Welcome to the new online building permit application process!
The commercial building permit process has been optimized through the launch of five new digital submission portals, see Apply Now! This eliminates paper-based applications, making processes more convenient, reliable and efficient.
Commercial Permits are used to permit any work on commercial, institutional, industrial, or Part 3 residential buildings. (Note: For Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) projects, please refer to our Residential Permits page.)
A Commercial Building Permit is required if:
- building an entirely new building,
- renovating an existing building and/or suites therein,
- adding to an existing building,
- doing tenant improvements or
- demolishing an existing building
As Saanich continues to improve and streamline the Building Permit process, where applicable Plumbing work will now be included in the Building Permit application, eliminating the need for separate Plumbing permits! Please note: a separate Building Permit application is still required FOR EACH STRUCTURE.
September 2025 update: New Building Permit Application fees have been approved, learn more here!
To Apply
- Review Application project requirements (see related links).
- Please be advised that Servicing Requirements may be applicable and could impact your project. Contact Development Services prior to submitting your application if you have questions or concerns.
- Please refer to the Subdivision Bylaw and Schedule H. More information can be found here.
- You must have an approved Development Permit for most new structures before applying for a building permit. Contact Planning if you have questions.
- A MySaanich account is required to complete an application, upload documents, pay application fees, book inspections, view your application status and more.
- Don't have a MySaanich account? Register here.
