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

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

Creston, British ColumbiaChecked against official textSources read 2026-11-06

How it works

The Town of Creston's Building Department reviews drawings against the Building Bylaw No. 1394 and the BC Building Code, then inspects the work. A permit is required for any changes, alterations or additions to a structure, and to construct or move any building. Plumbing work needs its own plumbing permit. A retaining wall also needs a permit if it is within 1.5 m of a property boundary, or is over 0.5 m high where it relates to the safety of a structure.

The bylaw lists no size or value below which a permit is not needed, so ask the Town about small projects. The Town's page says cosmetic changes such as painting, flooring, replacing baseboards and resurfacing cabinets do not need a building permit.

Steps

1. Pick the checklist for your project on the Apply for a Building Permit page (new home, additions and renovations, secondary suite, sheds and garages, and others).
2. Fill out the Building Permit Application Form and the Owner's Authorization Form. Every owner on title signs, and each building needs its own application.
3. For a new home, add a BC Energy Step Code pre-compliance form, a state of title dated within 30 days, scaled drawings and a site plan, and a roof and truss design package. Structural or geotechnical schedules, warranty confirmation and septic approval are needed where they apply.
4. Send two sets of drawings plus a digital copy to building@creston.ca. Full-size paper plans and truss packages are accepted at Town Hall; arrange drop-off with Development Services.
5. Pay the fee once the permit is issued.
6. Give the Building Inspector at least 24 hours' notice, not counting Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays, at each stage: footings, dampproofing and drainage, plumbing, framing, insulation, air barrier and flashing, and final (before occupancy).

Good to know

• A development permit may be needed first if your lot is in a mapped wildfire or environmentally sensitive area. See the Town's Development Permits page.
• The pages read do not say how to book an inspection. Call 250-428-2214 or email building@creston.ca.
• Occupying a building without the final inspection can bring a $200 bylaw notice under the Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw.
• A building inspector may require 48 hours' notice before work starts on site (Building Bylaw s. 12.1.3).