The Building Inspection Division is responsible for implementing Council-adopted by-laws and policies through residential and commercial building plan reviews, and building and plumbing inspection services.

The focus is to provide the public and the building industry with high quality service so that buildings constructed in the City conform to the requirements of the British Columbia Building Code, the Zoning and Building By-laws, Land Use Contracts, and Development Permits and are safe for their intended purpose.

Other areas of responsibility include the administration of the Earthwork By-law, the inspection of hazardous and fire damaged buildings, and the provision of advice to City Council, Board of Variance, other City Departments, and the public on building-related matters.

A Building Permit IS REQUIRED to:

• Erect a new building or structure (including retaining walls over 1.2 metres in height, swimming pools, and hot tubs), or
• Demolish, relocate, repair, alter or make additions to an existing building or structure.
• Siting permit is required for sheds 10m² or less

Building Permits ARE NOT REQUIRED for:

• Fences, sidewalks, planters
• Retaining walls that are less than 1.2 metres in height
• Painting, decorating and general maintenance
• Minor repairs using similar or same materials for maintenance which do not affect any electrical or mechanical work