How to get a building permit in Belcarra, BC

Step by step in Belcarra

1. 1

   Confirm zoning before anything else

   Check the property's zone, setbacks, height and lot coverage, and whether it sits in a Development Permit Area. If it does, that approval has to come before the building permit — Belcarra won't issue until land use is settled.

2. 2

   Work out which permits you need

   Structural work needs a building permit from Village of Belcarra. Electrical and gas are separate and are issued by Technical Safety BC — the application package states electrical and gas permits are issued by Technical Safety BC, obtained separately from the Village. Plumbing is usually part of the building permit.

3. 3

   Prepare drawings and documents

   Village of Belcarra asks for: Proof of ownership — Certificate of Title dated within 30 days of application; Architectural or engineering drawings; Site plan showing property layout; Owner authorization form (if applicant is not the owner); For new residential construction: home warranty documentation and BC Housing compliance; Engineered drawings for complex projects; BC Energy Step Code compliance documentation; WorkSafeBC clearance where applicable.

4. 4

   Submit your application

   In person / email — no online portal. Download the 'Building Permit Application Package 2024' PDF, submit via email or phone to the Building Department.

5. 5

   Pay the permit fee

   Permit fees calculated on estimated construction value; fee schedule (by project cost ranges) is in the 2024 application package. Confirm the current schedule with Belcarra before you budget.

6. 6

   Plan review, then build to inspections

   The building department reviews against the BC Building Code and zoning; answer any comments quickly. Once issued, post the permit on site and book inspections at each stage — footings, framing, rough-in, insulation, final. Don't cover work before it's inspected.

Belcarra permit questions