News release

For immediate release

Saanich offers a variety of ways to pay taxes

Saanich, BC – Property tax notices are in the mail and the District of Saanich encourages residents to use one of the online, mail or drop off options for payment by the July 2 due date.  

“We understand some taxpayers prefer to pay their property taxes in person, but to protect our public and staff during the pandemic we need to limit in person interactions and the number of visitors in our facilities,” said Mayor Fred Haynes. “Just like last year, I ask you to use one of six other accessible ways to pay your taxes and assist our goal of keeping our staff and residents safe and healthy.”

Ways to pay

The municipal hall is open to the public and in person payments will be available with limited capacity. There is no requirement for in person interaction to pay your property taxes, so Saanich encourages residents to use the following methods to pay their taxes:

• Online banking: Pay through your financial institution’s online banking system. Check their local cut-off time to ensure payment is received by the due date.
• By mail: Mail your cheque and the bottom portion of your tax notice to 770 Vernon Avenue, Victoria, BC V8X 2W7. Payment must be received by midnight July 2 to avoid penalty.
• Drive through drop off: A secure drive through drop off will be available at the parking lot entrance to the municipal hall at anticipated peak times from May 31 to July 2.
• Drop box: There’s a secure slot at the entrance of the municipal hall near the parking lot. The slot is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please practice safe physical distancing when using the drop box. Payment must be received by midnight July 2 to avoid penalty.
• Through your financial institution: Contact your financial institution for their rules for paying bills on site.
• Through your mortgage company: Contact your financial institution to set this up.

Home owner grant changes

Starting May 2021, the province requires property owners to apply for their home owner grant online or by phone with the province at gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant or 1-888-355-2700. Municipalities can no longer accept applications or process home owner grants. Program eligibility is unchanged.

Learn more

Visit saanich.ca/tax for more information about ways to pay. If you have questions about payment methods or late penalties or have not received your property tax notice, please contact Saanich’s property tax staff at 250-475-5454 or propertytax@saanich.ca.

-30-

Media contact:
Valla Tinney
Director of Finance
250-475-5521
valla.tinney@saanich.ca