# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for Dawson Creek --- title: "Dawson Creek building permits: when you need one and how to apply" question: "Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit.json" --- # Dawson Creek building permits: when you need one and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply? **Short answer:** In Dawson Creek you need a building permit before you build, repair, alter, move or demolish a building or structure, and before plumbing work. Examples are decks, detached garages, finishing a basement and secondary suites. Email the application package to Building Inspection. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Set by Schedule E of the Fees and Charges Bylaw; see the building-permit-fees answer. Fees rise each January 1. **How long:** The City gives no fixed time. It depends on the time of year and the size of the project, and summer is busiest. The City recommends applying at least two weeks before you plan to start. **Where:** - Email: Building Inspection (applications and questions), buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca - Phone: Building Inspection (inspections), 250-743-6333 - Phone: City Hall, 250-784-3600 - In person: Development Services, temporary offices (City Hall is relocated), Unit 1C, 11000 8 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 (Counter hours are not published on the pages read.) ## Key facts - **Needed for:** A building permit is needed before excavating for, constructing, repairing, altering, moving or demolishing a building or structure, and before plumbing work. City examples: sheds, detached garages, decks, gazebos, secondary suites, finishing a basement, new buildings, additions, wood-burning appliances. - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 6.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "every person shall apply for and obtain a permit before excavating for, construction, repairing, altering, moving, or demolishing a building or structure" - Source: [Building and Renovating, Examples of when you need a permit](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "building or altering a deck" … "finishing a basement, including non-structural work" … "adding an accessory building, equipment room, shed or detached garage" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not needed for:** City page lists as not needing a permit: fencing, flooring, flower beds and boxes, painting, same-size door and window replacement, re-shingling, siding, trim, and sheds under 10 m² (108 ft²). The bylaw does not apply to retaining walls; clearing plumbing stoppages or repairing leaks needs no permit. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Examples of when you do not need a permit](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "sheds under 10m2 (108 ft2)" … "replacing doors and windows of the same size" … "re-shingling or replacing roof cladding" - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 4.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "This Bylaw does not apply to:" … "b. retaining walls." … "No permit is required for the clearing of stoppages, or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** Fill out the application package for your type of work and email it to buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca. The bylaw requires a written application on the prescribed form filed with the building inspector. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Permit Submission](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "Completed permit applications must be submitted by email to the appropriate department listed below." … "Building and Demolition Permits: buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca" - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 5.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "file an application in writing with the building inspector in the prescribed form" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What to submit:** Application signed by the owner or agent, stating the intended use, with two copies of specifications and two sets of scaled drawings including a site plan. The City has separate application packages (deck, shed, detached garage, secondary suite, single family dwelling and duplex, etc.). - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 6.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "be signed by the Owner or Agent;" … "state the intended use or uses of the building or structure;" … "include two copies of the specifications and two sets of drawings to scale including:" … "a site plan showing the following information:" - Source: [Residential Building Permits, Get started](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/residential-building-permits/) - Official wording: "Deck Application Package" … "Detached Garage Application Package" … "Secondary Suite Application Package" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Processing time:** No fixed time is given. It depends on the time of year and the size of the project; summer is busiest. The City recommends applying at least two weeks before you plan to start. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Apply for a Permit](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "The time it takes to get a permit depends on the time of year and how large the project is." … "We recommend applying for a permit at least two weeks before you plan to start your project." … "Summer months are the busiest time of year." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Inspections:** Book by calling 250-743-6333 or emailing buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca. The owner must give at least 24 hours' notice. Inspections are done remotely by Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Google Meet. - Source: [Building Inspections](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/building-inspections/) - Official wording: "To book an inspection, call 250-743-6333 or email buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca." … "Remote inspections are carried out using Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet." - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 14.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "at least 24 hours’ notice to the Building Inspector requesting an inspection" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** Development Services Department, building inspection: buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca; inspections 250-743-6333; City Hall 250-784-3600. - Source: [Building and Renovating](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "The Development Services Department oversees building and renovating within the City of Dawson Creek." … "City of Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 Telephone: 250-784-3600" - Source: [Building Inspections](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/building-inspections/) - Official wording: "To book an inspection, call 250-743-6333" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Regulation Bylaw No. 4287, 2016 - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "BUILDING REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4287, 2016" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Development Services oversees building in Dawson Creek. Section 6.1 of [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) says you must get a permit before excavating for, constructing, repairing, altering, moving or demolishing a building or structure, and before plumbing work. The City page also says projects must follow the current BC Building Code. ## Steps 1. Check the City's list. It names sheds, detached garages, decks, gazebos, secondary suites (new or legalized), finishing a basement, new buildings, additions and wood-burning appliances. 2. Fill out the application package for your type of work, from the Residential Building Permits page. 3. Email it to buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca. 4. Pay the fees, get the permit, then book inspections as work proceeds. ## Good to know - The City lists these as not needing a permit: fencing, flooring, flower beds and boxes, painting, same-size door and window replacement, re-shingling, siding, trim, and sheds under 10 m2 (108 ft2). The bylaw itself sets no shed size, so confirm with Building Inspection. Zoning rules still apply. - The bylaw does not apply to retaining walls. Clearing plumbing stoppages or repairing leaks needs no permit. - A permit expires if work does not start within 6 months, is not finished within 24 months, or stops for more than a year after the last inspection (Bylaw 4287, s. 7.2). - Not sure? Email Building Inspection before you start. ## What you'll need - The application package for your type of work (deck, shed, detached garage, secondary suite, single family dwelling and duplex, and others) - Application signed by the owner or agent stating the intended use, two copies of specifications and two sets of scaled drawings including a site plan ## Official forms and pages - [Residential Building Permits (package list)](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/residential-building-permits/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Dawson Creek building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit-fees.md) - [Dawson Creek fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fence-rules.md) - [Dawson Creek zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permits in British Columbia: how to apply, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/building-permit.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/building-permit.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/building-permit.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/building-permit.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/building-permit.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/building-permit.md) ## Sources - [Building and Renovating, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential Building Permits, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/residential-building-permits/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Inspections](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/building-inspections/) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit/_ --- --- title: "Dawson Creek fence rules: permits and height limits" question: "Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fence-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fence-rules.json" --- # Dawson Creek fence rules: permits and height limits **Question:** Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be? **Short answer:** Dawson Creek does not require a permit to build a fence, but Zoning Bylaw 4625 sets height limits. On a residential lot, a fence between the front building line and the front property line can be up to 1.2 m (4 ft) high, and elsewhere up to 1.8 m (6 ft). **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** No permit fee. **Where:** - Email: Building Inspection (if unsure), buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca - Phone: City Hall, 250-784-3600 ## Key facts - **Permit:** No permit is needed to build a fence, but you must follow the Zoning Bylaw (s. 5.12) and call BC 1 Call and DigShaw before starting. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Building a fence](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "You do not need a permit to build a fence." - Source: [Building and Renovating, Examples of when you do not need a permit](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "- fencing - flooring - flower beds and boxes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, front yard:** 1.2 m (4 ft) on residential parcels, for a fence between the front building line and the front parcel line. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.12.5(a)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "On any parcel used for residential and comprehensive development purposes:" … "a fence located in the setback between the front building line and the front parcel line shall not exceed 1.2 m in height" - Source: [Building and Renovating, Height of fence](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "The maximum height is 1.2m (4ft)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, side and rear yards:** 1.8 m (6 ft) on residential parcels, for a fence between the front building line and the rear parcel line (side and rear yards). - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.12.5(b)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "a fence located in the setback between the front line and the rear parcel line shall not exceed 1.8 m in height" - Source: [Building and Renovating, Height of fence](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "The maximum height is 1.8m (6ft)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Corner lots and sightlines:** Within the site clearance triangle at intersections shown in the bylaw, nothing (fence, screening, landscaping) may be taller than 1.0 m above street grade. The City page says within 8 m of the pavement edge at a corner, fences, trees and hedges can be no taller than 1 m. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.10.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "No landscaping, screening, fencing, building, structure or object may be planted or erected to a height greater than 1.0 m above the established grade of the street" - Source: [Building and Renovating, Corner properties](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "any fence, tree, or hedge within 8m (26ft 3in) of the pavement edge cannot be taller than 1m (3ft 3in) above the pavement of the road." … "Trim branches of trees or shrubs back from the ground level up to a height of 3m (10ft) so they do not hang in this area." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other rules:** Fence must be on your own property, not City land, rights-of-way or easements. Height is measured from the ground beside the fence (from the bottom of a retaining wall if built on one). Electrified or dangerous fences are banned. Pool fences must be at least 1.83 m (6 ft) high. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Height of fence](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "Measure the height of your fence from the ground right next to your fence to the highest point of your fence." … "If you are building on top of a retaining wall, measure from the bottom of the wall to the highest point of your fence." … "It cannot be on City property, or any city right-of-way or easement areas." - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated), s. 3.20](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "No person will erect or maintain any fence within the City that is electrically charged or otherwise dangerous in any way." - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 20.3](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "Every swimming pool shall be enclosed within a fence at least 1.83m (6 ft) from the pool and having a minimum height of 1.83m (6 ft)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026, s. 5.12 (fences) and s. 5.10 (site clearance at intersections) - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.12.5](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "shall not exceed 1.2 m in height" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The City says you do not need a permit to build a fence, but you must follow section 5.12 of [Zoning Bylaw 4625](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) and call BC 1 Call and DigShaw before starting to locate utilities. ## Steps 1. Measure height from the ground beside the fence to its highest point. On a retaining wall, measure from the bottom of the wall. 2. Keep to the residential limit: 1.2 m (4 ft) between the front building line and the front parcel line, and 1.8 m (6 ft) between the front building line and the rear parcel line (side and rear yards). 3. Keep the fence on your own property. The City says finding your property lines is your responsibility and suggests hiring a BC Land Surveyor. 4. Call BC 1 Call and DigShaw before digging. ## Good to know - The fence cannot be on City property, a right-of-way or an easement. - Corner lots: the bylaw says nothing in the site clearance triangle at an intersection (fence, screening or landscaping) may be over 1.0 m above street grade. The City page gives a simpler rule, within 8 m of the pavement edge, 1 m. The bylaw prevails, so confirm with the City. - Commercial, public and institutional parcels: 1.8 m. Industrial, aviation and agricultural parcels: 1.8 m in front and 2.4 m behind the front building line. - Electrified or dangerous fences are banned ([Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534), s. 3.20). Pool fences must be at least 1.83 m (6 ft) high. - The City has no jurisdiction over shared-fence disputes; those are provincial and civil matters. ## Official forms and pages - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, section 5.12 Fences and Screening (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - [Dawson Creek Map](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/dawson-creek-map/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning-lookup.md) - [Dawson Creek permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Dawson Creek building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit.md) - [Dawson Creek tree removal rules and permits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/tree-removal.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/fence-rules.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/fence-rules.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/fence-rules.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/fence-rules.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/fence-rules.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/fence-rules.md) ## Sources - [Building and Renovating, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) (read 2026-11-05) - [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fence-rules/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages question: "Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/deck-shed-garage-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/deck-shed-garage-permit.json" --- # Dawson Creek permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages **Question:** Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage? **Short answer:** In Dawson Creek a deck and a detached garage need a building permit. A shed under 10 m2 (108 ft2) is listed by the City as not needing one, but the bylaw sets no shed size. Carports are not named, so ask Building Inspection. Zoning rules apply to all of them. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** The minimum building permit fee of $73.37 plus taxes in 2026 includes a deck or shed. A detached garage is charged by project value; see building-permit-fees. **Where:** - Email: Building Inspection (applications and questions), buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca - Phone: Building Inspection, 250-743-6333 - In person: Development Services, temporary offices (City Hall is relocated), Unit 1C, 11000 8 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 (Counter hours are not published on the pages read.) ## Key facts - **Sheds:** A shed under 10 m² (108 ft²) is listed as not needing a building permit. The City lists adding an accessory building, equipment room, shed or detached garage as needing one. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Apply for a Permit](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "sheds under 10m2 (108 ft2)" … "adding an accessory building, equipment room, shed or detached garage" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Decks:** Building or altering a deck needs a building permit. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Examples of when you need a permit](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "building or altering a deck" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Garages and carports:** A detached garage needs a building permit, as do additions or alterations to an attached garage. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Examples of when you need a permit](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "adding an accessory building, equipment room, shed or detached garage" … "additions or alterations to attached garages" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning limits:** In R zones, total accessory buildings and structures may not exceed 72.5 m² per parcel, and must be built with or after the main building. In RS-1: height 5.0 m, setbacks 7.5 m front, 1.2 m interior side, 3.0 m exterior side, 0.6 m rear; parcel coverage 50%. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.13](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "Accessory buildings or structures must be built either simultaneously or after the principal building" … "the total combined floor area of accessory buildings and accessory structures shall not exceed 72.5 m2 per parcel" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 6.12.1 (RS-1 table)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "d) Minimum Setback of Accessory Buildings and Structures" … "From interior side parcel line 1.2 m" … "From rear parcel line 0.6 m" … "h) Maximum Height of Accessory Buildings and Structures (excluding" … "j) Maximum Parcel Coverage 50%" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Regulation Bylaw No. 4287, 2016 (permits); Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 (s. 5.13 and zone regulations) - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "BUILDING REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4287, 2016" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The City's building page lists building or altering a deck, building a gazebo, and adding an accessory building, equipment room, shed or detached garage as work that needs a permit. It also lists additions or alterations to an attached garage. It lists "sheds under 10m2 (108 ft2)" as not needing one. The [Building Regulation Bylaw](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) (s. 6.1) requires a permit for a building or structure and sets no shed size, and no deck height threshold is stated, so confirm before you build. [Zoning Bylaw 4625](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) applies either way. ## Steps 1. Check the zoning rules for your lot (see zoning-lookup). 2. Download the deck, shed or detached garage package from the Residential Building Permits page. 3. Email the completed package to buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca. 4. Book inspections as work proceeds. ## Good to know - In the RS-1 zone, an accessory building can be no taller than 5.0 m and must be at least 1.2 m from an interior side line, 3.0 m from an exterior side line and 0.6 m from the rear line. Parcel coverage is 50%. Other zones differ slightly. - In R zones, all accessory buildings and structures together may not exceed 72.5 m2 per parcel, and must be built with or after the main building. - Carports are not named on the City pages; the bylaw treats a building or structure as needing a permit, so ask Building Inspection. ## What you'll need - The Deck, Shed or Detached Garage Application Package - Site plan and scaled drawings ## Official forms and pages - [Residential Building Permits (application packages)](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/residential-building-permits/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit.md) - [Dawson Creek building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit-fees.md) - [Dawson Creek fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fence-rules.md) - [Dawson Creek zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/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) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) ## Sources - [Building and Renovating, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential Building Permits, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/residential-building-permits/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/deck-shed-garage-permit/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek building permit fees question: "How much does a building permit cost?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit-fees/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit-fees.json" --- # Dawson Creek building permit fees **Question:** How much does a building permit cost? **Short answer:** In 2026 a Dawson Creek building permit costs from .37 (the minimum, which includes a deck, shed or wood-burning appliance), rising with the value of the work, plus taxes. Most applications also pay a .63 plan processing fee. Fees rise each January 1. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** 2026, plus taxes: value up to $1,000 $73.37 (minimum); to $2,000 $91.72; to $5,000 $116.17; to $10,000 $140.63; to $50,000 $140.63 plus $9.18 per extra $1,000 or fraction; over $50,000 $507.51 plus $7.33 per extra $1,000 or fraction. The total building permit fee is capped at $500,000. **Where:** - Email: Building Inspection, buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca - Phone: Building Inspection, 250-743-6333 - In person: Development Services, temporary offices (City Hall is relocated), Unit 1C, 11000 8 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 (Counter hours are not published on the pages read.) ## Key facts - **Lowest fee:** $73.37 in 2026 ($74.84 in 2027), plus taxes. The minimum permit includes deck, shed and wood-burning appliance. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F, Schedule E](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Minimum Bldg Permit, which includes deck, shed, and wood burning appliance $71.93 $73.37 $74.84 $76.33" … "ALL FEES ARE PLUS APPLICABLE TAXES" … "2025 FEE 2026 FEE 2027 FEE 2028 FEE" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How the fee is worked out:** 2026: up to $1,000 minimum $73.37; to $2,000 $91.72; to $5,000 $116.17; to $10,000 $140.63; to $50,000 $140.63 plus $9.18 per extra $1,000 or fraction; over $50,000 $507.51 plus $7.33 per extra $1,000 or fraction. Total permit fee capped at $500,000. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F, Schedule E](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Permit fee when the value exceeds $1,000 but does not exceed $2,000 $89.92 $91.72 $93.56 $95.43" … "Permit fee when the value exceeds $2,000 but does not exceed $5,000 $113.89 $116.17 $118.49 $120.86" … "Permit fee when the value exceeds $5,000 but does not exceed $10,000 $137.87 $140.63 $143.44 $146.31" … "Permit fee when the value exceeds $10,000 but does not exceed $50,000 $137.87 $140.63 $143.44 $146.31" … "$10,000 up to and including $50,000" … "$9.00 $9.18 $9.36 $9.55" … "Permit fee when the value exceeds $50,000 $497.56 $507.51 $517.66 $528.01" … "$7.19 $7.33 $7.48 $7.63" … "$50,000, with a total maximum building permit fee capped at $500,000" … "Additional fee for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof for values exceeding" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Application or plan review fee:** A plan processing fee is paid with the application: $140.63 in 2026 ($79.49 if Professional Plan Certification is provided). It does not apply to decks, sheds or wood-burning appliances. It is non-refundable and is credited against the permit fee when the permit is issued. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F, Schedule E](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Plan Processing, which excludes deck, shed, and wood burning appliance $137.87 $140.63 $143.44 $146.31" … "Plan processing if Professional Plan Certification provided $77.93 $79.49 $81.08 $82.70" - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 12.4](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "shall be accompanied by the appropriate plan-processing fee" … "the plan processing fee is non-refundable and shall be credited against the building permit fee when the permit is issued." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees:** 2026: plumbing permit (1 fixture) $73.37, each extra fixture $7.33; residential demolition $91.72; commercial or industrial demolition, or moving a building, $366.87; re-inspection $91.72; after-hours inspection $91.72. Moving a building also needs a $10,000 irrevocable letter of credit. Plus taxes. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F, Schedule E](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "installing, altering and $71.93 $73.37 $74.84 $76.33" … "Demolition Permit for residential building $89.92 $91.72 $93.56 $95.43" … "Demolition Permit for commercial or industrial building (each) $359.67 $366.87 $374.20 $381.69" … "Moving Permit - moving any building any size $359.67 $366.87 $374.20 $381.69" … "Re-inspection $89.92 $91.72 $93.56 $95.43" … "Inspection outside of regular working hours $89.92 $91.72 $93.56 $95.43" - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 12.6](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "for each inspection after the second inspection, a re-inspection" … "18.4 Every application for a Building Moving Permit shall be accompanied by an irrevocable letter of" … "credit established in favour of the City in the amount of $10,000, which letter of credit will expire" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to pay:** The plan processing fee is paid with the application. The permit fee must be paid in full before the permit is issued. - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 12.3-12.4](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "shall be paid in full prior to issuance of any permit under this bylaw." … "shall be accompanied by the appropriate plan-processing fee" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, 2007, Schedule E (Building Regulation Fees & Charges). The Building Regulation Bylaw No. 4287, 2016, s. 12 requires the fees. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F, Schedule E](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "FEES AND CHARGES BYLAW NO. 3932, 2007" … "BUILDING REGULATION FEES & CHARGES" - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 12.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "BUILDING REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4287, 2016" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Permit fees are set in Schedule E of [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) and rise each January 1 (the schedule lists 2025 to 2028 amounts). All amounts are plus taxes. The bylaw requires the permit fee to be paid in full before the permit is issued ([Building Regulation Bylaw 4287](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177), s. 12). ## Steps 1. Work out the value of the work and find its band in the fee table above. 2. Pay the plan processing fee with your application: $140.63 in 2026, or $79.49 if Professional Plan Certification is provided. It does not apply to decks, sheds or wood-burning appliances. 3. Pay the permit fee before the permit is issued. 4. Email questions to buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca. ## Good to know - The cap is a maximum building permit fee of $500,000. It is not a limit on the value of the work. - Other 2026 fees: plumbing permit $73.37 for one fixture and $7.33 for each extra fixture; residential demolition $91.72; commercial or industrial demolition, or moving a building, $366.87. Moving a building also needs a $10,000 irrevocable letter of credit. - Re-inspection $91.72, charged when non-compliance means more than two inspections are needed. After-hours inspection $91.72. - Plan processing is non-refundable and is credited to the permit fee when the permit is issued. The application is cancelled and the fee forfeited if the permit is not issued and paid for within 180 days of written notice that it is ready. ## Official forms and pages - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932, Schedule E (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/building-permit-fees.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/building-permit-fees.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/building-permit-fees.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/building-permit-fees.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/building-permit-fees.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/building-permit-fees.md) ## Sources - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building and Renovating, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit-fees/_ --- --- title: "Dawson Creek zoning: find your zone and what it allows" question: "How do I find out how my property is zoned and what I can build on it?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning-lookup/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning-lookup.json" --- # Dawson Creek zoning: find your zone and what it allows **Question:** How do I find out how my property is zoned and what I can build on it? **Short answer:** Find your lot on Dawson Creek's Official Zoning Map (Schedule B of Zoning Bylaw 4625), then look up that zone in the bylaw. The City also has an online Dawson Creek Map. For help, call City Hall at 250-784-3600. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** No fee is stated for looking up zoning. **Where:** - Online: Dawson Creek Map, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/dawson-creek-map/ - Phone: City Hall (ask for the Engineering Department), 250-784-3600 - In person: Development Services, temporary offices (City Hall is relocated), Unit 1C, 11000 8 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 (Counter hours are not published on the pages read.) ## Key facts - **How to find your zone:** The Official Zoning Map is Schedule B of the Zoning Bylaw, posted on the City's CivicWeb site as 'Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 Maps'. The City also keeps an online Dawson Creek Map (free for personal, non-commercial use), and says to use its zoning map or contact the Engineering Department. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 4.2.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "The location of each zone is delineated, marked, and identified on Schedule B of this Bylaw." - Source: [Dawson Creek Map](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/dawson-creek-map/) - Official wording: "Our GIS Technologist maintains the Dawson Creek Map and updates it regularly. The map is free for personal and non-commercial public use." - Source: [Building and Renovating, Zoning](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "Use our zoning map, or contact our Engineering Department at City Hall for help." - Source: [Zoning, Maps](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/planning-and-development/zoning/) - Official wording: "Official Zoning Map (Schedule B)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026, adopted June 15, 2026. The consolidated copy lists amendments up to Bylaw 4641, adopted October 5, 2026. - Source: [Bylaws folder](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/112096/) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 (Consolidated) 2026-10-30 2.2 MB" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" … "ADOPTED this 15th day of June, 2026." … "4641 October 5, 2026 zoning to P-1 – Parks and" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What the zone controls:** Which land uses are permitted in each zone, plus development density, siting of buildings (setbacks), building heights, lot coverage, and off-street parking and loading. - Source: [Zoning](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/planning-and-development/zoning/) - Official wording: "The City of Dawson Creek Zoning Bylaw determines which types of land use are permitted inside each city zone." … "development density - siting of buildings - building heights - lot coverage - off-street parking and loading" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** City Hall 250-784-3600; the City page says to contact the Engineering Department at City Hall for help with zoning. Printed maps come from Development Services. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Zoning](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "Use our zoning map, or contact our Engineering Department at City Hall for help." - Source: [Dawson Creek Map, Printed Maps](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/dawson-creek-map/) - Official wording: "Printed maps of Dawson Creek are available from the Development Services department at City Hall." - Source: [Zoning, Contact Us](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/planning-and-development/zoning/) - Official wording: "City of Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 Telephone: 250-784-3600" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) was adopted June 15, 2026. The consolidated copy lists amendments up to Bylaw 4641, adopted October 5, 2026. Some older City page links still point to Zoning Bylaw 4450 (2023), which is out of date. The zone controls which land uses are permitted, density, building placement (setbacks), height, lot coverage, and off-street parking and loading. ## Steps 1. Open the Official Zoning Map (Schedule B), posted on the City's CivicWeb site as "Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 Maps". It is a large file and takes time to open. The City also keeps an online [Dawson Creek Map](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/dawson-creek-map/), free for personal, non-commercial use. 2. Find your address and note the zone code. 3. Find that zone in the bylaw. Table 2 lists the zones (RS-1 to RM-3, RMH-1, C-1 to C-4, INS, P, M, A, AV and CD zones). 4. Call City Hall at 250-784-3600 and ask for the Engineering Department if you need help. ## Good to know - Printed maps come from Development Services. - Zoning is only one check; you may also need a building permit. ## Zones 23 zones are listed from [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 (Consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning/index.json Look up the zone of an address: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning/lookup?address=123+Main+St ## Official forms and pages - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - [Zoning page](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/planning-and-development/zoning/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fence-rules.md) - [Dawson Creek secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/secondary-suite.md) - [Dawson Creek permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/zoning-lookup.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/zoning-lookup.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/zoning-lookup.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/zoning-lookup.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/zoning-lookup.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/zoning-lookup.md) ## Sources - [Zoning, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/planning-and-development/zoning/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dawson Creek Map, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/dawson-creek-map/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building and Renovating, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaws folder, City of Dawson Creek CivicWeb](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/filepro/documents/112096/) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning-lookup/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek secondary suite and carriage house rules question: "Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/secondary-suite/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/secondary-suite.json" --- # Dawson Creek secondary suite and carriage house rules **Question:** Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house? **Short answer:** Often yes in Dawson Creek. Zoning Bylaw 4625 allows a secondary suite inside a single detached house or duplex in nine zones, and a separate accessory dwelling unit (the nearest term to a carriage house) in several. A suite needs a building permit and a City business licence. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Building permit fees depend on project value (see building-permit-fees). The owner's long-term rental licence is $10.49 per unit, minimum $30, under Schedule F of the Fees and Charges Bylaw. **Where:** - Email: Building Inspection (permit applications), buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca - Phone: City Hall, 250-784-3600 - In person: Development Services, temporary offices (City Hall is relocated), Unit 1C, 11000 8 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 (Counter hours are not published on the pages read.) ## Key facts - **Secondary suite allowed:** A secondary suite is an accessory use in the RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, A, CD-1, CD-2 and CD-3 zones, inside a single detached dwelling or duplex (CD-1 also triplexes and townhouses; CD-3 a triplex unit). RM-1 and RM-2: only on parcels with those. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.14.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "Where expressly permitted in a zone, secondary suites shall comply with all of the following regulations:" … "h) in the CD-1 Zone, secondary suites are permitted within duplexes, triplexes," … "28.3.4 Notwithstanding any other provision of this Bylaw, a secondary suite is permitted within" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 6.11.1 (RS-1)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "vi. home occupation vii. secondary suite" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 9.1.1 (RM-1)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "vii. home occupation viii. secondary suite" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 9.3.4 (RM-1)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "Secondary suites and accessory dwelling units are only permitted as accessory uses for parcels containing a single detached dwelling or duplex." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, Definition](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "SECONDARY SUITE means a self-contained accessory dwelling unit located within and forms part of a single detached dwelling or duplex." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** An accessory dwelling unit (detached or separate from the house) is an accessory use in RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, RMH-1, INS-1, CD-1 and CD-2 zones. It must be at least 26.0 m², no taller than 8.0 m, on a parcel at least 10.0 m wide, within 90 m of a fire hydrant, and cover no more than 15% of the parcel. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.15.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "the floor area of an accessory dwelling unit must be at least 26.0 m²" … "the maximum height of a building containing an accessory dwelling unit is 8.0 m" … "the parcel coverage of the accessory dwelling unit must not exceed 15% of the" … "all portions of an accessory dwelling unit must be:" … "within 7.9 m of the rear parcel line" … "at least 4.9 m from the single detached dwelling or duplex on the parcel" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.15.1(h)-(i)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "an accessory dwelling unit is only permitted if it is located within 90.0 m of a" … "the width of a parcel on which an accessory dwelling unit is situated must be" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** Secondary suite: one per single detached dwelling; one per unit of a duplex (two); must meet the BC Building Code; owner must hold a City business licence; cannot be subdivided or strata titled; rented only for one month or longer. No suite size limit or owner-occupancy requirement is stated. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.14.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "only one secondary suite is permitted on a parcel occupied by a single detached dwelling" … "a maximum of two secondary suites are permitted on a parcel occupied by a duplex (one per dwelling unit)" … "secondary suites must meet current BC Building Code regulations" … "secondary suites shall not be subdivided or strata titled" … "shall be rented for periods of not less than one month" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Parking:** Secondary suite: 1 space per bedroom up to a maximum of 2, in addition to the spaces for the main dwelling. Accessory dwelling unit in residential zones: same, 1 per bedroom up to 2 per unit, in addition. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, Table 5](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "1 per bedroom up to a maximum of 2, in addition to the" … "required spaces for the principal residential dwelling unit" … "1 per bedroom up to a maximum of 2 per accessory" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permits:** A building permit is needed to build a new secondary suite or to legalize an existing one (apply with the Secondary Suite Application Package by email to buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca). The owner must also hold a City business licence. - Source: [Building and Renovating, Examples of when you need a permit](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) - Official wording: "building a new secondary suite" … "legalizing an existing secondary suite" - Source: [Residential Building Permits, Get started](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/residential-building-permits/) - Official wording: "Secondary Suite Application Package" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.14.1(d)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "the owner of the parcel on which a secondary suite is being rented is required to hold a City business licence" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 (s. 5.14 Secondary Suites, s. 5.15 Accessory Dwelling Units, Table 5); Building Regulation Bylaw No. 4287, 2016 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" - Source: [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) - Official wording: "BUILDING REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4287, 2016" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Zoning Bylaw 4625](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (s. 5.14) allows a secondary suite as an accessory use in the RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, A, CD-1, CD-2 and CD-3 zones, inside a single detached dwelling or duplex. CD-1 also allows suites in triplexes and townhouses, and CD-3 in a triplex unit. RM-1 and RM-2 allow one suite or one accessory dwelling unit per parcel. The bylaw also allows a detached accessory dwelling unit in RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, RMH-1, INS-1, CD-1 and CD-2. "Carriage house" is not a bylaw term. Check your zone on the Official Zoning Map. ## Steps 1. Confirm your zone allows it (see zoning-lookup). 2. Fill out the Secondary Suite Application Package and email it to buildinginspection@dawsoncreek.ca. A permit is needed to build a new suite or legalize an existing one. 3. Get a City business licence as the owner of the rented parcel. 4. Book inspections as work proceeds. ## Good to know - One suite per single detached dwelling, or one per unit of a duplex. It must meet the BC Building Code, cannot be subdivided or strata titled, and can be rented only for one month or longer. - The bylaw states no suite size limit and no owner-occupancy requirement. - Parking: 1 space per bedroom, up to 2, in addition to the main dwelling's spaces. - A detached accessory dwelling unit must be at least 26.0 m2 and no taller than 8.0 m, on a parcel at least 10.0 m wide, within 90 m of a fire hydrant, and cover no more than 15% of the parcel. - The bylaw says Development Permit Areas in the Official Community Plan apply in addition. ## Official forms and pages - [Residential Building Permits (Secondary Suite Application Package)](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/residential-building-permits/) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, sections 5.14 and 5.15 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning-lookup.md) - [Dawson Creek building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit.md) - [Dawson Creek building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/building-permit-fees.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Secondary suite and carriage house rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/secondary-suite.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/secondary-suite.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/secondary-suite.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/secondary-suite.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/secondary-suite.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/secondary-suite.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/secondary-suite.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential Building Permits, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/residential-building-permits/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building and Renovating, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Regulation Bylaw 4287 (consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112177) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/secondary-suite/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek tree removal rules and permits question: "Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/tree-removal/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/tree-removal.json" --- # Dawson Creek tree removal rules and permits **Question:** Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property? **Short answer:** Dawson Creek has no bylaw that requires a permit to cut an ordinary private tree outside development permit areas. In the Natural Hazards area (flood-prone land, ravines, steep slopes) other cutting likely needs a development permit, so ask the City. City trees and park trees cannot be cut without permission. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** No fee specific to cutting a tree. If a development permit is needed, the fee is $489.16 in 2026, plus taxes. **Where:** - Email: Parks, parks@dawsoncreek.ca - Phone: 311 line (service requests and bylaw concerns), 311 - Phone: City Hall, 250-784-3600 ## Key facts - **When a permit is needed:** No bylaw requires a permit to cut an ordinary tree on private land outside development permit areas. In the Natural Hazards area (flood-prone land, ravines, steep slopes; Schedule J) a permit is needed for alteration of land, and only hazardous-tree and invasive-plant removal are exempt, so other cutting there likely needs one. Ask the City. - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw 4620, 2025, s. 10 intro](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/133605/) - Official wording: "the property owner is required to obtain a development permit prior to the subdivision of land, construction of, addition to or alteration of a building or structure on the land, or the alteration of land within a designated development permit area." - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw 4620, 2025, s. 10.1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/133605/) - Official wording: "These include areas primarily prone to flooding, unstable or eroding lands extending along ravines, bluffs, rock faces and shorelines" - Source: [Development Permit Area Guidelines, August 2020, s. 1.1, 1.3(2)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112553/) - Official wording: "Removal of a hazardous tree, as determined by a certified arbourist, that presents a danger to the safety of" … "The Local Government Act states that if a property is situated within a development permit area, the property owner" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exemptions:** Per the August 2020 DPA Guidelines: in all development permit areas, a change in plant species or number with no loss of landscaped area needs no permit. In the Natural Hazards area, removing a hazardous tree (certified arborist) or invasive non-native vegetation replaced with native is exempt. Check the current exemptions with the City. - Source: [Development Permit Area Guidelines, August 2020, s. 1.3(2)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112553/) - Official wording: "Removal of a hazardous tree, as determined by a certified arbourist, that presents a danger to the safety of person or is likely to damage public or private property" … "Removal of invasive, non-native vegetation provided it is replaced with native vegetation." … "f. Change in plant species or number which does not result in a loss of landscaped area; or" … "c. Removal of invasive, non-native vegetation provided it is replaced with native vegetation." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** No fee specific to cutting a tree. If a development permit is needed, the fee is $489.16 in 2026 ($498.95 in 2027), plus taxes. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F, Schedule L](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Development Permit $479.57 $489.16 $498.95 $508.93" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Replacement trees:** No general replacement-tree rule for private land found. In the Natural Hazards area, replanting in riparian areas must be native species or follow the City Urban Forestry Policy, and removing invasive plants is exempt only if replaced with native vegetation. - Source: [Development Permit Area Guidelines, August 2020, s. 6.3.1 no. 18, 1.3(2)(c)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112553/) - Official wording: "18. Any replanting in riparian areas must be native species or follow the City’s Urban Forestry Policy." … "c. Removal of invasive, non-native vegetation provided it is replaced with native vegetation." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **City trees:** No one may alter or injure a City tree (trim, remove, paint, change grade within the tree protection zone, etc.) without written permission from the City's Parks Manager. In a park, no one may cut, remove or damage any tree or shrub unless authorized by the Chief Administrative Officer. - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190 (consolidated), s. 3.16](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "No person will alter or injure a City tree in any way unless written permission is given by the City’s Parks Manager" - Source: [Parks Bylaw 4371 (consolidated), s. 11.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) - Official wording: "a person must not deface, cut, remove, destroy or damage any tree, shrub, flower bed, or the grass, within a park." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** No ticket found for cutting a private tree without a permit. Damaging a City tree (Property Maintenance Bylaw s. 3.16): bylaw notice $175 ($150 if paid within 14 days; $250 late). Damaging park vegetation (Parks Bylaw s. 11.1): bylaw notice $150 ($100 early, $200 late); municipal ticket $1,000. