Lake Country building permits: when you need one and how to apply

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

Lake Country, British ColumbiaChecked against official textSources read 2026-11-06

How it works

The District of Lake Country's Building Regulation Bylaw 1070 requires a permit whenever the works it regulates are to be done. That includes plumbing and fire suppression work and new driveways for emergency access.

Some things are not covered by the bylaw, unless they are in a development permit area under the Official Community Plan or could create a hazard: a fence, an accessory building under 10 m², a trellis or arbour, a retaining wall under 1.22 m (with conditions), and a detached deck or patio less than 600 mm above ground with no walls or roof. Zoning rules still apply to exempt work.

Steps

1. Check your zoning with the Planning Department (see the zoning-lookup answer).
2. Pick the checklist for your project (accessory building, addition, demolition, retaining wall and others) on the District's Building Application Checklists page.
3. Fill in the application form. It needs the owner's signature, the intended use, the true value of the work, an owner's undertaking or letter of authorization, and, except for alterations, a current title or State of Title Certificate. Complex buildings need more, such as a survey plan by a BC Land Surveyor, a site plan and floor plans.
4. Submit it with the fee to the Building Department at Municipal Hall. Incomplete applications are not accepted.
5. Book inspections online or by phone. You need the permit number and access code. Inspections run Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Good to know

• The owner is responsible for the permit but can authorize a contractor in writing (Owners Authorization Form).
• Book before 3:30 p.m. the previous business day to get an inspection by the next business day. For simple buildings, the bylaw requires at least 24 hours notice.
• Section 2.3 of the bylaw also exempts landscaping, docks, and repair and maintenance that does not lower life safety.