# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for Creston --- title: "Creston building permits: when you need one and how to apply" question: "Do I need a building permit in Creston, and how do I apply?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit.json" --- # Creston building permits: when you need one and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a building permit in Creston, and how do I apply? **Short answer:** In Creston you need a Town building permit for any change, alteration or addition to a structure, and to construct or move a building. The Building Bylaw lists no size exemption. Apply with the application form and drawings at Town Hall. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Based on the value of the work; the minimum is $100, plus applicable taxes. See the building-permit-fees answer. **How long:** The Town does not state a processing time. A permit lapses if construction does not start within six months (Building Bylaw s. 11.1). **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Email: Building Department, building@creston.ca - Email: Development Services, communityservices@creston.ca ## Key facts - **Needed for:** A permit is required for any changes, alterations or additions to a structure, and for constructing or moving any building. Plumbing work needs its own plumbing permit. Retaining walls within 1.5 m of a property boundary, or over 0.5 m high where they relate to a structure's safety, also need a permit. - Source: [Apply for a Building Permit, Apply for a Building Permit page](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) - Official wording: "A building permit is required for any changes, alterations, or additions to a structure." - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022), s. 5.1, 5.3, 21.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall construct, or move any building unless he has first obtained a permit" … "plumbing services regulated by this bylaw unless the owner of the property, or his agent, has first obtained a plumbing permit" … "No person shall construct a retaining wall within 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) of a property boundary or where a retaining wall pertains to the safety of a structure greater than 0.5 meters (1.97 feet) in height" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not needed for:** Cosmetic changes such as painting, flooring, replacing baseboards and resurfacing cabinets do not need a building permit. - Source: [Building permit: home additions or renovations, Home Additions or Renovations page](https://www.creston.ca/node/418) - Official wording: "Cosmetic changes such as painting, flooring, replacing baseboards and resurfacing cabinets do not require a building permit." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** Complete the Building Permit Application Form and Owner's Authorization Form (every owner on title signs); a separate application is needed for each building. The Town's checklist asks for two sets of drawings plus a digital copy emailed to building@creston.ca. Full-size paper plans and truss packages are accepted at Town Hall; arrange drop-off with Development Services. - Source: [Building permit: new home, New Home or Detached Accessory Dwelling page](https://www.creston.ca/node/417) - Official wording: "A separate application is required for each building." … "Submissions of full sized paper copies of plans and roof truss packages will be accepted at Town Hall." … "Owner's Authorization Form (All property owners on title must sign this form)" - Source: [https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Renovations%20and%20Additions%20Checklist.pdf, Renovations and Additions Checklist (Bulletin 01-06, Sept 15, 2023)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Renovations%20and%20Additions%20Checklist.pdf) - Official wording: "Two (2) sets of Drawings and one digital copy emailed to building@creston.ca" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What to submit:** For a new home: application form, owner's authorization, BC Energy Step Code pre-compliance form, state of title (within 30 days), scaled drawings and site plan, roof and truss design package, and structural/geotechnical schedules, warranty confirmation and septic approval where they apply. Other building types have their own lists. - Source: [Building permit: new home, New Home or Detached Accessory Dwelling page](https://www.creston.ca/node/417) - Official wording: "BC Energy Step Code Pre-compliance form from Energy Advisor" … "State of Title, current within last 30 days" … "Roof and truss design package" … "Septic approval, if applicable" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Processing time:** Not confirmed. The Town's pages do not state a processing time. - **Inspections:** 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). - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022), s. 12.1.4, 12.1.5](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) - Official wording: "Give at least 24 hours notice exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and Statutory Holidays to the Building Inspector" … "When the building or portion is completed and ready for occupancy but prior to occupancy." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** Building Department, Town Hall, 238 10th Avenue North: building@creston.ca, 250-428-2214 (from the Town's building permit application form). Development Services can also be reached at communityservices@creston.ca. - Source: [Contact Directory](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) - Official wording: "Development Services" … "Donna Cassel | Administrative Assistant | Email | 250-428-2214" … "ext. 410" - Source: [Development Permits, Development Permits page](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) - Official wording: "For more informations contact communityservices@creston.ca." - Source: [Building Permit Application form, Building Permit Application form header](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/Building%20Permit%20Application-2024.pdf) - Official wording: "Email: building@creston.ca | P: 250.428.2214 | F: 250.428.9164" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw Number 1394, 1997 - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited for all purposes as the "Building Bylaw Number 1394, 1997"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The Town of Creston's Building Department reviews drawings against the [Building Bylaw No. 1394](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) 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](https://www.creston.ca/apply-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](https://www.creston.ca/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](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf). - A building inspector may require 48 hours' notice before work starts on site (Building Bylaw s. 12.1.3). ## Official forms and pages - [Apply for a Building Permit, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) - [Building permit: new home, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/417) - [Building permit: home additions or renovations, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/418) - [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) - [Building Permit Application form (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/Building%20Permit%20Application-2024.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit-fees.md) - [Creston permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Creston secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/secondary-suite.md) - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) - [Creston fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fence-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permits in British Columbia: how to apply, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/building-permit.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/building-permit.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/building-permit.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/building-permit.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/building-permit.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/building-permit.md) ## Sources - [Apply for a Building Permit, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building permit: new home, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/417) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building permit: home additions or renovations, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/418) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building Permit Application form (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/Building%20Permit%20Application-2024.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Contact Directory, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) (read 2026-11-06) - [Development Permits, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Renovations%20and%20Additions%20Checklist.pdf](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Renovations%20and%20Additions%20Checklist.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit/_ --- --- title: "Creston fence rules: permits and height limits" question: "Do I need a permit to build a fence in Creston, and how high can it be?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fence-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fence-rules.json" --- # Creston fence rules: permits and height limits **Question:** Do I need a permit to build a fence in Creston, and how high can it be? **Short answer:** In Creston, a fence between the front lot line and the face of the building can be 1.2 m high, and 1.8 m between the rear lot line and the building, in residential zones. No fence permit is mentioned in the bylaws. Near street corners the limit is 1.1 m. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** No fence permit fee is stated. A Fence Development Variance Permit costs $100. **How long:** Not stated; ask Development Services if you need a variance. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Email: Development Services, communityservices@creston.ca ## Key facts - **Permit:** Not confirmed. No fence permit is mentioned in the Town's bylaws or on its Fences page. - **Height, front yard:** 1.2 m maximum for a fence between the front lot line and the face of the building, in any zone with a primary residential use. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 6.5.1.1 (i)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "In any Zone where there is a primary residential use, no Fence shall:" … "exceed a maximum Fence height of 1.2 metres, where a fence is located between the Front lot line and the face of a Building" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, side and rear yards:** 1.8 m maximum for a fence between the rear lot line and the face of a building, in zones with a primary residential use. The bylaw gives no separate side-yard height; a fence between the front lot line and the face of a building is limited to 1.2 m. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 6.5.1.1 (ii)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "exceed a maximum height of 1.8 metres, where a Fence is located between the Rear lot line and the face of a Building" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Corner lots and sightlines:** No fence, wall, screen or landscaping may be over 1.1 m high where it blocks vision at street corners (within the area 4.0 m along each lot line from the corner) or lane corners (3.0 m), except in the Commercial Downtown Core zone. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 3.5.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "Except in the Commercial - Downtown Core" … "than 1.1 metres so as to obstruct vision clearance in the area bounded by:" … "4.0 metres from their point of intersection" … "3.0 metres from their point of intersection" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 6.5.1.1 (iv)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "obstruct visibility at intersections in accordance with section 3.5.2." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other rules:** Height is measured from average finished grade to the highest point. Barbed, razor and electrified wire and unfinished corrugated metal are prohibited in residential zones (barbed or electrified wire may be allowed with farm uses, hens or horses). Reflective materials, tarps and sheet metal are prohibited everywhere. Pools need a fence at least 1.5 m high. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 6.1, 6.4.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "The use of reflective materials, tarps, or sheet metal is prohibited in all Zones." … "of barbed wire, razor wire, electrified wire, or unfinished corrugated metal is prohibited in all residential Zones." … "properties with farm uses, keeping hens, or horses, may be permitted to use barbed wire or electrified wire." … "a solid Fence of a least 1.5 metres in height shall be erected around the perimeter of the swimming pool area." … "means the vertical distance between the Finished" … "grade – average and the highest point of a Building" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022, section 6.0 (Screening and Fencing Requirements; s. 6.5 General Fence Requirements) and s. 3.5.2 - Source: [Fences, Fences page](https://www.creston.ca/fences) - Official wording: "Section 6.0: Screening and Fencing Requirements of Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Fence rules are in section 6.0 of the [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (the Town's [Fences](https://www.creston.ca/fences) page tells owners to review it). No fence permit is mentioned in the bylaws or on that page. Maximum heights in zones with a primary residential use: - Between the front lot line and the face of the building: 1.2 m - Between the rear lot line and the face of a building: 1.8 m - The bylaw gives no separate side-yard height. It measures by position relative to the front and rear lot lines and the face of the building. Height is measured from average finished grade to the highest point. The height can increase where needed to meet safety requirements under the Building Bylaw. ## Steps 1. Find your lot's zone (see the zoning-lookup answer) and read section 6.0. 2. Check your property lines and the corner-visibility area if you are on a corner. 3. If you want something taller than allowed, ask Development Services (communityservices@creston.ca) about a Fence Development Variance Permit, which costs $100 (Fees and Charges Bylaw Schedule 7A). 4. Build. A retaining wall within 1.5 m of a boundary needs a building permit. ## Good to know - At street corners (within 4.0 m along each lot line) and lane corners (3.0 m), no fence, wall, screen or landscaping may be over 1.1 m high where it blocks vision, except in the Commercial Downtown Core zone. - Barbed, razor and electrified wire and unfinished corrugated metal are prohibited in residential zones (barbed or electrified wire may be allowed with farm uses, hens or horses). Reflective materials, tarps and sheet metal are prohibited everywhere. - A solid 1.8 m fence is required where commercial zones abut residential ones (s. 6.3). - A pool needs a fence at least 1.5 m high, with no openings over 100 millimetres and a self-closing, spring-locked gate ([Building Bylaw](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) s. 17.1). - A fence that obstructs vision is a $75 bylaw notice ($50 if paid early, $100 late) under the Traffic Regulations Bylaw. ## Official forms and pages - [Fences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/fences) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) - [Creston building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit.md) - [Creston permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/fence-rules.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/fence-rules.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/fence-rules.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/fence-rules.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/fence-rules.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/fence-rules.md) ## Sources - [Fences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/fences) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 6 facts was matched to the official text; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fence-rules/_ --- --- title: Creston permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages question: "Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/deck-shed-garage-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/deck-shed-garage-permit.json" --- # Creston permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages **Question:** Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston a building permit is required for any change, alteration or addition to a structure, and the Town lists detached sheds, garages and workshops as a permit type. No size below which a shed or deck is exempt is stated. Zoning limits also apply. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Permit fee based on the value of the work, $100 minimum. Schedule 3A lists $50 per sq. ft. for a garage, $30 carport, $25 uncovered deck. **How long:** The Town states no processing time. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Email: Building Department, building@creston.ca ## Key facts - **Sheds:** The Town lists 'Detached Sheds, Garages & Workshops' as a building permit type, and says a permit is required for any changes, alterations or additions to a structure. No size below which a shed is exempt is stated. - Source: [Apply for a Building Permit, Apply for a Building Permit page](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) - Official wording: "A building permit is required for any changes, alterations, or additions to a structure." … "Detached Sheds, Garages & Workshops" - Source: [Building permit: detached sheds, garages and workshops, Detached Sheds, Garages & Workshops page](https://www.creston.ca/node/420) - Official wording: "For more information, please review the Accessory Building Checklist" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Decks:** Decks are handled under the 'Home Additions or Renovations' building permit page, which points to the BC Housing guide for safe and durable decks. No height below which a deck is exempt is stated. - Source: [Building permit: home additions or renovations, Home Additions or Renovations page](https://www.creston.ca/node/418) - Official wording: "For information about decks, please review BC Housing Illustrated Guide for safe and durable decks" - Source: [Apply for a Building Permit, Apply for a Building Permit page](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) - Official wording: "A building permit is required for any changes, alterations, or additions to a structure." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Garages and carports:** Garages need a building permit: the Town lists 'Detached Sheds, Garages & Workshops' as a permit type. No separate carport rule was found; the fee schedule lists a carport construction value. - Source: [Apply for a Building Permit, Apply for a Building Permit page](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) - Official wording: "Detached Sheds, Garages & Workshops" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 3A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Attached or Detached Garage $50.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning limits:** In R1, an accessory building may be up to 5.0 m high, with setbacks of 6.1 m front, 1.5 m rear, 1.5 m interior side and 3.7 m exterior side, within 50% lot coverage. Accessory buildings under 10.0 sq. m. are exempt from interior side and rear setbacks. Uncovered decks may project up to 2.0 m into front and rear setbacks, never within 1 m of a property line. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), R1 zone s. 7.2.4.2, 7.2.5.6, 7.2.3.4](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "7.2.4.2 Accessory buildings" … "6.1m 1.5m 1.5m 3.7m" … "7.2.3.4 Maximum Lot Coverage: 50%" … "7.2.5.6 Accessory buildings and Structures" … "9.2m 11.0m 11.0m 9.2m 5.0m 7.5m" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 3.5.3 (ii), (vi), (vii)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "building or Structure having an area of less than 10.0 sq. m. on a Lot is exempt from the Interior side and Rear setback requirements" … "Uncovered decks are permitted to project into the Front setback and Rear setback a maximum of 2.0 metres." … "be located closer than 1 metre from any property line." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw Number 1394, 1997; Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited for all purposes as the "Building Bylaw Number 1394, 1997"." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The Town says a building permit is required for any changes, alterations or additions to a structure, and lists "Detached Sheds, Garages & Workshops" as a permit type ([sheds, garages and workshops page](https://www.creston.ca/node/420)). Decks are handled under the [Home Additions or Renovations](https://www.creston.ca/node/418) page, which points to the BC Housing guide for safe and durable decks. No size or height below which a shed or deck is exempt is stated in the [Building Bylaw](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf). No separate carport rule was found, but the fee schedule lists a carport value. Zoning limits apply as well. In the R1 zone, an accessory building may be up to 5.0 m high, with setbacks of 6.1 m front, 1.5 m rear, 1.5 m interior side and 3.7 m exterior side, within 50% lot coverage. Uncovered decks may project up to 2.0 m into front and rear setbacks, never within 1 m of a property line. ## Steps 1. Check your zone and setbacks in the [Zoning Bylaw](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf). Other zones differ; for example R5 has accessory height 5.0 m and setbacks of 7.6 m, 7.6 m, 1.8 m and 7.6 m. 2. Ask the Building Department whether your project needs a permit (250-428-2214, building@creston.ca). 3. Use the checklist on the [Apply for a Building Permit](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) page: application form, owner's authorization, title, scaled drawings and site plan. 4. Pay the fee when the permit is issued and book inspections. ## Good to know - Accessory buildings under 10.0 sq. m. are exempt from the interior side and rear setbacks. That is a zoning point, not a permit exemption. - Shipping containers used for storage are accessory buildings (Zoning s. 4.4; Building Bylaw s. 18). - Fee schedule construction values per sq. ft. include garage $50, carport $30, deck with roof $30 and deck with no roof $25. ## Official forms and pages - [Apply for a Building Permit, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) - [Building permit: detached sheds, garages and workshops, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/420) - [Building permit: home additions or renovations, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/418) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit.md) - [Creston building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit-fees.md) - [Creston fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fence-rules.md) - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Deck and shed permit thresholds in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) ## Sources - [Apply for a Building Permit, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building permit: home additions or renovations, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/418) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building permit: detached sheds, garages and workshops, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/420) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Contact Directory, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/deck-shed-garage-permit/_ --- --- title: Creston building permit fees question: "How much does a building permit cost in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit-fees/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit-fees.json" --- # Creston building permit fees **Question:** How much does a building permit cost in Creston? **Short answer:** A Creston building permit costs $100 when the work is worth $5,000 or less, plus $10 for each additional $1,000 (or part) up to $2,000,000, then $5 per $1,000. Taxes are extra. The rates are in the Fees and Charges Bylaw. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** $100 minimum, plus $10 per additional $1,000 of work; plumbing, pool and other fees below. **How long:** Fees are due once the permit is issued. The Town states no processing time. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Email: Building Department, building@creston.ca ## Key facts - **Lowest fee:** $100 (when the value of the work does not exceed $5,000), plus applicable taxes. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 3 - Building Permit Fees](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "When the value of the work does not exceed $100.00 $5,000.00 (minimum fee)" … "(subject to applicable taxes)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How the fee is worked out:** $100 for work up to $5,000, plus $10 for each additional $1,000 (or part) up to $2,000,000, then $5 per $1,000. Schedule 3A lists construction values per square foot (for example $125 finished floor on crawl space, $25 uncovered deck); commercial work uses the contract or tendered cost. