The Building Permit Process

Once a building permit application has been accepted, it goes through several stages of review before it is ready to be issued. These reviews typically include addressing, planning, zoning and building code compliance. At any of these stages it is possible for other issues to arise that may require additional information or documentation such as a need for a professional engineer or architect, a development permit, a variance permit, or other information. You will be contacted as soon as possible regarding any additional information that is required.

Permit Processing time:

We are committed to processing all permit applications as quickly as possible. Therefore only complete applications will be accepted. For residential construction (new houses, additions, alterations and accessory buildings, etc.) the processing time can be 2-3  weeks, depending on the time of year and volume of permits. Complex permits processing times are project dependent.

Building Permits may be issued when:

• All required documentation has been submitted and reviewed
• The proposed work substantially conforms with the current building code, building bylaw and any other applicable Regional District regulations
• All the fees and deposits have been paid
• The owner has retained a professional engineer or architect if required
• The owner has been granted Development Permit/Development Variance Permit if required

 Permit Expiry:

• the work authorized by the permit is not commenced within 270 days (approximately 9 months) from the date of issuance of the permit; 
•  work is discontinued for a period of 180 days (approximately 6 months); or
•  the work is not completed within three years of the date of issuance of the permit.

Permit Extension:

•  Permits can only be extended for 2 one-year periods

• 1st extension is $300
• 2nd extension is $600

A break down of fees can be found here: Permit Fees

Construction Before Permit Issued: The building permit or other permit fees may be doubled for every permit application if construction commenced before the building official issued a permit, to a maximum of $10,000.00

*** No construction is permitted to take place prior to issuance of a Building Permit ***