Building Permits

The City of Dawson Creek regulates the building permits in our Zoning Bylaw. They are valid for one year from the date issued.

Building a fence

You do not need a permit to build a fence. Visit our Building and Renovating page to learn more about building a fence.

Get a permit

You can get a permit by filling out an application and dropping it off at City Hall. There are three main categories of permit applications:

Commercial Building Permits

Commercial Building Permits include:

Part 3 - Complex
Part 3 - Demolition Permit
Part 3 - Tenant Improvements
Part 9 - Tenant Improvements
Plumbing Permit

Permanent Sign Permits

Visit our Sign Permits page to learn more.

Residential Building Permits

Residential Building Permits include:

Part 9 - Addition and Renovation
Part 9 - Demolition Permit
Part 9 - New Construction
Deck
Garage
Plumbing Pemrit
Shed
Weeping Tile
Wood Burning Appliance

Prepare

Cost

The cost of permits changes depending on the type and value of your project. The Fees and Charges Bylaw lists the current fees.

Inspections

You must contact our Building Inspector a minimum of 24 hours before scheduling an inspection. Schedule an inspection for:

Drain tile, drain rock, damp proofing, and foundation prior to backfill
Final building and final plumbing
Footings formwork before concrete is placed - a survey certificate must be provided prior to inspection
Foundation formwork before concrete is placed
Framing after floor, wall, roof, doors and windows are complete
Garage slab formwork before concrete is placed - a survey certificate must be provided prior to inspection
Insulation and vapour barrier
Rough in plumbing
Water and sanitary service connection
Wood burning appliance
Underground piping or plumbing prior to covering

You are responsible for ensuring electrical and gas inspections are completed. Please contact Technical Safety BC.

Plans

For construction projects of Part 3 buildings, plans must include construction fire fire safety, architectural, structural, mechanical and plumbing, electrical and, if applicable, a geotechnical report and sprinkler system plan.

There are two categories for construction of Part 9 buildings:

Single family dwellings up to a triplex – plans must include, site plan, foundation, floor plan, elevations, and cross sections.
Tenant improvements – plans must include a construction fire safety plan, site plan, floor plan, elevations, and cross sections, and if applicable a foundation plan.

For decks, shed, and detached garages, plans are included in the permit applications. If using engineered products (TJI systems or trusses) on any type of project, a preliminary drawing must be submitted with the application and stamped drawings submitted prior to final inspection. You must apply to the BC Housing Homeowner Protection Office before applying for a building permit.

Time

The time it takes to get a permit depends on the time of year and how large the project is.

Summer months are the busiest time of year.
We recommend applying for a permit at least two weeks before you plan to start your project.