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 3 and Schedule 3A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "For each additional $1,000.00 or part thereof by which the value exceeds $5,000.00 up to a $10.00 maximum of $2,000,000.00" … "by which the value exceeds $2,000,000.00 $5.00" … "Residential Construction: (value per square foot unless otherwise noted)" … "1 Floor Finished - Crawl Space $125.00" … "Deck (no Roof) $25.00" … "(value per square foot unless otherwise noted)" … "calculated as per the CONTRACT or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Application or plan review fee:** None set. The Fees and Charges Bylaw lists no separate application or plan review fee. - **Other fees:** Plumbing $50 base plus $10 per fixture; in-ground swimming pool $100; change of occupancy $100; demolition or moving $100; temporary building $100; failed-inspection re-inspection $50; permit renewal $100; manufactured home set-up $250 (single wide) or $350 (double wide). - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Plumbing - Base Rate $50.00" … "Plumbing - Per Plumbing Fixture* $10.00" … "In-Ground Swimming Pool $100.00" … "Demolition/Moving $100.00" … "Re-inspection (failed inspection) $50.00" … "Building Permit Renewal $100.00" … "Single Wide $250.00" … "Double Wide $350.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to pay:** Fees are due once the building permit is issued. The Town does not state a payment method for building permit fees. - Source: [https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/Building%20Permit%20Application-2024.pdf, Construction Value section of the Building Permit Application form](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/Building%20Permit%20Application-2024.pdf) - Official wording: "Fees are as per Town of Creston Fees and Charges Bylaw, No.1763 and due once building permit is issued." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, 2011, Schedule 3 (Building Permit Fees) and Schedule 3A (Construction Values) - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Part 1 and Schedules 3, 3A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "This bylaw may be cited as Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, 2011." … "Schedule 3 - Building Permit and Inspection Services" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Building permit fees are set in Schedule 3 of the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf), not in the Building Bylaw. The fee is $100 when the value of the work does not exceed $5,000, plus applicable taxes. Above that it is $10 for each additional $1,000 (or part) up to $2,000,000, then $5 per $1,000. Schedule 3A lists construction values per square foot (for example $125 for finished floor on a crawl space and $25 for an uncovered deck). Commercial work uses the contract or tendered cost. Other fees in Schedule 3: - Plumbing: $50 base plus $10 per fixture - In-ground swimming pool: $100 - Change of occupancy: $100 - Demolition or moving: $100 - Temporary building: $100 - Re-inspection after a failed inspection: $50 - Permit renewal: $100 - Manufactured home set-up: $250 (single wide) or $350 (double wide) - Remove notice on title: $750 - Occupancy load calculation: $100 ## Steps 1. Ask the Building Department which fees apply to your project (250-428-2214 or building@creston.ca). 2. Submit your application. No separate application or plan-review fee is listed. 3. Pay the fee once the permit is issued. The Town does not state a payment method for permit fees. ## Good to know - The Building Bylaw (s. 9.4) reduces permit fees by 10%, to a maximum of $300, where a coordinating registered professional is retained. - Refunds are only on written request within six months of issue, if no work has started, less the greater of $25 or 25% of the fee. - A cancelled permit can be re-issued at 50% of the new fee or $100, whichever is greater. ## Official forms and pages - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - [Apply for a Building Permit, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) ## Related questions - [Creston building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit.md) - [Creston permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Creston secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/secondary-suite.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/building-permit-fees.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/building-permit-fees.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/building-permit-fees.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/building-permit-fees.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/building-permit-fees.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/building-permit-fees.md) ## Sources - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Apply for a Building Permit, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/apply-building-permit) (read 2026-11-06) - [https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/Building%20Permit%20Application-2024.pdf](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/Building%20Permit%20Application-2024.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 6 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit-fees/_ --- --- title: "Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows" question: "How do I find out how my property is zoned in Creston and what I can build on it?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.json" --- # Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows **Question:** How do I find out how my property is zoned in Creston and what I can build on it? **Short answer:** Find your lot on the Zoning Map (Schedule A of Zoning Bylaw No. 1958), which is part of the bylaw on the Town website. Each zone sets permitted uses, lot size, density, coverage, setbacks and heights. Ask Development Services if unsure. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Free to look up; no fee is stated for asking. **How long:** The Town states no turnaround time for zoning questions. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Email: Development Services, communityservices@creston.ca ## Key facts - **How to find your zone:** Find your lot on the Zoning Map (Schedule A of the Zoning Bylaw), which is part of the bylaw posted on the Town website. The Town's new-home page refers owners to the Zoning Bylaw and Zoning Map. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 7.0.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "The location of the Zones established by this Bylaw are as shown on the current Zoning Map of the Town of Creston (Schedule A)" - Source: [Building permit: new home, New Home page](https://www.creston.ca/node/417) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No.1958 and Zoning Map" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022, consolidated to June 16, 2026 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), cover and s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "Consolidated to June 16, 2026" … "This Bylaw may be cited as "Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What the zone controls:** For each zone: permitted principal and accessory uses, minimum lot area and frontage, density, lot coverage, setbacks, maximum heights and usable open space. Example, R1: lot area 333 sq. m., 50% coverage. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 7.2 R1 zone](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "7.2.2 PERMITTED USES" … "7.2.3.1 Minimum Lot Area: 333 sq. m." … "7.2.3.4 Maximum Lot Coverage: 50%" … "7.2.4 MINIMUM SETBACKS" … "7.2.5 MAXIMUM HEIGHT" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** Development Services at Town Hall, 250-428-2214; communityservices@creston.ca. The Municipal Services Coordinator & Planner is listed in the contact directory. - Source: [Contact Directory](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) - Official wording: "Natasha Ewashen | Municipal Services Coordinator & Planner" … "Development Services" … "250-428-2214" - Source: [Development Permits, Development Permits page](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) - Official wording: "For more informations contact communityservices@creston.ca." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Creston's zones are set in the [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (consolidated to June 16, 2026). The Zoning Map is Schedule A of that bylaw, and the Town's new-home page refers owners to the Zoning Bylaw and Zoning Map. An online zone lookup tool could not be confirmed. The zones are AG, R1, R3, R4, R5, R6 (R2 is deleted), CDC, CG, CHS, CN, CDNW, IG, IH, CU and RC. For each zone the bylaw lists permitted principal and accessory uses, minimum lot area and frontage, density, lot coverage, setbacks, maximum heights and usable open space. For example, R1 has a minimum lot area of 333 sq. m. and 50% coverage. Parts 3 to 6 add general rules on setbacks, home occupations, parking and fences. ## Steps 1. Open the Zoning Bylaw and find your lot on the Zoning Map (Schedule A). 2. Read the section for that zone, then Parts 3 to 6. 3. Contact Development Services at Town Hall (250-428-2214, communityservices@creston.ca) to confirm. The Municipal Services Coordinator & Planner is listed in the [contact directory](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0). ## Good to know - The OCP can add development permit requirements, for example in mapped wildfire or environmentally sensitive areas (see the [Development Permits](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) page). - Zoning rules apply in addition to the Building Bylaw and the BC Building Code. ## Zones 15 zones are listed from [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning/index.json ## Official forms and pages - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit.md) - [Creston fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fence-rules.md) - [Creston secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/secondary-suite.md) - [Creston home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/home-based-business.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/zoning-lookup.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/zoning-lookup.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/zoning-lookup.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/zoning-lookup.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/zoning-lookup.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/zoning-lookup.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building permit: new home, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/417) (read 2026-11-06) - [Contact Directory, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) (read 2026-11-06) - [Development Permits, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup/_ --- --- title: Creston secondary suite and carriage house rules question: "Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/secondary-suite/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/secondary-suite.json" --- # Creston secondary suite and carriage house rules **Question:** Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house in Creston? **Short answer:** Yes. In Creston a secondary suite is allowed in the AG, R1 and R5 zones, and a detached unit (garden or carriage suite) in R1, R5 and AG. An attached suite is limited to the lesser of 75.0 sq. m. or 40% of the home. You need a building permit. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Building permit fees apply (see building-permit-fees); no separate suite fee is stated. **How long:** The Town states no processing time. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Email: Building Department, building@creston.ca - Email: Development Services, communityservices@creston.ca ## Key facts - **Secondary suite allowed:** Yes, as an accessory use in the AG, R1 and R5 zones (and in the Northwest Boulevard CDNW zone, limited to a single family dwelling). The zoning bylaw defines a secondary suite as an attached accessory dwelling unit contained within the principal building. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 2 definitions; s. 4.5.1; zone sections 7.1, 7.2, 7.6](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "Secondary suite: means an Attached accessory dwelling unit, which must be contained within the Lot's Principal building." … "An Attached accessory dwelling unit may only be located in a principal Single family dwelling." … "vi. Secondary suite." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 7.2.2.2 (R1)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "Attached accessory dwelling unit." … "Community care facility, only within a Single family dwelling." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** Yes, as a Detached accessory dwelling unit (which may include a garden suite or carriage suite) in the R1, R5 and AG zones. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 2 definitions; zone sections 7.1.2.2, 7.2.2.2, 7.6.2.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "Detached accessory dwelling unit: means an Accessory dwelling unit that is unattached to the Lot's Principal building. May include a Garden suite or Carriage suite." … "iv. Detached accessory dwelling unit." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** Attached unit: only in a single family dwelling, at most the lesser of 75.0 sq. m. or 40% of the principal dwelling's floor area. Detached unit: lesser of 75.0 sq. m. or 60%, at least 3.0 m from the principal dwelling. R1 allows 3 dwelling units per lot (4 on lots over 280 sq. m.); R5 allows 2. No owner-occupancy rule found. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 4.5.1, 4.6.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "The maximum floor area of an Attached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed the lesser of 75.0 sq. m. or 40 percent of the Gross floor area of the principal Dwelling." … "The maximum floor area of a Detached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed the lesser of 75.0 sq. m. or 60 percent of the Gross floor area of the principal Dwelling." … "The minimum separation between a principal Dwelling unit and a Detached accessory dwelling unit shall be 3.0 metres." … "7.6.3.3 Maximum Density: 2 Dwelling units per" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Parking:** One additional on-site parking space for each attached or detached accessory dwelling unit, on top of the spaces required for the principal dwelling. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 4.5.1 (iii), 4.6.1 (iii)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "One (1) additional on-site parking space per Attached accessory dwelling unit is required in addition to those required for the principal Dwelling unit." … "One (1) additional on-site parking space per Detached accessory dwelling unit is required in addition to those required for the principal Dwelling unit." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permits:** A building permit (application form, owner's authorization, title, scaled drawings and site plan). A development permit is also needed first if the lot is in a mapped wildfire or environmentally sensitive area, unless an exception applies, such as alterations completely within the interior of a building. Check with staff. - Source: [Building permit: secondary suite, Secondary Suites page](https://www.creston.ca/node/419) - Official wording: "Building Permit Application Form" … "State of Title, current within last 30 days" - Source: [Development Permits, Development Permits page](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) - Official wording: "Building Permits will not be issued in these areas without an active Development Permit." - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, OCP Part VI s. 1.1 exceptions](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) - Official wording: "Alterations which are completely within the interior of the building;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (s. 4.5, 4.6 and zone sections); Building Bylaw Number 1394, 1997 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022"." - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited for all purposes as the "Building Bylaw Number 1394, 1997"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) defines a secondary suite as an attached accessory dwelling unit contained within the principal building. Attached units are allowed as an accessory use in the AG, R1 and R5 zones, and in the Northwest Boulevard (CDNW) zone, where limited to a single family dwelling. A detached accessory dwelling unit (which may include a garden suite or carriage suite) is allowed in R1, R5 and AG. R3, R4 and R6 do not list one. Limits: - Attached unit: only in a single family dwelling, at most the lesser of 75.0 sq. m. or 40% of the principal dwelling's floor area. - Detached unit: the lesser of 75.0 sq. m. or 60%, at least 3.0 m from the principal dwelling. - R1 allows 3 dwelling units per lot (4 on lots over 280 sq. m.), one of which may be detached. R5 allows 2. - Detached heights: R1 7.5 m; R5 garden suite 5.0 m, carriage suite 6.1 m. - Parking: one additional on-site space for each attached or detached unit, on top of the spaces for the principal dwelling. - No owner-occupancy rule was found for suites. ## Steps 1. Check your zone in the Zoning Bylaw (see zoning-lookup). 2. Check the [Development Permits](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) page. A development permit is needed first if the lot is in a mapped wildfire or environmentally sensitive area, unless an exception applies, such as alterations completely within a building's interior. Check with staff. 3. Apply for a building permit using the [secondary suite checklist](https://www.creston.ca/node/419): application form, owner's authorization, title, scaled drawings and site plan. 4. Book inspections as for any building permit. ## Good to know - The Town's page links two advisory documents for suites in new and existing single-family dwellings. - A business licence is needed if you rent units as a business: four or more units on your principal-residence property, or two or more elsewhere (see business-licence). ## Official forms and pages - [Building permit: secondary suite, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/419) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit.md) - [Creston building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit-fees.md) - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) - [Creston short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/short-term-rental.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Secondary suite and carriage house rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/secondary-suite.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/secondary-suite.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/secondary-suite.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/secondary-suite.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/secondary-suite.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/secondary-suite.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/secondary-suite.md) ## Sources - [Building permit: secondary suite, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/node/419) (read 2026-11-06) - [Development Permits, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building Bylaw No. 1394, 1997 (PDF, consolidated to June 28, 2022)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Building-1394.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/secondary-suite/_ --- --- title: Creston tree removal rules and permits question: "Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/tree-removal/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/tree-removal.json" --- # Creston tree removal rules and permits **Question:** Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property in Creston? **Short answer:** Creston has no tree-cutting bylaw. But clearing land in the mapped wildfire and environmentally sensitive areas can need a development permit under the Official Community Plan. Ask Town staff before cutting even one tree. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** No tree permit fee. A development permit, if needed, costs $200 (value under $100,000) or $500 (over $100,000). **How long:** The Town states no processing time. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Email: Development Services, communityservices@creston.ca ## Key facts - **When a permit is needed:** The Town has no tree-cutting bylaw. But the OCP counts land alteration, which includes clearing (vegetation removal), as development needing a development permit in the Wildfire Protection and Environmentally Sensitive (Dodd's Creek, Glaser-King Creeks) areas shown on Schedule B, unless an exception applies. Ask staff about a single tree. - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, Part VI Development Permit Areas, introduction; Definitions](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) - Official wording: "c) land within an area designated under Section 488 (1)(a) or (b) [natural environment, hazardous conditions] must not be altered;" … "clearing (the act of vegetation removal from the land surface)" … "shall be subject to approval for Development Permit in accordance" - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, DPA 1 s. 2.1; DPA 2 s. 3.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) - Official wording: "All development within those areas designated as Wildfire Protection DPA" … "All development within those areas designated as Environmentally Sensitive Lands" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exemptions:** In DPA 1 and 2, no permit is needed for: temporary emergency procedures against immediate threats to life or property (owner notifies the Town); removing invasive non-native vegetation without pesticides (owner notifies the Town); restoration planting; municipal works; ALR farm use with a farm plan. DPA 2 only: under 20% of the lot within 15 m of a watercourse and no land alteration within 60 m. - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, Part VI, Exceptions s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) - Official wording: "Development Permits are not required for DPA 1 or DPA 2 under the following conditions:" … "Removal of invasive non-native vegetation provided that removal does not include the use of pesticides" … "For DPA 2 only, where less than 20% of the Property is located within 15m of the Natural Boundary" … "Temporary emergency procedures to" … "prevent, control or reduce flooding, erosion" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** Development permit fee: $200 (value under $100,000) or $500 (over $100,000). No separate tree permit fee exists. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 7A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Development Permit < $100,000 value $200.00 >$100,000 value $500.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Replacement trees:** No tree-specific replacement rule. A development permit in the environmentally sensitive area needs a landscape plan showing trees and vegetation to be planted or retained, and the Town may attach conditions including security. - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, OCP DPA 2 s. 3.3.6; Part VI Introduction](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) - Official wording: "Particular attention shall be given" … "to vegetation or trees to be planted or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **City trees:** On streets, only an authorized Town officer or employee may dig up, remove, injure or destroy trees, flowers or shrubbery. In parks and other public spaces no one may deface, damage or destroy a natural feature (Bylaw No. 2030 s. 6.3.5). - Source: [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546, Part 8, s. 24](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf) - Official wording: "No person other than a duly authorized Officer or employee of the Town acting in pursuance of his duties shall dig up or in any manner remove, injure or destroy any trees, flower, foliage" - Source: [Parks, Trails and Public Spaces Bylaw No. 2030, s. 6.3, 6.3.5](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) - Official wording: "deface, damage, break, destroy, or impair any property, structure, or natural" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Removing trees or foliage on a street: $75 bylaw notice ($50 if paid early, $100 late). No ticket specific to cutting trees on private land was found. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546, Part 8 s. 24](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "Remove trees or foliage $75.00 $50.00 $100.