Brick and Stone Steps in Ottawa: What a Quote Should Show
Too few published prices to quote a range
Get two written quotes for the same scope (published Ontario contractor pricing, 2025–26; yours will differ)
Reviewed 2026-10-01 · how we set these ranges · rules for every masonry job
We found too few published prices for brick or stone steps to give a range, so this page sets out what the price depends on and what each written quote should show.
What a quote should show
| Line | Published figure | Ask for |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition of old steps | Ask | Whether it and disposal are included |
| Base and support below frost | Ask | How the steps are supported and to what depth |
| Brick or stone | Ask | The material and where it comes from |
| Permit | Ask | Who confirms with the City whether one is needed |
| Licence | Ask | Whether the job needs the City hardscaping licence |
Rules specific to this job
The City's advisory on landscaping materials says a permit is triggered where the structure "Provides access to the building" or where there is "more than 600mm" between adjacent surfaces; structures over 1 m high need a Part 4 design.
City of Ottawa Building Code Services advisory (10/2022)The depth of foundations for exterior steps conforms to Section 9.12.
OBC 9.8.9.2.(3)Steps and landings at or below the first floor may project into a front yard to within 0.6 m of a lot line; confirm both zoning by-laws with the City.
Zoning By-law 2026-50 s.204
Permits, the hardscaping licence, contracts, disposal, cold weather and dust apply to every job: see the shared rules.
Ask before you sign
- How many risers and treads the quote covers
- How the base is supported below frost
- Who asks the City about a permit
- Whether the job needs the hardscaping licence
- What happens to the old steps
More on this work: Brick & Stone Steps
Masonry IQ answers on this job
- Should I replace brick steps with stone steps in Orleans?
- Rebuilding entrance steps in Kanata: permit needed?
- When do Ottawa stone steps at an entrance need a permit?
- My Nepean brick steps are pulling away from the house, why?
- Adding a stone landing at my Stittsville front door?
- Are brick steps covered by Ottawa's hardscaping licence?
Quick answers
Do entrance steps need a building permit?
They can. The City's advisory names steps that provide access to the building and drops of more than 600 mm as triggers. Ask the City before work starts.
Want this done at your place?
Tell us about your brick or stone job and we'll send it to local Ottawa masons, who reply by email. We send it out to local contractors for you. Free, no pressure.