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277, Schedule B](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4190 3.16 Damage a tree 175 150 250 No" … "4371 11.1 Damage vegetation 150 100 200 No" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw 4278, Schedule S](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4371 11.1 Damage vegetation 1000" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (City trees, s. 3.16-3.17); Parks Bylaw No. 4371, 2018 (s. 11); OCP Bylaw No. 4620, 2025 s. 10 and Development Permit Area Guidelines (August 2020) (development permit areas). - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190 (consolidated), Title](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013" - Source: [Parks Bylaw 4371 (consolidated), Title](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) - Official wording: "Parks Bylaw No. 4371, 2018" - Source: [Official Community Plan Bylaw 4620, 2025, Page footer](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/133605/) - Official wording: "City of Dawson Creek Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 4620, 2025" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, s. 2.2.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "The requirements of the Development Permit Areas included within the Official" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works No City bylaw we read requires a permit to cut an ordinary tree on private land outside development permit areas. The Natural Hazards development permit area (flood-prone land, ravines and steep slopes, mapped in Schedule J of the [Official Community Plan](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/133605/)) is different. A permit is needed there for alteration of land, and the [2020 guidelines](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112553/) exempt only removing a hazardous tree (certified by an arborist) or invasive non-native vegetation replaced with native plants. Other cutting there likely needs a development permit. The OCP says the current exemptions are in an appendix to the repealed Zoning Bylaw 4582, so the exemptions are unclear. Ask the City. ## Steps 1. Work out whether the tree is on your lot or on City land such as the boulevard. 2. For a City tree, email parks@dawsoncreek.ca before touching it. 3. For a tree on your lot, ask the City Planner (City Hall, 250-784-3600) whether your land is in a development permit area. ## Good to know - No one may alter or injure a City tree (trim, remove, paint, change grade within its tree protection zone) without written permission from the Parks Manager ([Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534), s. 3.16). In a park, no one may cut, remove or damage any tree or shrub unless authorized by the Chief Administrative Officer ([Parks Bylaw 4371](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610), s. 11.1). - Damaging a City tree: bylaw notice $175 ($150 if paid within 14 days, $250 late). Damaging park vegetation: bylaw notice $150 ($100 early, $200 late) or municipal ticket $1,000. No ticket was found for cutting a private tree. - No general replacement-tree rule was found for private land. In the Natural Hazards area, replanting must be native species. - Trees that obstruct public safety, traffic view or hydrants are banned (Bylaw 4190, s. 3.15). ## Official forms and pages - [Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - [Parks Bylaw 4371 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) - [Development Permit Area Guidelines, August 2020 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112553/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fence-rules.md) - [Dawson Creek zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/tree-removal.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/tree-removal.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/tree-removal.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/tree-removal.md) - [Fort St James](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-james/tree-removal.md) - [Wells](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/wells/tree-removal.md) ## Sources - [Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190 (consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) (read 2026-11-05) - [Parks Bylaw 4371 (consolidated)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building and Renovating, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/building-and-renovating/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Official Community Plan Bylaw 4620, 2025 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/133605/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Development Permit Area Guidelines, August 2020 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112553/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedules E and F (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277, Schedule B](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw 4278, Schedule S](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/tree-removal/_ --- --- title: "Dawson Creek garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits" question: "When is garbage collected, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/garbage-collection/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/garbage-collection.json" --- # Dawson Creek garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits **Question:** When is garbage collected, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags? **Short answer:** Dawson Creek collects garbage every week and recycling every two weeks. Put your City-supplied cart out on collection day before 7:00 a.m. and bring it in by 7:00 p.m. Look up your day on the City's Waste Wizard or the Dawson Creek City App. The 2026 garbage fee is $24.28 per cart. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** 2026, plus applicable taxes: garbage $24.28 and recycling $16.78 per cart, billed every second month on the utility bill. A second cart is the same per-cart fee. Fees rise each January 1. **How long:** Weekly garbage, recycling every two weeks. Schedules stay the same all year, except December 25 and January 1, when pickup moves forward one day. **Where:** - Online: Waste Wizard and collection schedule, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/collection-schedule/ - Phone: Missed pickup (City line), 311 (The collection schedule page says call 311 and dial) ## Key facts - **How often:** Garbage every week; recycling every two weeks. The schedule stays the same all year, including statutory holidays, except December 25 and January 1, when pickup moves forward one day. The City service is not available for apartments and some townhouses. - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018 (consolidated), s. 4.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "The City shall provide garbage collection to each curbside pickup account owner once per week and recyclable material collection once every two weeks in accordance with the schedule determined by the City." - Source: [Collection Schedule](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/collection-schedule/) - Official wording: "Pick-up schedules remain the same throughout the entire year, including on Stat Holidays, with the exception of two days: December 25 and January 1. When your pick-up day falls on one of these days, it will move forward by one day." - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, FAQ](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "Our pick-up services are not available for apartments and some townhouses." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Finding your day:** Enter your address in the Waste Wizard on the City website, or use the Dawson Creek City App / Dawson Creek Waste App to see your schedule and set weekly reminders. A collection schedule map is also posted. - Source: [Collection Schedule](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/collection-schedule/) - Official wording: "Use the Dawson Creek City App or the Waste Wizard to view your schedule." … "to view your schedule and set up weekly reminders on your phone." … "Garbage and Recycling Collection Schedule Map" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Carts:** The City supplies one 180-litre garbage cart and one 360-litre recycling cart per address; they are assigned to the address and stay with the home. A second cart can be bought at cost plus 15%. A damaged cart must be replaced by the owner or occupier at the fee in the Fees and Charges Bylaw. Contact the Utilities Clerk. - Source: [Garbage and Recycling](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "The City provides a 180-litre garbage cart and a 360-litre recycling cart for each address." … "You can purchase an additional cart for cost +15%." … "contact our Utilities Clerk." - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018 (consolidated), s. 3.8, 3.9, 3.11](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "the City will provide a second cart subject to the applicable fees set out in the City of Dawson Creek Fees and Charges Bylaw" … "shall replace any Collection Carts that have become so damaged that they are no longer water-tight" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule Q](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Purchase of additional carts Cost + 15% Cost + 15% Cost + 15% Cost + 15%" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Setting carts out:** Put carts out on collection day before 7:00 a.m. (the City page says by 7:00 a.m.) and bring them in by 7:00 p.m. that day. Place them on the street with wheels against the curb, at least 1 metre from other carts, parked cars or obstructions, with lids closed. Store carts on your property the rest of the time. - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018 (consolidated), s. 4.2, 4.4, 4.5, 3.13](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "place all Collection Carts containing materials to be collected by the City before 7:00 a.m. and remove all Collection Carts from the street by 7:00 pm on their collection day." … "with the wheels against the curb, at least one (1) metre from other carts, parked cars or other obstructions." … "must ensure that all collection cart lids are closed." … "shall store all Collection Carts on his or her property." - Source: [Collection Schedule, Common reasons for missed pick-up](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/collection-schedule/) - Official wording: "Carts were not set out by 7:00 AM on collection day" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits and extra garbage:** Each cart must weigh no more than 50 kg. No more than two garbage carts and two recycling carts are collected per address per collection day. Only City-supplied carts are collected (plastic bags or other garbage cans are not). Wet or kitchen garbage, pet waste and sweepings must be in a plastic bag inside the cart. - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018 (consolidated), s. 4.3, 4.6, 4.7, 3.19](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "does not weigh in excess of 50 kilograms." … "shall not collect more than two Garbage Collection Carts and two Recyclable Material Carts per collection day per Curbside Pickup Account address." … "Only City supplied Collection Carts will be picked up. Plastic bags or other garbage cans will not be removed." … "unless the waste is contained in a plastic garbage bag." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** 2026: garbage $24.28 and recycling $16.78 per cart, billed every second month on the City utility bill, plus applicable taxes. Additional carts are charged the same per-cart fee. Fees rise each January 1. (Sources differ: The City's Garbage and Recycling page still shows the 2025 amounts ($23.81 and $16.45); the Fees and Charges Bylaw lists the 2026 amounts ($24.28 and $16.78), which is followed. Unpaid amounts after the due date get a 10% penalty (Solid Waste Bylaw s. 5.3).) - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule Q, Schedule Q, Solid Waste Fees and Charges](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "COLLECTION FEES (BI-MONTHLY) 2025 FEE 2026 FEE 2027 FEE 2028 FEE" … "Garbage curbside - first collection cart $23.81 $24.28 $24.77 $25.26" … "Garbage curbside - additional collection carts $23.81 $24.28 $24.77 $25.26" … "Recyclable Material curbside - first collection cart $16.45 $16.78 $17.12 $17.46" - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, Garbage and Recycling, Cost](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "These charges will show up on your City utility bill every second month." … "Garbage curbside - first collection cart | $23.81" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018; fees in Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, 2007, Schedule Q - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLABLE MATERIAL REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4380, 2018" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule Q, title](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "FEES AND CHARGES BYLAW NO. 3932, 2007" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works In Dawson Creek the City supplies one 180-litre garbage cart and one 360-litre recycling cart per address, under [Solid Waste Bylaw 4380](). The carts stay with the home. A second cart can be bought at cost plus 15%. The service is not available for apartments and some townhouses. A damaged cart must be replaced by the owner or occupier at the fee in the Fees and Charges Bylaw; contact the Utilities Clerk. ## Steps 1. Enter your address in the Waste Wizard on the City website, or use the Dawson Creek City App or Dawson Creek Waste App to see your schedule and set weekly reminders. 2. Put the cart out before 7:00 a.m. on collection day, with the wheels against the curb, at least 1 metre from other carts, parked cars or obstructions, and the lid closed. 3. Bring it in by 7:00 p.m. that day and store it on your property. 4. If it was missed, call 311 and ask for the missed-pickup line. ## Good to know - Each cart must weigh no more than 50 kg. No more than two garbage carts and two recycling carts are collected per address per day. - Only City-supplied carts are collected. Plastic bags or other garbage cans are not. No bag tags or extra-bag fees are described. - Wet or kitchen garbage, pet waste and sweepings must be in a plastic bag inside the cart. Yard waste may not go in the garbage cart. - The City page still shows 2025 fees ($23.81 garbage, $16.45 recycling). The bylaw's 2026 rates are used here. - Unpaid amounts after the due date get a 10% penalty. - Putting non-approved materials in the recycling cart is a $150 bylaw notice; the City page says a contaminated cart may be left behind with a $100 fine. ## Official forms and pages - [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw 4380 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) ## The same question elsewhere - [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/garbage-collection.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/garbage-collection.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/garbage-collection.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/garbage-collection.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/garbage-collection.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/garbage-collection.md) ## Sources - [Garbage and Recycling, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Collection Schedule, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/collection-schedule/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule Q (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/garbage-collection/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek yard waste collection and drop-off question: "Where does yard waste and brush go?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/yard-waste/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/yard-waste.json" --- # Dawson Creek yard waste collection and drop-off **Question:** Where does yard waste and brush go? **Short answer:** In Dawson Creek, yard waste is not collected at the curb and may not go in the garbage cart. Take grass clippings and leaves to the City's Yard Waste Collection Site at 949 99 Avenue, open in the warmer months. Prunings up to 5 cm go to the regional Bessborough landfill. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Bessborough landfill: free from May 15 to October 31; outside those dates standard tipping fees apply. No fee is stated for the City site. **How long:** The City site is open "during the warmer months"; opening dates and hours are not published. **Where:** - In person: Yard Waste Collection Site, 949 99 Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC ## Key facts - **Curbside collection:** No. Yard waste is not collected at the curb: it may not go in the garbage cart, and the bylaw says yard waste is only permitted at the City compost site. - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018, s. 3.21, 3.24](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "No person shall deposit recyclable materials or yard waste in a Garbage Collection Cart." … "Yard waste is only permitted in the City compost site located at 941 & 949 - 99th Avenue." - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, Recycling tips](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "bring yard waste to the Yard Waste Collection Site" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to set it out:** No bundle, bag or weight rules found. Prunings are accepted at the Peace River Regional District's Bessborough landfill only up to 5 cm in diameter; the City site takes grass clippings and leaves only. - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, Peace River Regional District, Composting](https://www.prrd.bc.ca/home-property/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "Pruning's (up to 5 cm in diameter)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Drop-off:** City yard waste collection site at 949 99 Avenue (the bylaw lists 941 and 949 99th Avenue), open during the warmer months. Also the Peace River Regional District's Bessborough landfill, which accepts grass clippings, leaves and prunings up to 5 cm free from May 15 to October 31 (a pilot running to 2027). - Source: [Yard Waste Collection Site](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/yard-waste-collection-site/) - Official wording: "provides a yard waste collection site during the warmer months where residents can drop off leaves and grass clippings." … "The collection site is at 949 99 Avenue." - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, Peace River Regional District, Composting](https://www.prrd.bc.ca/home-property/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "The Bessborough Landfill accepts specific yard and garden waste for free annually from May 15 to October 31." … "This service is part of a Composting Pilot Program running through to 2027." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cost:** Bessborough landfill: free from May 15 to October 31; outside those dates standard tipping fees apply. - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, Peace River Regional District, Composting](https://www.prrd.bc.ca/home-property/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "Drop-offs outside of the May 15-October 31 seasonal dates will be subject to standard tipping fees." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not accepted:** City site: grass clippings and leaves only; no food scraps, branches or wood scraps. The bylaws say branches and trees are not permitted at the City compost site. Bessborough landfill accepts prunings only up to 5 cm in diameter. - Source: [Yard Waste Collection Site, Items accepted](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/yard-waste-collection-site/) - Official wording: "No food scraps, branches, or wood scraps are accepted at this location." - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018, s. 3.24](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "Branches or trees are not permitted." - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated), s. 3.19](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "Branches, trees, garbage or household trash are not permitted." - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, Peace River Regional District, Composting](https://www.prrd.bc.ca/home-property/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "Pruning's (up to 5 cm in diameter)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018 (s. 3.24); Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (s. 3.19) - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLABLE MATERIAL REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4380, 2018" - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "PROPERTY MAINTENANCE BYLAW NO. 4190, 2013" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Solid Waste Bylaw 4380]() does not allow yard waste in the Dawson Creek garbage cart, and the Curbside Recycling Guide says yard waste, grass and leaves do not go in the recycling cart. The bylaw says yard waste is only permitted at the City compost site. The City has no curbside yard waste collection. ## Steps 1. Grass clippings and leaves: take them to the City's Yard Waste Collection Site at 949 99 Avenue, open in the warmer months. 2. Prunings: take them to the Peace River Regional District's Bessborough landfill, which accepts grass clippings, leaves and prunings up to 5 cm in diameter. ## Good to know - The City site takes grass clippings and leaves only. No food scraps, branches or wood scraps. The bylaws say branches and trees are not permitted there. - Bessborough is free from May 15 to October 31 (a pilot running to 2027). Outside those dates standard tipping fees apply. - No bundle, bag or weight rules for yard waste were found. The City site's hours and any fee are not stated; call the City to ask. - Burning yard waste needs a permit. See backyard-fire. ## Official forms and pages - [Yard Waste Collection Site](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/yard-waste-collection-site/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/garbage-collection.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/yard-waste.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/yard-waste.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/yard-waste.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/yard-waste.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/yard-waste.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/yard-waste.md) ## Sources - [Yard Waste Collection Site, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/yard-waste-collection-site/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Garbage and Recycling, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Garbage and Recycling, Peace River Regional District](https://www.prrd.bc.ca/home-property/garbage-and-recycling/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, 2018 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) (read 2026-11-05) - [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/yard-waste/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek watering restrictions question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Water, sewer, roads and snow owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/water-restrictions/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/water-restrictions.json" --- # Dawson Creek watering restrictions **Question:** Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions? **Short answer:** Yes. Dawson Creek's Water Conservation Measures Bylaw 3844 has four stages, declared by Council and in force 72 hours after the public announcement. If no measures are in force on May 1, Stage 1 starts that day. Check the City's water conservation page for the current stage. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** New lawn watering permit $61.14 (2026). Bylaw notices run from $100 (Stage 1) to $350 (Stage 4). **How long:** A new lawn permit lasts 21 days (one extension allowed, up to 42 days in total). **Where:** - Online: Water conservation, City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/water-and-environment/water-security/water-conservation/ - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-784-3657 ## Key facts - **When restrictions apply:** Four stages, declared by Council and in force 72 hours after the public announcement. If no measures are in force on May 1, Stage 1 starts automatically that day. No stage stays in force after September 30 unless Council declares it. The City's page says Stage 1 runs every year from May 1 to October 1. (Sources differ: The bylaw says September 30; the City page says October 1. The page also says the area remains in prolonged drought. The current stage is not stated in a standing rule.) - Source: [Water Conservation Measures Bylaw No. 3844, 2008, s. 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, 4.7.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112547) - Official wording: "comes into force in the City seventy-two hours after the Council or the General Manager of Operations makes a public announcement of the declaration." … "If no water conservation measures are in force on May 1st of any year, Stage 1 Water Conservation measures automatically become effective on that date" … "No Water Conservation Measures Stage remains in force after September 30th of any year, unless the Council makes a declaration under this section." - Source: [Water Conservation](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/water-and-environment/water-security/water-conservation/) - Official wording: "Stage 1 Water Conservation Measures are in effect every year from May 1st to October 1st." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Sprinkling schedule:** Lawn watering only, 4:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Stage 1: even-numbered addresses on even dates, odd-numbered addresses on odd dates. Stage 2: even addresses on Wednesdays and Saturdays, odd addresses on Thursdays and Sundays. Stage 3: even addresses on Wednesdays only, odd addresses on Thursdays only. Stage 4: no lawn watering. Hoses need an automatic shut-off device. - Source: [Water Conservation Measures Bylaw No. 3844, 2008, s. 4.1.1, 4.2.1, 4.3.1, 4.4.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112547) - Official wording: "at premises with even-numbered civic addresses, on even calendar dates between 4:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.; and" … "at premises with even-numbered civic address, on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 4:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.; and" … "on Thursdays and Sundays between 4:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m." … "lawns at premises with even-numbered civic address, on Wednesday between 4:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.; and" … "lawns or landscaping, whether newly planted or otherwise" … "use a hose providing water unless the hose is equipped with an automatic shut-off device." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Allowed at any time:** Stages 1 and 2: flower gardens, vegetable gardens, decorative planters, shrubs and trees are exempt, as are public sports fields, school yards, turf farms and golf course playing surfaces. Stage 3: those gardens, planters, shrubs and trees may be watered only by hand with a shut-off hose (no sprinklers or soaker hoses). Stage 4: vegetable gardens may be watered by hand only. Drip irrigation is not 'watering' in Stages 1 to 3. - Source: [Water Conservation Measures Bylaw No. 3844, 2008, s. 2.1, 4.3.1.a, 4.4.1.b, 4.5.