{"place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","slug":"nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","full_name":"City of Nanaimo","type":"municipality","country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"},"region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"website":"https://www.nanaimo.ca","population":"about 100,000 (the City holds 59% of the Regional District of Nanaimo's 172,000 people, City economic development page)","intro":"Nanaimo is the Harbour City on the east coast of Vancouver Island, the island's second city and its ferry and transport hub, with BC Ferries terminals at Departure Bay and Duke Point and the Hullo passenger ferry to downtown Vancouver. The City of Nanaimo runs planning and building permits, business and dog licences, bylaw services, roads and snow clearing, its own water supply and treatment (the Jump Creek and South Fork reservoirs), sewers and storm drains, curbside garbage, recycling and food waste carts, Nanaimo Fire Rescue, emergency management, parks and trails, the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, Beban Park, Nanaimo Ice Centre, the cemeteries and the Nanaimo Museum with the Nanaimo Museum society. Policing is the Nanaimo RCMP detachment. The Regional District of Nanaimo runs the Regional Landfill and recycling programs, Nanaimo Regional Transit with BC Transit, regional parks and services for the rural areas; the library is the Vancouver Island Regional Library; health care is Island Health (Nanaimo Regional General Hospital); and marriage licences, health cards and driver's licences are provincial.","city_hall":{"label":"City Hall","address":"455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J6","phone":"250-754-4251","hours":"Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m."},"useful_contacts":[{"label":"Service and Resource Centre (building","planning":null,"finance":null,"utilities billing":null,"business licences":null,"bylaw; 411 Dunsmuir Street)":null,"value":"Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m."},{"label":"Public Works (garbage","recycling":null,"water":null,"roads":null,"sewer":null,"snow; 2020 Labieux Road)":null,"value":"250-758-5222"},{"label":"Revenue Services (property taxes and user rates)","value":"250-755-4525"},{"label":"Bylaw Services (complaints","tickets)":null,"value":"250-755-4422"},{"label":"Building Inspections and Planning","value":"250-755-4429"},{"label":"Business Licences","value":"250-755-4482"},{"label":"Parks","Recreation and Culture":null,"value":"250-756-5200"},{"label":"Legislative Services (records","FOI":null,"claims":null,"delegations)":null,"value":"250-755-4405"},{"label":"Mayor and Council","value":"250-755-4400"},{"label":"Nanaimo RCMP (non-emergency)","value":"250-754-2345"}],"bodies":{"municipal":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"regional":{"name":"Regional District of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.rdn.bc.ca"},"provincial":{"name":"Province of British Columbia","url":"https://www2.gov.bc.ca"},"federal":{"name":"Government of Canada","url":"https://www.canada.ca"}},"boundary":{"geojson":"/data/ca/bc/nanaimo/boundary.geojson","area_km2":125.39,"source":"Municipalities - Legally Defined Administrative Areas of BC, BC Data Catalogue","source_url":"https://catalogue.data.gov.bc.ca/dataset/municipalities-legally-defined-administrative-areas-of-bc","accessed":"2026-11-07"},"zoning":{"zones":64,"zone_pages":52,"has_page":true,"bylaw":{"title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","accessed":"2026-11-07","note":"The bylaw is organised by part (one part per zone family, with shared use and regulation tables), so zone line ranges cover the whole part. CD3 is deleted in the bylaw. Zones R1a and R1b are subzones of R1 (R1 / R1a / R1b)."},"map":{"has_map":true,"has_addresses":true}},"counts":{"answers":24,"facts_matched":152},"latest":"2026-11-05"},"generated":"2026-11-12T01:48:38.090Z","count":24,"answers":[{"title":"Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply","question":"Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply?","slug":"building-permit","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"building-and-renovating","name":"Building, renovating and your property"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In the City of Nanaimo you need a building permit for a detached building over 10 square metres, any structural change, addition, demolition or layout change, and any change to water or drain piping. Apply online. The City aims to process a complete residential application in three weeks.","aliases":["building permit nanaimo","when do i need a permit nanaimo","apply for building permit nanaimo","nanaimo building inspections"],"cost":"Based mainly on the value of construction; see the building permit fees answer and the City's Permit Fee Calculator.","how_long":"Residential: the City's commitment is three weeks for a complete application. Online applications take 5 to 10 business days to be received and processed once the signed application is complete.","where":[{"type":"online","label":"Online Building Permit Application","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application"},{"type":"in_person","label":"Service and Resource Centre (Building Inspections)","value":"411 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 0E4","note":"Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except statutory