The Town’s Building Officials are responsible for reviewing and approving plans for the issuance of Building, Demolition, and Plumbing Permits.
Once a permit is issued, staff will perform predetermined inspections as outlined in the Building Regulations Bylaw, to ensure compliance with the BC Building Code and with Sidney’s bylaws.
Updates Underway
Development Services is currently updating the information on this page. Please note the following changes:
- Construction Fire Safety Plans: Most permit applications now require a Construction Fire Safety Plan.
- Digital Submissions: Paper plans are no longer required at the application stage. Please submit digital plans to developmentservices@sidney.ca. When the permit is ready for issuance, we will then request two paper copies of the approved version of plans.
- Storm Water Management Systems: Applications for new construction or projects that decrease site permeability will likely require a Storm Water Management System designed by a professional civil engineer. A covenant must be registered on the property title before a building permit can be issued. To avoid delays, begin this process early. For guidance, contact Engineering Services at 250-656-4502 or engineeringservices@sidney.ca to confirm if your project requires a Storm Water Management System.
- Processing Times: Building permit processing times may vary. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. Thank you for your patience.
Process for Submitting Building Permit Applications
Town Building Officials are available to receive Building Permit applications at Town Hall by appointment or between the hours of 8:30 am – 10:00 am & 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm. A Town Building Official will go through the application at the time of submission in order to ensure the application is complete.
Town Building Officials will only accept complete applications. An incomplete application will be returned to the applicant with a list of outstanding items. Once those items have been addressed, the complete application can be re-submitted.
If you are planning to build, renovate, or demolish a residence or commercial property, it is important that you understand the Building Permit application process before submitting your application. The reference guides below provide information and resources to help answer questions you may have about your project.
Please note that your project may be subject to other approval processes (eg. Development Permit, Servicing Agreement, etc.) and that additional requirements may be required to be submitted with building permit applications (eg. archaeological referrals, flood hazard report, etc.). If you have any questions about your project prior to submitting your application, please contact the Town Building Officials.
If you have any questions or would like any additional information, please contact the Development Services Department by:
Email: developmentservices@sidney.ca
Phone: 250-656-1725
Town staff are committed to ensuring that the permitting process is streamlined and timely.