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** No tree bylaw. Development permit rules are in Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, 2017 (Part VI); street trees are covered by Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546. - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) - Official wording: "This bylaw may be cited as “Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, 2017”." - Source: [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546, Part 8, s. 24](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf) - Official wording: "No person other than a duly authorized Officer or employee of the Town" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The Town has no tree-cutting bylaw, and the zoning bylaw has no tree rules. The [Official Community Plan No. 1854](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) (Part VI) counts "land alteration", which includes clearing (vegetation removal), as development needing a development permit in the Wildfire Protection area and the Environmentally Sensitive areas (Dodd's Creek and Glaser-King Creeks) shown on Schedule B, unless an exception applies. Whether one tree counts is a question for staff. In those areas, no permit is needed for: - temporary emergency steps against an immediate threat to life or property (the owner notifies the Town) - removing invasive non-native vegetation without pesticides (the owner notifies the Town) - restoration planting - municipal works - farm use in the ALR with a farm plan - in the Environmentally Sensitive area only: under 20% of the lot within 15 m of a watercourse and no land alteration within 60 m ## Steps 1. Ask Development Services (250-428-2214, communityservices@creston.ca) whether your lot is in a mapped development permit area. 2. If it is, apply for a development permit. It needs a landscape plan showing trees and vegetation to be planted or retained, and the Town may attach conditions including security. 3. Cut only after the permit is issued. ## Good to know - A development permit costs $200 (value under $100,000) or $500 (over $100,000). There is no separate tree permit fee. - On streets, only an authorized Town officer or employee may dig up, remove, injure or destroy trees, flowers or shrubbery ([Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf)). Removing trees or foliage on a street is a $75 bylaw notice ($50 if paid early, $100 late). In parks no one may deface, damage or destroy a natural feature ([Bylaw No. 2030](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) s. 6.3.5). - No ticket specific to cutting trees on private land was found. A conviction under the Building Bylaw is $2,500 to $10,000 but is not specific to trees. ## Official forms and pages - [Development Permits, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) - [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) - [Creston building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/building-permit.md) - [Creston unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/unsightly-property.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/tree-removal.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/tree-removal.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/tree-removal.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/tree-removal.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/tree-removal.md) - [Castlegar](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/castlegar/tree-removal.md) ## Sources - [Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Official%20Community%20Plan-1854.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Development Permits, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/development-permits) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Parks, Trails and Public Spaces Bylaw No. 2030 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/tree-removal/_ --- --- title: "Creston garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits" question: "When is garbage collected in Creston, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/garbage-collection/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/garbage-collection.json" --- # Creston garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits **Question:** When is garbage collected in Creston, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags? **Short answer:** In Creston, garbage is collected bi-weekly, alternating with recycling. Food waste is collected weekly. The Town does not supply a garbage cart; use your own container (120 L maximum) or bags. The 2026 solid waste fee is $157 for a house. Check the Creston Recycles app for your day. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** 2026 annual solid waste fee: residential $157; secondary suite $93; commercial $130. Rises to $163 in 2027. 3% discount if paid in full by January 31. Extra bags need a $2 tag from Town Hall. **How long:** Collection is between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on your day. Pay the fee by December 31. **Where:** - Online: Garbage page, https://www.creston.ca/garbage - Phone: Tip-It Waste Solutions (missed pickup), 250-428-9887 (Call if collection has not happened by 4:30 p.m.) - In person: Town Hall (tags, replacement bins), 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 ## Key facts - **How often:** Garbage is collected bi-weekly, alternating with recycling. Food waste is collected weekly. Yard waste is collected three times a year. - Source: [Garbage, Garbage page](https://www.creston.ca/garbage) - Official wording: "Garbage is collected bi-weekly (alternating with recycling)." - Source: [Recycling, Recycling page](https://www.creston.ca/recycling) - Official wording: "Recycling is collected bi-weekly (alternating with garbage)." - Source: [Organics/Food Waste, Organics/Food Waste page](https://www.creston.ca/organicsfood-waste) - Official wording: "Food Waste will be collected weekly in a 45L Town-supplied Green Bin." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Finding your day:** Use the Creston Recycles app (Apple App Store or Google Play) for your collection schedule and reminders. Collection happens between 7:00 AM and 4:30 PM on your day. - Source: [Curbside Program Guide 2025](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/Curbside%20Program%20Guide%202025.pdf) - Official wording: "Set up email or phone reminders." … "collection day! Download the Creston Recycles app from the" - Source: [Overview, FAQs and Waste Wizard, Overview, FAQ and Waste Wizard page](https://www.creston.ca/overview-faqs-and-waste-wizard) - Official wording: "Collection may take place any time between 7:00 AM and 4:30 PM on your collection day." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Carts:** No garbage cart is supplied: residents use their own container (120 L maximum) or bags. The Town supplies a food waste bin (bylaw: 45 L) and a recycling container (bylaw: 83 L). Replacements at Town Hall: 46 L Green Bin $35, 60 L Blue Box $15 (the fee schedule's sizes differ from the bylaw's). (Sources differ: The Fees and Charges Bylaw lists the blue box as 60 L while the Solid Waste bylaw says the recycling container is 83 L. A garbage container must have a watertight lid or bags must be securely tied, and all garbage must be bagged (s. 5.7).) - Source: [Garbage, Garbage page](https://www.creston.ca/garbage) - Official wording: "Residents supply their own garbage containers/bags." - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, s. 5.2.12](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "The Town shall provide each Curbside Household with one (1) 45L Food Waste Container" … "and one (1) 83L Recyclables Container." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedules 1 and 10, Schedule 10, Solid Waste Fees](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "46L Green Bin $35.00" … "60L Blue Boxes $15.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Setting carts out:** Put containers at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on collection day, but not before 5:00 a.m.; bring them in before 9:00 p.m. Place them as close to the curb as possible without blocking traffic. - Source: [Garbage, Garbage page](https://www.creston.ca/garbage) - Official wording: "Place bags or containers at the curb before 7:00 am on your collection day." - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, ss. 5.1.8, 5.1.9](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "No Container shall be placed for collection prior to 5:00 a.m. on the day of scheduled" … "No Container shall be left on the curbside past 9:00 p.m. on the day of scheduled collection." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits and extra garbage:** One garbage container (120 L maximum, under 50 lbs) or two regular black bags (65 x 83 cm, up to 25 lbs each) every second week. Extra bags need a $2 tag from Town Hall. Secondary suites get 26 tags a year and one tagged bag per collection. - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, ss. 5.2.5(b), 5.2.6, 5.3.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "Maximum of one (1) Garbage Container (120L max.) OR 2 regular size black" … "garbage bags (65cm x 83cm) every second week;" … "shall be issued 26 Garbage Collection Tags per unit" - Source: [Garbage, Garbage page](https://www.creston.ca/garbage) - Official wording: "garbage tags can be obtained from Town Hall for $2.00 each." … "not exceeding 50lbs; or" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedules 1 and 10, Schedule 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Tag for additional container for residential $2.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** Annual solid waste fee for 2026: residential (single and multi-family) $157; secondary suite $93; commercial $130. Rises to $163 in 2027. Pay by December 31; 3% discount if paid in full by January 31. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedules 1 and 10, Schedule 10, Solid Waste Fees (consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Residential $157.00 $163.00 $170.00 $176.00 $184.00" … "Secondary Suites $93.00 $96.00 $100.00 $103.00 $109.00" … "Commercial $130.00 $135.00 $141.00 $146.00 $153.00" - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, ss. 7.3, 7.4](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "A discount of 3% shall be deducted from the rates set out in “Schedule 10 – Solid Waste" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, 2022 - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations" … "Bylaw No. 1959, 2022" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Garbage is collected bi-weekly, alternating with recycling, by Tip-It Waste Solutions for the Town. Food waste is collected weekly and yard waste three times a year. Use the Creston Recycles app (Apple App Store or Google Play) for your schedule and reminders. The rules are in the [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959](). Fees are in Schedule 10 of the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763](). ## Steps 1. Put containers at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on collection day, but not before 5:00 a.m. Bring them in before 9:00 p.m. Place them as close to the curb as possible without blocking traffic. 2. Put out one garbage container (120 L maximum, under 50 lbs) or two regular black bags (65 x 83 cm, up to 25 lbs each) every second week. 3. Bag all garbage. A container needs a watertight lid, or the bags must be securely tied. Loose material is not collected. 4. For extra bags, buy a $2 tag at Town Hall. Secondary suites get 26 tags a year and one tagged bag per collection. ## Good to know - No garbage cart is supplied. The Town supplies a food waste bin and a recycling container. Replacements at Town Hall: 46 L Green Bin $35, 60 L Blue Box $15. The bylaw gives a food waste bin of 45 L and a recycling container of 83 L, so the sizes differ. - The annual fee is mandatory for eligible households and billed even if unused. The 2026 fee is residential $157, secondary suite $93 and commercial $130, rising to $163 for residential in 2027. - If garbage is missed, call Tip-It Waste Solutions at 250-428-9887 after 4:30 p.m. You can also take it to the Creston Landfill, 1501 Mallory Road, for $3.75 per 120 L container. The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) runs the landfill. - A ticket for a container out before 5:00 a.m. or left after 9:00 p.m. is $50 ($25 early, $75 late), but the ticket schedule cites the repealed Solid Waste Bylaw No. 1900. Ask the Town to confirm. - Holidays may change the schedule. ## Official forms and pages - [Curbside Program Guide 2025 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/Curbside%20Program%20Guide%202025.pdf) - [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/yard-waste.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) - [Creston backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-fire.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/garbage-collection.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/garbage-collection.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/garbage-collection.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/garbage-collection.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/garbage-collection.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/garbage-collection.md) ## Sources - [Garbage, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/garbage) (read 2026-11-06) - [Recycling, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/recycling) (read 2026-11-06) - [Organics/Food Waste, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/organicsfood-waste) (read 2026-11-06) - [Overview, FAQs and Waste Wizard, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/overview-faqs-and-waste-wizard) (read 2026-11-06) - [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedules 1 and 10 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Curbside Program Guide 2025 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/Curbside%20Program%20Guide%202025.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Resource Recovery Facilities, RDCK](https://www.rdck.ca/environmental-services/resourcerecovery/rrfacilities/) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/garbage-collection/_ --- --- title: Creston yard waste collection and drop-off question: "Where does yard waste and brush go in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: shared sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/yard-waste/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/yard-waste.json" --- # Creston yard waste collection and drop-off **Question:** Where does yard waste and brush go in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston, yard waste is collected at the curb three times a year by Public Works: one week in spring and two non-consecutive weeks in fall. You can also drop it off at Sullivan Stone for $2 a load, or at the RDCK Creston Landfill. Burning yard waste is banned at all times. **Who handles it:** More than one level of government **Cost:** Sullivan Stone $2 per load. RDCK Landfill: the going rate for Yard and Garden Waste, free in April and October only (set by the RDCK). No separate charge for the curbside pickups is stated. **How long:** Curbside dates are usually the week after the Easter long weekend, the week after the Thanksgiving long weekend, and the full week after Remembrance Day, weather permitting. **Where:** - Online: Yard Waste page, https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste - Phone: Town Hall (if your pickup is missed), 250-428-2214 - In person: Sullivan Stone, 501 Helen Street, Creston, BC (Monday to Friday during regular business hours) - In person: RDCK Creston Landfill, 1501 Mallory Road, Creston, BC (Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed statutory holidays (RDCK hours as of August 1, 2026; confirm with the RDCK)) ## Key facts - **Curbside collection:** Yes. Collected three times a year by Public Works: one week in spring and two non-consecutive weeks in fall. Usually the week after the Easter long weekend, the week after the Thanksgiving long weekend, and the full week after Remembrance Day (weather permitting). Use rigid weather-proof containers or Kraft paper bags. - Source: [Yard Waste, Yard Waste page](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) - Official wording: "Yard waste is collected three times a year once in the spring and twice in the fall by the Public Works crew." … "Spring: the week immediately following the Easter long weekend." … "Fall pickup #1: the week immediately following the Thanksgiving long weekend." … "Fall pickup #2: the full week immediately following Remembrance Day." - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, Part 6, s. 6.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "Three times per year, for one week in the Spring and for two, non-consecutive, weeks in" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to set it out:** Containers or Kraft paper bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each, unlimited number. Branches up to 15 cm (6 in) thick, cut into 1 m lengths and bundled. No plastic bags. Keep separate from the other containers at the curb. - Source: [Yard Waste, Yard Waste page](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) - Official wording: "Each Yard Waste container/ bag can weigh up to 50 lbs (23 kg)." … "Plastic bags are not permitted and will not be picked up." - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, s. 6.1(a), (c), (e)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "branches and prunings, a maximum of 15 cm (6”) in diameter must be cut into 1 metre" … "no plastic bags will be accepted;" … "Yard Waste must be placed in a separate location than Containers on the property" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Drop-off:** Sullivan Stone, 501 Helen Street: leaves, grass clippings, soil and plants (no branches or wood), Monday to Friday during regular business hours. RDCK Creston Landfill, 1501 Mallory Road: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed statutory holidays (hours as of August 1, 2026). - Source: [Yard Waste, Yard Waste page](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) - Official wording: "Yard and garden waste is accepted at Sullivan Stone for $2 per load - 501 Helen Street." … "NO branches or wood products." … "Monday to Friday, during regular business hours." … "Yard waste can also be taken to the RDCK Landfill (1501 Mallory Road) at any time during their normal" - Source: [Resource Recovery Facilities, RDCK, RDCK Facility Operating Hours, Creston Landfill](https://www.rdck.ca/environmental-services/resourcerecovery/rrfacilities/) - Official wording: "Tuesday to Saturday | 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (PST Pacific Standard Time)" … "Closed on all Statutory Holidays" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cost:** Sullivan Stone: $2 per load. RDCK Landfill: the going rate for Yard and Garden Waste, but free in April and October only (set by the RDCK). - Source: [Yard Waste, Yard Waste page](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) - Official wording: "accepted at Sullivan Stone for $2 per load" … "During the months of April and October (only) the Creston Landfill accepts Yard & Garden Waste for FREE." … "Yard waste taken to the landfill will be charged at the going rate for ‘Yard and Garden Waste’." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not accepted:** Curbside: plastic bags, non-compostable material, branches over 15 cm (6 in) wide, and branches or prunings longer than 1 m. Sullivan Stone: no branches or wood products. - Source: [Yard Waste, Yard Waste page](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) - Official wording: "Branches wider than 15cm (6") will not be accepted." … "Plastic bags are not permitted and will not be picked up." - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, s. 6.1(d)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "no non-compostable material will be picked up; and," - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, 2022 (Part 6) - Source: [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) - Official wording: "Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations" … "Bylaw No. 1959, 2022" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The Town collects yard waste at the curb three times a year: one week in spring and two non-consecutive weeks in fall. Dates are subject to change due to weather, and actual dates are announced in Town news. The rules are in Part 6 of the [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959](). The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) runs the Creston Landfill. ## Steps 1. Put yard waste out by 7:00 a.m. in rigid weather-proof containers or Kraft paper bags, up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each. There is no limit on the number. 2. Cut branches up to 15 cm (6 in) thick into 1 m lengths and bundle them. 3. Keep yard waste separate from garbage, food waste and recycling at the curb. 4. If your pickup is missed, call Town Hall at 250-428-2214. ## Good to know - Not accepted at the curb: plastic bags, non-compostable material, branches over 15 cm (6 in) wide, and branches or prunings longer than 1 m. - Sullivan Stone, 501 Helen Street, takes leaves, grass clippings, soil and plants (no branches or wood), Monday to Friday during regular business hours, for $2 per load. - The RDCK Creston Landfill, 1501 Mallory Road, takes yard waste Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed statutory holidays (hours as of August 1, 2026). It is free in April and October only; otherwise the going rate for Yard and Garden Waste applies. Check the RDCK for current hours and rates. - Do not burn yard waste. The Open Burning Bylaw bans it at all times, even though the Town's permit page still lists leaves and weeds. ## Official forms and pages - [Yard Waste, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) - [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/garbage-collection.md) - [Creston backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-fire.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/yard-waste.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/yard-waste.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/yard-waste.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/yard-waste.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/yard-waste.md) - [Castlegar](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/castlegar/yard-waste.md) ## Sources - [Yard Waste, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) (read 2026-11-06) - [Solid Waste Management and Curbside Collection Regulations Bylaw No. 1959 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Solid%20Waste%20Management%20and%20Curbside%20Collection%20Regulations-1959.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Resource Recovery Facilities, RDCK](https://www.rdck.ca/environmental-services/resourcerecovery/rrfacilities/) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with any government. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/yard-waste/_ --- --- title: Creston watering restrictions question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Water, sewer, roads and snow owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/water-restrictions/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/water-restrictions.json" --- # Creston watering restrictions **Question:** Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions in Creston? **Short answer:** Yes. In Creston, Stage 1 watering restrictions apply every year from June 1 to September 30. In Stage 1, lawns may be watered only between 7 p.m. and 10 a.m. The Works Superintendent can impose stricter Stages 2, 3 and 4. Breaking the rules is a $275 bylaw notice. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice for using water against the restrictions $275 ($250 if paid within 14 days, $300 if paid late). **How long:** Stage 1 applies every year from June 1 to September 30. Stages 2, 3 and 4 are imposed on notice. **Where:** - Online: Water Restrictions page, https://www.creston.ca/water-restrictions - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 ## Key facts - **When restrictions apply:** Stage 1 applies every year from June 1 to September 30. The Works Superintendent may impose Stages 2, 3 and 4 on notice, based on system demand, rainfall, reservoir capacity, weather and groundwater or stream levels. - Source: [Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439 (consolidated to December 17, 2024), s. 2.04](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/Water%20Rates%20%26%20Regulations-1439.pdf) - Official wording: "Stage 1 shall go into effect on June 1 st and continue until" … "September 30th in each year." … "may impose" … "Stage 2, 3 and 4 of the Water Restrictions prescribed in Schedule “D” of this Bylaw." - Source: [Water Restrictions, Water Restrictions page](https://www.creston.ca/water-restrictions) - Official wording: "These measures establish the mandatory restrictions of outdoor water use from June 1st until September 30th annually." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Sprinkling schedule:** Stage 1: lawns only between 7 p.m. and 10 a.m.. Stage 2: lawns only 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.. Stages 3 and 4: lawn watering prohibited. Gardens, trees and shrubs follow the same hours in Stages 1 and 2 and are prohibited in Stage 4 (Stage 3 keeps the Stage 2 hours). - Source: [Water Restrictions chart, Water Restrictions chart (cites Bylaw 1439, s. 2.04 and Schedule D)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Water%20Restrictions.pdf) - Official wording: "Watering of lawns" … "7 pm - 10 am" … "6 am – 10 am, and" … "8 pm – 10 pm" … "Prohibited" - Source: [Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439 (consolidated to December 17, 2024), Schedule D](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/Water%20Rates%20%26%20Regulations-1439.pdf) - Official wording: "2.03 Disposal and Waste of Water ......................................................................................... 5 2.04 Water Use Restrictions ................................................................................................... 5 2.05 Back Flow Prevention ..................................................................................................... 