Architecture Toronto | Fast Permits, Code-Compliant Design

Commercial Architecture Services Toronto

Commercial Spaces That Moves Business Forward

Quadrant Architects designs commercial spaces that do more than meet code – they improve flow, attract customers, and deliver long-term value. From tenant improvements to new mixed-use developments, our focus is the same: clear approvals, functional layouts, and designs that support business success.

Every project we design is unique and never reused – shaped by your business model, client experience goals, site conditions, and the requirements of zoning by-laws and the Ontario Building Code (OBC).

Licensed by the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) with full professional liability insurance.

WHAT WE DO

Tenant Improvements & Interior Fit-Outs

What this means for you: Efficient fit-outs help tenants open sooner, improving revenue and client satisfaction.

Ground-Up Commercial Buildings

What this means for you:Approvals and design solutions that align with your business goals and reduce risk.

Adaptive Reuse & Conversions

What this means for you: Reusing existing buildings can often simplify approvals and deliver cost-effective results.

Additions & Expansions

What this means for you: Grow your space without shutting down, keeping business continuity intact.

Change of Use Applications

What this means for you: A complete, professional submission improves approval success and reduces costly delays.

OUR PROCESS

Step 1: Feasibility Review: Confirm zoning, permitted uses, and identify if variances are required.

Step 2: Design Options: Provide multiple concepts with visuals and cost considerations.

Step 3: Detailed Design: Finalize plans, coordinate engineering, and prepare a permit-ready package.

Step 4: Permits & Approvals: Submit to the city, respond to comments, and represent you at hearings.

Step 5: Construction Oversight: Conduct site visits, resolve RFIs, and support through to occupancy.

Quick Reference for Commercial Projects

Permit timelines vary depending on project type, municipality, and scope of work.

Health and safety requirements are included in all designs under the Ontario Building Code (OBC).

Variances, heritage considerations, or change of use applications can extend review time.

Why Businesses Choose Quadrant

Faster approvals through clear, code-compliant drawings
Space planning that enhances flow and customer experience
Design originality: every project is tailored to your needs, never reused
Realistic budgets and schedules that reflect market conditions
One team guidance from feasibility through permits, ensuring a smooth path to approvals

Areas We Serve

We provide commercial architecture services across Toronto and the GTA, including:

Toronto, North York, Etobicoke, Scarborough, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oakville, Burlington, Ottawa.

FAQs About Commercial Projects in Toronto

Q: How long does a commercial permit take?
A: Timelines vary by municipality and project scope. Approvals may take longer if variances or change of use applications are required.

Q: Will you work with our contractor?
A: Yes. We coordinate drawings and respond to site questions to keep projects on track.

Q: What if my property needs a change of use?
A: We prepare drawings, manage the application, and represent you at Committee of Adjustment if required.

Meet Our Team

Every member of our team has advanced education in architecture and design

What’s Clients Say

I’ve had the great pleasure of collaborating with Studio Quadrant on several projects, interior and architectural design for 3 town house, 4 semi-detached and my own detached house in Ottawa. Studio Quadrant, the driving force behind the firm has a unique way of balancing environmental stewardship, great design, and realistic budgets. They never cease to impress me with their ability to come up with ideas on unique design, weaving them together in beautiful, creative ways. The studio’s attention to detail doesn’t stop at design, they stay with the project through construction and add real value to the process. They made working together enjoyable and brought an intense committed work ethic to the team. I look forward to our next opportunity and highly recommend them to those who are looking for a fresh take on their projects. They will bring ideas to the table that have real meaning.

Studio Quadrant designed my modern, new house in Scarborough Bluffs. The final product is above an beyond expectations! Studio Quadrant was creative, detailed and thorough. They also helped during the committee of adjustment process, and the result was more than my expectation. Studio Quadrant designs were very creative and responded directly to my needs. and I would highly recommend them to others looking for both commercial and residential architecture and interior services, and I would pass their information on to friends and family without hesitation.

We were particularly excited about the creative solutions from Farzad, which were always developed anew on the basis of our ideas. Right the first planning distinguished itself by an excellent and individual design. The various 3D display variants always gave us a very detailed feeling for the planned living space. The adjustment and coordination during the planning process was always a pleasure – despite the distance (from Germany), we experienced simplicity here. The matching, consulting, and tuning of the plans was possible any time and was characterized by a high level of engagement and absolute flexibility. Thank You Farzad!!