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112547) - Official wording: "flower gardens, vegetable gardens, decorative planters, shrubs or trees; and" … "unless such watering is carried out by hand with a hose equipped with an automatic shut-off device and is not carried out using sprinklers or soaker hoses;" … "water vegetable gardens, unless the watering is carried out by hand;" … "but does not include the method known as drip irrigation." … "water, or engage in drip irrigation of:" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **New lawns:** Yes. A person with a new lawn (sod, turf or seed) or substantial new landscaping can apply to the General Manager of Development Services for a permit to water during Stages 1, 2 or 3. Fee $61.14 (2026). The permit lasts 21 days (one extension allowed, up to 42 days in total), must be posted facing the street, and does not exempt the holder from Stage 4. - Source: [Water Conservation Measures Bylaw No. 3844, 2008, s. 5.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112547) - Official wording: "may apply to the General Manager of Development Services for a permit authorizing the person to water the new lawn and new landscaping when Stage 1, Stage 2 or Stage 3" … "A permit expires and is of no force or effect 21 days after the date of its issue" … "any such extension must end on or before 42 days from the date of the issue of the permit" … "A permit does not exempt the holder from Stage 4 Water Conservation Measures." … "A permit must be affixed to a window or a post facing the street" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule U, Schedule U, Water Conservation Fees](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Permit to water new lawn $59.95 $61.14 $62.37 $63.61" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: Stage 1 watering at wrong times or no shut-off hose $100 ($75 if paid within 14 days); Stage 2 $150 ($100 early; $200 late); Stage 3 $250 ($150 early; $400 late); Stage 4 $350 ($250 early; $500 late); not posting a watering permit $50. Municipal ticket: Stage 4 offences $750. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, Water Conservation Measures Bylaw](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "3844 4.1.1.a 100 75 100 Yes" … "3844 4.2.1.a 150 100 200 Yes" … "3844 4.3.1.a Stage 3 - Improperly water 250 150 400 No" … "3844 4.4.1.a garden, planters, shrubs, trees, turf or 350 250 500 No" … "3844 5.1.6 Fail to post watering permit 50 25 75 Yes" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule Y](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "3844 4.4.1.a Stage 4 - Water any lawn, plants, or garden 750" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Water Conservation Measures Bylaw No. 3844, 2008 - Source: [Water Conservation Measures Bylaw No. 3844, 2008, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112547) - Official wording: "WATER CONSERVATION MEASURES BYLAW NO. 3844, 2008" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Water Conservation Measures Bylaw 3844]() sets four stages of watering limits in Dawson Creek, declared by Council. If no measures are in force on May 1, Stage 1 starts automatically that day. No stage stays in force after September 30 unless Council declares it. The City's water conservation page says Stage 1 runs from May 1 to October 1, so confirm the end date with the City. The page also says the area remains in prolonged drought, so check it for the stage in force now. ## Good to know - Lawn watering is allowed only from 4:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Hoses need an automatic shut-off device. - Stage 1: even-numbered addresses on even dates, odd-numbered addresses on odd dates. Stage 2: even addresses on Wednesdays and Saturdays, odd addresses on Thursdays and Sundays. Stage 3: even addresses on Wednesdays only, odd addresses on Thursdays only. Stage 4: no lawn watering. - Stages 1 and 2: flower gardens, vegetable gardens, decorative planters, shrubs and trees are exempt, as are public sports fields, school yards, turf farms and golf course playing surfaces. Stage 3: those may be watered only by hand with a shut-off hose. Stage 4: vegetable gardens by hand only. Drip irrigation is not "watering" in Stages 1 to 3. - New lawn (sod, turf or seed) or substantial new landscaping: apply to the General Manager of Development Services for a permit to water during Stages 1 to 3. The fee is $61.14 (2026). The permit lasts 21 days (one extension, up to 42 days in total), must be posted facing the street, and does not exempt you from Stage 4. - Fines: bylaw notice Stage 1 $100 ($75 within 14 days); Stage 2 $150 ($100 early; $200 late); Stage 3 $250 ($150 early; $400 late); Stage 4 $350 ($250 early; $500 late); not posting a permit $50. Municipal ticket: Stage 4 offences $750. ## Official forms and pages - [Water Conservation Measures Bylaw 3844 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112547) - [Water conservation measures and tips](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/water-and-environment/water-security/water-conservation/) ## The same question elsewhere - [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/water-restrictions.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/water-restrictions.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/water-restrictions.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/water-restrictions.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/water-restrictions.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/water-restrictions.md) ## Sources - [Water Conservation Measures Bylaw No. 3844, 2008 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112547) (read 2026-11-05) - [Water Conservation, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/water-and-environment/water-security/water-conservation/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule U (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/water-restrictions/_ --- --- title: "Dawson Creek dog licences: fees and how to get one" question: "How do I get a dog licence, and what does it cost?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-licence.json" --- # Dawson Creek dog licences: fees and how to get one **Question:** How do I get a dog licence, and what does it cost? **Short answer:** In Dawson Creek, every dog needs a licence for the current year. Apply online through the City's DocuPet portal within 7 days of becoming the owner. The 2026 fee is $24.46 for a spayed or neutered dog and $61.14 for one that is not, plus taxes. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** 2026 fees plus applicable taxes: $24.46 spayed or neutered dog; $61.14 dog that is not; $6.12 replacement tag. Nuisance animal $91.72, high-risk dog $122.29, aggressive dog $183.43. Fees are non-refundable. **How long:** Each licence expires 365 days after the day it was issued, so the renewal date is different for each dog. **Where:** - Online: Dawson Creek DocuPet pet licence portal, https://dawsoncreek.docupet.com/en_CA/ - Phone: City of Dawson Creek (main line), 250-784-3600 ## Key facts - **Licence required:** Yes. Every dog (and cat) kept in the City needs a valid licence for the current year; apply and pay within 7 days of becoming the owner. The bylaw sets no minimum age. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 4.1, 4.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "No person will keep any dog or cat in the City unless a valid licence for the current year has been obtained." … "that person must apply for a licence and pay the designated fee within seven (7) days of becoming the owner of the dog or cat." - Source: [Animal Control Service Changes, Pet Licensing](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/animal-control-service-changes/) - Official wording: "Pet licensing will no longer be required within Dawson Creek city limits" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Issued by:** The City of Dawson Creek, which contracts the BC SPCA for animal services, including licensing. Licences are bought online through the City's DocuPet portal. - Source: [Animal Services](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/) - Official wording: "The City of Dawson Creek contracts the BC SPCA for all animal services, including licensing." - Source: [Animal Licences](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/animal-licences/) - Official wording: "Pet licences purchased through the City (via DocuPet) remain valid until November 30, 2026." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $24.46 a year (2026 fee), plus applicable taxes. The City may ask for a veterinarian's certificate showing the dog is spayed or neutered. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C, Schedule C, Licence Fees](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "ALL FEES PLUS APPLICABLE TAXES" … "Annual licence fee for a spayed or neutered dog $23.98 $24.46 $24.95 $25.45" - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 4.11](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "the licence application for the dog or cat shall be accompanied by a certificate from a qualified veterinarian indicating that the dog or cat is in fact neutered or spayed." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $61.14 a year (2026 fee), plus applicable taxes. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C, Schedule C, Licence Fees](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Annual licence fee for an intact dog $59.95 $61.14 $62.37 $63.61" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees and discounts:** Replacement tag $6.12 (2026). Other annual dog fees: nuisance animal $91.72, high-risk dog $122.29, aggressive dog $183.43. All fees are non-refundable and plus taxes. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C, Schedule C, Licence Fees](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Replacement dog licence tag $6.00 $6.12 $6.24 $6.36" … "Annual fee for a nuisance animal $89.92 $91.72 $93.56 $95.43" … "Annual fee for a high-risk dog $119.89 $122.29 $124.73 $127.23" … "Annual fee for an aggressive dog $179.84 $183.43 $187.10 $190.84" - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 4.12](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "as amended or replaced from time to time are non-refundable." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Each licence expires 365 days after the day it was issued, so the renewal date is different for each dog. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 4.4](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "Every dog and cat licence issued under this bylaw expires 365 days from the date on which the licence is issued." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to get one:** Online through the City's Pet Licence Portal (DocuPet); the bylaw says applications use the City's digital form. You get a standard tag at no extra cost or can upgrade to a designer tag for a small fee. City phone 250-784-3600. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 4.3](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "A person may apply for a dog or cat licence using the digital form prescribed by the City of Dawson Creek" - Source: [Animal Licences](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/animal-licences/) - Official wording: "Pet Licence Portal" … "You can choose a standard tag at no extra cost or upgrade to a stylish designer tag for a small fee." … "Telephone: 250-784-3600" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, unlicensed dog:** Bylaw notice: $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days; $175 if paid late). Municipal ticket: $500. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, s. 4.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4420 4.1 Unlicensed dog or cat 150 125 175 Yes" … "The Early Payment Penalty set out in Column A5 of Schedule "B" if received by the City within 14 days" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule B, s. 4.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4420 4.1 Unlicensed dog or cat 500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019 (fees are set in Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, 2007, Schedule C) - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW NO. 4420, 2019" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C, title](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "FEES AND CHARGES BYLAW NO. 3932, 2007" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420](), no one may keep a dog or cat in Dawson Creek without a valid licence for the current year. You must apply and pay within 7 days of becoming the owner. The bylaw sets no minimum age. The City contracts the BC SPCA for animal services, and you buy the licence online through the City's DocuPet portal. Fees are in [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932](), Schedule C. ## Steps 1. Open the Dawson Creek DocuPet portal and create an account for your dog. 2. Choose the spayed or neutered fee only if the dog qualifies. The City may ask for a veterinarian's certificate. 3. Pay online. You get a standard tag at no extra cost, or you can upgrade to a designer tag for a small fee (the amount is not stated). 4. Attach the tag to your dog's collar or harness. ## Good to know - A licence is valid only for the dog named on it and cannot be transferred to another animal. A new owner must notify the Poundkeeper within 7 days. - No senior discount, early-payment discount, late fee or transfer fee appears in the bylaw or fee schedule. - An unlicensed dog can bring a bylaw notice of $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days; $175 if paid late) or a municipal ticket of $500. - The City has announced changes to animal services and licensing from December 2026; check with the City. ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Licences page, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/animal-licences/) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-leash-rules.md) - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Dawson Creek](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/how-many-pets.md) - [Dawson Creek rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dangerous-dogs.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/dog-licence.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/dog-licence.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/dog-licence.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/dog-licence.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/dog-licence.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/dog-licence.md) ## Sources - [Animal Licences, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/animal-licences/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Services, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Control Service Changes, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/animal-control-service-changes/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-licence/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek dog leash rules and off-leash areas question: "Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-leash-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-leash-rules.json" --- # Dawson Creek dog leash rules and off-leash areas **Question:** Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules? **Short answer:** In Dawson Creek a dog must be on a leash held by a person in control in any public place, and every animal must be leashed at all times in a City park. The only off-leash dog park named is Barbaree Park, at 105th Ave and 15th Street. A leash is up to 3 metres, or a retractable lead up to 8 metres. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Animal at large: bylaw notice $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days); municipal ticket $500. **Where:** - Phone: Animal Services, 250-782-0370 - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-784-3657 - Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca ## Key facts - **Leash rule:** Off your own property a dog must be on a leash held by a person in control on any highway or public place, or on someone else's land without their consent, unless it is in a Council-designated off-leash area. In any City park every animal must be on a leash at all times. On your own property it must be securely confined indoors or in a fenced area. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 2.1 "At large", 5.1, 5.3](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "not on a leash which is under the control of a person responsible." … "contained within an area that is designated by Council resolution as an off leash area." … "keep the animal securely confined on the property by keeping the animal indoors, or within a fenced area sufficient to prevent the animal from leaving the property." - Source: [Parks Bylaw No. 4371, 2018, s. 4.14](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) - Official wording: "Any animal in any Park must be controlled and on a leash at all times." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Maximum leash length:** A leash is defined as no more than 3 metres long, or a retractable lead not exceeding 8 metres fully extended (a retractable lead cannot be used for a dog declared dangerous). High-risk and aggressive dogs: a leash not exceeding 2 metres (6.6 feet). - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 2.1 "Leash", 7.1, 8.4](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "no more than three (3) meters in length" … "or a retractable lead not exceeding eight (8) metres in length when fully extended" … "on a leash not exceeding 2 metres or 6.6 feet." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Off-leash areas:** Barbaree Park, at 105th Ave and 15th Street, is currently designated as the off-leash dog park. Off-leash areas are those designated by Council resolution. - Source: [Animal Services, Dog parks](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/) - Official wording: "Barbaree Park at 105th Ave and 15th Street, which is currently designated as an off-leash Dog Park." - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 2.1 "At large"](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "contained within an area that is designated by Council resolution as an off leash area." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Places dogs are not allowed:** None set. Neither Dawson Creek bylaw bans dogs from specific places. - **Cleaning up:** Dog owners must immediately remove and dispose of any dog waste left on any public place, park or private property, in a waste container or by other sanitary means. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 5.5](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "must immediately remove and dispose of, in a waste container or by other sanitary means, any fecal matter deposited by the animal on any public place, park or private property." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** Animal at large: bylaw notice $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days; $175 if paid late); municipal ticket $500. Animal not on a leash in a park: bylaw notice $150 ($100 within 14 days; $200 late); municipal ticket $750. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, s. 5.1 and Parks s. 4.14](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4420 5.1 Animals at large 150 125 175 No" … "4371 4.14 Animal not on a leash 150 100 200 No" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule B and L](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4420 5.1 Animals at large 500" … "4371 4.14 Animal not on a leash 750" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019; for parks, Parks Bylaw No. 4371, 2018 - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW NO. 4420, 2019" - Source: [Parks Bylaw No. 4371, 2018, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) - Official wording: "PARKS BYLAW NO. 4371, 2018" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420](), a dog in Dawson Creek must be on a leash held by a person in control on any highway or public place, or on someone else's land without their consent, unless it is in an off-leash area designated by Council. [Parks Bylaw 4371]() says every animal in a City park must be on a leash at all times. On your own property a dog must be securely confined indoors or in a fenced area. The City's Animal Services page names Barbaree Park (105th Ave and 15th Street) as the designated off-leash dog park. ## Good to know - A leash is no more than 3 metres long, or a retractable lead not over 8 metres fully extended. A retractable lead cannot be used for a dog declared dangerous. High-risk and aggressive dogs need a leash of 2 metres or less. - Owners must immediately remove and dispose of dog waste left on any public place, park or private property. Neither bylaw bans dogs from specific places. - Fines: animal at large is a bylaw notice of $150 ($125 within 14 days; $175 late) or a municipal ticket of $500. An animal not on a leash in a park is a bylaw notice of $150 ($100 within 14 days; $200 late) or a municipal ticket of $750. - To report a loose dog, call Animal Services at 250-782-0370. Call 911 for immediate danger. - The City has announced changes to animal services and licensing from December 2026; check with the City. ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - [Parks Bylaw 4371 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) - [Animal Services page, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-licence.md) - [Dawson Creek rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dangerous-dogs.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/dog-leash-rules.md) ## Sources - [Animal Services, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) (read 2026-11-05) - [Parks Bylaw No. 4371, 2018 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 7 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-leash-rules/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs question: "What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dangerous-dogs/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dangerous-dogs.json" --- # Dawson Creek rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs **Question:** What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs? **Short answer:** Dawson Creek's Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420 has two tiers. A high-risk dog must be on a leash of 2 metres or less in public. An aggressive dog must also wear a muzzle, be microchipped and have a warning sign posted. 2026 licences cost $122.29 (high-risk) and $183.43 (aggressive), plus taxes. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** 2026 plus taxes: high-risk dog licence $122.29; aggressive dog licence $183.43; aggressive dog warning sign $23.98. If a regular licence is already paid for the year, the owner pays the difference. **Where:** - Phone: Emergency (dog attacking or an immediate danger), 911 - Phone: Animal Services, 250-782-0370 (Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) ## Key facts - **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** Aggressive dog: has attacked, bitten or injured a person or animal (or shown a tendency to), is a dangerous dog under the Community Charter, or is owned for dog fighting. High-risk dog: has aggressively pursued or threatened a person or animal while at large, or shown a tendency to attack without provocation. The Poundkeeper or an Animal Control Officer identifies the dog and the City gives the owner written notice. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 2.1, 7.4, 8.1, 19.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "has attacked, bitten, or caused injury to a person or animal on public or private property" … "is a dangerous dog as defined by the Community Charter;" … "aggressively pursued or threatened a person or animal, while running at large" … "demonstrated a propensity, whether within the City's boundaries or elsewhere, to attack or injure" … "will provide documentation to the City who may provide the owner with written notice that the dog has been designated an Aggressive dog." … "A person may request that the Council reconsider" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Rules for owners:** Aggressive dog: in public or on any private land it must be on a leash up to 2 metres held by a competent person and wear a humane basket muzzle; at home it must be indoors, on an enclosed deck at least 3 m above ground, or in a locked, City-inspected rear-yard pen. Also: microchip or tattoo, warning sign at each entrance within 14 days, report if loose or biting. High-risk dog: 2 m leash in public, and indoors or in a locked, inspected rear-yard pen. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 7.1, 7.2, 8.4, 8.5, 8.7](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "properly fitted with a humane basket muzzle that allows the dog to pant and drink." … "on an enclosed deck that is no less than three (3) metres above ground level" … "has been inspected and approved by an Animal Control Officer." … "microchip and or tattoo the dog and provide the City with the microchip or tattoo information;" … "post a warning sign measuring a minimum of 12" tall and 8" wide" … "must not permit the High-risk dog to be in a public place unless the dog is firmly held by a person competent to restrain the dog on a leash not exceeding 2 metres or 6.6 feet." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Licence fee:** Annual licence fee in 2026: aggressive dog $183.43; high-risk dog $122.29 (plus taxes). If a regular licence is already paid for the year, the owner pays the difference. Aggressive dog warning sign $23.98. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Annual fee for a high-risk dog $119.89 $122.29 $124.73 $127.23" … "Annual fee for an aggressive dog $179.84 $183.43 $187.10 $190.84" … "Aggressive Dog Sign $23.51 $23.98 $24.46 $24.95" - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 8.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "the owner shall pay the difference between the licence fee previously paid and the fee for an Aggressive dog." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** Contact Animal Services on 250-782-0370 (Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). Owners of high-risk and aggressive dogs must also tell an Animal Control Officer or the Poundkeeper if the dog is loose or bites. In immediate danger call 911. - Source: [Animal Services, Animal Control](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/) - Official wording: "Their office is open Monday to Friday from 9:00AM to 5:00PM. For more information, contact Animal Services at 250-782-0370." - Source: [Animal Control Service Changes, Effective December 1, 2026](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/animal-control-service-changes/) - Official wording: "Non-emergency animal bite response" … "Immediate danger / aggressive animal situations: Call 911 (RCMP or emergency services)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: aggressive dog not licensed, at large, not securely confined, or not leashed and muzzled: $500 each (no early-payment discount); high-risk dog not restrained or not licensed: $250 to $300 ($200 to $250 within 14 days). Municipal ticket: aggressive dog not licensed or at large $1,000; not leashed and muzzled $750; not securely confined $300; high-risk dog $500. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, s. 7-8](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "8.2 Aggressive dog not licensed 500 500 500 No" … "8.4 Aggressive dog at large 500 500 500 No" … "8.5 Aggressive dog not securely confined 500 500 500 No" … "4420 8.6 500 500 500 No" … "7.5 High-risk dog not licensed 300 250 350 Yes" … "4420 7.1 250 200 300 No" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule B, s. 7-8](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4420 8.2 Aggressive dog not licensed 1000" … "4420 8.4 Aggressive dog at large 1000" … "4420 8.5 Aggressive dog not securely confined 300" … "4420 8.6 Aggressive dog not leashed, muzzled, or under control 750" … "4420 7.5 High-risk dog not licensed 500" … "4420 7.1 High-risk dog not restrained in a public place 500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019 - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW NO. 4420, 2019" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420]() sets two tiers. An aggressive dog has attacked, bitten or injured a person or animal (or shown a tendency to), is a dangerous dog under the Community Charter, or is owned for dog fighting. A high-risk dog has aggressively pursued or threatened a person or animal while at large, or shown a tendency to attack without provocation. The Poundkeeper or an Animal Control Officer identifies the dog and the City gives the owner written notice. ## Good to know - Aggressive dog: in public or on any private land it must be on a leash up to 2 metres held by a competent person and wear a humane basket muzzle. At home it must be indoors, on an enclosed deck at least 3 m above ground, or in a locked, City-inspected rear-yard pen. It must also be microchipped or tattooed, with a warning sign at each entrance within 14 days. - High-risk dog: a 2 m leash in public, and indoors or in a locked, inspected rear-yard pen at home. - Both types must be licensed within 14 days of the notice. Owners must tell an Animal Control Officer or the Poundkeeper if the dog is loose or bites. - To report a dog, call Animal Services at 250-782-0370. In immediate danger, call 911. - Bylaw notice fines: $500 each for an aggressive dog that is unlicensed, at large, not securely confined, or not leashed and muzzled; $250 to $300 for a high-risk dog not restrained or not licensed ($200 to $250 within 14 days). Municipal tickets: aggressive dog unlicensed or at large $1,000; not leashed and muzzled $750; not securely confined $300; high-risk dog $500. - Owners can ask Council to reconsider a designation. - The City has announced changes to animal services and licensing from December 2026; check with the City. ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-licence.md) - [Dawson Creek dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-leash-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/dangerous-dogs.md) ## Sources - [Animal Services, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Control Service Changes, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/animal-services/animal-control-service-changes/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dangerous-dogs/_ --- --- title: How many dogs or cats you can keep in Dawson Creek question: "How many dogs or cats can I keep?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/how-many-pets/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/how-many-pets.json" --- # How many dogs or cats you can keep in Dawson Creek **Question:** How many dogs or cats can I keep? **Short answer:** Dawson Creek's Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420 sets no general limit on dogs or cats per home. A limit of two dogs and cats combined applies only to someone given an "animal number restriction": a person with more than two dogs and cats who commits three bylaw contraventions within 12 months. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Keeping more animals than a restriction allows: bylaw notice $175 ($150 if paid within 14 days); municipal ticket $500. **Where:** - Phone: Animal Services, 250-782-0370 - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-784-3657 - Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca ## Key facts - **Dogs allowed:** The bylaw sets no general limit on dogs per home. A limit of two dogs and cats combined applies only to someone given an 'animal number restriction': a person with more than two dogs and cats at home who commits three bylaw contraventions within 12 months. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 4.13, 4.14](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "owns or keeps any combination of dogs and cats that number greater than two (2) at that person's residence; and" … "commits three (3) contraventions of this Bylaw within a twelve (12) month period;" … "must not keep a combination of dogs and cats that number more than two (2) at that person's residence" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cats allowed:** Same as dogs: no general limit; the two-animal combined limit (dogs and cats together) applies only under an animal number restriction. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 4.13, 4.14](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "must not keep a combination of dogs and cats that number more than two (2) at that person's residence" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other animal limits:** Hens: no more than 6 per parcel. Bees: no more than 4 colonies per parcel (typically 2 colonies and 2 nucleus colonies). Livestock (horses, goats, sheep, pigs and similar) may not be kept in the City except on farm, ALR or agriculturally zoned land. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 16.1.b, 18.1.f, 10.1, 3.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "keep no more than six (6) hens per parcel of land;" … "keep a maximum of four (4) colonies per parcel" … "This is typically two (2) colonies and two (2) nucleus colonies;" … "no person shall keep any livestock within the boundaries of the City." … "Zoned to allow agricultural, intensive agricultural, paddock, or stable uses." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exceptions:** The two-animal limit does not apply to a licensed kennel or veterinary clinic. Operating a kennel needs a kennel licence plus a City business licence. Livestock is allowed only on ALR land, property classed as a farm, or land zoned agricultural, intensive agricultural, paddock or stable. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 4.14, 13.1, 3.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "except as part of a licenced kennel or veterinary clinic." … "No person will operate a kennel in the City unless that person holds a kennel licence issued under this Bylaw." … "Classified as a farm under the Assessment Act; or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Keeping more animals than a restriction allows: bylaw notice $175 ($150 if paid within 14 days; $200 if paid late); municipal ticket $500. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, s. 4.14](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4420 4.14 Too many animals 175 150 200 Yes" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule B, s. 4.14](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4420 4.14 Too many animals 500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019 - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW NO. 4420, 2019" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420]() sets no general limit on dogs or cats in a Dawson Creek home. The two-animal combined limit applies only under an animal number restriction. That is given to a person with more than two dogs and cats at home who commits three bylaw contraventions within 12 months. The limit does not apply to a licensed kennel or veterinary clinic. ## Good to know - Running a kennel needs a kennel licence plus a City business licence. - Hens: no more than 6 per parcel. Bees: no more than 4 colonies per parcel. See backyard-chickens. - Livestock such as horses, goats, sheep and pigs may not be kept in the City except on ALR (Agricultural Land Reserve) land, property classed as a farm, or land zoned agricultural, intensive agricultural, paddock or stable. - Keeping more animals than a restriction allows is a bylaw notice of $175 ($150 within 14 days; $200 late) or a municipal ticket of $500. - The City has announced changes to animal services and licensing from December 2026; check with the City. ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-licence.md) - [Dawson Creek backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/backyard-chickens.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog and cat limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/how-many-pets.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/how-many-pets.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/how-many-pets.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/how-many-pets.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/how-many-pets.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/how-many-pets.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/how-many-pets.md) ## Sources - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/how-many-pets/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules question: "Can I keep chickens or other livestock?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/backyard-chickens/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/backyard-chickens.json" --- # Dawson Creek backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules **Question:** Can I keep chickens or other livestock? **Short answer:** In Dawson Creek you may keep up to 6 hens per parcel with a City hen licence ($24.46 in 2026, plus taxes), in the zones where zoning allows it. Roosters and other livestock are banned unless the land is in the ALR, classed as a farm, or zoned agricultural, paddock or stable. Bees need a separate licence. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Hen licence $24.46 and beekeeping licence $24.46 (2026, plus taxes). Fees are non-refundable. **Where:** - Phone: City of Dawson Creek (main line), 250-784-3600 - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-784-3657 ## Key facts - **Hens allowed:** Yes, with a backyard hen licence from the City. Zoning lists backyard hen keeping as an accessory use in RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, RM-3, RMH-1, INS-1, A and CD-3 zones. The keeper must live at the property and be the owner or have the owner's permission. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 15.1, 16.1.a](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "No person will keep any hens within the boundaries of the City unless that person is engaging in backyard hen keeping and holds a valid and subsisting hen licence under this Bylaw." … "be the registered owner or obtain permission from the registered property owner of the property where hens are kept, and reside at the property where the hens are kept;" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026, s. 6.11.1 (RS-1) and zone use lists](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "The following uses and no others are permitted in the RS-1 Zone" … "iv. backyard hen keeping" … "The following uses and no others are permitted in the RS-2 Zone" … "The following uses and no others are permitted in the RS-3 Zone" … "The following uses and no others are permitted in the RMH-1 Zone" … "The following uses and no others are permitted in CD-3 Zone:" … "a) Principal Uses i. triplex b) Accessory Uses i. accessory building or structure ii. backyard beekeeping iii. backyard hen keeping" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Most hens:** No more than 6 hens per parcel of land. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 16.1.b](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "keep no more than six (6) hens per parcel of land;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Roosters:** No. Roosters are defined as livestock, and livestock may not be kept in the City except on ALR land, property classed as a farm, or land zoned agricultural, intensive agricultural, paddock or stable. The hen rules cover only adult female hens. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 2.1, 3.1, 10.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "animals of the avian class including turkeys, ducks, geese, emus, ostriches, pheasants and roosters and capons, but excluding hens; and" … "no person shall keep any livestock within the boundaries of the City." … "Zoned to allow agricultural, intensive agricultural, paddock, or stable uses." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026, Definitions](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "BACKYARD HEN KEEPING means the keeping of adult female domesticated fowl" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coop rules:** Run: fenced on all sides against predators; at least 1 m² covered space per hen; under 2.4 m high; at least 2.0 m from any parcel line and behind the front face of the main building. Coop: at least 2.0 m from rear or side parcel line (no rear setback for a coop under 1 m² where there is a lane); at least 0.5 m² floor per hen; a perch 15 cm per hen; one nest box per four hens. No cages. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 16.1.c, 16.1.d, 16.1.f](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "provides at least 1 square metre of covered outdoor space per hen;" … "is less than 2.4 metres in height;" … "is sited at least 2.0 metres from any parcel line and located to the rear of the front face of the principal building;" … "is sited at least 2.0 metres from the rear or side parcel line where there is no lane." … "provides at least 0.5 square metres of coop floor area per hen;" … "at least one nest box per four hens" … "not keep the hen in a cage;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit or registration:** Yes. A backyard hen licence is required (apply within 7 days of becoming the owner of hens). Annual fee $24.46 in 2026, plus taxes; non-refundable; valid only for the person it was issued to. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 15.1 to 15.6](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "must apply for a licence and pay the applicable licence fee within seven (7) days of becoming the owner of backyard hens." … "Every backyard hen licence is valid only for the owner of the backyard hens to whom it was issued." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Annual Hen Keeping Licence Fee $23.98 $24.46 $24.95 $25.45" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bees:** Yes, with a beekeeping licence ($24.46 in 2026). Keeper must be registered under the BC Bee Regulation with a registered apiary, and own the property or have the owner's written permission. Maximum 4 colonies per parcel (typically 2 colonies and 2 nucleus colonies), all behind the front face of the main dwelling, with the entrance facing away from neighbours behind a fence or hedge 1.8 m or higher, or at least 2.5 m above ground on a platform. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 17.1, 18.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "No person will keep bees in the City unless that person holds a valid and subsisting beekeeping licence" … "be registered as a beekeeper under the Bee Regulation, B.C. Reg. 3/2015 and amendments" … "keep a maximum of four (4) colonies per parcel" … "locate all colonies at the rear of the front face of the principal dwelling;" … "continuous fence or hedge that is 1.8 metres or more in height" … "situated 2.5 metres or more above ground level." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Annual Bee Keeping Licence Fee $23.98 $24.46 $24.95 $25.45" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other livestock:** Not allowed in the City (horses, mules, donkeys, llamas, alpacas, sheep, pigs including potbellied pigs, goats, ducks, geese, turkeys and similar), except on ALR land, property classed as a farm, or land zoned agricultural, intensive agricultural, paddock or stable. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 2.1 "Livestock", 3.1, 10.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "horses, mules, donkeys, camels, llamas, alpacas, sheep, pigs (including potbellied pigs) and goats;" … "no person shall keep any livestock within the boundaries of the City." … "Designated as part of the agricultural land reserve under the Agricultural Land Commission Act;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, and Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW NO. 4420, 2019" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420]() allows backyard hens in Dawson Creek with a City hen licence. [Zoning Bylaw 4625]() lists hen keeping as an accessory use in zones RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, RM-3, RMH-1, INS-1, A and CD-3. It is not listed in commercial or industrial zones. The keeper must live at the property and be the owner or have the owner's permission. No more than 6 hens per parcel; hens are for personal use only. ## Steps 1. Check that your zone allows hens. 2. Apply for the hen licence within 7 days of becoming the owner of hens. It costs $24.46 in 2026, plus taxes, and is valid only for the person it was issued to. 3. Build the coop and run to the rules below. ## Good to know - Run: fenced on all sides against predators; at least 1 m² of covered space per hen; under 2.4 m high; at least 2.0 m from any parcel line and behind the front face of the main building. - Coop: at least 2.0 m from the rear or side parcel line (no rear setback for a coop under 1 m² where there is a lane); at least 0.5 m² of floor per hen; a perch of 15 cm per hen; one nest box per four hens. No cages. Manure must be stored in a fully enclosed structure (maximum 1 cubic metre). - No roosters. Horses, mules, donkeys, llamas, alpacas, sheep, pigs, goats, ducks, geese, turkeys and similar animals are livestock, allowed only on ALR (Agricultural Land Reserve) land, property classed as a farm, or land zoned agricultural, intensive agricultural, paddock or stable. - Bees: a beekeeping licence ($24.46 in 2026), registration under the BC Bee Regulation, and the owner's written permission if you rent. Maximum 4 colonies per parcel, behind the front face of the main dwelling, with entrances facing away from neighbours behind a fence or hedge 1.8 m or higher, or at least 2.5 m above ground on a platform. - No hen licence or failing the hen rules: bylaw notice $150 ($100 within 14 days; $200 late); municipal ticket $300. The City can cancel or suspend a licence. - The City has announced changes to animal services and licensing from December 2026; check with the City. ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 4420 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) ## Related questions - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Dawson Creek](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/how-many-pets.md) - [Dawson Creek dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/dog-licence.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/backyard-chickens.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/backyard-chickens.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/backyard-chickens.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/backyard-chickens.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/backyard-chickens.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/backyard-chickens.md) ## Sources - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 4420, 2019 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112100) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule C (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/backyard-chickens/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek RV, boat and trailer parking rules question: "Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Parking, tickets and driving owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/rv-boat-trailer-parking/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json" --- # Dawson Creek RV, boat and trailer parking rules **Question:** Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard? **Short answer:** In a Dawson Creek residential (R) zone you may keep one boat up to 11.0 m and one recreational vehicle up to 14.0 m outside a building, but nobody may live in the RV. On a street, no vehicle may stay parked more than 24 continuous hours without written permission from the City. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice: street parking over 24 hours $50 ($25 within 14 days; $75 late). Prohibited vehicle kept on a residential lot $250; RV not meeting the rules $300. **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-784-3657 ## Key facts - **On the street:** A vehicle (an RV, trailer or boat on a trailer included) may not stay parked on a street for more than 24 continuous hours without written permission from the General Manager of Development Services. Vehicles over one ton rated capacity may not park in a residential area (except for construction, repair or service of the premises). No parking on a sidewalk or boulevard, within 1.5 m of a driveway, or in a lane. - Source: [Parking Bylaw No. 4214, 2014, s. 3.1.a, b, c, p, r](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112531) - Official wording: "on any highway for a continuous period exceeding twenty-four (24) hours without first obtaining written permission from the General Manager of Development Services;" … "exceeding one (1) ton rate capacity in any residential area (except vehicles required for construction, repair or service of the premises);" … "on a sidewalk or boulevard;" … "in front, or within 1.5m of a public or private driveway;" - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated), s. 3.13](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "any vehicle, including recreation vehicles, to be placed, parked or moved upon any boulevard within the City" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **On your property:** In residential (R) zones, no boat, trailer, large vehicle, wrecked vehicle or construction equipment may be parked or stored outside a building except: one boat up to 11.0 m keel length; one recreational vehicle up to 14.0 m overall length; large vehicles or equipment temporarily needed to build, repair or service the premises; one wrecked vehicle for up to 15 consecutive days; one tow truck permitted by City bylaws. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026, s. 6.1.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "No person shall park or store a large vehicle, a dismantled or wrecked vehicle, a boat, a trailer or construction equipment outside of a building in an R Zone except:" … "one boat or vessel not exceeding a keel length of 11.0 m" … "one recreational vehicle not exceeding an overall length of 14.0 m; human habitation is not permitted" … "one dismantled or wrecked vehicle for a period of not more than 15 consecutive days" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Living in an RV:** Not on a residential lot: in an R zone the one RV allowed outside a building may not be used for human habitation. The fetched bylaws do not say whether sleeping in an RV on a street is allowed. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026, s. 6.1.2.d](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "one recreational vehicle not exceeding an overall length of 14.0 m; human habitation is not permitted" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: street parking over 24 hours $50 ($25 within 14 days; $75 late); boulevard $50, or $125 (Property Maintenance); vehicle over one ton in a residential area $100. Prohibited vehicle kept on a residential lot (Zoning s. 6.1) $250 ($200; $300); RV not meeting s. 6.1.2.d $300 ($250; $350). Municipal ticket: general zoning offence $750. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, Parking Bylaw, Property Maintenance Bylaw, Zoning Bylaw](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4214 3.1.p Park on highway more than 24 hours 50 25 75 No" … "4214 3.1.r 100 50 150 No" … "4214 3.1.a Park on sidewalk or boulevard 50 25 75 No" … "4190 3.13 125 100 150 Yes" … "4625 2.4.1 500 450 500 Yes" … "4625 6.1 Park Prohibited vehicle in a R-Zone 250 200 300 Yes" … "4625 6.1.2.d Non conforming use of RV in R-Zone 300 250 350 Yes" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule BB](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4625 2.4.1 Unlawful land use or fail to meet zone regulations 750" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Parking Bylaw No. 4214, 2014; Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 (s. 6.1); Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (s. 3.13) - Source: [Parking Bylaw No. 4214, 2014, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112531) - Official wording: "PARKING BYLAW NO. 4214, 2014" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "PROPERTY MAINTENANCE BYLAW NO. 4190, 2013" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Two bylaws apply in Dawson Creek. On the street, [Parking Bylaw 4214]() says a vehicle, including an RV, trailer or boat on a trailer, may not stay parked more than 24 continuous hours without written permission from the General Manager of Development Services. On your own lot, [Zoning Bylaw 4625]() (section 6.1) limits what may be stored outside a building in the residential zones (RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, RM-3 and RMH-1). ## Good to know - In an R zone you may keep outside a building: one boat up to 11.0 m keel length; one recreational vehicle up to 14.0 m overall length; one wrecked vehicle for up to 15 consecutive days; one tow truck permitted by City bylaws; one commercial vehicle up to 5,500 kg gross weight; and large vehicles or equipment temporarily needed to build, repair or service the premises. Other boats, trailers, large vehicles and construction equipment are not allowed. - The one RV allowed outside a building may not be used for human habitation. The bylaws do not say whether sleeping in an RV on a street is allowed; ask Bylaw Enforcement. - On a street: no parking on a sidewalk or boulevard, within 1.5 m of a driveway, or in a lane. Vehicles over one ton rated capacity may not park in a residential area, except for construction, repair or service of the premises. Posted time limits also apply. - Bylaw notice fines: street parking over 24 hours $50 ($25 within 14 days; $75 late); boulevard $50, or $125 under the Property Maintenance Bylaw; vehicle over one ton in a residential area $100. - Zoning fines: a prohibited vehicle kept on a residential lot (s. 6.1) is a bylaw notice of $250 ($200 within 14 days; $300 late). An RV that does not meet s. 6.1.2.d is $300 ($250; $350). The general municipal ticket for a zoning offence is $750. ## Official forms and pages - [Parking Bylaw 4214 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112531) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, section 6.1 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) ## 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) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) ## Sources - [Parking Bylaw No. 4214, 2014 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112531) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) - [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_ --- --- title: "Dawson Creek noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines" question: "What are the noise rules in Dawson Creek, and when can I do construction work?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/noise-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/noise-rules.json" --- # Dawson Creek noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines **Question:** What are the noise rules in Dawson Creek, and when can I do construction work? **Short answer:** Dawson Creek's Noise Control Bylaw 3873 bans noise that disturbs the peace, rest or enjoyment of people nearby. It sets no fixed quiet hours. Construction that disturbs the neighbourhood is banned before 7:00 a.m. and after 10:00 p.m., and on Sundays when done for profit or gain. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice $250 ($200 if paid within 14 days; $300 if paid late); municipal ticket $500. **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-784-3657 - Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca - Online: Place a Service Request, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/place-a-service-request/ ## Key facts - **General rule:** No one may make or allow any noise or sound that disturbs the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people nearby. An owner, tenant or occupier also may not let noise from their parcel disturb two or more people within 100 metres. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 3873, 2006 (consolidated), s. 3.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112528) - Official wording: "No person shall make or cause, or permit to be made or caused, any noise or sound that disturbs the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of a person or persons in the vicinity." … "disturbs the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of two or more persons within 100 metres of the parcel." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Quiet hours:** None set. The Noise Control Bylaw does not set fixed quiet hours. - **Construction hours:** Any day: no construction, alteration, repair, demolition, excavation or filling that disturbs the neighbourhood before 7:00 a.m. or after 10:00 p.m. Sundays: no such work for profit or gain that disturbs the neighbourhood. Where compliance is impossible or impractical, the Director of Development Services may approve work in writing. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 3873, 2006 (consolidated), s. 4.1.h](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112528) - Official wording: "No person in the City shall on any day before 07:00 hours (7:00 A.M.) or after 22:00 hours (10:00 P.M.), construct, erect, reconstruct, alter, repair or demolish any buildings" … "No person in the City shall for profit or gain on a Sunday, construct, erect, reconstruct, alter, repair, or demolish any building or thing" … "the Director of Development Services may give written approval to carry on the work" … "Where it is impossible or impractical to comply with section (h), the Director of Development Services may give written approval to carry on the work that is found to be necessary at designated hours." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other limits:** Exempt: noise from emergency vehicles and snow removal; amplified music at licensed entertainment venues between noon and 2:00 a.m.; licensed businesses in commercial zones 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and in industrial zones 24 hours a day. A megaphone or noise-amplifying device needs the Director of Development Services' written permission. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 3873, 2006 (consolidated), s. 4.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112528) - Official wording: "Noise from police, fire, ambulance or other emergency vehicles;" … "Noise from amplified music or speech in a licensed theatre, club, restaurant, pub or other licensed entertainment facility between noon and 2:00 a.m.;" … "Noise from a licensed business within an area zoned for commercial uses during the hours from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.;" … "Noise from a licensed business within an area zoned for industrial use twenty-four (24) hours per day;" … "only after requesting and obtaining written permission from the Director of Development Services." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, business hours:** City Bylaw Enforcement: phone 250-784-3657, email bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca, or the online Service Request form. You must give your name; anonymous complaints are not accepted. - Source: [Place a Service Request, Bylaw Enforcement](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/place-a-service-request/) - Official wording: "Noise concerns - Animal-related concerns" … "Email: bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca Phone: 250-784-3657" - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, Bylaw complaint or infraction](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) - Official wording: "You must identify yourself when making the complaint. We will not accept anonymous complaints." - 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: $250 ($200 if paid within 14 days; $300 if paid late) for disturbing noise or construction noise before 7 a.m., after 10 p.m. or on Sunday. Municipal ticket: $500. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, Noise Control Bylaw](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "3873 3.1.a 250 200 300 Yes" … "3873 3.1.b 250 200 300 Yes" … "Construction noise before 7 am or after 3873 4.1.h(i) 250 200 300 Yes 10 pm" … "3873 4.1.h(ii) Construction noise on Sunday 250 200 300 Yes" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule J](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "3873 3.1 Permit noise that disturbs the neighborhood 500" … "3873 4.1.h(i) Construction noise before 7 am or after 10 pm 500" … "3873 4.1.h(ii) Construction noise on Sunday 500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Noise Control Bylaw No. 3873, 2006 - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw No. 3873, 2006 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112528) - Official wording: "Dawson Creek Noise Control Bylaw No. 3873, 2006" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Noise Control Bylaw 3873]() says no one in Dawson Creek may make or allow noise that disturbs the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people nearby. An owner, tenant or occupier also may not let noise from their parcel disturb two or more people within 100 metres. The bylaw does not set fixed quiet hours or decibel limits. ## Steps 1. For ongoing noise, contact Bylaw Enforcement by phone at 250-784-3657, by email at bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca, or with the online Service Request form. 2. Give your name. Anonymous complaints are not accepted. ## Good to know - Construction, alteration, repair, demolition, excavation or filling that disturbs the neighbourhood is banned before 7:00 a.m. or after 10:00 p.m. any day, and on Sundays when done for profit or gain. The Director of Development Services may approve work in writing where compliance is impossible or impractical. - Exempt: emergency vehicles and snow removal; amplified music at licensed entertainment venues between noon and 2:00 a.m.; licensed businesses in commercial zones 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and in industrial zones 24 hours a day. - A megaphone or noise-amplifying device needs the Director of Development Services' written permission. - Barking or howling animals are covered separately by the Animal Responsibility Bylaw (s. 5.4), which has its own fines. - No after-hours number for noise complaints is published; the bylaw does not give one. ## Official forms and pages - [Noise Control Bylaw 3873 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112528) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/bylaw-fines.md) - [Dawson Creek unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/unsightly-property.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) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/noise-rules.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/noise-rules.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/noise-rules.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/noise-rules.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/noise-rules.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/noise-rules.md) ## Sources - [Noise Control Bylaw No. 3873, 2006 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112528) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Enforcement, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Place a Service Request, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/place-a-service-request/) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/noise-rules/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek unsightly property rules and how to report question: "What can I do about an unsightly property, tall grass or a derelict vehicle next door in Dawson Creek?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/unsightly-property/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/unsightly-property.json" --- # Dawson Creek unsightly property rules and how to report **Question:** What can I do about an unsightly property, tall grass or a derelict vehicle next door in Dawson Creek? **Short answer:** Dawson Creek's Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190 bans unsightly property, rubbish, and grass or weeds over 30 cm (12 inches). Report it to Bylaw Enforcement at 250-784-3657, by email, or with the online Service Request form. The City usually asks for voluntary compliance first, then orders a fix in 14 days. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice $250 for unsightly property, rubbish or noxious matter; $125 for tall grass. If the City cleans up, it bills its actual cost plus a $200 administrative cost ($100 for tall grass). **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-784-3657 - Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca - Online: Place a Service Request, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/place-a-service-request/ ## Key facts - **What counts:** Owners and occupiers must not let their property, including the boulevard, become or remain unsightly; must remove unsightly accumulations of filth, discarded materials, rubbish or graffiti; must not let refuse or noxious, offensive or unwholesome matter collect; and must not let grass or weeds grow past 12 inches (30 cm). Derelict vehicles, boats and trailers that cause a nuisance or make the property unsightly are also covered. - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated), s. 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.11, 3.14](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "No owner or occupier of property within the City will permit the property, including the boulevard(s), to become or remain unsightly." … "any unsightly accumulations of filth, discarded materials, rubbish, or graffiti." … "No owner or occupier of property within the City will cause or permit refuse or other noxious, offensive or unwholesome matter to collect or accumulate" … "to grow beyond 12 inches (30 cm) in height." … "storage or accumulation of a derelict vehicle or parts of a derelict vehicle, wrecked, broken or dismantled trailer, boat" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** Use the City's online Service Request form, email bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca or phone 250-784-3657. You must give your name (anonymous complaints are not accepted); have the property address, the date first seen and a detailed description ready. - Source: [Place a Service Request, Bylaw Enforcement](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/place-a-service-request/) - Official wording: "Tall grass or overgrown properties - Unsightly properties" … "Email: bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca Phone: 250-784-3657" - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, Bylaw complaint or infraction](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) - Official wording: "You must identify yourself when making the complaint. We will not accept anonymous complaints." … "address of property involved" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What happens next:** The City usually seeks voluntary compliance first (a talk, then a warning letter with a compliance date). An order to fix unsightly property or tall grass gives 14 days; the owner may ask to be heard (Council for unsightly property, the Director for tall grass). If not done the City may do it and bill the owner ($200 admin cost, $100 for tall grass, plus actual cost); unpaid costs at December 31 go on the tax bill. - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated), s. 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.12, 7.13 and Schedule A](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "remedy unsightliness on the property within fourteen (14) days;" … "opportunity to be heard by Council in respect of the matter." … "recover the costs, including the administrative costs provided in Schedule" … "Obtain compliance regarding unsightly properties 7 $200.00" … "Obtain compliance regarding tall grass and weeds 7 $100.00" … "the costs will be added to, and form part of, the taxes payable on the property as taxes in arrears." … "advise the date the owner or occupier may apply to the Director of Development Services for an opportunity to be heard in respect of the matter." … "advise the date the owner or occupier may apply to the Director of Corporate Administration for an opportunity to be heard by Council in respect of the matter." - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, Bylaw enforcement measures](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) - Official wording: "warning letters will be: - mailed to residences - hand delivered - or left on vehicles" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Unsightly property (s. 3.1): bylaw notice $250 ($200 if paid within 14 days; $300 if late); municipal ticket $500. Rubbish, graffiti or noxious matter accumulating (s. 3.2, 3.3): bylaw notice $250. Tall grass (s. 3.14): bylaw notice $125 ($100 within 14 days; $150 late). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, Property Maintenance Bylaw](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4190 3.1 unsightly 250 200 300 Yes" … "3.2 graffiti on premises 250 200 300 Yes" … "4190 3.14 Permit tall grass 125 100 150 Yes" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule M](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4190 3.1 Permit property to become/remain unsightly 500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - Official wording: "PROPERTY MAINTENANCE BYLAW NO. 4190, 2013" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190]() requires owners and occupiers in Dawson Creek not to let their property, including the boulevard, become or remain unsightly. They must remove accumulations of filth, discarded materials, rubbish or graffiti, must not let refuse or noxious, offensive or unwholesome matter collect, and must not let grass or weeds grow past 12 inches (30 cm). Derelict vehicles, boats and trailers that cause a nuisance or make the property unsightly are also covered. Insect infestations and smelly compost are covered too. ## Steps 1. Report it with the City's online Service Request form, by email at bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca, or by phone at 250-784-3657. 2. Give your name. Anonymous complaints are not accepted. 3. Have the property address, the date you first saw the problem and a detailed description ready. ## Good to know - The City usually seeks voluntary compliance first: a conversation, then a warning letter with a compliance date. - If that fails, an order to fix unsightly property or tall grass gives 14 days. The owner may ask to be heard: by Council for unsightly property, and by the Director of Development Services for tall grass. - If the work is not done, the City may do it and bill the owner its actual cost plus $200 ($100 for tall grass). Unpaid costs at December 31 go on the tax bill. - Fines: bylaw notice $250 ($200 within 14 days; $300 late) for unsightly property, and $250 for rubbish, graffiti or noxious matter. Tall grass is $125 ($100 within 14 days; $150 late). A municipal ticket for unsightly property is $500. - Under [Nuisance Abatement Cost Recovery Bylaw 4643](), Council can declare a property a Nuisance Property (at least four nuisances in six months) and charge the owner the City's and RCMP's costs. ## Official forms and pages - [Property Maintenance Bylaw 4190 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) - [Nuisance Abatement Cost Recovery Bylaw 4643 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/164903) - [Place a Service Request](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/place-a-service-request/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/bylaw-fines.md) - [Dawson Creek noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/noise-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/unsightly-property.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/unsightly-property.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/unsightly-property.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/unsightly-property.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/unsightly-property.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/unsightly-property.md) ## Sources - [Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 4190, 2013 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112534) (read 2026-11-05) - [Nuisance Abatement Cost Recovery Bylaw No. 4643, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/164903) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Enforcement, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Place a Service Request, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/place-a-service-request/) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/unsightly-property/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek backyard fire and burning rules question: "Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Dawson Creek, and do I need a permit?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/backyard-fire/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/backyard-fire.json" --- # Dawson Creek backyard fire and burning rules **Question:** Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Dawson Creek, and do I need a permit? **Short answer:** In Dawson Creek a fire pit or outdoor fireplace built to the Fire Protection Bylaw needs no permit. Other burning, such as yard waste, land-clearing and hazard-reduction fires, needs a permit from the Fire Hall, valid 24 hours. Call the Fire Hall at 250-782-9898 before lighting. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Permit: no charge for burns May 1 to 15 and October 1 to 15; otherwise $14.67 (2026), plus applicable taxes (Fees and Charges Bylaw, Schedule J). **How long:** A burning permit is valid for 24 hours. **Where:** - In person: Fire Hall, 10101 12A Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 3V7 (Permits Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Fire Department, 250-782-9898 - Phone: BC Wildfire Service (piles over 2 x 3 m, or two piles), 1-888-797-1717 ## Key facts - **Backyard campfires:** Yes, in a fire pit or outdoor fireplace built to the bylaw, with no permit (the City permit page does not mention this). Keep 3 m from buildings, lines and trees; sides under 45 cm deep and 60 cm wide; spark screen; briquettes or dry firewood only; adult present; no wind over 10 km/h; notify the Fire Department. Must meet the provincial Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. No fires in City parks. (Sources differ: The City page says burning permits are required to burn; the bylaw (s. 8.1.b) exempts fires in a compliant fire pit or outdoor fireplace, so the bylaw is followed. All fires must also comply with the provincial Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. No fire may be started or kept in a City park or on City property (s. 8.5); in parks a permit from the Fire Hall and a City-provided fire pit are required (Parks Bylaw s. 15).) - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), s. 8.1, 8.2, 8.6, 8.11, 8.12, 10.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "unless a Permit has been obtained under section 9 or it is contained in a fire pit or outdoor fireplace that is built in accordance with this bylaw." … "Have a minimum clearance of 3 metres (10 feet) from any buildings, property lines, overhead wires, trees or any combustible materials." … "Installations must have enclosed sides at a depth of no greater than 45 centimetres (18 inches) and a width of no greater than 60 centimetres (24 inches)" … "A spark arrestor mesh screen of expanded metal to contain sparks must be provided over the fire." … "Only barbecue briquettes or clean burning dry firewood may be used as fuel in fire pits or outdoor fireplaces." … "if the wind speed is greater than 10 km per hour." … "Before starting an outdoor fire, every person must notify the Fire Department." … "Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are not permitted within 1 metre of gas lines." … "must be surrounded by 1 metre of non-combustible material" … "Every person starting a fire shall ensure a competent adult person is present at all times until the fire is totally extinguished." … "in contravention of the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation (British Columbia); and" - Source: [Burning Permits](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/emergency-and-protective-services/fire-rescue/burning-permits/) - Official wording: "Burning permits are required to burn in our community." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Burning yard waste:** Burning needs a permit valid 24 hours. Yard waste fires (leaves, prunings, small branches from your own property): 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. only, no bigger than 1 m x 1 m x 1 m. Land-clearing and hazard-reduction fires also need a permit; none is issued for industrial, commercial or construction waste. No household garbage or incinerators. Venting index must be good or fair the day before and good at the time. - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), s. 2.1, 8.3, 8.4, 8.9, 8.10, 9.3](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "Yard waste fires are only allowed between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m." … "Yard waste fires are not to exceed 1 metre x 1 metre x 1 metre." … "No person shall burn any noxious materials, construction waste, domestic waste or garbage, household scrap paper, or any similar material." … "Yard waste fire Permits are only valid for a 24 hour period." … "garden refuse such as leaves, prunings and small branches indigenous to the property" … "including without limitation yard waste fires, fires for purposes of land clearing or fire hazard reduction:" … "Permits will not be issued for the burning of industrial, commercial or construction waste." - Source: [Burning Permits, Permit conditions](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/emergency-and-protective-services/fire-rescue/burning-permits/) - Official wording: "Venting index must be "good" or "fair" the day before burning, and "good" at the time of burning." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** Yes for yard waste fires. Get it at the Dawson Creek Fire Hall, 8:30 to 4:30 weekdays. No charge for burns May 1 to 15 and October 1 to 15; otherwise $14.67 (2026) plus applicable taxes. Call the Fire Hall at 250-782-9898 before lighting. Piles larger than 2 x 3 m, or two piles, must be reported to BC Wildfire Service (1-888-797-1717). - Source: [Burning Permits](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/emergency-and-protective-services/fire-rescue/burning-permits/) - Official wording: "To get a permit, visit the Dawson Creek Fire Hall from 8:30-4:30 weekdays." … "May 1 to May 15 - October 1 to October 15" … "Notify BC Wildfire service if piles are larger than 2 x 3m or if two piles are to be burnt." … "Call 1-888-797-1717 to get a registration number." … "Prior to igniting, call the Fire Hall at 250-782-9898." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule J, Schedule N (Fire), Permits](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Yard Waste Fire Permit (May 1-15 or October 1-15) No charge No charge No charge No charge" … "Yard Waste Fire Permit - rest of the year $14.38 $14.67 $14.96 $15.26" … "ALL FEES ARE PLUS APPLICABLE TAXES" … "Yard Waste Fire Permit – rest of the year $14.38 $14.67 $14.96 $15.26" - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), s. 9.4](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "pay the fee set out in the City of Dawson Creek Fees and Charges Bylaw as amended or replaced from time to time;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fire bans:** Permits are subject to weather and provincial fire bans. The Fire Chief can suspend or cancel any permit or right to burn at any time, and the fire must then be put out immediately. - Source: [Burning Permits](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/emergency-and-protective-services/fire-rescue/burning-permits/) - Official wording: "All permits are subject to weather and provincial fire bans." - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), s. 9.6](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "may, at any time, suspend or cancel any permit or right to burn granted pursuant to this Bylaw." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Instead of burning:** City yard waste collection site at 949 99 Avenue takes grass clippings and leaves in the warmer months. The Peace River Regional District's Bessborough landfill takes grass, leaves and prunings up to 5 cm for free May 15 to October 31. Yard waste may not go in the curbside garbage cart. - Source: [Yard Waste Collection Site](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/yard-waste-collection-site/) - Official wording: "The collection site is at 949 99 Avenue." … "The collection site is only for grass clippings and leave." - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, Peace River Regional District, Composting](https://www.prrd.bc.ca/home-property/garbage-and-recycling/) - Official wording: "The Bessborough Landfill accepts specific yard and garden waste for free annually from May 15 to October 31." … "Pruning's (up to 5 cm in diameter)" - Source: [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380, s. 3.21](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) - Official wording: "No person shall deposit recyclable materials or yard waste in a Garbage Collection Cart." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days; $200 late) for: starting an outdoor fire contrary to the bylaw, burning prohibited materials, a yard waste fire outside the allowed hours or over 1 m x 1 m x 1 m, or a fire pit not meeting requirements. Starting a fire on City property: bylaw notice $300 ($200 early, $500 late); municipal ticket $550. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, Fire Protection Bylaw](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4153 8.1 Start an outdoor fire contrary to bylaw 150 125 200 No" … "4153 8.3 Burn prohibited materials 150 125 200 No" … "4153 8.9 Yard waste fire outside allowed hours 150 125 200 No" … "4153 8.10 Yard waste fire larger than allowed 150 125 200 No" … "4153 10.1 Fail to meet fire pit requirements 150 125 200 Yes" … "4153 8.5 Start a fire on City property 300 200 500 No" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedule G](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4153 8.5 Start a fire on City property 550" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), title](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "FIRE PROTECTION BYLAW NO. 4153, 2012" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Fire Protection Bylaw 4153]() bans outdoor fires in Dawson Creek unless you have a permit or the fire is in a fire pit or outdoor fireplace that meets the bylaw. A compliant fire pit needs no permit. The City's burning permits page says permits are required to burn and does not mention this exemption, so confirm with the Fire Hall. All fires must also follow the provincial Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. Permits cover yard waste, land-clearing and hazard-reduction fires, but are not issued for industrial, commercial or construction waste. ## Steps 1. Check the venting index: it must be good or fair the day before and good at the time of burning. 