holidays"},{"type":"phone","label":"Building Inspections","value":"250-755-4429"},{"type":"email","label":"Building Inspections","value":"building.inspections@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":["Signed application form with the owner's acknowledgement of responsibility","Appointment of Agent form, if you are not the registered owner","Plans to scale (1/4 inch = 1 foot or 1:50) and a site plan"],"forms":[{"title":"Residential Building Permit page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit"},{"title":"Online Building Permit Application","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application"},{"title":"Residential Building Permit Application Guide (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/residentialbuildingpermitapplicationguide.pdf"},{"title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"building-permit-fees","title":"Nanaimo building permit fees","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees/"},{"slug":"deck-shed-garage-permit","title":"Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},{"slug":"secondary-suite","title":"Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite/"},{"slug":"zoning-lookup","title":"Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/building-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/building-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/building-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/building-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/building-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/building-permit/"}],"topic":{"title":"Building permits in British Columbia: how to apply, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit/"},"facts":{"needed_for":{"label":"Needed for","value":"A building permit is required for any detached building over 10 m² (107.64 ft²); any structural alteration, addition, demolition or layout change; any change of layout or use of part of a house; any change to water supply or drain-waste-vent piping; and any addition or relocation of sprinkler heads. New decks, deck covers and stairs also need one (see deck answer).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit","title":"Application for a Residential Building Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Residential building permit page, 'When do I need a building permit?'","quotes":["any detached building over 107.64 ft&sup2; / 10 m&sup2;","any structural alterations, additions, demolitions or layout changes","any construction that will result in a change of layout or use of a portion of the house","any addition, alteration, relocation, or removal of water supply and drain waste vent piping","any addition or relocation of sprinkler heads"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit","title":"Alteration Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Alteration permit page","quotes":["A building permit is required when you are altering an existing dwelling including constructing additions, covered front entries or decks, deck covers, and stairs onto the building."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"not_needed_for":{"label":"Not needed for","value":"No permit for a fence (zoning rules still apply) or retaining structures under 1.2 m. A deck needs none only if it is not the main entrance, is no more than 2 feet above grade within 4 feet of its edge, has no roof and is not attached to the house. Minor non-structural repairs to an approved deck, and replacing approved railings, need none.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit","title":"Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Building a Fence","quotes":["No building permit is required for a fence; however, the fence must be in compliance with the Zoning Bylaw."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","section":"s. 5.2","quotes":["This bylaw does not apply to buildings or structures exempted by Part 1 of the","nor to retaining structures less than 1.2 metres in height"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit","title":"Alteration Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Building a deck","quotes":["the deck is not part of the principle entrance into your dwelling;","the deck is not more than two feet above grade within four feet of the edge of the deck;","the deck is not covered with a roof;","the deck is not attached to the dwelling; and,","where an existing deck (previously approved under a building permit) requires only minor, non-structural repairs.","A building permit is not required to replace deck railings previously approved under a building permit."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"how_to_apply":{"label":"How to apply","value":"Apply online with the City's building permit application, which all owners or their agents sign digitally. Some permit types use the City's eApply system instead (commercial new construction, demolition, non-dwelling accessory buildings, small-scale multi-unit housing). An agent needs an Appointment of Agent form.","short":"Online or eApply by permit type","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application","title":"Online Building Permit Application, City of Nanaimo","section":"Online Building Permit Application","quotes":["This one application process works for both Residential and Commercial Building Permit Applications","We have launched a streamlined system called eApply to apply for some building permit types.","Digitally sign the document as yourself","Appointment of Agent form FIRST"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"what_to_submit":{"label":"What to submit","value":"A signed application form with the owner's acknowledgement of responsibility (and an Appointment of Agent if you are not the owner), plus plans to scale (1/4\"=1' or 1:50): site plan (a BC Land Surveyor survey may be required for setbacks), floor plan, elevations and cross-sections, and copies of any required health or safety approvals such as sewage or highway access permits.