Building Permit Application Process:

Step One: Speak with our Development Services team to review your project

• Development Services will review our Development Permit Areas, Zoning Bylaws, and the subject property for land use compliance
• Development Permits MUST be done ahead of Building Permits

Step Two: Speak with our Plan Checker to review your project 

• Incomplete applications take longer to process than completed applications
• The Plan Checker will review your application and advise on what documents are required for submission
• Email the Plan Checker if you have any questions about your project and applying for a Building Permit

Step Three:  Submit your complete Building Permit Application & supporting documents

• See here for the Building Permit Application & General Requirements
• Applications must include all required paperwork and 2 sets of full size, scale drawings
• Applications can be submitted in person at our CVRD main office location at 175 Ingram St. and/or submitted digitally to inspections@cvrd.bc.ca
• BC Energy Step Code requirements for new builds or substantial renovations
• Building permits are paid for upon issue, not upon application (see here for Building Permit Fee Schedule)
• Are you applying for a Secondary Suite or an Accessory Dwelling (small suite or 2nd dwelling) on your property? 

Step Four: Application begins to be processed internally

• Internal CVRD referrals are made to GIS Mapping, Development Services, and Operations divisions
• Applications are reviewed for CVRD Zoning Bylaw and CVRD Building Bylaw compliance
• The Building Official for your area will review your plans for BC Building Code and BC Energy Step Code compliance 
• A Building Official may conduct a site visit

Step Five: Building Permit is Issued

• You will be notified by a Building Official when your permit is ready for pick-up
• Building Permits must be picked up in-person at our office
• Accepted methods of payment are debit, cash or cheque (payable to the Cowichan Valley Regional District and cheques also need to be clearly marked with a Building Permit number and address).
• We do not accept credit card for fees