2. If a pile is larger than 2 x 3 m, or you plan two piles, report it to the BC Wildfire Service at 1-888-797-1717. 3. Get a permit at the Fire Hall, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. 4. Call the Fire Hall at 250-782-9898 before lighting. ## Good to know - Yard waste fires (leaves, prunings, small branches from your own property): 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. only, no bigger than 1 m x 1 m x 1 m. - Fire pit: keep it 3 m from buildings, property lines and trees; sides under 45 cm deep and 60 cm wide; use a spark screen; burn only briquettes or dry firewood; an adult must be present; no burning in wind over 10 km/h; notify the Fire Department. - No household garbage or incinerators. No fires in City parks or on City property. - Permits are subject to weather and provincial fire bans. The Fire Chief can suspend or cancel any permit at any time, and the fire must then be put out immediately. - Instead of burning, the City's yard waste site at 949 99 Avenue takes grass clippings and leaves in the warmer months. The Peace River Regional District's Bessborough landfill takes prunings up to 5 cm for free from May 15 to October 31. - Fines: bylaw notice $150 ($125 within 14 days; $200 late) for starting an outdoor fire against the bylaw, burning prohibited materials, burning outside the allowed hours or size, or a fire pit that does not meet the rules. A fire on City property is a bylaw notice of $300 ($200 within 14 days; $500 late) or a municipal ticket of $550. ## Official forms and pages - [Burning Permits](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/emergency-and-protective-services/fire-rescue/burning-permits/) - [Fire Protection Bylaw 4153 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fireworks.md) - [Dawson Creek yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/yard-waste.md) - [Dawson Creek bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/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) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/backyard-fire.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/backyard-fire.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/backyard-fire.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/backyard-fire.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/backyard-fire.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/backyard-fire.md) ## Sources - [Burning Permits, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/emergency-and-protective-services/fire-rescue/burning-permits/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025) (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, Schedule J (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) - [Solid Waste and Recyclable Material Regulation Bylaw No. 4380 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112542) (read 2026-11-05) - [Yard Waste Collection Site, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/garbage-and-recycling/yard-waste-collection-site/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Garbage and Recycling, Peace River Regional District](https://www.prrd.bc.ca/home-property/garbage-and-recycling/) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/backyard-fire/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek fireworks rules question: "Can I set off fireworks in Dawson Creek, and are there dates when they are banned?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fireworks/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fireworks.json" --- # Dawson Creek fireworks rules **Question:** Can I set off fireworks in Dawson Creek, and are there dates when they are banned? **Short answer:** In Dawson Creek, low hazard (consumer) fireworks may be set off only with the Fire Chief's prior written approval, given only with the property owner's consent. They are not allowed from October 24 to November 1 each year, and never on a public highway or right of way. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days; $200 if paid late). No fireworks permit fee appears in the City's fee bylaw. **Where:** - Phone: Fire Department, 250-782-9898 (Fire Hall, 10101 12A Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 3V7) ## Key facts - **Setting off fireworks:** Low hazard (consumer) fireworks may be discharged only with the Fire Chief's prior written approval, which is given only with the property owner's consent. Not allowed from October 24 to November 1 each year (except municipally permitted events run by certified Fireworks Supervisors), and never on a public highway or right of way. - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), s. 12.2, 12.6, 12.8, 12.9](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "the City of Dawson Creek further restricts the time between October 24th and November 1st in any year, where a person must not sell, give or set off fireworks." … "Exceptions may be made for municipally permitted events that are conducted by certified Fireworks Supervisors." … "No person shall sell or discharge low hazard fireworks, as defined in the Explosives Regulations under the Explosives Act (Canada), without the prior written approval of the Fire Chief or his designate." … "the consent of the property owner where fireworks are to be discharged has been obtained;" … "No person shall discharge fireworks on public highways or rights of way." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Selling fireworks:** Selling low hazard fireworks needs the Fire Chief's prior written approval; sale must comply with the federal Explosives Act and Regulations; no selling, giving or furnishing low hazard fireworks to anyone under 18. No sale or giving from October 24 to November 1. - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), s. 12.2, 12.4, 12.6, 12.7](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "No person shall manufacture, store, transport and sell fireworks except in compliance with the Explosives Act (Canada) and Explosives Regulations" … "No person shall, directly or indirectly, sell, give or furnish low hazard fireworks" … "to a person under the age of eighteen (18) years." … "the City of Dawson Creek further restricts the time between October 24th and November 1st in any year, where a person must not sell, give or set off fireworks." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What counts as fireworks:** Fireworks include cannon crackers, fireballs, firecrackers, mines, Roman candles, skyrockets, squibs, torpedoes, anything designated a firework under the BC Fireworks Act, and low hazard and high hazard fireworks under the federal Explosives Act and Regulations. - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), s. 2.1 "Fireworks"](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "includes cannon crackers, fireballs, firecrackers, mines, Roman candles, skyrockets, squibs, torpedoes" … "low hazard and high hazard fireworks under the Explosives Act (Canada) and Explosives Regulations;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** Written approval from the Fire Chief or designate is needed to sell or discharge low hazard fireworks; public displays also need the Fire Chief's written permission. Approval is given only if the property owner consents and the Fire Chief is satisfied the bylaw will be followed. Display fireworks must be handled under the federal Manual of Display Fireworks. - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), s. 12.3, 12.5, 12.6, 12.8](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "Fireworks may be sold to and discharged by a person or organization at a public display if the public display is held with the written permission of the Fire Chief or his designate." … "except in accordance with the "Manual of Display Fireworks"" … "the Fire Chief is satisfied that the requirements of this section will be complied with." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days; $200 late) for selling, storing, handling or discharging fireworks contrary to the bylaw, selling or discharging low hazard fireworks without approval, selling or giving fireworks to anyone under 18, or discharging on a highway or right of way. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, Schedule B, Fire Protection Bylaw](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4153 12.4 Store, transport, or sell fireworks 150 125 200 No" … "4153 12.5 Handle or discharge fireworks 150 125 200 No" … "4153 12.6 Sell or discharge low hazard fireworks 150 125 200 No" … "4153 12.7 150 125 200 No" … "4153 12.9 150 125 200 No" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (Section 12, Fireworks) - Source: [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025), title](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - Official wording: "FIRE PROTECTION BYLAW NO. 4153, 2012" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Fire Protection Bylaw 4153]() (section 12) controls fireworks in Dawson Creek. Low hazard fireworks may be set off only with the Fire Chief's prior written approval, which is given only if the property owner consents and the Fire Chief is satisfied the bylaw will be followed. The BC Fireworks Act also applies in the City. Fireworks include cannon crackers, fireballs, firecrackers, mines, Roman candles, skyrockets, squibs and torpedoes. Sparklers are not named. ## Steps 1. Get the property owner's consent. 2. Ask the Fire Chief or designate for written approval. The bylaw does not say how to apply, so call the Fire Hall at 250-782-9898. 3. Do not set them off from October 24 to November 1, or on any public highway or right of way. ## Good to know - No selling, giving or furnishing low hazard fireworks from October 24 to November 1. The only exception is a municipally permitted event run by certified Fireworks Supervisors. - Selling low hazard fireworks needs the Fire Chief's prior written approval and must follow the federal Explosives Act. Selling or giving fireworks to anyone under 18 is not allowed. - Public displays need the Fire Chief's written permission and must follow the federal Manual of Display Fireworks. - Fine: bylaw notice $150 ($125 within 14 days; $200 late) for selling, storing, handling or discharging fireworks against the bylaw, or discharging on a highway or right of way. - Possessing or using any explosive in a City park is separately banned by the Parks Bylaw. ## Official forms and pages - [Fire Protection Bylaw 4153 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) - [Fire Prevention](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/emergency-and-protective-services/fire-rescue/fire-prevention/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/backyard-fire.md) - [Dawson Creek bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/fireworks.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/fireworks.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/fireworks.md) - [Prince George](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-george/fireworks.md) - [Fort St James](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-james/fireworks.md) - [Vanderhoof](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vanderhoof/fireworks.md) ## Sources - [Fire Protection Bylaw No. 4153, 2012 (consolidated to 4599, 2025) (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112524) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fire Prevention, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/home-property-utilities/emergency-and-protective-services/fire-rescue/fire-prevention/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Parks Bylaw No. 4371, 2018 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/134610) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/fireworks/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek bylaw fines and how tickets work question: "How much are bylaw tickets in Dawson Creek, and how do I pay or dispute one?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/bylaw-fines/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/bylaw-fines.json" --- # Dawson Creek bylaw fines and how tickets work **Question:** How much are bylaw tickets in Dawson Creek, and how do I pay or dispute one? **Short answer:** Dawson Creek has two ticket systems. A bylaw notice (Bylaw 4277) is for first-time or minor offences, with fines up to $500. A municipal ticket (Bylaw 4278) is for repeat or more serious offences, with fines up to $1,000. To dispute a bylaw notice, return the adjudication request form within 14 days. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Examples, bylaw notice (municipal ticket): unlicensed dog $150 ($500); dog at large $150 ($500); noise $250 ($500); unsightly property $250 ($500); parked on a street over 24 hours $50; cart over 50 kg $150 ($300). Pay within 14 days for the lower amount in the schedule. **How long:** Dispute request due within 14 days of receiving the bylaw notice. **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-784-3657 - Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@dawsoncreek.ca - In person: City Hall cashier, 10105 12A Street, Dawson Creek, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - By mail: Mail a cheque or money order, PO Box 150, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4G4 ## Key facts - **How tickets work:** Two systems. Bylaw notice (Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277): for first-time or minor offences, disputes heard locally by a provincially appointed adjudicator, fines up to $500. Municipal ticket information (Bylaw No. 4278): for repeat or more serious offences, heard in BC Provincial Court, fines up to $1,000. Tickets are issued by Bylaw Enforcement Officers (and, for some bylaws, RCMP officers, animal control officers or inspectors). - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, Disputing a bylaw violation; types of offence notices](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) - Official wording: "Used for first time offenders or minor offences." … "Fines of up to $500 per offence." … "Used for repeat offenders or more serious offences." … "Fines of up to $1,000 per offence." … "Heard in the Provincial Court of B.C., usually heard by a Judicial Justice of the Peace (JJP)" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, s. 10.1, Schedule A](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "are designated Bylaw Enforcement Officers for the purpose of enforcing the bylaws listed in Column A2 of Schedule" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, s. 3.1, 3.4](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "The dollar amounts in Column A4 of Schedule" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Common fines:** Bylaw notice amounts (municipal ticket in brackets): unlicensed dog $150 ($500); dog at large $150 ($500); noise $250 ($500); unsightly property $250 ($500); parked on a street over 24 hours $50; cart weighing over 50 kg $150 ($300). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4420 4.1 Unlicensed dog or cat 150 125 175 Yes" … "4420 5.1 Animals at large 150 125 175 No" … "3873 3.1.a 250 200 300 Yes" … "4190 3.1 unsightly 250 200 300 Yes" … "4214 3.1.p Park on highway more than 24 hours 50 25 75 No" … "4380 4.3 Collection cart weights 50 kg or more 150 100 175 No" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, Schedules B, J, M, S](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4420 4.1 Unlicensed dog or cat 500" … "4420 5.1 Animals at large 500" … "3873 3.1 Permit noise that disturbs the neighborhood 500" … "4190 3.1 Permit property to become/remain unsightly 500" … "4380 4.3 Collection cart weights 50 kg or more 300" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying early:** Pay within 14 days of receiving the notice to get the reduced early-payment amount listed in the schedule (for example $125 instead of $150 for an unlicensed dog). The City must receive the payment by then; postmarks do not count. For some offences a compliance agreement can reduce the penalty to 50%. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, s. 4.2, 9.1.d](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "The Early Payment Penalty set out in Column A5 of Schedule "B" if received by the City within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to have received the notice;" … "To provide for payment of a reduced penalty if a compliance agreement is entered into" - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, Disputing / Paying the Notice](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) - Official wording: "Reduced penalty when paid within 14 calendar days" … "Postmarks are not accepted as date of payment." … "When you agree to correct a Bylaw violation, in some instances the City will accept a reduced penalty. Parking violations are not applicable." - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4420 4.1 Unlicensed dog or cat 150 125 175 Yes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying late:** Pay the full penalty 15 to 30 days after receiving the notice. After that a higher late penalty applies (for example $175 for an unlicensed dog) until day 60; after 60 days the ticket goes to a collection agency. (Sources differ: The bylaw (s. 4.2.c) says 'more than 31 days' and s. 6.2 says 'after 30 days'; the City page says 31 to 60 days. Day 31 is treated differently in the texts. Some offences have a late amount equal to the standard amount (for example Stage 1 water, $100).) - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, How the Adjudication system works](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) - Official wording: "Full penalty when paid between 15 and 30 calendar days" … "Late penalty when paid between 31 and 60 calendar days" … "Ticket is sent to collections after 60 calendar days" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, s. 4.2.c](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "The Late Payment Penalty set out in Column A6 of Schedule "B" if received more than 31 days after the person received or is presumed to have received the Bylaw Notice." - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4420 4.1 Unlicensed dog or cat 150 125 175 Yes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Disputing a ticket:** Within 14 days of receiving the notice, return the adjudication request form to City Hall. A screening officer may cancel it or offer a compliance agreement; otherwise pay or schedule a hearing. No disputes after 14 days unless you did not receive the notice and tell the City within 21 days of issue. If you lose you pay the penalty plus a $25 fee; the decision is final. Municipal tickets go to BC Provincial Court. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, s. 6.1, 6.2, 7.3](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "request dispute adjudication," … "but no person may dispute the notice after 14 days of receiving the bylaw notice." … "must pay the City an additional fee of $25 for the purpose of the City recovering the costs of the adjudication system." - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, Disputing a bylaw violation](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) - Official wording: "you will tell the screening officer which method of hearing you prefer: through writing, by email, by phone or in person." … "No. The adjudicator's decision is final." … "adjudication fee of $25 to offset the cost of the process." … "If you tell the Bylaw office within 21 days of the issue date of the notice that you did not receive the original, the Bylaw Offence Notice may be reissued and the dispute period extended for an additional 14 days." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, 2016 (bylaw notice amounts, Schedule B); Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, 2016 (ticket amounts, Schedules B to BB) - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, 2016" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278, 2016" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Dawson Creek issues tickets under two systems. A bylaw notice under [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277]() is for first-time or minor offences, with fines up to $500, and disputes are heard locally by a provincially appointed adjudicator. A municipal ticket under [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw 4278]() is for repeat or more serious offences, with fines up to $1,000, and goes to BC Provincial Court. Bylaw Enforcement Officers issue tickets, and for some bylaws so do RCMP officers, animal control officers or inspectors. ## Steps 1. Pay within 14 days of receiving the notice to get the reduced early-payment amount in the schedule (for example $125 instead of $150 for an unlicensed dog). The City must receive the payment by then; postmarks do not count. 2. To pay, mail a cheque or money order to PO Box 150, Dawson Creek BC V1G 4G4, or pay at the City Hall cashier, 10105 12A Street, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. 3. To dispute a bylaw notice, return the adjudication request form to City Hall within 14 days. A screening officer may cancel the notice or offer a compliance agreement; otherwise you pay or schedule a hearing. ## Good to know - Later payment costs more. After the early period, the full penalty applies, then a higher late penalty from 31 to 60 days (for example $175 for an unlicensed dog). After 60 days the ticket goes to a collection agency. The bylaw wording differs slightly on day 31, so check the dates on your notice. Some late amounts equal the standard amount. - No dispute after 14 days, unless you did not receive the notice and tell the City within 21 days of issue. - If you lose a hearing you pay the penalty plus a $25 fee, and the decision is final. - For some offences a compliance agreement can reduce the penalty to 50%. Municipal tickets have no early-payment amount in the schedule. - Parking offences are bylaw-notice only; most are $50 ($25 if paid early). - A bylaw notice and a municipal ticket for the same kind of offence differ. See the specific answers, such as noise-rules and dog-licence. ## Official forms and pages - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - [Bylaw Enforcement](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/noise-rules.md) - [Dawson Creek fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/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) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/bylaw-fines.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/bylaw-fines.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/bylaw-fines.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/bylaw-fines.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/bylaw-fines.md) - [Mackenzie](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/mackenzie/bylaw-fines.md) ## Sources - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 4278 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Enforcement, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/our-government/bylaws-and-policies/bylaw-enforcement/) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/bylaw-fines/_ --- --- title: "Dawson Creek business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply" question: "Do I need a business licence in Dawson Creek, and how do I get one?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/business-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/business-licence.json" --- # Dawson Creek business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a business licence in Dawson Creek, and how do I get one? **Short answer:** Yes. In Dawson Creek, anyone carrying on a business, trade or profession listed in the Fees and Charges Bylaw, including a home-based business, needs a City licence, and one to open or advertise. Email the application to businesslicense@dawsoncreek.ca or bring it to Development Services. No licence is issued until inspections are done. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** Depends on the business category in Schedule F, plus taxes. 2026 examples: bakery or most retail $114.64; each professional $229.29; general contractor $382.16; large retail over 20,000 sq ft $917.18. First-time licences taken after July 31 are half price. **How long:** Not stated. The licence is not issued until the Building Inspector, Fire Department, Health Inspector and RCMP checks and the zoning check are done. **Where:** - Email: Business licences, businesslicense@dawsoncreek.ca - Phone: Business licences (Development Services), 250-784-3618 - In person: Development Services, temporary offices (City Hall is relocated), Unit 1C, 11000 8 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 (Counter hours are not published on the pages read.) ## Key facts - **Who needs one:** Anyone carrying on a trade, business, profession or occupation listed in the Fees and Charges Bylaw in Dawson Creek, including home-based businesses. A licence is needed to open or advertise a business. The owner or someone with signing authority applies. - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 3.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "Every person using, following, practising, carrying on, maintaining, owning or existing within the City, any trade, business, calling, profession, occupation, employment, undertaking or thing classified, enumerated, described, named or set forth in the City of Dawson Creek Fees and Charges Bylaw" - Source: [Business Licences and Permits](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/) - Official wording: "You need a business licence to open or advertise a business in Dawson Creek." … "The owner of the business or anyone who has signing authority should apply for the business licence." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** The fee depends on the business category in Fees Bylaw Schedule F. 2026 examples: bakery or most retail $114.64; each professional $229.29; general contractor $382.16; large retail over 20,000 sq ft $917.18. Plus taxes. First-time licences taken after July 31 are half price. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedule F](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "18-02 Bakery $112.39 $114.64 $116.93 $119.27" … "16-19 Other Professional Occupations Not Listed in this Section $224.80 $229.29 $233.88 $238.56" … "03-01 General Contractor (includes paving contractor) $374.67 $382.16 $389.80 $397.60" … "18-01 Major Retail - Any business over 20,000 sq. ft. $899.19 $917.18 $935.52 $954.23" … "ALL FEES ARE PLUS APPLICABLE TAXES" - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 6.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "For any person who becomes liable to be licenced after the 31st day of July in any year, the fee shall be reduced by one-half the annual licence fee." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** Complete the Business Licence Application and bring it to Development Services at City Hall, or email businesslicense@dawsoncreek.ca. It is checked by the Building Inspector, Fire Department, Health Inspector and RCMP, and against the Zoning Bylaw; no licence until inspections are done. Pay by online banking, 311 or at City Hall. - Source: [Apply for a Business Licence](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/apply-for-a-business-licence/) - Official wording: "Complete a Business Licence Application and bring it to the Development Services Department at City Hall, or email it to businesslicense@dawsoncreek.ca." … "through online banking" … "over the phone by calling 311" - Source: [Business Licences and Permits, Inspections](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/) - Official wording: "You will not receive your licence until inspections are complete and the License Inspector gives approval." … "Building Inspector - Fire Department - Health Inspector - RCMP" … "Licences also help ensure that businesses are opening in the correct zone following our Zoning Bylaw." - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 4.6](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "Before any licence is issued, the Licence Inspector shall be satisfied that the premises for which the" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Licences run January 1 to December 31. Renewal fees are due January 1. The City sends an invoice at the end of the year; pay within 30 days of receiving it or the account accrues monthly interest. - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 10.