When You Need a Building Permit on Vancouver Island
Building permits are in place to ensure safety, code compliance, and long-term durability. They confirm that your project meets the BC Building Code and municipal regulations.
Small Projects That Don’t Require a Permit
- Minor cosmetic updates like painting or flooring replacement
- Installing cabinets without altering plumbing or electrical
- Small garden sheds under municipal size thresholds
Common Projects That Do Require a Permit
- New custom home construction
- Carriage houses and laneway homes
- Major renovations and additions
- Structural changes such as removing walls
- Electrical, plumbing, or HVAC modifications
- Swimming pools and retaining walls over 1.2m
- Demolition projects
The Building Permit Process Explained
Each municipality has its own requirements, but the steps are similar across Vancouver Island.
Step 1 – Preparing Your Drawings
A building permit application requires detailed plans and specifications. These drawings must show compliance with the BC Building Code. Our House Plans and 3D Design services provide permit-ready drawings tailored to your project.
Step 2 – Submitting to Your Municipality
Applications are submitted to your local city or district office, along with fees and supporting documents. If you choose our Design-Build Services, we manage this step for you as part of the full process.
Step 3 – Inspections During Construction
After approval, your project must pass scheduled inspections for foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and final occupancy. We coordinate with inspectors and keep you updated throughout.
Types of Building Permits in Nanaimo & Other Vancouver Island Municipalities
- Residential construction permits for new homes
- Renovation permits for interiors or exteriors
- Carriage house permits
- Demolition permits
- Swimming pool permits
- Retaining wall permits
Contractor & Technical Safety Requirements
If you choose Buck Robertson Contracting for your build, we handle the entire permit application process, including drawings, submissions, and coordination with inspectors. We also work directly with licensed professionals to meet all Technical Safety BC requirements, so you never have to manage permits on your own.
Municipal Building Permit Links for Vancouver Island
To learn more about requirements in your area, see the following municipal resources:
- City of Nanaimo Building Permits
- City of Victoria Building Permits
- District of Saanich Building Permits
- Town of Comox Building Permits
- City of Campbell River Building Permits
Ready to Build on Vancouver Island?
Navigating building permits can feel overwhelming, but with the right builder, it doesn’t have to be. At Buck Robertson Contracting, we handle the entire process — from drawings and applications to inspections — so you can focus on your home, not the paperwork.
If you are planning a custom home, carriage house, or major renovation, our team will guide you through permits and construction with clear communication at every step.