6" … "SCHEDULE "D" Water Use Restrictions BL#1841 Mandatory Restrictions Activity Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Allowed at any time:** Drip irrigation, a watering can, or a hand-held hose that eliminates over-spray may be used at any time. Drip emitters must use under 7.6 L an hour at under 20 psi; soaker hoses and micro sprayers do not count. - Source: [Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439 (consolidated to December 17, 2024), Schedule D](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/Water%20Rates%20%26%20Regulations-1439.pdf) - Official wording: "Watering using drip irrigation*, a watering can, and or hand held hose, which" … "eliminates over-spray is permitted at any time." … "This does not include soaker hoses or micro sprayers." - Source: [Water Restrictions chart](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Water%20Restrictions.pdf) - Official wording: "Watering using drip irrigation*, a watering can, and or hand held hose, which" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **New lawns:** New lawns (seed within 45 days or sod within 21 days of installation) may be watered Stage 1 between 7 p.m. and 10 a.m., Stages 2 and 3 between 6-10 a.m. and 8-10 p.m., and not in Stage 4 unless the Works Superintendent permits. - Source: [Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439 (consolidated to December 17, 2024), Schedule D](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/Water%20Rates%20%26%20Regulations-1439.pdf) - Official wording: "Watering of new" … "(seed within 45 days" … "and sod within 21 days" … "Except where" - Source: [Water Restrictions chart](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Water%20Restrictions.pdf) - Official wording: "Watering of new lawns" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: use of water contrary to restrictions $275 ($250 if paid within 14 days; $300 if paid late). Improper use or waste of water is also $275. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1439 2.04 Use of water contrary to restrictions $275.00 $250.00 $300.00 Yes" … "1439 2.03 Improper use of water or waste of water $275.00 $250.00 $300.00 Yes" - Source: [Water Restriction Brochure](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-05/Water%20Restriction%20Brochure.pdf) - Official wording: "Customers who violate water restrictions may be" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439, 1998 (s. 2.04 and Schedule D) - Source: [Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439 (consolidated to December 17, 2024), title](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/Water%20Rates%20%26%20Regulations-1439.pdf) - Official wording: "December 17, 2024 BYLAW 1439 A Bylaw to regulate the operation, maintenance, and use of the Town's waterworks system." … "2.03 Disposal and Waste of Water ......................................................................................... 5 2.04 Water Use Restrictions ................................................................................................... 5 2.05 Back Flow Prevention ..................................................................................................... 6" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439](), Stage 1 restrictions apply every year from June 1 to September 30. The Works Superintendent may impose Stages 2, 3 and 4 on notice, based on system demand, rainfall, reservoir capacity, weather and groundwater or stream levels. The hours apply every day; there is no odd/even-day schedule. - **Stage 1:** lawns only between 7 p.m. and 10 a.m. - **Stage 2:** lawns only 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. - **Stages 3 and 4:** lawn watering prohibited. - **Gardens, trees and shrubs:** same hours as lawns in Stages 1 and 2, the Stage 2 hours in Stage 3, and prohibited in Stage 4. ## Steps 1. To find the current stage, check the Town's news feed on its home page, 94.1 JUICE FM, Facebook or Instagram. 2. Water only in the hours your stage allows. 3. For a new lawn, see the exception below. ## Good to know - Drip irrigation, a watering can, or a hand-held hose that eliminates over-spray may be used at any time. Drip emitters must use under 7.6 L an hour at under 20 psi; soaker hoses and micro sprayers do not count. - New lawns (seeded within 45 days or sodded within 21 days of installation) may be watered in Stage 1 between 7 p.m. and 10 a.m., in Stages 2 and 3 between 6 and 10 a.m. and 8 and 10 p.m., and not in Stage 4 unless the Works Superintendent permits. - Watering of commercial agricultural products is also allowed in Stages 1 to 3. - Using water contrary to the restrictions, or improper use or waste of water, is a $275 bylaw notice. ## Official forms and pages - [Water Restrictions chart (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Water%20Restrictions.pdf) - [Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/Water%20Rates%20%26%20Regulations-1439.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/water-restrictions.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/water-restrictions.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/water-restrictions.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/water-restrictions.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/water-restrictions.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/water-restrictions.md) ## Sources - [Water Restrictions, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/water-restrictions) (read 2026-11-06) - [Water Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 1439 (PDF) (consolidated to December 17, 2024)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/Water%20Rates%20%26%20Regulations-1439.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Water Restrictions chart (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Water%20Restrictions.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Water Restriction Brochure (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-05/Water%20Restriction%20Brochure.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/water-restrictions/_ --- --- title: "Creston dog licences: fees and how to get one" question: "How do I get a dog licence in Creston, and what does it cost?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-licence.json" --- # Creston dog licences: fees and how to get one **Question:** How do I get a dog licence in Creston, and what does it cost? **Short answer:** In Creston, the Town issues dog licences. Every dog over six months old needs one for the calendar year. A spayed or neutered dog costs $25 if bought by March 31 and $29 after that. A dog that is not costs $121 by March 31 and $127 after (taxes apply). **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Spayed or neutered: $25 by March 31, $29 after. Not spayed or neutered: $121 by March 31, $127 after. Taxes apply. A dog acquired or brought into the Town after August 31 pays half. Replacement tag $2. No charge for a special needs assistance animal, or for an adopted dog in the year of adoption. Fine for an unlicensed dog: $125. **How long:** Licences and tags expire on December 31 each year and must be renewed annually. **Where:** - Online: Pet Licences page (application form), https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences - Email: Email the completed Pet Licence Application, info@creston.ca - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 ## Key facts - **Licence required:** Yes. Every dog over six months old needs a licence for the current calendar year, unless it is kept in the Town for less than one month in that year. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, ss. 8.1, 8.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall own, keep, possess or harbour any dog over the age of six (6) months in the Town" … "does not apply to a dog that is kept in the Town for less than one (1) month in a calendar year" - Source: [Pet Licences, Pet Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences) - Official wording: "Dogs over the age of six months must have a valid pet licence." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Issued by:** The Town of Creston issues dog licences and numbered tags. - Source: [Pet Licences, Pet Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences) - Official wording: "Pets within the Town of Creston must have a valid pet licence issued by the Town." - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 8.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "the Town shall issue a numbered dog licence and corresponding licence tag for that licence" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $25 if bought by March 31; $29 after March 31 (neutered or spayed dog; taxes apply). (Sources differ: The Fees and Charges Bylaw (consolidated to May 12, 2026) is the current schedule. The Town's January 2025 news post shows older amounts ($20, $25 after March 31). A vet certificate or a solemn declaration is needed to get the neutered/spayed fee (Animal Care bylaw s. 8.10).) - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2, Schedule 2, Dog and Cat Licence Fees (consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Prior to After" … "March 31st March 31st" … "Dog or Cat – Neutered / Spayed $25.00 $29.00" … "(subject to applicable taxes)" - Source: [Pet licences are now due, Town news (January 8, 2025), Town news, January 8, 2025](https://www.creston.ca/town-news/2025-pet-licences-are-now-due) - Official wording: "Neutered $20 ($25 after March 31)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $121 if bought by March 31; $127 after March 31 (unneutered or unspayed dog; taxes apply). (Sources differ: The January 2025 news post shows older amounts ($105, $110 after March 31). The bylaw schedule is current.) - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2, Schedule 2, Dog and Cat Licence Fees (consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog or Cat – Unneutered / Unspayed $121.00 $127.00" - Source: [Pet licences are now due, Town news (January 8, 2025), Town news, January 8, 2025](https://www.creston.ca/town-news/2025-pet-licences-are-now-due) - Official wording: "Male – Unneutered $105 ($110 after March 31)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees and discounts:** A dog acquired or brought into the Town after August 31 pays half. Special needs assistance animal: no charge. Adopted dog (year of adoption, with PAWS or Town adoption letter): no charge. Replacement tag $2. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2, Schedule 2, Dog and Cat Licence Fees](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "The licence fee shall be reduced by fifty percent (50%) for any dog or cat acquired and/or" … "Special Needs Assistant Animal $0.00 $0.00" … "Adopted Dog or Cat* $0.00 $0.00" … "Replacement Tag $2.00 $2.00" … "a letter of adoption signed" - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 8.5](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "shall be reduced by one-half in respect of" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Licences and tags expire on December 31 each year and must be renewed annually. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 8.4](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "shall expire on the 31st day of December in the calendar year in which the licence was issued" - Source: [Pet Licences, Pet Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences) - Official wording: "Dog licences expire on the 31st of December each year and must be renewed annually." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to get one:** Complete the Pet Licence Application and email it to info@creston.ca, then pay the fee; or visit Town Hall. - Source: [Pet Licences, Pet Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences) - Official wording: "Completed forms can be emailed to info@creston.ca." - Source: [Pet licences are now due, Town news (January 8, 2025), Town news, January 8, 2025](https://www.creston.ca/town-news/2025-pet-licences-are-now-due) - Official wording: "Visit Town Hall to pay your bill or find out more." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, unlicensed dog:** Bylaw notice: $125 ($100 if paid within 14 days; $150 if paid late). Keeping a dog without a tag: $100 ($85 early, $115 late). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1826 8.1 No dog licence $125.00 $100.00 $150.00 YES" … "1826 8.6 No dog tag $100.00 $85.00 $115.00 YES" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015 (fees: Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2) - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, title, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Schedule of Dog and Cat Licence Fees" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The Town issues dog licences and numbered tags under the [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826](). Every dog over six months old needs a licence for the current calendar year, unless it is kept in the Town for less than one month in that year. Fees are in Schedule 2 of the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763](). ## Steps 1. Complete the Pet Licence Application from the Town's Pet Licences page. 2. Email it to info@creston.ca, or visit Town Hall, and pay the fee. 3. For the lower fee, give a veterinarian's certificate or a solemn declaration that the dog is spayed or neutered. 4. Attach the tag to the dog's collar, harness or other device. ## Good to know - Pay by March 31 to get the lower price. The fee goes up after that date. - A dog acquired or brought into the Town after August 31 pays half. - An unlicensed dog can bring a bylaw notice of $125 ($100 if paid within 14 days, $150 if paid late). Keeping a dog without a tag is $100 ($85 early, $115 late). - The Animal Control Officer may seize an unlicensed dog. - The Town's January 2025 news post shows older, lower fees. The bylaw schedule is the current one, so confirm the amount with Town Hall. - Licence fees help fund the Town's partnership with P.A.W.S. (Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society). ## Official forms and pages - [Pet Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences) - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-leash-rules.md) - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Creston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/how-many-pets.md) - [Creston rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/dog-licence.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/dog-licence.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/dog-licence.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/dog-licence.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/dog-licence.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/dog-licence.md) ## Sources - [Pet Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences) (read 2026-11-06) - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Pet licences are now due, Town news (January 8, 2025)](https://www.creston.ca/town-news/2025-pet-licences-are-now-due) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 9 of 9 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-licence/_ --- --- title: Creston dog leash rules and off-leash areas question: "Where can dogs be off leash in Creston, and what are the leash rules?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-leash-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-leash-rules.json" --- # Creston dog leash rules and off-leash areas **Question:** Where can dogs be off leash in Creston, and what are the leash rules? **Short answer:** In Creston, a dog in a public place must be on a leash, chain or tether (or in a carrier) and must not run at large. The only off-leash area is the Creston Dog Park at 1414 Cedar Street. Two Town bylaws set the leash length differently, at 183 cm and 2 m. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice for a dog at large is $100; a dog in a public place that is not leashed is $50. **How long:** The rules apply all year. **Where:** - Online: Creston Dog Park page, https://www.creston.ca/dog-park - Online: Bylaw Complaint Form (complaints and claims), https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 ## Key facts - **Leash rule:** In any public place a dog must be on a leash, chain or tether (or in a carrier) and must not be at large. Off leash only at the Creston Dog Park. Parks bylaw: keep control of the dog at all times in public spaces. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 7.1(b), (c), (d)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "be in a public place unless the dog or cat is in a carrier or kept on a leash, chain or tether not" … "be At Large in the Town" … "dogs are permitted to be off-leash at the Creston off-leash dog" - Source: [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030, s. 8.1.2, 8.1.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) - Official wording: "must maintain control of the dog at all times while on or in a Public Space;" … "must keep the dog on a leash not more than two metres in length at all times" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Maximum leash length:** Animal Care bylaw: no longer than 183 cm (6 feet). Parks bylaw: no more than 2 m in public spaces and Town parks. (Sources differ: The two bylaws set different maximums (183 cm vs 2 m). The Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030 is the newer one; the Animal Care copy is consolidated to February 13, 2024.) - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 7.1(c)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "exceeding 183 centimeters (6 feet) in length" - Source: [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030, s. 8.1.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) - Official wording: "must keep the dog on a leash not more than two metres in length at all times" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Off-leash areas:** Creston Dog Park, 1414 Cedar Street. Leash the dog when entering and leaving; the dog must be under the owner's immediate verbal control. - Source: [Dog Park, Dog Park page](https://www.creston.ca/dog-park) - Official wording: "Creston's off leash dog park is located at 1414 Cedar Street." … "Be attached to owner by a leash when entering and leaving the park" - Source: [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030, s. 8.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) - Official wording: "Creston Dog Park is designated a “Dog Off-Leash Park"." - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 7.1(d)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "any dog not under the immediate verbal control of its Owner/Person Responsible" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Places dogs are not allowed:** Animal Care bylaw: no dogs or cats in Centennial Park, Burns Park or Millennium Park. Parks bylaw: dogs only in designated on-leash parks (it lists Burns Park) and the off-leash park; other animals except guide or service dogs are barred from Town parks. (Sources differ: The two bylaws disagree about Burns Park: the Animal Care bylaw bans dogs there, while the newer Parks bylaw lists it as a Dog On-Leash Park. Other on-leash parks in s. 8.2: Dwight and Rosamond Moore Community Wetlands, Dodd's Creek Park, Schikurski Park, Downtown Green Space, Ken Huscroft Park and one park whose name is in Ktunaxa.) - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 7.1(e)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "no dogs or cats are permitted in Centennial Park, Burns Park or Millennium Park;" - Source: [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030, ss. 6.5, 8.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall bring an animal, other than a guide dog or service dog, into a Town Park," … "8.2.5 Burns Park;" … "8.2.1 Kinsmen Park;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cleaning up:** Remove the dog's feces immediately whenever the dog is off your premises and dispose of it in a sanitary manner. In public spaces, put it in a sealed bag and take it away or use a public garbage receptacle. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 7.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "immediately remove or cause to be removed any feces deposited" … "by the animal, and dispose of the feces in a sanitary manner." - Source: [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030, s. 8.1.4](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) - Official wording: "must place all excrement deposited by the dog in or on a Public Space into a" … "sealed bag and:" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** Bylaw notices: dog at large $100 ($85 early, $115 late); dog in a public place not leashed $50 ($35 early, $65 late); dog not under verbal control at the off-leash park $50 ($35, $65); dog in a Town park not designated on-leash or off-leash $50 ($25, $75). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1826 7.1(b) Cat/dog at Large $100.00 $85.00 $115.00 YES" … "1826 7.1(c) Cat/dog in public place, not leashed $50.00 $35.00 $65.00 YES" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Parks bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "Dogs in parks not designated as “Dog On-" … "2030 8.1.1 $50.00 $25.00 $75.00 Yes Leash” or “Dog Off-Leash” parks" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015; Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030, 2025 (Town parks) - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, title, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015" - Source: [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) - Official wording: "Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations" … "Bylaw No. 2030, 2025" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Two Town bylaws set dog rules in public. The [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826]() says a dog in any public place must be on a leash, chain or tether (or in a carrier) and must not be at large. The [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030]() says to keep control of your dog at all times in public spaces. The only off-leash area is the Creston Dog Park, 1414 Cedar Street. Leash your dog when entering and leaving, and keep it under your immediate verbal control. ## Steps 1. Keep your dog leashed everywhere except the Dog Park. 2. Use a leash no longer than 183 cm (6 feet) under the Animal Care bylaw, or no more than 2 m under the Parks bylaw. Staying under 183 cm meets both. 3. Pick up your dog's feces immediately when off your own premises. In public spaces, put it in a sealed bag and take it away or use a public garbage receptacle. 4. Report a problem dog with the Bylaw Complaint Form (name, address and phone number are required). ## Good to know - The bylaws disagree on leash length (183 cm or 2 m) and on Burns Park. The Animal Care bylaw bans dogs in Centennial, Burns and Millennium parks. The newer Parks bylaw lists Burns Park as an on-leash park. Check with Town Hall before you go. - The Parks bylaw allows dogs on leash only in designated on-leash parks (Burns Park, Dwight and Rosamond Moore Community Wetlands, Dodd's Creek Park, Schikurski Park, Downtown Green Space, Ken Huscroft Park and one more) and in the off-leash park. - The Parks bylaw makes an exception for Municipal Trails; the Animal Care bylaw does not. - Not allowed in the Dog Park: dogs under 4 months, in heat, showing aggression, ill, unimmunized or unattended. Dangerous dogs may not be off leash there. - Bylaw notices: dog at large $100 ($85 early, $115 late); dog in a public place not leashed $50 ($35, $65); dog not under verbal control at the off-leash park $50; dog in a Town park not designated for dogs $50 ($25, $75). ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-licence.md) - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Creston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/how-many-pets.md) - [Creston rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/dog-leash-rules.md) ## Sources - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Parks, Trails, and Public Places Regulations Bylaw No. 2030 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Parks%20Trails%20and%20Public%20Spaces-2030.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Dog Park, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/dog-park) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-leash-rules/_ --- --- title: Creston rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs question: "What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dangerous-dogs/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dangerous-dogs.json" --- # Creston rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs **Question:** What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston, a dangerous dog must be licensed as dangerous by an owner over 19 and kept indoors, in an escape-proof enclosure, or muzzled on a leash of 1 m or less. The licence is $243 if bought by March 31 and $248 after (taxes apply). Failing to licence one is a $475 bylaw notice. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Dangerous dog licence $243 by March 31, $248 after (taxes apply). Bylaw notices run from $45 to $475; see Good to know. **How long:** The owner has 14 days after the letter to ask the officer to reconsider a dangerous dog designation. **Where:** - Online: Bylaw Complaint Form (complaints and claims), https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims - In person: Town Hall (complaint form and licence), 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 ## Key facts - **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** A dog that has killed or seriously injured a person, or a companion or domestic animal in a public place or on property other than its owner's, or that an animal control officer has reasonable grounds to believe is likely to kill or seriously injure a person. The officer may also designate a dog that, unprovoked, aggressively pursued, attacked or bit a person or animal, or is kept for fighting. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 4.1 definition; s. 9.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "has killed or seriously injured a person;" … "has, without provocation, aggressively pursued, attacked or bitten another animal or a person;" … "the Animal Control Officer may, without limiting the powers available to him or her pursuant to any" … "has killed or seriously injured a companion or domestic animal, while in a public place or while on private property, other than property owned or occupied by the Person Responsible for the dog" … "an animal control officer has reasonable grounds to believe is likely to kill or seriously injure a person" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Rules for owners:** Licence the dog as dangerous (owner over 19). Keep it indoors, in an escape-proof enclosure children under 12 cannot enter, or muzzled on a leash of 1 m or less held by a competent person 19 or older. Post a warning sign at each entrance. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, ss. 9.1, 9.5, 9.6](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall own or keep any Dangerous Dog unless this dog is licenced as a Dangerous Dog" … "properly fitted with a humane basket muzzle, on a leash not longer than one (1) metre (3.2 feet)" … "shall display a sign declaring in legible writing and with a" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Licence fee:** $243 if bought by March 31; $248 after March 31 (taxes apply). - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2, Schedule 2, Dog and Cat Licence Fees (consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Dangerous Male Dog –Dog Unneutered $243.00 $248.00" - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 9.2(f)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "payment of the Dangerous Dog licence fee as outlined in the Fees and Charges Bylaw." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** Complete a Bylaw Complaint Form (online or at Town Hall) with your name, address, phone number and a description. Anonymous complaints are not accepted. The Public Safety and Compliance Officer investigates. - Source: [Complaints and Claims, Complaints and Claims page](https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims) - Official wording: "If you have a bylaw complaint complete a Bylaw Complaint Form." … "Anonymous complaints are not accepted." … "The Public Safety and Compliance Officer will open an investigation in relation to the complaint." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notices: fail to licence a dangerous dog $475 ($450 early, $500 late); fail to confine, muzzle and leash $475; no warning sign $45 ($30, $60); dangerous dog at the off-leash park $200 ($175, $225). A dog bite is $250 ($225, $275); an attack $475. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1826 9.1 Fail to licence dangerous dog $475.00 $450.00 $500.00 YES" … "1826 9.6 $45.00 $30.00 $60.00 YES property entries and building" … "1826 7.1(d)(i) Dangerous Dog at off-leash park $200.00 $175.00 $225.00 YES" … "1826 7.1(i) Dog/cat bite person or animal $250.00 $225.00 $275.00 YES" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015, Part 9 - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, title, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Part 9 of the [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826]() covers dangerous dogs. A dog is dangerous if it has killed or seriously injured a person, or a companion or domestic animal in a public place or on property other than its owner's, or if an animal control officer has reasonable grounds to believe it is likely to. The officer may also designate a dog that aggressively pursued, attacked or bit a person or animal without provocation, or is kept for fighting. ## Steps 1. To report a dog, complete a Bylaw Complaint Form online or at Town Hall, with your name, address, phone number and a description. Anonymous complaints are not accepted. 2. If your dog is designated, licence it as dangerous (owner over 19). The licence needs confirmation the dog is spayed or neutered, an approved trainer, liability insurance of at least $500,000 naming the Town, and permanent ID such as a microchip. 3. Keep the dog indoors, in an escape-proof enclosure children under 12 cannot enter, or muzzled on a leash of 1 m or less held by a competent person 19 or older. 4. Post a warning sign at each entrance. ## Good to know - To challenge a designation, ask the officer to reconsider within 14 days of the letter, with written reasons and a dog behaviour specialist's assessment done in the last six months. - Tell the Town promptly if the dog is at large, moves, is given away or dies. A dog that does not comply may be seized and held 14 days. - Bylaw notices: fail to licence a dangerous dog $475 ($450 early, $500 late); fail to confine, muzzle and leash $475; no warning sign $45 ($30, $60); dangerous dog at the off-leash park $200 ($175, $225). A dog bite is $250 ($225, $275); an attack is $475. - Early amounts are for payment within 14 days; late amounts are for payment more than 28 days after the notice. ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, Part 9 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-licence.md) - [Creston dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/dangerous-dogs.md) ## Sources - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Complaints and Claims, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dangerous-dogs/_ --- --- title: How many dogs or cats you can keep in Creston question: "How many dogs or cats can I keep in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/how-many-pets/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/how-many-pets.json" --- # How many dogs or cats you can keep in Creston **Question:** How many dogs or cats can I keep in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston, no property may have more than four companion animals. Dogs, cats and potbellied pigs count together toward that limit. A bylaw notice for exceeding it is $150. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days, $175 if paid late). **How long:** The limit applies at all times. **Where:** - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Online: Bylaw Complaint Form (complaints and claims), https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims ## Key facts - **Dogs allowed:** No more than four companion animals on any property, counting dogs, cats and potbellied pigs together. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, ss. 5.1, 5.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall keep or allow to be kept on any real property more than four (4) companion animals," … "Section 5.1 of this Bylaw applies to dogs, cats and potbellied pigs." - Source: [Pet Licences, Pet Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences) - Official wording: "There is a maximum of four pets allowed per household." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cats allowed:** Same combined limit: no more than four dogs, cats and potbellied pigs together on a property. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, ss. 5.1, 5.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "more than four (4) companion animals," … "applies to dogs, cats and potbellied pigs." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other animal limits:** Hens: up to six per parcel in R1 or R5 zones, licensed. Horses: one per parcel zoned R-5 or Agricultural with at least one hectare. Many other animals are prohibited (Schedule A), including most ungulates and most birds. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, ss. 11.1(b), 13(b), Schedule A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "keep no more than one (1) horse per parcel of land zoned either Rural Residential (R-5) or" … "keep no more than six (6) Hens per parcel of land," … "List of Prohibited Animals" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exceptions:** More than four are allowed at a veterinary clinic, kennel or cattery, PAWS, a PAWS-approved rescue or foster home, an animal daycare or a grooming facility, if the zoning bylaw specifically permits that use. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 5.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "except in the lawful operation of a veterinary clinic, kennel/cattery (for breeding or boarding), the" … "Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society (PAWS), rescue or foster home approved by PAWS," … "providing the use is specifically permitted" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days; $175 if paid late). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1826 5.1 Possess more than 4 companion animals $150.00 $125.00 $175.00 YES" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015 - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, title, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826]() allows no more than four companion animals on any property. Dogs, cats and potbellied pigs are counted together, so there is no separate dog limit or cat limit. ## Steps 1. Count your dogs, cats and potbellied pigs together. Keep the total at four or fewer. 2. Licence each dog. See the dog licence answer. 3. If you want more animals, check whether your use is one of the exceptions below. ## Good to know - More than four are allowed at a veterinary clinic, kennel or cattery, P.A.W.S., a P.A.W.S.-approved rescue or foster home, an animal daycare or a grooming facility, if the zoning bylaw specifically permits that use. - A kennel is more than four dogs, or any number kept for breeding or boarding. A cattery is the same for cats. - The bylaw gives no exception for puppies or kittens. - Other animals have their own rules: up to six hens in the R1 or R5 zone with a licence, and one horse per parcel zoned R-5 or Agricultural. Many other animals, such as most birds and hoofed animals, are prohibited. - Exceeding the limit is a bylaw notice of $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days, $175 if paid late). ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-licence.md) - [Creston dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Creston backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-chickens.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog and cat limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/how-many-pets.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/how-many-pets.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/how-many-pets.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/how-many-pets.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/how-many-pets.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/how-many-pets.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/how-many-pets.md) ## Sources - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Pet Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/pet-licences) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/how-many-pets/_ --- --- title: Creston backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules question: "Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-chickens/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-chickens.json" --- # Creston backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules **Question:** Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston, you can keep up to six hens with a Town hen licence on a property in the R1 or R5 zone. The licence is $23 a year. Roosters are not allowed. The bylaws do not mention bees, and cows, goats, sheep, pigs and most birds are prohibited. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Hen licence $23 a year under the Fees and Charges Bylaw (the Town's hen page says $20). One licence covers one to six hens. Rooster: $200 bylaw notice. **How long:** The hen licence expires December 31. **Where:** - Online: Backyard Hen Licences page, https://www.creston.ca/backyard-hen-licences - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Email: Town Hall, info@creston.ca ## Key facts - **Hens allowed:** Yes, with a Town hen licence, on properties in the Residential - Low Density (R1) or Residential - Rural (R5) zone. The hen keeper must own the property or have the owner's written permission, and must live there. - Source: [Backyard Hen Licences, Backyard Hen Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/backyard-hen-licences) - Official wording: "Properties located in the R1: Residential - Low Density or R5: Residential – Rural, are permitted to keep a maximum of six hens." - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 13(a), (b)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "be the registered property owner or obtain written permission from the registered property" … "Zone or Residential – Low Density (R1) Zone as designated in Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Most hens:** Six hens per parcel. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 13(b)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "keep no more than six (6) Hens per parcel of land," - Source: [Backyard Hen Licences, Backyard Hen Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/backyard-hen-licences) - Official wording: "maximum of six hens" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Roosters:** Not allowed. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 13(c)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "not keep a rooster;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coop rules:** Coop and run in the rear yard, at least 3 m from the front, interior and exterior side lot lines and from any door or window, and not visible from the street. Coop at least 0.37 m² per hen, no more than 4 m² and 2 m high. Run at least 0.92 m² per hen. Hens in the coop from sunset to 7 a.m. or sunrise, whichever is first. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 13(f), (i)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "keep Hen(s) in a Coop from sunset to 7am, or sunrise, whichever is first;" … "Coop and Run must be located in a rear yard, and in no case shall it be closer to an exterior" … "interior, or exterior side lot line and no less than 3m from any door or window;" … "Coop size must be no less than 0.37 sq. m. per Hen;" … "Run size must be no less than 0.92 sq. m. per Hen;" … "Coop must not exceed 4 sq. m. floor area or 2m in height; and," … "Coop and Run must not be visible from the street parallel to the front lot line." … "keep Hen(s) in a Coop from sunset to 7am, or sunrise, whichever is first" … "interior, or exterior side lot line and no less than 3m from any door or window" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit or registration:** Hen licence required: $23 a year under the Fees and Charges Bylaw (the Town's hen page says $20). One licence covers one to six hens; it expires December 31. A Provincial Premises ID number is also required. (Sources differ: The Town's hen licence page and Hens-Guidelines handout say $20; the Fees and Charges Bylaw consolidated to May 12, 2026 says $23 plus taxes. The bylaw is followed. Licence is not transferable, one hen owner per property, and it can be revoked (ss. 12.3-12.5).) - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2, Schedule 2, Hen Licence Fees (consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Hen Licence $23.00" … "(subject to applicable taxes)" - Source: [Backyard Hen Licences, Backyard Hen Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/backyard-hen-licences) - Official wording: "The licence fee is $20 for the year." … "Only one licence is required, regardless if you have one or six hens." … "Hen owners are required to have a valid Provincial Premises Identification Program Number." - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 12.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall own, keep, possess or harbour any Hen in the Town unless a valid and subsisting" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bees:** Not confirmed. Creston's bylaws do not mention bees. - **Other livestock:** Horses: one per parcel zoned R-5 or Agricultural, lot at least 1 hectare. Cows, goats, sheep, pigs (except potbellied pigs), donkeys, llamas and alpacas are prohibited animals, as are most birds, so ducks are not on the permitted list. - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, s. 11.1(b); Schedule A items 14 and 26](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "keep no more than one (1) horse per parcel of land zoned either Rural Residential (R-5) or" … "All ungulates, including domestic breeds of cow, goat, sheep, pig, mule, donkey, llama and alpaca," … "All birds, except the budgie, cockatiel, lovebird, finch, parrot, canary, and Hens where permitted in" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015 (Parts 12 and 13); Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (zones) - Source: [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, title, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) - Official wording: "Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, 2015" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Hens are allowed under Parts 12 and 13 of the [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826](). You need a Town hen licence and a property in the Residential - Low Density (R1) or Residential - Rural (R5) zone. You must own the property or have the owner's written permission, and you must live there. The limit is six hens per parcel. Roosters are not allowed. ## Steps 1. Confirm your zone in the [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958](). 2. Apply for a hen licence from the Town (fee in Schedule 2 of the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763]()). A Provincial Premises ID number is also required. 3. Build the coop and run to the rules below. ## Good to know - Coop and run go in the rear yard, at least 3 m from the front, interior and exterior side lot lines and from any door or window, and not visible from the street. - The coop must be at least 0.37 m² per hen, no more than 4 m² and 2 m high. The run must be at least 0.92 m² per hen. Keep hens in the coop from sunset to 7 a.m. or sunrise, whichever comes first. - Also required: a nest box for every two hens, roost space, predator-proof fencing including over the run, food in closed containers and food scraps removed daily. Selling hen products is not allowed, and slaughtering in town is not allowed except at a vet clinic. - The licence is not transferable and can be revoked. A rooster is a $200 bylaw notice ($175 early, $225 late). - The Town's hen page says the fee is $20; the bylaw says $23. Confirm the amount with Town Hall. - Bees: the Animal Care and Zoning bylaws do not mention beekeeping. Ask the Town. - Horses: one per parcel zoned R-5 or Agricultural, on a lot of at least 1 hectare. Cows, goats, sheep, pigs (except potbellied pigs), donkeys, llamas and alpacas are prohibited, as are most birds, so ducks are not on the permitted list. ## Official forms and pages - [Backyard Hen Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/backyard-hen-licences) - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826, Parts 12 and 13 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) ## Related questions - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Creston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/how-many-pets.md) - [Creston dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-licence.md) - [Creston noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/noise-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/backyard-chickens.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/backyard-chickens.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/backyard-chickens.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/backyard-chickens.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/backyard-chickens.md) - [Castlegar](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/castlegar/backyard-chickens.md) ## Sources - [Backyard Hen Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/backyard-hen-licences) (read 2026-11-06) - [Animal Care and Responsibility Bylaw No. 1826 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2024-04/Animal%20Care%20and%20Responsibility%20Bylaw%20No.%201826.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 2 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-chickens/_ --- --- title: Creston RV, boat and trailer parking rules question: "Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Parking, tickets and driving owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/rv-boat-trailer-parking/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json" --- # Creston RV, boat and trailer parking rules **Question:** Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston, a vehicle or trailer longer than 6.096 m (20 ft) may not park on a street, and no vehicle may park on a highway more than 24 hours continuously. In residential zones, RVs over 5,500 kg are not permitted. Living in an RV is not allowed outside a permitted campground. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notices: street parking offences $35 each; inoperative vehicle, trailer or boat on a property $150; use of land contrary to zoning $275. **How long:** No more than 24 hours continuously on a highway. **Where:** - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Online: Bylaw Complaint Form, https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims - Online: Public and RV Parking, https://www.creston.ca/public-and-rv-parking ## Key facts - **On the street:** No stopping, standing or parking a vehicle and/or trailer longer than 6.096 m (20 ft) on a street, and no parking on any highway for more than 24 hours continuously. A trailer that is a traffic hazard must be attached to a vehicle able to tow it. Time limits and no-parking signs apply. - Source: [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546, Part 6, s. 8(b), (c); s. 19(a)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf) - Official wording: "in any street when the length of such a vehicle and/or trailer exceeds 6.096 meters (20 feet);" … "on any highway for a continuous period exceeding twenty-four (24) hours;" … "No trailer of any kind whatever, where it constitutes a traffic hazard, shall be parked on any highway" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **On your property:** In residential zones, RVs over 5,500 kg are not permitted (except when loading or unloading). For RVs under 5,500 kg the bylaw wording is unclear ('not more than two'); the ticket schedule fines more than two. Wrecked or inoperative trailers or boats may not be kept unless the property may lawfully be used for that. - Source: [Truck Regulations Bylaw No. 1784, Part 7, s. 7.1(b), (e)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Truck%20Regulations-1784.pdf) - Official wording: "Recreational vehicles in excess of 5,500 kilograms gross vehicle weight;" … "Not more than two recreational vehicles each having a gross vehicle weight of" … "less than 5,500 kilograms; or" … "not permitted on any lot in any residential zone except when loading or unloading" … "Not more than two recreational vehicles each having a gross vehicle weight of less than 5,500 kilograms" - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, s. 6.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Property%20Maintenance-1813.pdf) - Official wording: "mechanical equipment, vehicle, trailer, boat or a remnant or any part of them that is in a" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Living in an RV:** Not allowed in any zone, except in a permitted campground (Zoning Bylaw s. 3.3.6). No rule specific to sleeping in an RV on a street was found in the traffic or parks bylaws. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, s. 3.3.6](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "The use of a tent or Recreational vehicle as" … "a residence is prohibited in all Zones, except:" … "in a permitted Campground in" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notices: vehicle/trailer over 20 ft, parked over 24 hours, or unattached trailer $35 each ($25 early, $45 late); RV over 5,500 kg or more than two RVs in a residential zone $35; inoperative vehicle/trailer/boat on a property $150; use of land contrary to zoning $275. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Traffic, Truck, Property Maintenance and Zoning rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1546 6.8(b) $35.00 $25.00 $45.00 No feet in length" … "1546 6.8(c) Park exceeding twenty-four (24) hours $35.00 $25.00 $45.00 No" … "1546 6.19(a) Trailer unattached $35.00 $25.00 $45.00 No" … "1813 6.3 Equipment/inoperative vehicle $150.00 $125.00 $200.00 Yes" … "1958 3.1.1 Use land or building contrary to bylaw $275.00 $250.00 $300.00 Yes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546; Truck Regulations Bylaw No. 1784, 2013; Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022; Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, 2015 - Source: [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546, title](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf) - Official wording: "December 2, 2025 BYLAW NO. 1546 A Bylaw for the regulation of traffic and the use of highways in the Town of Creston." - Source: [Truck Regulations Bylaw No. 1784, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Truck%20Regulations-1784.pdf) - Official wording: "Truck Regulations Bylaw No. 1784, 2013" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022" - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Property%20Maintenance-1813.pdf) - Official wording: "Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, 2015" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works On streets, the [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546]() bars stopping, standing or parking a vehicle or trailer longer than 6.096 m (20 ft), and parking on any highway for more than 24 hours continuously. A trailer that is a traffic hazard must be attached to a vehicle able to tow it. Time limits and no-parking signs also apply. In a residential area, no parking between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless on the street abutting the driver's or owner's home. On your property, the [Truck Regulations Bylaw No. 1784]() does not permit RVs over 5,500 kg in residential zones, except when loading or unloading. The [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813]() bars keeping wrecked or inoperative trailers or boats unless the property may lawfully be used for that. ## Steps 1. Keep street-parked vehicles and trailers to 6.096 m or shorter, and move them within 24 hours. 