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit","title":"Alteration Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Alteration permit page, required information","quotes":["Applications must include the following:","Plans to scale 1/4\"=1' or 1:50 showing the specifications of the building","Site plan [survey by a British Columbia Land Surveyor (BCLS) may be required for setbacks depending on design]"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","section":"s. 10.1","quotes":["be accompanied by the owner’s acknowledgement of responsibility and","include copies of approvals required under any enactment relating to health or safety","include a site plan prepared by a British Columbia Surveyor showing:"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"processing_time":{"label":"Processing time","value":"Under normal conditions the City's commitment is to process a complete residential permit application in three weeks. For online applications, allow 5-10 business days once the signed application is complete for it to be received and processed. Incomplete applications cause delays. The City's Processing Times page shows the current queue.","short":"Three weeks (residential)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit","title":"Application for a Residential Building Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"How long does it take before I can get my permit?","quotes":["our commitment is to process residential permit applications in three weeks","Under normal conditions, our commitment is to process residential permit applications in three weeks.","This is assuming the permit application is complete"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application","title":"Online Building Permit Application, City of Nanaimo","section":"Building Permit Application Process","quotes":["please allow 5-10 business days to receive and process your application","if your application is not 100% complete, your application may not hold its spot"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"inspections":{"label":"Inspections","value":"Request an inspection through the City's online inspection request form. Requests made by 4:00 p.m. on a business day are done the next business day; times are not booked and inspectors can arrive any time after 9 a.m. The Building Bylaw requires at least 24 hours' notice.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/request-inspection/","title":"Building Permit Inspection Request, City of Nanaimo","section":"Building Permit Inspection Request page","quotes":["Inspections requested by 4:00 p.m. of any business day will be carried out the next business day.","we do not book times","Inspectors can arrive any time after 9 a.m. on the inspection day."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","section":"s. 17.4","quotes":["shall give at least 24 hours’ notice to the municipality when requesting an inspection"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"contact":{"label":"Contact","value":"Building Inspections Section, 250-755-4429, building.inspections@nanaimo.ca. Staff are available 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, excluding statutory holidays.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits","title":"Building Permits, City of Nanaimo","section":"Building Permits page","quotes":["Building Inspections Section 250-755-4429 building.inspections@nanaimo.ca","available between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays (excluding statutory holidays)"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":8,"stated":8,"matched":8,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe City of Nanaimo's Building Inspections section reviews plans, issues the permit and inspects the work. [Building Bylaw 7224](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) says no one may start construction, alteration, demolition, removal or relocation without a valid permit.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Check what you need. A permit is required for a detached building over 10 m² (107.64 sq ft); any structural alteration, addition, demolition or layout change; a change of layout or use of part of a house; any change to water supply or drain-waste-vent piping; and adding or moving sprinkler heads. New decks, deck covers and stairs also need one.\n2. Prepare a signed application with the owner's acknowledgement, an Appointment of Agent form if you are not the owner, and plans to scale: site plan (a BC Land Surveyor survey may be required for setbacks), floor plan, elevations and cross-sections, plus any required approvals such as sewage or highway access permits.\n3. Apply online on the City's building permit application page; all owners or their agents sign digitally. Some types (commercial new construction, demolition, non-dwelling accessory buildings, small-scale multi-unit housing) use the City's eApply system instead.