Central Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply

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

Central Saanich, British ColumbiaChecked against official textSources read 2026-11-06

How it works

The District's Building Department reviews drawings against the BC Building Code and the Building Bylaw No. 2014, issues the permit, then inspects the work.

A permit is needed before you start or continue any construction, alteration, reconstruction, demolition, removal or relocation of a building or structure, or change its occupancy. Building moves, demolition, masonry fireplaces or wood-burning appliances, plumbing and signs each need their own permit. The District's Building and Renovating page lists examples: decks, moving walls, bathroom changes, secondary suites, retaining walls over 1.2 m and accessory buildings over 10 m².

No permit is needed for retaining structures under 1.2 m high or anything Part 1 of the BC Building Code exempts. The District also lists as permit-free a shed under 10 m² that meets zoning, and maintenance such as painting, flooring, cabinets, same-size windows or re-roofing.

Steps

1. Check zoning, the OCP and development permit areas first. Some projects need a development permit before the building permit.
2. Gather a title search dated within 30 days, a digital drawing set and the plan processing fee. Other documents (engineer's design, Step Code report, warranty registration) are added where they apply.
3. Apply online through the District's online permit system. A CSOnline account is recommended. Building and plumbing permits cannot be applied for on paper.
4. Wait for the review, then pay the permit fee in full before the permit is issued.
5. Request inspections online or through your CSOnline account, giving at least 24 hours' notice before work is concealed. Inspections include footings, foundation, drains, framing, insulation and final.

Good to know

• The District's pages give different times for the first review (2 to 3 weeks on one page, 3 to 4 weeks on another, for a single-family home). No bylaw sets a time.
• The Building Department can also be reached by phone at 250-544-4217 for questions or to book an inspection.
• The posted bylaw copy is dated October 2023 and may not reflect newer rules, such as online-only applications and the Zero Carbon Step Code. Ask the Building Department.