After reviewing the Building FAQ's and determining that a Building Permit is required, what next?
On this page, you will find what a building permit submission looks like and further details on specific types of construction and permits.
For your Commercial, Industrial or large Residential Building Permit submission, you are required to include
- Completed application form
- Building Code Analysis (Page 2 of application OR directly on plans)
- Title Search, dated within 30 days of permit application (available from BC Land Title & Survey)
- Three copies of the sealed construction drawings
- All Registered Professional's Schedule B, copy of insurance and Form 2
- Plan processing fee - part of Building Permit fee (details here)
If applicable
- Copy of new residential building registration through BC Housing, Licensing & Consumer Services (formerly HPO)
- Servicing information if effected by project (sewer, water, storm)
- Storm water management plan for new construction or large additions
- Other related permits/details as applicable (see Site Permits for possible requirements)
PLEASE NOTE: Only COMPLETE applications will be accepted - Please review documentation with staff prior to submission.
New construction includes new buildings and additions, and there are a few things to consider prior to making a building permit application.
- In almost all cases, registered professionals (architect and engineers) will be required for your project.
- Generally, a Development Permit (for form and character) would be necessary for new construction or exterior alterations.
- If the project does not comply with the current zoning, you may also need Development Variance Permit or Rezoning.
If you have a concept, it is always a good idea to review your proposal with staff to know what permits will be applicable.
If you are changing the use or occupancy of any tenant space or commercial building, you will require a building permit prior to any construction or occupancy. Perhaps the use is the same as previous, but if you are planning alterations such as adding or removing walls, a building permit would also be required. Cosmetic improvements, like new flooring or paint, would not require a building permit, if the use was staying the same. Further details are available in our "Guide to Tenant Improvements".
A plumbing permit would be required for any changes or additions to existing plumbing systems, including backflow prevention devices, lateral connections, storm water detention or sprinkler systems. Licenced plumbers (granted a British Columbia Trades Qualification or TQ) with valid business licence are required to obtain plumbing permits as per the BC Plumbing Code. After an application is submitted, staff will review the submission for compliance with the previously issued building permit and BC Plumbing Code.
Electrical and Gas Permits are issued to Certified Electricians by Technical Safety BC.
Any work to the building exterior, new signage, landscaping, parking, or a change of building use may also require a development permit. New or replacement business signage (free-standing or attached to the building) will require a sign permit; new signs may also require a development permit. Regulations relating to other sites works or landscaping can be found on the Trees and Sites Works page.
Also check out the section on Business Licences, for information on licencing and other approvals that may be required. This could include Island Health (VIHA) for food facility approvals or the Capital Regional District to deal with waste discharge and backflow prevention devices, as well as the BC Liquor & Cannabis Regulation Branch if necessary.