Building

Before starting work related to your project you must obtain a Building Permit.

The BC Building Code 2018 is in effect.

Current Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw:

Building Permit Applications

  • Permit applications may be submitted to permits@victoria.ca 
  • Please contact a Permit Services Representative at 250.361.0344 or permits@victoria.ca if you are unable to apply by email.

  • The City facilitates a pre-application meeting with staff at your request. This meeting can be used as a tool in the planning process and helps to expedite the building permit application process. Please contact the Permits and Inspections staff for more information or to book an appointment.

Building Permit fees are found on our Fee Schedule.

Demolition Waste and Deconstruction Bylaw

Victoria has introduced a new bylaw to reduce waste from the demolition of houses and duplexes. Please see the Construction Waste webpage for details.

Inspection Requests

Inspection requests can be submitted online via MyCity. For more information please visit our Inspections page.

When do I Need a Building Permit?

The Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw - No. 17-113 regulates the construction, alteration, repair, and demolition of buildings and other structures within the City of Victoria.

A Building Permit is required prior to commencing work on:

  • New buildings or demolition (removal) of buildings 
  • Replacing structural components of existing structures (for example, stairs, decks, beams, posts, load bearing walls etc.)
  • Interior alterations of a building such as tenant improvements, floor plan alterations, mechanical system alterations etc.
  • Alterations to life safety systems, such as fire suppression, fire alarm alterations
  • Changing the use or occupancy: refer to A-3.1.2.1.(1) Major Occupancy Classification. This includes creation of suites (secondary suites) and new or changing businesses.
  • Finishing undeveloped spaces such as basements, attics, garages, crawlspaces etc.

A Building Permit is not required for the following:

  • Accessory buildings less than 10 m2 in building area
  • Replacing existing finishes such as carpets, flooring, cabinets, counter-tops
  • Replacement and maintenance of the following with like for like materials, cladding, roofing, windows and doors
  • Retaining structures less than 1.2 meters in height
  • Platforms less than 0.6 meters above grade

Applications and Forms

Application Checklists

Information, Policies & Resources