Trade-offs of combining permits when building new dwellings that involve the demolition of existing structures
When you are planning to demolish a structure followed by a new build, you have two choices: individual permits or a combined new build and demo permit.
Separate Demo Permit and New Build Permit
Considerations
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$50 demo permit fee applies in addition to building permit fees. If trees are within scope of demo, two tree permits ($50 or $100) may be required: one for the demo and one for the new build.
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Separate permits are issued. Can begin demo when demo permit approved, do not have to wait for building permit issuance.
- Two applications and duplicate submission of specific documents (land title, site plan etc.).
- Trees may have to be protected during demo (additional or amended arborist reports, tree protection fencing, arborist supervision, etc.) even if they are later approved for removal by construction.
Because you're submitting two applications, the demo permit is issued sooner, but it may lengthen the building permit project.
Combined New Build and Demo Permit
Considerations
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$50 demo permit fee waived. Tree permit fee ($50 or $100) paid only once.
- One application and single submission of documents.
- Site plan must show all structures to be removed.
- Single permit issued for demo and build, which means demo & build are approved jointly. Demo cannot begin ahead of building permit issuance.
- Single tree permit for entire project is issued with combined building permit. Trees that are approved for removal due to construction can be removed at the time of the demo, potentially easing site working constraints.
- Permits may not be split after application submission.
Improved overall project times because this method allows demolition of the structure and removal of the tree at the same time.
Example Project Scope: replace garage with houseplex
Individual Permits
Individual Demo Permit for the Garage and Individual New Build Permit for a Houseplex. Two applications; demo permit issued sooner but may lengthen the overall project.
Combined New Build and Demo Permit for the Garage
Allows demolition of the garage and removal of the tree at the same time. 
Both accomplish the same: the garage is demolished, and the new building can be constructed.
For more information regarding Building Permits contact inspections@saanich.ca
For more information regarding Tree Permits contact treepermit@saanich.ca