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "licences shall be issued for a twelve month period to commence on the first day of January and to terminate on the thirty-first day of December in each and every year." - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 6.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "all licence renewal fees are due and payable on January 1st in any year" - Source: [Business Licences and Permits, Renew](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/) - Official wording: "Renew your licence within 30 days of receiving the invoice or your account will increase with a monthly interest." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Inter-community licence:** Yes. The Northeast Inter-Community Business Licence costs $130, in addition to the standard licence, for businesses that move from client to client. It covers Chetwynd, Dawson Creek, Fort St. John, Hudson's Hope, Taylor, Tumbler Ridge and Pouce Coupe. Excluded: escort services, taxis, body-rub services, mobile food vendors, door-to-door sales. - Source: [Northeast Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw 4342, s. 4.1-4.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112525) - Official wording: "The fee for an inter-community business licence is $130 and shall be paid in full at the time of application" … "The fee for an inter-community business licence is separate and additional to any business licence fee that may be required." - Source: [Northeast Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw 4342, s. 2.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112525) - Official wording: "City of Chetwynd City of Dawson Creek City of Fort St. John District of Hudson’s Hope District of Taylor District of Tumbler Ridge Village of Pouce Coupe" … "performs a service or activity within more than one participating government by moving from client to client rather than having clients come to them" - Source: [Northeast Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw 4342, Schedule A](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112525) - Official wording: "community business licence under the inter-community business licence scheme set out in the bylaw: 1. Social escort services. 2. Vehicles for hire (for example, taxis, limousines, or buses)." … "British Columbia governing such activities or a therapeutic touch technique). 4. Mobile food vendors (establishments primarily engaged in preparing and serving meals and snacks for immediate consumption from motorized vehicles or non-motorized carts), flea" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 4277): $125 for failing to obtain and maintain a licence ($100 if paid within 14 days, $150 late). Court fine under Bylaw 4288: $100 to $10,000 per offence, each day a separate offence. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277, Schedule B](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4288 3.1 Fail to obtain and maintain a licence 125 100 150 Yes" - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 23.8-23.9](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "Each day that an offence against this bylaw continues shall be deemed a separate and distinct offence." … "liable to a fine of not more than $10,000.00 and not less than $100.00 for each offence." - Source: [Business Licences and Permits](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/) - Official wording: "A business running without a licence may receive a fine from $100 a day up to $10,000 total." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw No. 4288, 2016 (fees in Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, 2007, Schedule F) - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "ANNUAL BUSINESS LICENCE & REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4288, 2016" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedule F](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "BUSINESS LICENCE FEES & CHARGES" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Bylaw 4288](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) requires a licence for anyone carrying on a trade, business, profession or occupation listed in the Fees and Charges Bylaw, including home-based businesses. A licence is needed to open or advertise a business. The owner or someone with signing authority applies. A business run from more than one premises needs a licence for each. A licence requires that the business comply with zoning. ## Steps 1. Complete the Business Licence Application. Staff can help decide your fee category. 2. Email it to businesslicense@dawsoncreek.ca or bring it to Development Services. 3. The City sends it to the Building Inspector, Fire Department, Health Inspector and RCMP, and checks it against the Zoning Bylaw. Some trades must provide trade qualification certificates. 4. Pay by online banking, phone (311) or in person at City Hall. ## Good to know - Licences run January 1 to December 31. Renewal fees are due January 1. The City sends an invoice at the end of the year; pay within 30 days of receiving it or the account accrues monthly interest. Fees are not refundable. - Changing your business name or location needs a new licence. - The Northeast Inter-Community Business Licence costs $130 on top of the standard licence, for businesses that move from client to client. It covers Chetwynd, Dawson Creek, Fort St. John, Hudson's Hope, Taylor, Tumbler Ridge and Pouce Coupe. It excludes escort services, taxis, body-rub services, mobile food vendors and door-to-door sales. - Operating without a licence: a bylaw notice (Bylaw 4277) is $125 ($100 if paid within 14 days, $150 late). The bylaw sets a court fine of $100 to $10,000 per offence, with each day a separate offence. The City page says "$100 a day up to $10,000", so confirm with the City. ## Official forms and pages - [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/home-based-business.md) - [Dawson Creek short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/short-term-rental.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/business-licence.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/business-licence.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/business-licence.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/business-licence.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/business-licence.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/business-licence.md) ## Sources - [Business Licences and Permits, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Apply for a Business Licence, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/apply-for-a-business-licence/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedule F (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Northeast Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw 4342 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112525) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) _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 City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/business-licence/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek home-based business rules question: "Can I run a business from my home?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: City of Dawson Creek sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/home-based-business/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/home-based-business.json" --- # Dawson Creek home-based business rules **Question:** Can I run a business from my home? **Short answer:** Yes, in Dawson Creek, if your zone lists home occupations and you follow Zoning Bylaw 4625: you live there, one home business per parcel, work inside, only residents employed, and no secondary suite. You still need a City business licence. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Dawson Creek, https://www.dawsoncreek.ca) **Cost:** No separate home-business fee. The licence fee depends on the business category in Schedule F (2026 examples: hairdresser or barber $114.64; each professional $229.29), plus taxes. **Where:** - Phone: Business licences (Development Services), 250-784-3618 - Email: Business licences, businesslicense@dawsoncreek.ca - In person: Development Services, temporary offices (City Hall is relocated), Unit 1C, 11000 8 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 (Counter hours are not published on the pages read.) ## Key facts - **Allowed:** Yes, as an accessory use in the zones that list 'home occupation': RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, RM-3, RMH-1, A, CD-2 and CD-3. You must follow the rules in Zoning Bylaw s. 5.17. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.17.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "Where expressly permitted in a zone, home occupations shall comply with the following regulations:" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 6.11.1 (RS-1)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "vi. home occupation vii. secondary suite" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 9.1.1 (RM-1)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "vii. home occupation viii. secondary suite" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, Definition](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "HOME OCCUPATION means an occupation or profession accessory to the use of a dwelling for residential purposes." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** Yes. The owner or tenant of the parcel must hold a City business licence. There is no separate home-business fee; the fee depends on the business category (2026 examples: hairdresser or barber $114.64; each professional $229.29), plus taxes. (Sources differ: The City page says the 'owner of the parcel' must hold the licence; the bylaw says 'owner or tenant', so the bylaw is followed. Searched Schedule F for home occupation: no separate category. Home businesses are inspected like others (Building, Fire, Health, RCMP).) - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.17.1(g)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "the owner or tenant of the parcel on which the home occupation is located is required to hold a City business licence" - Source: [Home-based Businesses, Licensing](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/home-based-businesses/) - Official wording: "You must apply for a business licence to run your business within Dawson Creek." - Source: [Apply for a Business Licence, Cost](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/apply-for-a-business-licence/) - Official wording: "The cost of a licence depends on the category of your business." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedule F](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "04-01 Hairdresser/Barber – includes mobile $112.39 $114.64 $116.93 $119.27" … "16-19 Other Professional Occupations Not Listed in this Section $224.80 $229.29 $233.88 $238.56" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** Owner must live in the home; one home occupation per parcel; work entirely inside the dwelling or a permitted accessory building; only residents may be employed; unlit sign up to 0.25 m² with name and occupation only; no outdoor storage; no vehicles over 5,500 kg GVW except deliveries; 1 extra parking space; not allowed in a dwelling with a secondary suite. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.17.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "the owner of the home occupation must be a resident of the principal dwelling unit" … "only one home occupation is permitted per parcel" … "no person will be employed in a home occupation who is not a resident of the dwelling unit in which the home occupation is taking place" … "a home occupation is not permitted in a dwelling that has a secondary suite" … "no outdoor storage of materials, containers or finished products shall be permitted" … "there shall be no external display or advertisement other than an unlit sign not exceeding 0.25 m2 in area, bearing only the name and occupation of the owner" … "kg Gross Vehicle Weight, except for the purpose of making deliveries to the premises" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, Table 5](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "1 per home occupation, in addition to the required" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Businesses not allowed:** None set. Dawson Creek's bylaw lists no banned business types. - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 (s. 5.17 Home Occupations); Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw No. 4288, 2016 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "ANNUAL BUSINESS LICENCE & REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4288, 2016" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Zoning Bylaw 4625](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (s. 5.17) allows a home occupation as an accessory use in the zones that list it: RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, RM-3, RMH-1, A, CD-2 and CD-3. Commercial, industrial, institutional and public zones do not list it. Examples named in the bylaw include accountant, artist studio, barber, beautician, financial advisor, massage therapist, real estate agent and tax consultant. Check your zone on the Official Zoning Map. ## Steps 1. Check your zone and the rules below with the City. 2. Apply for a City business licence (see business-licence). Home businesses are inspected like others (Building, Fire, Health, RCMP). 3. Pay the fee for your business category. ## Good to know - The owner must live in the home. One home occupation per parcel. - Work must be entirely inside the dwelling or a permitted accessory building. Only residents may be employed. - An unlit sign is allowed up to 0.25 m2, showing only the name and occupation. No outdoor storage. No vehicles over 5,500 kg GVW, except deliveries. - One extra parking space is required. - Not allowed in a dwelling with a secondary suite. - The bylaw says the owner or tenant of the parcel must hold the licence. The City page says the owner, so confirm with the City; the bylaw wins. - No floor area limit or customer limit was found. ## Official forms and pages - [Zoning Bylaw 4625 (PDF), section 5.17 Home Occupations](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - [Home-based Businesses, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/home-based-businesses/) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/business-licence.md) - [Dawson Creek short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/short-term-rental.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Home-based business rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/home-based-business.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/home-based-business.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/home-based-business.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/home-based-business.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/home-based-business.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/home-based-business.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/home-based-business.md) ## Sources - [Home-based Businesses, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/home-based-businesses/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) - [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedule F (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Apply for a Business Licence, City of Dawson Creek](https://www.dawsoncreek.ca/business-development/business-licences-and-permits/apply-for-a-business-licence/) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 4 of 5 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Dawson Creek. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/home-based-business/_ --- --- title: Dawson Creek short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) question: "Can I rent out my home or a room short-term (Airbnb) in Dawson Creek?" place: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/dawson-creek category: Housing and renting owner: shared sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/short-term-rental/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/short-term-rental.json" --- # Dawson Creek short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) **Question:** Can I rent out my home or a room short-term (Airbnb) in Dawson Creek? **Short answer:** Yes. Dawson Creek's Zoning Bylaw allows short-term rentals (under 30 days) in all residential zones, but you need a City business licence ($239.78 per unit or room in 2026) and must register with the Province. Dawson Creek is on the Province's exempt list, so the principal-residence rule does not apply. **Who handles it:** More than one level of government **Cost:** City business licence: $239.78 per unit or room in 2026, plus taxes. Provincial registration: $100 a year for your principal residence and $450 a year for a secondary unit. **Where:** - Phone: Business licences (Development Services), 250-784-3618 - In person: Development Services, temporary offices (City Hall is relocated), Unit 1C, 11000 8 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4K6 (Counter hours are not published on the pages read.) - Email: Provincial short-term rental registry, STRregistry@sbc.gov.bc.ca ## Key facts - **Allowed:** Yes. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are permitted in all residential zones. The City sets no principal-residence rule in the documents read, and the Province lists Dawson Creek as exempt from the provincial principal residence requirement. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.16.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "Short-term rentals are permitted in all residential zones." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, Definition](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "SHORT TERM RENTAL means the rental of a dwelling unit or portion thereof for periods of less than 30 days." - Source: [Provincial principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia, Exempt communities](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) - Official wording: "Daajing Giids Dawson Creek Enderby" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** Yes, a City business licence is required. Fee 2026: $239.78 per unit or room ($244.58 in 2027), plus taxes. Owners need a licence unless a property management company manages the unit. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 5.16.2](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "Short-term rentals are required to hold a City business license." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedule F, Schedule F, 01-04](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) - Official wording: "Short-term rentals (per unit or room) $235.08 $239.78 $244.58 $249.47" … "ALL FEES ARE PLUS APPLICABLE TAXES" - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 12.3](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "All owners of a rental unit are required to obtain a business licence unless the rental unit is managed by a property management company." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Provincial registration:** Yes. Short-term rental hosts must register with the Province and renew yearly, for stays under 90 consecutive days, whether or not a local licence is needed. Provincial fees are $100 a year for your principal residence and $450 a year for a secondary unit. - Source: [Short-term rental registration, Province of British Columbia, Registration](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) - Official wording: "Short-term rental hosts, platforms and strata hotel platforms in B.C. must register and pay annual registration fees." … "you must renew it each year to continue operating." - Source: [Provincial principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia, Business licence exemptions](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, regardless of whether a local business licence is required." … "Fee: $100 annually" … "Fee: $450 annually" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Operating rules:** At licence application, give a contact who can respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and a parking plan for each rented unit or room. List the City licence number on every online listing. Fire safety: posted evacuation plan, smoke alarms, fire extinguisher on each floor, carbon monoxide detector if gas appliances, compliant bedroom windows. - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 12.4](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "Contact information for someone who is able to respond to incidents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; and" … "A parking plan showing the location of parking spaces for each rented unit/room" - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 12.5-12.6](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "Operators of short-term rentals or rooming houses are required to meet the following fire safety" … "Operators listing a short-term rental online are required to list the City of Dawson Creek business licence number on every online listing." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notices (Bylaw 4277): no licence $125 ($100 if paid within 14 days, $150 late); failing to list the licence number online $100 ($50 early, $150 late); failing fire safety requirements $200 ($150 early, $300 late). Municipal ticket (Bylaw 4278): fire safety failure $750. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277, Schedule B](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) - Official wording: "4288 3.1 Fail to obtain and maintain a licence 125 100 150 Yes" … "4288 12.6 Fail to list Business licence number 100 50 150 Yes" … "4288 12.5 Fail to meet Fire Safety requirements 200 150 300 Yes" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw 4278, Schedule, Schedule D](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) - Official wording: "4288 12.5 Fail to meet Fire Safety requirements 750" - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 23.9](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "A person who contravenes any provision of this bylaw is liable to a fine of not more than $10,000.00 and not less than $100.00 for each offence." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4625, 2026 (s. 5.16); Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw No. 4288, 2016 (s. 12); Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3932, 2007 (Schedule F); provincial Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026, s. 1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ZONING BYLAW NO. 4625, 2026" - Source: [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016, s. 1.1](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - Official wording: "ANNUAL BUSINESS LICENCE & REGULATION BYLAW NO. 4288, 2016" - Source: [Short-term rental registration, Province of British Columbia, Helpful links](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) - Official wording: "Learn more about B.C.'s Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Zoning Bylaw 4625](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (s. 5.16) permits short-term rentals, meaning rentals under 30 days, in all residential zones. A City business licence is required under [Bylaw 4288](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) (s. 12), unless a property management company manages the unit, and operators must follow provincial rules. The Province lists Dawson Creek as exempt from its principal-residence requirement, so you do not need to live in the unit. Registration with the Province still applies. ## Steps 1. Apply for a City business licence for each rental unit or room. Give a contact who can respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and a parking plan for each unit or room. 2. Meet the fire safety rules: a posted evacuation plan, smoke alarms, a fire extinguisher on each floor, a carbon monoxide detector if you have gas appliances, and compliant bedroom windows. 3. Register with the Province's short-term rental registry and renew yearly. This applies to stays under 90 consecutive days, whether or not a local licence is needed. 4. List the City licence number on every online listing. ## Good to know - A unit offered for both short-term and long-term rental pays the short-term fee. - Bylaw notices (Bylaw 4277): no licence $125 ($100 if paid within 14 days, $150 late); not listing the licence number online $100 ($50 early, $150 late); failing fire safety requirements $200 ($150 early, $300 late). A municipal ticket (Bylaw 4278) for a fire safety failure is $750. - The bylaw sets no guest or bedroom limit that we found. Zoning s. 5.16 offences are not itemized in the ticket schedules, and the general zoning ticket is $500 as a bylaw notice or $750 as a municipal ticket. ## Official forms and pages - [Short-term rental registration (Province)](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) - [Principal residence requirement and exempt communities (Province)](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) - [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) - [Zoning Bylaw 4625 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) ## Related questions - [Dawson Creek business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/business-licence.md) - [Dawson Creek home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dawson-creek/home-based-business.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Short-term rental rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/short-term-rental.md) - [Pouce Coupe](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/pouce-coupe/short-term-rental.md) - [Taylor](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/taylor/short-term-rental.md) - [Fort St. John](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-john/short-term-rental.md) - [Chetwynd](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/chetwynd/short-term-rental.md) - [Tumbler Ridge](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tumbler-ridge/short-term-rental.md) - [Hudson's Hope](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hudsons-hope/short-term-rental.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw 4625, 2026 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/143791) (read 2026-11-05) - [Annual Business Licence & Regulation Bylaw 4288, 2016 (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112101) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3932 (consolidated), Schedule F (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/136171) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 4277, Schedule B (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112178) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw 4278, Schedule (PDF)](https://dawsoncreek.civicweb.net/document/112527) (read 2026-11-05) - [Provincial principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) (read 2026-11-05) - [Short-term rental registration, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) (read 2026-11-05) _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/dawson-creek/short-term-rental/_