Building Permits

Overview

Building Officials are responsible for building inspections mandatory under the Cowichan Valley Regional District Building Bylaw. These inspections are required at various stages of construction, and the inspection records are kept on file by the Building Official for future reference.  Inspection records provide an independent third party verification of no longer visible building elements located within a building or structure. 

Digital Building Permit Review COMING SOON

Building Permit Applications can be submitted digitally to the CVRD Plan Checker and digital plan reviewing will be starting Fall 2024. Please confirm with the Plan Checker if drawings need to be submitted hard copy or if you can submit digital drawings.

Building Permit Application Form

Building Permit Forms

Covenant Templates

Realtor Forms

Zero Carbon 2024

The CVRD requires compliance with the Zero Carbon Step Code at Emission Level 4 (EL-4) starting on July 1, 2024

  • Complete applications received prior to July 1 will be processed at EL-1.  
  • Permit applications received after July 1, 2024 are required to provide electrified space heating, water heating, and cooking facilities or otherwise demonstrate compliance by way of modelling and calculations.
  • See Table 9.37.1.3. "Greenhouse Gas Emissions" of the 2024 BC Building Code and talk to your Energy Advisor. 
  • Certain back-up and redundant facilities are still permitted.

When is a Building Permit Required?

How do I Apply for a Building Permit in the CVRD?