Castlegar building permits: when you need one and how to apply

Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply?

Castlegar, British ColumbiaChecked against official textSources read 2026-11-05

How it works

The City of Castlegar requires a permit under Building Bylaw 1338 before you:

• build, alter or repair a building or structure over 10 m² (not counting exterior finishing and roofing);
• build a pool or pool fence, or any deck;
• change plumbing or irrigation, or move or demolish a building;
• occupy a new building, or change a building's use or occupancy;
• install a masonry fireplace, wood-burning appliance or chimney;
• build a retaining wall over 1.5 m.

The City's web page also lists adding a dwelling unit, placing or adding to a mobile home, and finishing a basement or attic.

Steps

1. Check your zoning first (see zoning-lookup) and call Development Services if you are unsure what applies.
2. Gather the documents. For a simple building (3 storeys or less) these are a signed application, a title search within 30 days, a survey plan (may be waived), a site plan, floor plans, a cross-section, elevations and a registered professional's foundation design (not needed for garages or carports). Renovations also need a hazardous materials assessment, a clean air summary and a WorkSafeBC report. Larger or complex buildings have more requirements in the bylaw.
3. Apply in person at City Hall, or email the application to devserv@castlegar.ca. Fees are calculated after the application is reviewed.
4. Book each inspection by emailing devserv@castlegar.ca with the permit number, type of inspection, address and your name and phone number. The bylaw requires at least 48 hours' notice for a simple building.

Good to know

• Not covered by the Building Bylaw: an accessory building under 3 m high and under 10 m² floor area; a trellis, arbour or wall holding soil under 1.2 m high; and a temporary plastic, vinyl or canvas storage structure or greenhouse under 55 m² and one storey. They must still meet zoning setbacks. The City page also lists fences, roofing, paving, same-size window or door replacement, and interior or exterior finishes.
• The City page says sheds up to 9.5 m² need no permit, while the bylaw says under 10 m². The bylaw is followed here; confirm with Development Services, especially for a tall shed.
• The Building Permit Guide says to allow 24 hours for an inspection and gives shorter processing times (one to four weeks) and a 5 ft retaining wall limit. The bylaw and City page say otherwise, so confirm with the City.