\n4. Request inspections through the City's online form. Requests made by 4:00 p.m. on a business day are done the next business day. Times are not booked; inspectors can arrive any time after 9 a.m.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- No permit is needed for a fence (zoning rules still apply) or for retaining structures under 1.2 m. A deck needs none only if it is not the main entrance, is no more than 2 feet above grade within 4 feet of its edge, has no roof and is not attached to the house.\n- Incomplete applications cause delays. Single family dwellings can pay a $150 surcharge for review in three working days.\n- The bylaw asks for at least 24 hours' notice for an inspection. Re-inspection costs $150 when more than the normal inspections are needed. Inspections on Protection Island are only on Tuesdays.\n- Complex buildings need more, including letters of assurance from registered professionals.\n- Files over 25 MB each need arrangements with staff.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit","title":"Application for a Residential Building Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit","title":"Alteration Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit","title":"Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits","title":"Building Permits, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application","title":"Online Building Permit Application, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/request-inspection/","title":"Building Permit Inspection Request, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo fence rules: permits and height limits","question":"Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be?","slug":"fence-rules","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"building-and-renovating","name":"Building, renovating and your property"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"The City of Nanaimo does not require a building permit for a fence, but it must meet Zoning Bylaw 4500. In most residential zones (R1 to R10, R14, R15) the limit is 1.2 m in the required front yard, 2.4 m in side and rear yards, and 1.8 m on the street side of a corner lot.","aliases":["fence height nanaimo","fence bylaw nanaimo","retaining wall permit nanaimo","how tall can my fence be nanaimo"],"cost":"No permit fee for a fence. A retaining wall that needs a building permit pays the normal permit fee.","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Planning / Building Inspections","value":"250-755-4429"},{"type":"email","label":"Building Inspections","value":"building.inspections@nanaimo.ca"},{"type":"email","label":"Planning","value":"planning@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Fence or Retaining Wall Permit page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit"},{"title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf"},{"title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"zoning-lookup","title":"Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup/"},{"slug":"deck-shed-garage-permit","title":"Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},{"slug":"building-permit","title":"Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/fence-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/fence-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/fence-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/fence-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/fence-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/fence-rules/"}],"topic":{"title":"Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules/"},"facts":{"permit":{"label":"Permit","value":"No building permit is needed for a fence, but it must comply with the Zoning Bylaw. A retaining wall may need a building permit; the City says generally when over 4 feet high, but other factors apply. The Building Bylaw does not apply to retaining structures under 1.2 m.","short":"No building permit","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit","title":"Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Building a Fence / Building a Retaining Wall","quotes":["No building permit is required for a fence; however, the fence must be in compliance with the Zoning Bylaw.","Generally, a building permit is required when a retaining wall is over 4' in height, but other factors may influence whether a building permit is needed or not."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","section":"s. 5.2","quotes":["nor to retaining structures less than 1.2 metres in height"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The web page says 'over 4 feet' and the bylaw says 1.2 m (about 3.9 feet); the bylaw is followed here. The Zoning Bylaw treats a retaining wall as a fence for height limits."},"height_front":{"label":"Height, front yard","value":"1.2 m within the required front yard in R1 to R10, R14, R15, CD9 to CD12 and in Commercial Centre, Corridor and Downtown zones; a fence outside the required setback area may be up to 3 m. R12 total site 1.8 m; R11, AR1, AR2 and Industrial 2.4 m; Parks 3 m. Next to a park, 1.2 m.","short":"1.2 m in required front yard","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height","section":"s. 6.10.2 table","quotes":["R1 to R10, R14, R15, 1.2m 2.4m 1.8m","R12 1.8m 1.8m 1.8m","R11 2.4m 2.4m 2.4m","Commercial 1.2m 1.2m 1.8m","All Corridor and 1.2m 1.8m 1.8m","where the fence is not located within the required yard","setback area, the maximum allowable height for a fence in all zones shall not exceed 3m."