2. On a residential lot, keep RVs under 5,500 kg and keep boats and trailers in working order. 3. For overnight stays, use a permitted campground. The Town lists RV parking north of Millennium Park on 16th Avenue South with a free sani-dump. ## Good to know - Living in an RV is not allowed in any zone except a permitted campground. No rule specific to sleeping in an RV on a street was found in the traffic or parks bylaws. - The Truck Regulations wording on the number of RVs is unclear ("not more than two"), though the ticket schedule fines "more than two RVs in a residential zone". Ask the Town how it applies. - No size or placement rule for boats was found in the Zoning Bylaw. - Bylaw notices: vehicle or trailer over 20 ft, parked over 24 hours, or unattached trailer $35 each ($25 early, $45 late); RV over 5,500 kg or more than two RVs in a residential zone $35; inoperative vehicle, trailer or boat on a property $150; use of land contrary to zoning $275. ## Official forms and pages - [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf) - [Truck Regulations Bylaw No. 1784 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Truck%20Regulations-1784.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/unsightly-property.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [RV, boat and trailer parking rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) ## Sources - [Traffic Regulations Bylaw No. 1546 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Traffic%20Regulations-1546.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Truck Regulations Bylaw No. 1784 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Truck%20Regulations-1784.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Property%20Maintenance-1813.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Public and RV Parking, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/public-and-rv-parking) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_ --- --- title: "Creston noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines" question: "What are the noise rules and quiet hours in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/noise-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/noise-rules.json" --- # Creston noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines **Question:** What are the noise rules and quiet hours in Creston? **Short answer:** Creston's Noise Control Bylaw bans noise that disturbs the neighbourhood but sets no fixed quiet hours or decibel limit. Its only time limits are for construction: not before 7 a.m. or after 10 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays not before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. A bylaw notice is $75. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice $75 ($50 if paid within 14 days, $100 if paid late). A court fine of $2,500 to $10,000 is possible on conviction. **How long:** The rules apply all year. **Where:** - Online: Bylaw Complaint Form, https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims - In person: Town Hall (complaint form), 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 ## Key facts - **General rule:** No one may make, or allow to be made, noise in a public or private place that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people in the neighbourhood. Owners and occupiers must not let their property be used so that disturbing noise comes from it. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389, s. 3(a), (b)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall make or cause, or permit to be made or caused, any noise in or on a public" … "disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort, or convenience of any person or persons in the neighbourhood or vicinity." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Quiet hours:** None set. The Noise Control Bylaw does not set fixed quiet hours for ordinary noise. - **Construction hours:** Building, repair, demolition, excavation or machinery work that disturbs the neighbourhood is barred before 7 a.m. and after 10 p.m. any day. On Sundays and statutory holidays, not before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389, s. 3(f), (g)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall on any day before 07:00 hours (7:00 a.m.) or after 22:00 hours (10:00 p.m.)" … "such activities shall not occur before 09:00 hours (9:00 a.m.) or after 17:00 hours (5:00 p.m.)." … "the Town Manager or designate" … "may give written approval to carry on the work" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other limits:** No decibel limit. Also barred: amplified sound that disturbs, animals whose cries disturb, disturbing vehicle noise, hawker and busker outcries, and outdoor public address systems unless for a permitted parade. Exempt: emergency and Town vehicles on duty, snow removal, church bells, permitted events. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389, ss. 3(c), (d), (h), 4, 5](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall own, keep or harbour any animal or bird, which by its cries disturbs the" … "No person shall operate any outdoor public address system except in connection with a" … "The prohibitions set out in this bylaw shall not be applicable to any equipment or vehicle" … "Properties being used for Church facilities may announce services by the use of bells or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, business hours:** Fill in a Bylaw Complaint Form (online or at Town Hall) with your name, address, phone number and a description; anonymous complaints are not accepted. The Public Safety and Compliance Officer investigates. Complaints are not taken by the info@creston.ca email. - Source: [Complaints and Claims, Complaints and Claims page](https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims) - Official wording: "Anonymous complaints are not accepted." … "The Public Safety and Compliance Officer will open an investigation in relation to the complaint." - Source: [Report an Issue, Report an Issue page](https://www.creston.ca/report-issue) - Official wording: "Bylaw complaints are not logged through this email." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, after hours:** Not confirmed. No after-hours noise contact is stated in the published sources. - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $75 ($50 if paid within 14 days; $100 if paid late). Separately, the bylaw sets a court fine of $2,500 to $10,000 on conviction. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Noise Control Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1389 3.(a) Noise which disturbs $75.00 $50.00 $100.00 Yes" … "1389 3.(f) Construct after permitted hours $75.00 $50.00 $100.00 Yes" - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389, s. 6(a)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) - Official wording: "upon summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding $10,000 and not less than $2,500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389, 1997 - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389, s. 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) - Official wording: "Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389, 1997" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389]() says no one may make, or allow to be made, noise in a public or private place that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people in the neighbourhood. Owners and occupiers must not let their property be used so that disturbing noise comes from it. The bylaw does not set fixed quiet hours for ordinary noise, and it sets no decibel limit. Construction is the only activity with set hours. ## Steps 1. Construction, repair, demolition, excavation or machinery work that disturbs the neighbourhood is barred before 7 a.m. and after 10 p.m. any day. On Sundays and statutory holidays it is barred before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. 2. To complain, fill in a Bylaw Complaint Form online or at Town Hall, with your name, address, phone number and a description. Anonymous complaints are not accepted, and complaints are not taken by the info@creston.ca email. 3. The Public Safety and Compliance Officer investigates. ## Good to know - Also barred: amplified sound that disturbs, animals whose cries disturb, disturbing vehicle noise, hawker and busker outcries, and outdoor public address systems unless for a permitted parade. - Exempt: emergency and Town vehicles on duty, snow removal, church bells and permitted events. - Where the construction hours are impractical, the Town Manager or designate may give written approval for necessary work. - Barking dogs are covered separately in the Animal Care bylaw: a dog or cat may not bark continuously for 10 minutes, or 15 minutes cumulatively in an hour, or otherwise as a nuisance. - No after-hours noise complaint line was found on the Town's pages. Ask Town Hall at 250-428-2214 who to call. ## Official forms and pages - [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) - [Creston dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Creston fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fireworks.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Noise bylaws in British Columbia: quiet hours, construction hours and fines by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/noise-rules.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/noise-rules.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/noise-rules.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/noise-rules.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/noise-rules.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/noise-rules.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/noise-rules.md) ## Sources - [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Complaints and Claims, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims) (read 2026-11-06) - [Report an Issue, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/report-issue) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Contact Directory, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/noise-rules/_ --- --- title: Creston unsightly property rules and how to report question: "How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/unsightly-property/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/unsightly-property.json" --- # Creston unsightly property rules and how to report **Question:** How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston, report an unsightly or overgrown property with the Town's Bylaw Complaint Form, online or at Town Hall. You must give your name, address and phone number; anonymous complaints are not accepted. Allowing an unsightly property is a $250 bylaw notice, and a lawn over 20 cm is $100. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notices: unsightly property $250 ($225 if paid within 14 days, $275 if paid late); lawn over 20 cm $100 ($75, $125); inoperative vehicle, trailer or boat $150 ($125, $200). **How long:** The Town may give a written warning with 14 days to respond with a plan to fix the problem. **Where:** - Online: Bylaw Complaint Form, https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 ## Key facts - **What counts:** Owners and occupiers must not let refuse or standing water collect, or let the property become unsightly (accumulated refuse or brush, graffiti, rotting fences, dead or uncontrolled landscaping, decayed buildings). Lawns must be 20 cm or shorter. No wrecked or inoperative vehicles, trailers or boats unless the property may lawfully be used for that. - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, ss. 4 (Unsightly), 5.1, 5.4, 6.3, 6.4](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Property%20Maintenance-1813.pdf) - Official wording: "No Owner or Occupant of Property within the Municipality shall permit or allow the" … "the accumulation of Refuse, brush, discarded materials, water or Graffiti;" … "mow and maintain, at a height of not more than 20 centimetres, any lawn on the" … "wrecked, discarded, dismantled or inoperative condition to be parked, stored or left on" … "unless the Property may be lawfully used for that purpose" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** Complete a Bylaw Complaint Form (online or at Town Hall) with your name, address, phone number and a description. Anonymous complaints are not accepted. - Source: [Complaints and Claims, Complaints and Claims page](https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims) - Official wording: "If you have a bylaw complaint complete a Bylaw Complaint Form." … "Anonymous complaints are not accepted." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What happens next:** The Public Safety and Compliance Officer investigates and may issue a written warning (14 days to respond with a plan to fix), a fine or a compliance order. If the owner does not comply or win an appeal, the Town may issue a bylaw notice or do the work itself at the owner's cost. - Source: [Complaints and Claims, Complaints and Claims page, Complaint Process](https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims) - Official wording: "The Public Safety and Compliance Officer will open an investigation in relation to the complaint." … "A warning notice with directions to remedy the problem within a specified time frame" - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, ss. 7.3(d), 8.1, 9.1, 9.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Property%20Maintenance-1813.pdf) - Official wording: "give the Owner or Occupier fourteen (14) days after delivery of the Warning to" … "by submitting to the Town Manager written reasons for appeal, prior to the" … "carry out, in accordance with Section 17 of the Community Charter, the action" … "may be recovered as a debt from the Owner or Occupier" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: allow an unsightly property $250 ($225 if paid within 14 days; $275 if paid late). Lawn over 20 cm $100 ($75, $125); inoperative vehicle, trailer or boat $150 ($125, $200). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Property Maintenance Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1813 5.4 Allow unsightly property $250.00 $225.00 $275.00 Yes" … "1813 6.4(a) Allow growth in excess of 20 cm $100.00 $75.00 $125.00 Yes" … "1813 6.3 Equipment/inoperative vehicle $150.00 $125.00 $200.00 Yes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, 2015 - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Property%20Maintenance-1813.pdf) - Official wording: "Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813, 2015" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813]() requires owners and occupiers not to let refuse or standing water collect, or let the property become unsightly. Unsightly includes accumulated refuse or brush, graffiti, rotting fences, dead or uncontrolled landscaping and decayed buildings. Lawns must be 20 cm or shorter. Wrecked or inoperative vehicles, trailers or boats are not allowed unless the property may lawfully be used for that. ## Steps 1. Fill in the Bylaw Complaint Form online or at Town Hall, with your name, address, phone number and a description. Complaints are not logged through the info@creston.ca email. 2. The Public Safety and Compliance Officer investigates and may issue a written warning (14 days to respond with a plan to fix), a fine or a compliance order. 3. If the owner does not comply or win an appeal, the Town may issue a bylaw notice or do the work itself at the owner's cost. ## Good to know - Also required: removing dead, diseased or damaged trees and plants, keeping hedges from blocking sight lines or hydrants, keeping boulevards clear and mowed, and controlling pests and vermin. - Yard waste counts as refuse unless it is a structured, well-maintained compost pile. - Unpaid clean-up costs not paid by December 31 can be added to the property taxes. - Other bylaw notices: refuse or water collecting $100; graffiti $75; litter $75; pest infestation $250. - The Town's website gives no bylaw complaint phone number. Call Town Hall at 250-428-2214 to ask. ## Official forms and pages - [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Property%20Maintenance-1813.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) - [Creston RV, boat and trailer parking rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Creston noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/noise-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/unsightly-property.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/unsightly-property.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/unsightly-property.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/unsightly-property.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/unsightly-property.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/unsightly-property.md) ## Sources - [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 1813 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-08/Property%20Maintenance-1813.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Complaints and Claims, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/complaints-and-claims) (read 2026-11-06) - [Report an Issue, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/report-issue) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Contact Directory, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/unsightly-property/_ --- --- title: Creston backyard fire and burning rules question: "Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-fire/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-fire.json" --- # Creston backyard fire and burning rules **Question:** Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston, a small cooking fire in a barbecue or fire pit needs no permit if it meets the bylaw's conditions. Burning yard waste (leaves, grass, hedge clippings, small prunings) is banned at all times. Other open burning needs a permit from the Fire Chief, and no one may burn during a fire ban. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Open burning permit $15 to $250. Bylaw notices: burning without a permit $250 ($225 if paid within 14 days, $275 if paid late); burning during a fire ban $475; burning barrel $100. **How long:** A permit is valid one week; land clearing permits are valid up to 30 days. At most six permits per property per year. **Where:** - Online: Burning Permits page, https://www.creston.ca/burn-permits - In person: Town Hall or the Creston Emergency Services Building (buy a permit), 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Online: BC Wildfire Service (fire bans), https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status ## Key facts - **Backyard campfires:** A cooking fire in a barbecue or fire pit up to 0.5 m across and under 0.5 m high, with a screen, burning clean dry seasoned firewood, charcoal, propane or gas, needs no permit if Schedule A is met (adult 19+ attending, water at hand, 7.5 m from trees, 4.5 m from combustibles, no ban). - Source: [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (consolidated to September 26, 2023), s. 4.4; Schedule A Part 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Open%20Burning%20Bylaw%20No.%201929.pdf) - Official wording: "A Permit is not required under This Bylaw for cooking fires contained within a barbecue or fire" … "Fire cannot exceed 0.5 metre diameter by 0.5 metre in height." … "The fire must be 7.5 metres (25 feet) from any standing timber / tree line." … "There is no bans on cooking (or camp fires) either by the Fire Chief or a Provincial Ministry." - Source: [Burning Permits, Burning Permits page, Cooking Fires](https://www.creston.ca/burn-permits) - Official wording: "to be used for cooking only" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Burning yard waste:** Burning yard waste (leaves, grass, hedge clippings, small prunings) is prohibited at all times. A permitted residential pile must not contain yard waste, must come from the property, and be no bigger than 1 m across by 0.5 m high; daylight hours only, 4 hours at most, only when the ventilation index is favourable; no burning barrels. (Sources differ: The Burning Permits page still lists residential piles of 'leaves, foliage or weeds' as permit-eligible and cites Fire Service Bylaw No. 1774; Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (amended by 1990, consolidated Sept 2023) bans yard waste burning and the Sept 2023 news post confirms it. Bylaw followed. 'Yard Waste' means plant matter such as hedge clippings, leaves, grass and prunings under 1 m long and 2.5 cm in circumference; the news post says branches over 2.5 cm in diameter may still be burned with a permit. Burning on public land needs a written fire safety plan and permit.) - Source: [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (consolidated to September 26, 2023), ss. 4.3, 4.24, 4.28, 4.30, 4.31; Schedule A Part 2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Open%20Burning%20Bylaw%20No.%201929.pdf) - Official wording: "Yard Waste burning is prohibited at all times." … "No person shall use burning barrels." … "No person shall burn unless the ventilation index is favorable, as provided by the Ministry of" … "No burning shall exceed a four (4) hour duration unless otherwise permitted by This Bylaw." … "Fire must not exceed 1 metre in diameter by 0.5 metre high." … "Fire may not consist of yard waste or prohibited materials and must be material generated from" - Source: [Changes to the Open Burning Bylaw, Town news (September 27, 2023), Town news, September 27, 2023](https://www.creston.ca/town-news/changes-open-burning-bylaw) - Official wording: "burning yard waste such as leaves, twigs, and grass clippings is no longer allowed." - Source: [Burning Permits, Burning Permits page](https://www.creston.ca/burn-permits) - Official wording: "Permits are required for all open fires for the purposes of burning:" … "Residential piles no more than 1 cubic metre of leaves, foliage or weeds" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** Yes. Open burning (residential piles, field clearing, large piles, land clearing) needs an open burning permit from the Fire Chief, bought at Town Hall or the Creston Emergency Services Building. Valid one week (land clearing permits up to 30 days); at most six permits per property per year. Fees $15 to $250. - Source: [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (consolidated to September 26, 2023), ss. 4.5, 4.8, 4.13, 4.14](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Open%20Burning%20Bylaw%20No.%201929.pdf) - Official wording: "where authorized by a Permit issued by the Fire Chief under This Bylaw." … "Only six (6) burning Permits will be issued to a property address in each calendar year." … "valid for one (1) week from the date of issuance" … "will be valid for one (1) week from the date of issuance, except for land clearing" … "comply with the thirty (30) days limit on the validity of Permits issued for land clearing" - Source: [Burning Permits, Burning Permits page](https://www.creston.ca/burn-permits) - Official wording: "Burning permits can be purchased at Town Hall or at the Creston Emergency Services Building." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 6, Schedule 6, Fire Services Permits and Fees](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "i. Residential leaves, foliage, weeds $15.00" … "ii. Freestanding grass and brush $50.00" … "iii. Large Piles $85.00" … "iv. Land Clearing $250.00 per pile" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fire bans:** Permits are revoked or suspended during a total fire ban by the Fire Chief or the Province, and the Fire Chief may impose a general ban when conditions are unsafe. No one may burn during a provincial ban. Check the BC Wildfire Service fire prohibitions page. - Source: [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (consolidated to September 26, 2023), ss. 4.20, 4.21, 4.23](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Open%20Burning%20Bylaw%20No.%201929.pdf) - Official wording: "Permits shall be revoked or suspended during a total fire ban proclaimed by the Fire Chief, or" … "he or she may impose a general ban on open burning for the duration of those conditions." … "No person shall burn during times for which the Ministry of Forests, the Ministry of" - Source: [Burning Permits, Burning Permits page](https://www.creston.ca/burn-permits) - Official wording: "Fire Prohibitions website" … "check the ventilation index by calling 888-281-2992" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Instead of burning:** Curbside yard waste pickup three times a year; Sullivan Stone (501 Helen Street) takes leaves, grass, soil and plants for $2 a load; the RDCK Creston Landfill (1501 Mallory Road) takes yard waste, free in April and October. - Source: [Yard Waste, Yard Waste page](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) - Official wording: "Yard waste is collected three times a year once in the spring and twice in the fall by the Public Works crew." … "Yard and garden waste is accepted at Sullivan Stone for $2 per load - 501 Helen Street." … "During the months of April and October (only) the Creston Landfill accepts Yard & Garden Waste for FREE." