Paving Licensing in Ontario

Paving is not a compulsory trade in Ontario. No specific provincial licence is required for residential paving work. However, some municipalities require business licences for paving contractors. Building permits are generally not required for driveways and walkways on residential properties, but municipal approval may be needed for driveway widening or changes to the curb cut. Paving contractors performing work on public roads or commercial properties may require additional certifications.

Ask for references and proof of liability insurance. Get a detailed written quote including surface preparation.

(1) Door-to-door sales offering leftover asphalt at a steep discount - this is a common paving scam in Ontario (2) No written contract or refuses to specify asphalt thickness and base depth (3) Skips base preparation or applies asphalt directly on dirt or old crumbling surface (4) Cannot provide proof of liability insurance or references from recent jobs (5) Demands full payment before starting or asks for cash only

(1) What is the thickness of the asphalt and the depth of the granular base you will install? (2) Will you remove the existing surface, or are you paving over it? What are the trade-offs? (3) How will you handle drainage to direct water away from my home? (4) Do you carry liability insurance? Can I see a certificate? (5) What warranty do you offer on materials and workmanship?

While not legally required, it is strongly recommended that pavings carry liability insurance. Ask for proof of coverage before hiring.

Typical rates for pavings in Ontario range from $60-$100/hour (crew rate). Surface area (sq ft), material choice (asphalt is the most affordable, interlock pavers the most expensive), thickness and base preparation, existing surface removal and disposal ($1-$3/sq ft), grading and drainage requirements, accessibility of the site, subgrade condition (clay soils require more base material), and project timing. Asphalt prices fluctuate with oil prices. A proper base of 8-12 inches of compacted granular material is essential for longevity and makes up a significant portion of the total cost.