Building permit applications for Demolition and Interior Strip Out are now accessed through MyCity Online.
Before starting work related to your project, you must get a building permit. The Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw regulates the construction, alteration, repair and demolition of buildings and other structures within the City of Victoria.
A building permit is required before starting work on:
- a new building - each building or structure being built on a site requires a separate building permit
- demolition (removal) of buildings
- replacing structural components of an existing structure – i.e., stairs, decks, beams, posts, load-bearing walls, etc.
- interior alterations of a building – i.e., tenant improvements, floor plan alterations, mechanical system alterations, etc.
- alterations to life safety systems, such as fire suppression or fire alarm alterations
- changing the use or occupancy, refer to A-3.1.2.1. (1) Major Occupancy Classification, including the creation of secondary suites and new or changing businesses
- finishing undeveloped spaces – i.e., basements, attics, garages, crawlspaces, etc.
A building permit is not required for:
- accessory buildings less than 10 square metres
- replacing existing finishes such as carpets, flooring, cabinets and countertops
- replacement and maintenance of the following with like materials: cladding, roofing, windows and doors
- retaining structures less than 1.2 metres in height
- platforms less than 0.6 metres above grade
Please note that the B.C. Building Code 2024 is in effect. Drawings for permit applications prepared prior to March 8, 2024, may use the 2018 B.C. Building Code if the building permit application is submitted before March 8, 2027. For more information, consult pages 2-3 of the B.C. Building Code 2024 (found on pages 6 and 7 of the linked PDF).
Building Permit Applications
Permit applications may be submitted to permits@victoria.ca. Please contact a Permit Services Representative at 250.361.0344 if you need additional information on building permit submission requirements.
Building Permit Application Form
Consult the Fee Schedule to find the relevant fees and deposits for your application. For a detailed explanation of fees and deposits, see the Guide to Building Permit Fees and Deposits.
Any applicable development permits must be issued before applying for building permits.
If your project displaces tenants or results in the loss of any rental units, a pre-application meeting with staff can help speed up the building permit application process. Email permits@victoria.ca for more information or to book a pre-application meeting.
Information about the Tenant Protection Development Permit requirements and process can be found on the Renters Hub. If you require an inspection, you can submit an inspection request via MyCity Online.
Partial Permits
If applying for a complex building permit, a partial permit can allow you to start work before all requirements of the full permit are addressed. The most common type of partial permit requested is a foundation to grade.
Request a partial permit at no additional cost or delay in review time. All you need to do is check the box on your application form when submitting your permit application.
You will be notified when your partial permit is ready to be issued.
Building Permit - Demolition
A Demolition Permit is required for applicants who will be demolishing a building before new construction. Use the link below to begin this application in the MyCity Online portal.
Building Permit Application - Demolition
Building Permit - Interior Strip Out
An Interior Strip Out Permit is required for applicants who will be stripping out the inside of a building down to the studs. Use the link below to begin this application in the MyCity Online portal.
Helpful Resources
The forms, information and checklists below may be applicable to your application.