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District of Saanich Populo Serviendo - Serving the People
Permits for Building

Applications, Permits and Inspections
Residential Building Permits - a Q&A

 

Q. When is a building permit required?

A. A building permit is required for all new buildings over 10 sq m (107 sq ft) or for any persons wishing to alter, reconstruct, demolish, deconstruct, remove or relocate an existing building.  (Saanich Building Bylaw available on-line) 

Q. How can I ensure my plans meet municipal bylaw requirements?

A. Staff in the Planning Department at the Municipal Hall will provide interpretation of the Zoning Bylaw and the Building Code.  The Saanich Zoning Bylaw is also posted on-line.  For additional information regarding issues including height (PDF), Gross Floor Area and basement/non basement areas (PDF) please refer to brochures available on-line or at the Inspections Department. 

Q. How do I apply for a building permit?

A. Building permit application forms (PDF) are available at the Municipal Hall or on-line.  All submission requirements are listed.  Incomplete applications will not be accepted. 

Q. Why does the building permit application forms ask for so much information? 

A. In order to process your application in a timely manner, adequate and complete information must be provided to allow staff to review the application to ensure compliance with regulatory restrictions.   Incomplete information will result in a denied permit. 

Q.  How do I deal with roof and ground storm water?

A It is recommended that all clients contact Saanich Engineering to determine what storm and sanitary sewer connections currently exist for the property or if any upgrades or connections are required.  Enquiries can be directed to 250-475-5570.

Q. Once I start construction, what building inspections do I need and how do I manage them?

A. Any necessary inspections will be outlined on your permit.  Inspections can be booked by calling the Inspections Booking Clerk at 250-475-5458, 24-48 hours in advance. 

Q.  What is HPO and why do I need it?

A. HPO is the Homeowners Protection Office.  Provincial legislation requires a third party warranty for all new dwelling units.  The HPO program is administered by the HPO.  For more information call the HPO office at

1-800-407-7757 or visit their website at hpo.bc.ca

Q. How much will a building permit cost?

A. Fee charges are based on the value of construction, as determined by the Manager of Inspections Services:

Non-refundable Application Fee:

  • for construction value of $6,000 or less: $30. For construction value greater than $6,001: $100.00

Final building permit fees:

  • For permits $1,000 or less in value: $50
  • For permits greater than $1,000: $50 for the first thousand plus $13 per thousand or part for the next $499,000, plus $10 per thousand or part for all the value greater than $500,000.
  • For 1 year extension: $50

Q. Are there any additional fees or permits required? 

A. Yes, additional permits and fees could be required.  These could include plumbing, fireplace, chimney, and wood burning appliance permits.  Additional fees could include water meter fees, service hookup fees including storm water and sanitary sewer connections.  To determine if any of these fees will apply please contact the Inspections Department at 250-475-5457. 

Q. Will I be charged a surety deposit?

A. Yes.  A $500 surety deposit is required for construction on a building permit issued for works on existing buildings and $1,000 deposit for construction of new buildings.  This deposit is fully refundable after final inspection and issuance of any occupancy permit, providing there is no damage to public property.

Q. Can I cut down trees or trim them prior to receiving a building permit?

A. No.  A tree permit may be required under the Tree Preservation Bylaw.  The Bylaw and a Q & A information brochure, "Trees and Construction in Saanich" is available on request or on-line.  All enquiries related to trees should be directed to the Saanich Parks Department at 250-475-5522.

Q. How can I determine if my lot has any covenants, easements, rights-of-way registered against it? 

A. A certificate of title obtained by the Land Title Office will be required to be submitted as part of your building permit application package.  This certificate will identify any encumbrances listed against your property.  Information and clarification on information registered against title can be acquired from municipal staff.  It is your responsiblity to be aware of any that could affect any planned building designs.

Note:  Any private covenants registered against the property are not enforced by the Municipality.

For more detailed information please contact Inspection Services at 250-475-5457.

 

 

District of Saanich - 770 Vernon Ave Victoria, BC, Canada V8X 2W7 Tel: 250.475.1775 (8:30am - 4:30pm)
Copyright 2010