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: burning without a permit $250 ($225 if paid within 14 days; $275 if paid late); burning during a fire ban $475 ($450, $500); burning barrel $100 ($90, $110); burning prohibited materials $475. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Open Burning Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1929 4.1 Prohibited open burning without permit $250.00 $225.00 $275.00 Yes" … "1929 4.23 Burning during fire ban $475.00 $450.00 $500.00 No" … "1929 4.24 Prohibited use - burning barrel $100.00 $90.00 $110.00 Yes" - Source: [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (consolidated to September 26, 2023), s. 5.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Open%20Burning%20Bylaw%20No.%201929.pdf) - Official wording: "to a fine not exceeding $10,000 and not less than $2,500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929, 2021 - Source: [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (consolidated to September 26, 2023), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Open%20Burning%20Bylaw%20No.%201929.pdf) - Official wording: "Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929, 2021" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929]() governs fires in Creston. - **Cooking fire, no permit:** a barbecue or fire pit up to 0.5 m across and under 0.5 m high, with a screen, burning clean dry seasoned firewood, charcoal, propane or gas. Conditions: an adult 19 or older attends, water is at hand, it is 7.5 m from trees and 4.5 m from combustibles, and no ban is in effect. - **Yard waste:** burning leaves, grass, hedge clippings and small prunings is prohibited at all times. - **Other open burning** needs an open burning permit from the Fire Chief. ## Steps 1. For a pile that needs a permit, buy an open burning permit at Town Hall or the Creston Emergency Services Building. 2. The pile must not contain yard waste, must come from your property, and be no bigger than 1 m across by 0.5 m high. 3. Burn in daylight hours only, for 4 hours at most, and only when the ventilation index is favourable. No burning barrels. 4. Before you light any fire, check the BC Wildfire Service fire prohibitions page for bans. ## Good to know - The Town's Burning Permits page still lists residential piles of leaves, foliage or weeds, but the bylaw and the Town's September 2023 news post say yard waste burning is banned. Follow the bylaw. Branches over 2.5 cm in diameter may still be burned with a permit, according to the news post. - Permits are revoked or suspended during a total fire ban by the Fire Chief or the Province. No one may burn during a provincial ban. - Burning on public land needs a written fire safety plan and a permit. - Larger recreational bonfires would need an open burning permit. - Instead of burning, see the yard waste answer for curbside pickup and drop-off. - Court fine of $2,500 to $10,000 is possible on conviction. Exceeding the residential fire size is a $150 bylaw notice. ## Official forms and pages - [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Open%20Burning%20Bylaw%20No.%201929.pdf) - [Burning Permits, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/burn-permits) ## Related questions - [Creston yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/yard-waste.md) - [Creston fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fireworks.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Backyard fire and burning rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-fire.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/backyard-fire.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/backyard-fire.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/backyard-fire.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/backyard-fire.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/backyard-fire.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/backyard-fire.md) ## Sources - [Open Burning Bylaw No. 1929 (PDF) (consolidated to September 26, 2023)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-09/Open%20Burning%20Bylaw%20No.%201929.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Burning Permits, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/burn-permits) (read 2026-11-06) - [Changes to the Open Burning Bylaw, Town news (September 27, 2023)](https://www.creston.ca/town-news/changes-open-burning-bylaw) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 6 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Yard Waste, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/yard-waste) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-fire/_ --- --- title: Creston fireworks rules question: "Are fireworks allowed in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fireworks/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fireworks.json" --- # Creston fireworks rules **Question:** Are fireworks allowed in Creston? **Short answer:** In Creston, consumer fireworks may be set off only on October 31 between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., and only with a $20 permit from the Town. People under 18 may not possess or use any fireworks. Selling fireworks in the Town is banned. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Consumer fireworks permit $20; display fireworks permit $100. Bylaw notice for using or storing fireworks without a permit $50. **How long:** Applications for the October 31 event are due by 12:00 p.m. on October 31 (or the last business day before). Display fireworks applications are due at least 30 days ahead. **Where:** - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC ## Key facts - **Setting off fireworks:** Consumer fireworks may be set off only on October 31 between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. (October 30 if October 31 is a Sunday), or in exceptional circumstances set by council resolution, and only with a permit. Under-18s may not possess or use any fireworks. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778, ss. 3.4, 3.5, 3.8](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Fireworks%20Regulation-1778.pdf) - Official wording: "No person may discharge consumer fireworks except on October 31st of each year between" … "5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. or through exceptional circumstances as stated by council resolution or" … "No person may hold, possess, store, discharge, or otherwise use consumer fireworks or display" … "No person under the age of eighteen (18) years may hold, possess, store, discharge, or otherwise" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Selling fireworks:** No. No person may sell fireworks in the Town. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778, s. 3.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Fireworks%20Regulation-1778.pdf) - Official wording: "No person may sell fireworks." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What counts as fireworks:** Consumer fireworks are outdoor low-hazard recreational fireworks such as fountains, golden rain, pin wheels, Roman candles and volcanoes; sparklers, Christmas crackers and toy-gun caps are not included. Firecrackers and prohibited fireworks are banned. Display and pyrotechnic special effects fireworks need their own permits. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778, s. 2 definitions; ss. 3.2, 3.3, 3.11](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Fireworks%20Regulation-1778.pdf) - Official wording: "includes fireworks" … "does not include Christmas crackers, sparklers, and caps for toy guns;" … "No person may buy, sell, hold, possess, store, discharge, or otherwise use firecrackers." … "use pyrotechnic special effects" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** People 18 or older apply to the Town and the Fire Chief issues the permit if conditions are met. Fees: consumer fireworks permit $20; display fireworks permit $100. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778, ss. 4.1, 4.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Fireworks%20Regulation-1778.pdf) - Official wording: "Any person eighteen (18) years of age or older before discharging consumer fireworks or display" … "The Fire Chief will consider all permit applications and issue a permit provided that:" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 6, Schedule 6, Fire Services Permits and Fees](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "a) Consumer Fireworks Permit $20.00" … "b) Display Fireworks Permit $100.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notices: use or store consumer fireworks without a permit $50 ($40 early, $60 late); discharge not permitted $100 ($90, $110); selling $100; parent allowing a minor to use fireworks $250 ($240, $260). The ticket schedule lists these under repealed Bylaw No. 1724. Court fine $2,500 to $10,000. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Fireworks Regulation Bylaw rows](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1724 3(1) Prohibited selling of fireworks $100.00 $90.00 $110.00 Yes" … "Use or store consumer fireworks w/o" … "1724 3(4) $50.00 $40.00 $60.00 Yes permit" … "1724 3(5) $100.00 $90.00 $110.00 Yes" … "1724 3(9) $250.00 $240.00 $260.00 Yes" … "Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778" - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778, s. 9.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Fireworks%20Regulation-1778.pdf) - Official wording: "to a fine not exceeding $10,000 and not less than $2,500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778, 2012 - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778, s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Fireworks%20Regulation-1778.pdf) - Official wording: "Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778, 2012" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778]() lets people set off consumer fireworks only on October 31 between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. (October 30 if October 31 is a Sunday), or in exceptional circumstances set by council resolution, and only with a permit. No person may sell fireworks in the Town. Firecrackers may not be bought, sold or possessed at all. Consumer fireworks are outdoor low-hazard recreational fireworks such as fountains, golden rain, pin wheels, Roman candles and volcanoes. Sparklers, Christmas crackers and toy-gun caps are not included. Display and pyrotechnic special effects fireworks need their own permits. ## Steps 1. You must be 18 or older to apply. Apply to the Town; the Fire Chief issues the permit if the conditions are met. 2. Pay the fee: $20 for consumer fireworks, $100 for display fireworks. 3. Apply by 12:00 p.m. on October 31 (or the last business day before). For display fireworks, apply at least 30 days ahead. 4. Use must not raise the risk of injury or damage. ## Good to know - Under-18s may not possess or use any fireworks. - Bylaw notices: use or store consumer fireworks without a permit $50 ($40 early, $60 late); discharge not permitted $100 ($90, $110); selling $100; a parent allowing a minor to use fireworks $250 ($240, $260). A court fine of $2,500 to $10,000 is also possible. - The Town's ticket schedule lists these rows under Bylaw No. 1724, which has been repealed. The amounts here were matched by description, so confirm with the Town. - Pyrotechnic special effects have a separate application and a $200 fire safety plan review fee. ## Official forms and pages - [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Fireworks%20Regulation-1778.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-fire.md) - [Creston noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/noise-rules.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/fireworks.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/fireworks.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/fireworks.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/fireworks.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/fireworks.md) - [Castlegar](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/castlegar/fireworks.md) ## Sources - [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1778 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Fireworks%20Regulation-1778.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763, Schedule 6 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fireworks/_ --- --- title: Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work question: "What are the common bylaw fines in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.json" --- # Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work **Question:** What are the common bylaw fines in Creston? **Short answer:** Creston issues bylaw notices under Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, whose Schedule A lists each penalty. Examples: no dog licence $125, noise $75, unsightly property $250, watering against restrictions $275. Pay within 14 days for the lower early amount. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Full amounts: no dog licence $125; dog at large $100; noise $75; unsightly property $250; open burning without a permit $250; parking beyond 24 hours $35; use of water against restrictions $275. Early payment (within 14 days) is lower; late payment (after 28 days) is higher. **How long:** Pay or dispute within 14 days of receiving the notice. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall (debit, credit card, cash or cheque), 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Online: Bylaw Offence Payments (mail a cheque or use the yellow drop box off 10th Avenue), https://www.creston.ca/bylaw-offence-payments - Online: Disputing a Bylaw Offence Notice, https://www.creston.ca/disputing-bylaw-offence-notice - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 ## Key facts - **How tickets work:** The Town issues bylaw notices under its Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, which lists each offence and its penalty in Schedule A. Some bylaws (noise, open burning, fireworks) also carry court fines of $2,500 to $10,000. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 5, s. 5.1; s. 6.1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "The bylaw and bylaw contraventions designated in Schedule A may be dealt with by" … "the penalty amount is provided in" - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389, s. 6(a)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) - Official wording: "to a fine not exceeding $10,000 and not less than $2,500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Common fines:** Full amounts: no dog licence $125; dog at large $100; noise $75; unsightly property $250; open burning without a permit $250; parking beyond 24 hours $35; use of water against restrictions $275. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (consolidated to December 2, 2025), Schedule A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1826 8.1 No dog licence $125.00 $100.00 $150.00 YES" … "1826 7.1(b) Cat/dog at Large $100.00 $85.00 $115.00 YES" … "1389 3.(a) Noise which disturbs $75.00 $50.00 $100.00 Yes" … "1813 5.4 Allow unsightly property $250.00 $225.00 $275.00 Yes" … "1929 4.1 Prohibited open burning without permit $250.00 $225.00 $275.00 Yes" … "1546 6.8(c) Park exceeding twenty-four (24) hours $35.00 $25.00 $45.00 No" … "1439 2.04 Use of water contrary to restrictions $275.00 $250.00 $300.00 Yes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying early:** Pay within 14 days of receiving the notice to get the lower early payment amount (for example $100 instead of $125 for no dog licence). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (consolidated to December 2, 2025), s. 6.1.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "If received by the Municipality within 14 days of the person receiving or being" … "presumed to have received the notice, the Early Payment Penalty set out in" - Source: [Bylaw Offence Payments, Bylaw Offence Payments page](https://www.creston.ca/bylaw-offence-payments) - Official wording: "If a Bylaw Offence notice is paid within 14 days, a discount will apply." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying late:** If payment is received more than 28 days after the notice, a late payment surcharge applies and the late amount in Schedule A is due (for example $150 instead of $125 for no dog licence). Between 15 and 28 days the full penalty applies. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (consolidated to December 2, 2025), ss. 6.1.1, 6.1.3](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "If received more than 28 days after the person received or is presumed to have received" … "the bylaw notice, is subject to a late payment surcharge in addition to" - Source: [Bylaw Offence Payments, Bylaw Offence Payments page](https://www.creston.ca/bylaw-offence-payments) - Official wording: "the penalty will immediately become due and payable." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Disputing a ticket:** Within 14 days of receiving (or being presumed to receive) the notice, complete a Bylaw Notice Dispute Form (the Town's page says 14 days from the date issued). The Screening Officer may uphold, dismiss or agree a compliance agreement; you may then ask for an adjudication hearing. If the adjudicator finds the offence, you pay the full penalty plus a $25 fee. (Sources differ: The bylaw counts 14 days from receiving (or being presumed to receive) the notice; the page says from the date issued. Disputes can be delivered in person or by mail to Municipal Hall.) - Source: [Disputing a Bylaw Offence Notice, Disputing Bylaw Offence Notice page](https://www.creston.ca/disputing-bylaw-offence-notice) - Official wording: "complete a Bylaw Notice Dispute Form no later than 14 days from the date the Bylaw Notice was issued." … "The Screening Officer may uphold, dismiss or enter into a compliance agreement (if applicable) with the disputant." … "the full penalty will be applied as well as an adjudication fee of $25." - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (consolidated to December 2, 2025), ss. 7.1, 7.2, 8.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "no person may dispute the notice after 14 days of receiving the bylaw notice." … "must pay the Municipality an additional fee of $25 for the purpose of the" … "person may dispute the notice after 14 days of receiving the bylaw notice" … "must pay the Municipality an additional fee of $25" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, 2011 (Town of Creston Bylaw Notice Dispute Adjudication Registry) - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (consolidated to December 2, 2025), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, 2011" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The Town issues bylaw notices under the [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760](). Schedule A lists each offence and its penalty. Some bylaws (noise, open burning, fireworks) also carry court fines of $2,500 to $10,000. The Animal Care bylaw lets the Animal Control Officer deliver a bylaw notice. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw appears in the Town's bylaw list. ## Steps 1. Pay within 14 days of receiving the notice to get the lower early amount (for example $100 instead of $125 for no dog licence). 2. Pay by cheque (mail or the yellow drop box off 10th Avenue), or at Town Hall by debit, credit card, cash or cheque, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. 3. To dispute, complete a Bylaw Notice Dispute Form within 14 days of receiving the notice. The Screening Officer may uphold it, dismiss it or agree a compliance agreement, and you may then ask for an adjudication hearing. ## Good to know - Full amounts: no dog licence $125; dog at large $100; noise $75; unsightly property $250; open burning without a permit $250; parking beyond 24 hours $35; use of water against restrictions $275. - Between 15 and 28 days, the full penalty applies. After 28 days, a late payment surcharge applies and the late amount in Schedule A is due (for example $150 instead of $125 for no dog licence). - The bylaw counts the 14 days from receiving (or being presumed to receive) the notice; the Town's page says from the date issued. Count from the date issued to be safe. - If an adjudicator finds the offence, you pay the full penalty plus a $25 fee. - Disputes can be delivered in person or by mail to Municipal Hall. - A few rows in Schedule A cite repealed bylaws (solid waste and fireworks). See those answers. ## Official forms and pages - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - [Disputing a Bylaw Offence Notice](https://www.creston.ca/disputing-bylaw-offence-notice) ## Related questions - [Creston dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/dog-licence.md) - [Creston noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/noise-rules.md) - [Creston unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/unsightly-property.md) - [Creston backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/backyard-fire.md) - [Creston fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fireworks.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Bylaw tickets in British Columbia: early payment, late payment and disputes by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/bylaw-fines.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/bylaw-fines.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/bylaw-fines.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/bylaw-fines.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/bylaw-fines.md) - [Castlegar](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/castlegar/bylaw-fines.md) - [Trail](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/trail/bylaw-fines.md) ## Sources - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF) (consolidated to December 2, 2025)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Offence Payments, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/bylaw-offence-payments) (read 2026-11-06) - [Disputing a Bylaw Offence Notice, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/disputing-bylaw-offence-notice) (read 2026-11-06) - [Noise Control Bylaw No. 1389 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Noise%20Control-1389.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines/_ --- --- title: "Creston business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply" question: "Do I need a business licence in Creston, and how do I get one?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/business-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/business-licence.json" --- # Creston business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a business licence in Creston, and how do I get one? **Short answer:** Yes. In Creston anyone starting, expanding or relocating a business needs a Town business licence. Annual fees start at $50 (non-profit) and $70 (home occupation). Apply at Town Hall or email the form; zoning must permit the business. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Annual base fee: home occupation $70; non-profit $50; commercial $120 to $190; industrial $470 to $570; short-term rental $520. **How long:** Licences run January 1 to December 31. The Town states no processing time; all departments must approve. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Business Licences (Town Hall), 250-428-2214 ext. 410 - Email: Town Hall, info@creston.ca - Online: Business Licences page, https://www.creston.ca/business-licences ## Key facts - **Who needs one:** Any person starting a business, or expanding or relocating an existing one, in Town, including home occupations and short-term rentals. Renting out dwelling units counts as a business at four or more units on the owner's principal-residence property, or two or more units elsewhere. - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 2 definition of Business; Part 5 s. 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall carry on any business within the municipality unless they are the holder of either:" … "four or more dwelling units or manufactured home pads are located on the same property as the owner’s principal residence;" … "two or more dwelling units or manufactured home pads are located on any other property;" - Source: [Business Licences, Business Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) - Official wording: "Any person wishing to start a business, or to expand or relocate an existing business within the Town of Creston must obtain a business licence." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** Annual base fee by class: home occupation $70; non-location-based $70; non-profit $50; commercial small $120, mid-size $160, large $190; industrial $470 to $570; short-term rental $520. Some businesses add Schedule 4B fees. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 4A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Home Occupation $70.00" … "Non-location based businesses $70.00" … "Non-profit $50.00" … "Commercial - small $120.00" … "Commercial - mid size $160.00" … "Commercial - large $190.00" … "Industrial - small $470.00" … "Industrial - large $570.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** Apply at Town Hall, or fill in the application form and email it in. Talk first with zoning, building and health staff, then the Fire Department; the licence is not granted until all departments approve. No licence is issued unless zoning permits the business. - Source: [Business Licences, Business Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) - Official wording: "You can apply for your business licence at Town Hall." … "The application form is available at Town Hall to be filled out in person or online where it can be emailed in." … "Generally, a licence will not be granted until approval has been given by all departments involved" … "The next step will be to see the Fire Department to ensure that intended operations can be carried out at the proposed address." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 5 s. 11](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "No licence shall be issued to a person unless the zoning of the location of the business permits such business." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Licences run January 1 to December 31. A renewal notice is sent beforehand; the renewal deadline is January 31 (a $20 discount applies if paid by then). - Source: [Business Licences, Business Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) - Official wording: "Business licences are valid from January 1 to December 31 each year." … "The annual renewal deadline is January 31." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 4A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "A $20.00 discount will be applied to all Business Licence RENEWALS where payment is" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Inter-community licence:** Yes, for mobile businesses: the West Kootenay Inter-Community Business Licence covers Creston, Castlegar, Grand Forks, Nelson, Kaslo, New Denver, Rossland, Salmo, Slocan and Silverton. Fee $100, separate from and additional to any business licence fee required. - Source: [Business Licences, Business Licences page](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) - Official wording: "The Town of Creston participates in the West Kootenay Inter-Community Business License Program (ICBL)" … "Village of Silverton" - Source: [Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw No. 1890, 2019, Part 5 s. 5.1, 5.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Inter-Community%20Business%20Licence-1890.pdf) - Official wording: "The Fee for an Inter-Community Business Licence is $100.00" … "is separate and additional to any" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** No business licence: $100 bylaw notice ($50 if paid early, $125 late). A court conviction can bring $2,500 to $10,000, and each day is a separate offence. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793 s. 5.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "1793 5.1 No Business Licence. $100.00 $50.00 $125.00" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 8 s. 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "to a fine not exceeding Ten Thousand ($10,000.00) Dollars and not less than Two Thousand Five Hundred ($2,500.00) Dollars" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017”." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Any person starting a business, or expanding or relocating an existing one, in the Town needs a licence under the [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf). This includes home occupations and short-term rentals. Renting out dwelling units counts as a business at four or more units on the owner's principal-residence property, or two or more units elsewhere. Provincial government activities are excluded. A valid Inter-Community Business Licence from another participating government also lets a business operate. Annual base fees ([Fees and Charges Bylaw](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf)): home occupation $70; non-location-based $70; non-profit $50; commercial small $120, mid-size $160, large $190; industrial $470 to $570; short-term rental $520. Some businesses add Schedule 4B fees, such as liquor licence $75, cannabis retail $75, mobile services $50 and car wash $50 a bay. Commercial size is by floor area (small is 464 sq. m. or less; large is over 2,000 sq. m.). Industrial size is by lot size. ## Steps 1. Talk first with zoning, building and health staff, then the Fire Department. No licence is issued unless zoning permits the business. 2. Apply at Town Hall, or fill in the application form and email it in. Business Licences: 250-428-2214 ext. 410. 3. Open the premises for inspection. Some businesses (restaurants, tattoo parlours, daycares) need Interior Health approval before the application is processed. 4. Pay the fee. Renewal notices are sent beforehand; the deadline is January 31. ## Good to know - Licences run January 1 to December 31. A $20 discount applies to renewals paid by January 31 and to new licences paid within 30 days of approval. - Pay at Town Hall or by mail: credit card, debit, cash, cheque or email transfer. - Mobile businesses can use the West Kootenay Inter-Community Business Licence ([Bylaw No. 1890](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Inter-Community%20Business%20Licence-1890.pdf)), valid in Creston, Castlegar, Grand Forks, Nelson, Kaslo, New Denver, Rossland, Salmo, Slocan and Silverton. The fee is $100, in addition to any licence fee required. - Operating without a licence is a $100 bylaw notice ($50 if paid early, $125 late). A court conviction can bring $2,500 to $10,000, and each day is a separate offence. ## Official forms and pages - [Business Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) - [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - [Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw No. 1890, 2019 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Inter-Community%20Business%20Licence-1890.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/home-based-business.md) - [Creston short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/short-term-rental.md) - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/business-licence.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/business-licence.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/business-licence.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/business-licence.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/business-licence.md) - [Castlegar](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/castlegar/business-licence.md) ## Sources - [Business Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw No. 1890, 2019 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2023-07/Inter-Community%20Business%20Licence-1890.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Contact Directory, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/business-licence/_ --- --- title: Creston home-based business rules question: "Can I run a business from my home in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: Town of Creston sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/home-based-business/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/home-based-business.json" --- # Creston home-based business rules **Question:** Can I run a business from my home in Creston? **Short answer:** Yes. In Creston a home occupation is allowed as an accessory use in most residential and commercial zones, with limits by zone. You need a business licence; a home occupation costs $70 a year. Some businesses are not allowed at home. **Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Creston, https://www.creston.ca) **Cost:** Business licence $70 a year for a home occupation, plus any Schedule 4B extra fees. **How long:** The Town states no processing time; the licence is not granted until all departments approve. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Phone: Business Licences (Town Hall), 250-428-2214 ext. 410 - Online: Business Licences page, https://www.creston.ca/business-licences ## Key facts - **Allowed:** Yes, as an accessory 'Home occupation' use in the AG, R1, R3, R4, R5, R6, CDC, CG, CHS, CN and CDNW zones, subject to the Zoning Bylaw conditions. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 4.2.1; zone accessory-use lists (7.1.2.2, 7.2.2.2, 7.6.2.2)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "A Home occupation use, where permitted in a Zone of this Bylaw, must:" … "iv. Detached accessory dwelling unit. v. Home occupation. vi. Short term rental." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), Table 4.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "Table 4.1: Maximum Floor Area and Maximum Number of Non-Residential Employees for a Home occupation" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** Yes, a business licence is required for all home occupations. Fee: $70 a year for a home occupation (includes childcare, home offices, bed and breakfasts, personal services), plus any Schedule 4B extra fees. - Source: [Business Licences, Business Licences page, Home Occupations](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) - Official wording: "Please note, a business licence is required for all home occupations." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 4A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Home Occupation $70.00" … "Includes childcare, home offices, bed and breakfasts, personal services, etc." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** Table 4.1 by zone: R1 lesser of 60 sq. m. or 25% of the dwelling, 1 non-resident employee; R3 20%, 0; R4, R6 and CDC, CG, CHS, CN 10%, 0; CDNW 10%, 1; R5 112.0 sq. m., 2; AG 185.5 sq. m., 3. One sign; all work and storage enclosed in a building; 1 parking space per employee. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), Table 4.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "the lesser of 60 sq. m. or Residential - Low Density (R1) 1 25% of Dwelling unit" … "Residential - Medium Density (R3) 20% of Dwelling unit 0" … "Residential - Rural (R5) 112.0 sq. m. 2" … "Agricultural Land Reserve (AG) 185.5 sq. m. 3" … "Northwest Boulevard Comprehensive" … "be enclosed either within the Principal" … "Home occupation • 1 per Home occupation employee." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 4.2.1, 4.2.3, 4.2.6](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "not give any exterior indication of its existence except by one (1) sign" … "not involve frequent or regular delivery of materials by a commercial vehicle;" … "A Home occupation involving the sale of a commodity or goods not produced on the Lot is not permitted." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Businesses not allowed:** Salvage, repair, maintenance or sales of motor vehicles, recreational vehicles or parts; trucking, hauling or touring; welding or steel fabrication; light or heavy manufacturing; cannabis retail store or cannabis operation. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 4.2.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "The following uses are not permitted as Home occupations:" … "trucking, hauling or touring;" … "welding or steel fabrication;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (s. 4.2, Table 4.1); Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022"." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017”." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) allows a "home occupation" as an accessory use in the AG, R1, R3, R4, R5, R6, CDC, CG, CHS, CN and CDNW zones, subject to s. 4.2 and Table 4.1. A business licence is required for all home occupations (childcare, home offices, bed and breakfasts and personal services are included). Limits by zone (Table 4.1), as floor area and non-resident employees: - R1: lesser of 60 sq. m. or 25% of the dwelling; 1 employee - R3: 20%; 0 - R4, R6, CDC, CG, CHS, CN: 10%; 0 - CDNW: 10%; 1 - R5: 112.0 sq. m.; 2 - AG: 185.5 sq. m.; 3 Employees means people who do not live in the dwelling. Only one sign is allowed, all work and storage must be enclosed in a building, and you need 1 parking space per employee. The business must not cause noise, odour, traffic or hazards. ## Steps 1. Check your zone and the Table 4.1 limits. 2. Talk to zoning, building and health staff, then the Fire Department, as the [Business Licences](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) page describes. 3. Apply at Town Hall (250-428-2214 ext. 410) and pay $70 a year, plus any Schedule 4B fees. A $20 discount applies to renewals paid by January 31 and to new licences paid within 30 days of approval. ## Good to know - Not allowed: salvage, repair, maintenance or sales of motor vehicles, recreational vehicles or parts; trucking, hauling or touring; welding or steel fabrication; light or heavy manufacturing; cannabis retail or operations; selling goods not produced on the lot. - A bed and breakfast is limited to four adults and one extra parking space per guest room (s. 4.2.8). - The Town's business licence page restates older limits. If they differ from the bylaw, confirm with staff. ## Official forms and pages - [Business Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) ## Related questions - [Creston business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/business-licence.md) - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) - [Creston short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/short-term-rental.md) - [Creston fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/fence-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Home-based business rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/home-based-business.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/home-based-business.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/home-based-business.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/home-based-business.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/home-based-business.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/home-based-business.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/home-based-business.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business Licences, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/business-licences) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Contact Directory, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/contact-directory-0) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Creston. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/home-based-business/_ --- --- title: Creston short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) question: "Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Creston?" place: Creston, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/creston category: Housing and renting owner: shared sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/short-term-rental/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/short-term-rental.json" --- # Creston short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) **Question:** Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Creston? **Short answer:** Yes, in Creston only in your principal residence, or one attached accessory dwelling unit in the same building. You need a Town Short Term Rental business licence ($520 a year) and a provincial registration. The licence number must appear in every ad. **Who handles it:** More than one level of government **Cost:** Town licence $520 a year; provincial registration $100 a year for your principal residence or $450 for a secondary unit. **How long:** The Town states no processing time. Renewal applications must be received by January 31. **Where:** - In person: Town Hall, 238 - 10th Ave. N., Creston, BC (Pay in person Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Town Hall, 250-428-2214 - Phone: Business Licences (Town Hall), 250-428-2214 ext. 410 - Online: Short-Term Rentals page, https://www.creston.ca/short-term-rentals ## Key facts - **Allowed:** Yes, only in the operator's principal residence (where they live longer in a calendar year than anywhere else), or in one attached accessory dwelling unit in the same building as that residence. Allowed as an accessory use in AG, R1, R3, R4, R5, R6, CDC, CG, CHS, CN and CDNW. The Town's web page says 8 months a year, which differs from the bylaws. (Sources differ: The Town's web page says the operator must live in the dwelling 'at least 8 months per year'; the Zoning Bylaw says 'a longer period of time in a calendar year than any other place' and the Business Licence Bylaw says 'Principal Residence' (usually lives). The value follows the bylaws. R2 is deleted in the Zoning Bylaw but still named on the page.) - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 4.9.2](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "only in the Principal residence where the operator of the Short term rental resides for a longer period of time in a calendar year than any other place;" … "a maximum of one Attached accessory dwelling unit may be used as a Short term rental for 12 months per year." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 6 s. 1(b)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall operate a Short Term Rental unless the premises can be demonstrated to be that person’s Principal Residence." - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, Short-term Rentals page](https://www.creston.ca/short-term-rentals) - Official wording: "STRs are permitted in Zones R1-R6, CDNW, CN, CHS, CG, CDC, AG, but not as the primary use." … "where they live for at least 8 months per year" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** Yes. A valid Short Term Rental business licence is required to operate or advertise; the annual fee is $520. - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 6 s. 1(c), (d)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall operate a Short Term Rental without a valid and subsisting licence." … "No person shall offer or advertise a Short Term Rental without a valid licence" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026), Schedule 4A](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) - Official wording: "Short Term Rental $520.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Provincial registration:** Yes. Provincial registration is required for short-term rentals offered for fewer than 90 consecutive days, regardless of whether a local licence is required. Creston is on the Province's list of communities where the principal residence requirement applies. - Source: [Short-term rentals: principal residence requirement, Province of BC, Business licence exemptions; List of communities where the principal residence requirement applies](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) - Official wording: "Provincial registration requirements apply to short-term rentals offered for fewer than 90 consecutive days" … "Creston" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Operating rules:** Fire Department inspection at least every 3 years; the licence number must appear in every ad; Municipal and Regional District Tax collected; a daily guest register (name, phone, address, vehicle plate) kept and given to the Town on request; a welcome booklet and fire safety plan for guests. - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 6 s. 1(e), 4, 5](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "Short Term Rentals are subject to inspection by the Fire Department once every three (3) years" … "a valid business licence number." … "establish and maintain a daily register of the name, telephone number, address, and vehicle licence plate number, for every overnight guest of the business" - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, Short-term Rentals page](https://www.creston.ca/short-term-rentals) - Official wording: "STRs require a Fire Safety Plan." … "STRs must only be advertised on a website that collects MRDT" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Advertising a short-term rental without a business licence: $250 bylaw notice ($225 early, $275 late). Operating without a business licence: $100 ($50 early, $125 late). Using land contrary to the Zoning Bylaw: $275 ($250 early, $300 late). A court conviction can bring $2,500 to $10,000. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760, Schedule A, Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) - Official wording: "Advertising a Short Term Rental without a" … "6.4 (a) $250.00 $225.00 $275.00" … "1793 5.1 No Business Licence. $100.00 $50.00 $125.00" … "1958 3.1.1 Use land or building contrary to bylaw $275.00 $250.00 $300.00 Yes" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 8 s. 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "to a fine not exceeding Ten Thousand ($10,000.00) Dollars and not less than Two Thousand Five Hundred ($2,500.00) Dollars" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (Part 6, Short Term Rentals); Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (s. 4.9) - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025), Part 1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017”." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026), s. 1.1](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Zoning Bylaw](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (s. 4.9) allows short-term rentals only in the operator's principal residence (where they live longer in a calendar year than anywhere else), or in one attached accessory dwelling unit in the same building as that residence. It is an accessory use in the AG, R1, R3, R4, R5, R6, CDC, CG, CHS, CN and CDNW zones. A valid Short Term Rental business licence is required to operate or advertise. The annual fee is $520, from Part 6 of the [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf). Provincial registration is also required for rentals of fewer than 90 consecutive days. Creston is on the Province's list of communities where the principal residence requirement applies. ## Steps 1. Confirm your home is your principal residence and your zone allows it. 2. Apply to the Town with proof of ownership, proof of principal residence, owner authorization if you are not the owner, and a filled-out welcome booklet. 3. Pass the Fire Department inspection (at least every 3 years). 4. Register with the Province ([provincial page](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement)): $100 a year for your principal residence, $450 for a secondary unit. 5. Put the licence number in every ad, and renew by January 31. ## Good to know - A $20 discount applies to renewals paid by January 31 and to new licences paid within 30 days of approval. - Keep a daily guest register (name, phone, address, vehicle plate) and give it to the Town on request. Guests get a welcome booklet and fire safety plan. Municipal and Regional District Tax is collected. - No limit on guests or bedrooms and no STR parking requirement was found. The rental must not change the neighbourhood character, and one sign is allowed. - Fines (bylaw notices): advertising without a licence $250 ($225 early, $275 late); operating without a licence $100 ($50 early, $125 late); using land contrary to the Zoning Bylaw $275 ($250 early, $300 late). A court conviction can bring $2,500 to $10,000. - The Town's [Short-Term Rentals](https://www.creston.ca/short-term-rentals) page says 8 months a year in the dwelling; the bylaws say principal residence. Confirm with the Town. ## Official forms and pages - [Short-Term Rentals, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/short-term-rentals) - [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) - [Short-term rentals: principal residence requirement, Province of BC](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) ## Related questions - [Creston business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/business-licence.md) - [Creston secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/secondary-suite.md) - [Creston bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/bylaw-fines.md) - [Creston zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Short-term rental rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/short-term-rental.md) - [Salmo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/salmo/short-term-rental.md) - [Kimberley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kimberley/short-term-rental.md) - [Cranbrook](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cranbrook/short-term-rental.md) - [Fruitvale](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fruitvale/short-term-rental.md) - [Nelson](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nelson/short-term-rental.md) - [Montrose](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/montrose/short-term-rental.md) ## Sources - [Short-Term Rentals, Town of Creston](https://www.creston.ca/short-term-rentals) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business Licence Bylaw No. 1793, 2017 (PDF, consolidated to December 2, 2025)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2025-12/Business%20Licence-1793_0.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 1958, 2022 (PDF, consolidated to June 16, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Zoning-1958.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Short-term rentals: principal residence requirement, Province of BC](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1763 (PDF, consolidated to May 12, 2026)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/Fees%20and%20Charges-1763.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1760 (PDF)](https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/files/2026-04/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with any government. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/creston/short-term-rental/_