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height","section":"s. 6.10.8","quotes":["the maximum height of a fence adjacent to a park"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"height_side_rear":{"label":"Height, side and rear yards","value":"2.4 m in R1 to R10, R14, R15 and CD9 to CD12; 1.8 m in Corridor and Downtown zones; 1.2 m in Commercial Centre zones. R12 total site 1.8 m; R11, AR1, AR2 and Industrial 2.4 m. A fence outside the required yard setback area may be up to 3 m (1.2 m within 3 m of a front lot line in Commercial Centre, Corridor and Downtown zones).","short":"2.4 m in R1 to R10, R14, R15","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height","section":"s. 6.10.2 table, 6.10.5, 6.10.6","quotes":["R1 to R10, R14, R15, 1.2m 2.4m 1.8m","All Corridor and 1.2m 1.8m 1.8m","Commercial 1.2m 1.2m 1.8m","the maximum allowable height for a fence in all zones shall not exceed 3m","1.2m where located within 3m of a front lot line; and"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"corner_lots":{"label":"Corner lots and sightlines","value":"The street-side (flanking) yard limit is 1.8 m in R1 to R10, R14, R15, CD9 to CD12, Commercial Centre, Corridor and Downtown zones (2.4 m in R11, AR1, AR2). At intersections, nothing may block the line of vision between 1.2 m and 3 m high within the corner triangle formed by lines 7 m from where the lot lines meet.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height","section":"s. 6.10.2 table, 6.9.1","quotes":["R1 to R10, R14, R15, 1.2m 2.4m 1.8m","R11 2.4m 2.4m 2.4m","there shall be no obstruction to the line of vision between","1.2m and 3m within an area bounded by the centre line of intersecting lot lines and a","line joining each of the lot lines 7m from their point of intersection."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)","section":"Zoning Bylaw part of Schedule A","quotes":["6.9.1 Obstruct Line of Vision 200.00 150.00 250.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"other_rules":{"label":"Other rules","value":"Height is measured from grade on the low side of the fence or retaining wall to its highest part. Barbwire and ornamentation count toward height. A retaining wall counts as a fence. Hedges and landscaping are not regulated by fence height rules. Build only on your own property, not over right-of-ways or easements. Pool enclosure fences are set by the Building Bylaw.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height","section":"s. 6.10.1, 6.10.3, 6.11.2, definition of Fence","quotes":["to the highest part of the fence","Fence additions, such as barbwire or ornamentation, shall be included in the calculation of total fence height.","and shall include a retaining wall","Swimming pools shall be enclosed in a structure or shall be enclosed or surrounded by a fence, as specified in the Building Bylaw."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit","title":"Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Building a Fence","quotes":["hedges/trees/landscaping are not regulated by fence height regulations","you are on your own property and are not building over any right-of-ways or easements"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)","section":"Zoning Bylaw part of Schedule A","quotes":["6.10.2 Exceed Maximum Fence Height 200.00 150.00 250.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.10 (Fence Height) and s. 6.9 (Visibility at Intersections)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height","section":"s. 6.10","quotes":["Zoning Bylaw No. 4500","6.10 FENCE HEIGHT"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nIn the City of Nanaimo a fence needs no building permit, but it must comply with [Zoning Bylaw 4500](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf), which sets a maximum height by zone and yard. Height is measured from grade on the low side of the fence to its highest part. Barbed wire and ornaments count toward height. A retaining wall counts as a fence for height. Hedges and landscaping are not limited by the fence rules.\n\n## Maximum heights\n\n- R1 to R10, R14, R15 and CD9 to CD12 (most houses): 1.2 m within the required front yard; 2.4 m in side and rear yards; 1.8 m in the street-side yard of a corner lot.\n- A fence outside the required setback area may be up to 3 m.\n- R11, AR1, AR2 and Industrial: 2.4 m. R12 total site: 1.8 m. Next to a park: 1.2 m.\n- Commercial Centre zones: 1.2 m front, side and rear. Corridor and Downtown zones: 1.2 m front and 1.8 m side and rear.\n- Your zone may have another row in the table. Find it on NanaimoMap or ask Planning.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Find your zone on NanaimoMap or call Planning.\n2. Confirm your property line (see the property lines answer). Build only on your own property, not over rights-of-way or easements.\n3. At a corner, keep the line of sight clear: nothing may block the view between 1.2 m and 3 m high within the triangle formed by lines 7 m from where the lot lines meet.\n4. If the fence would be over the limit, ask Planning about a variance.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- A retaining wall may need a building permit. The City page says generally when over 4 feet, but other factors apply; the Building Bylaw does not apply to retaining structures under 1.2 m. The two differ, so confirm with Building Inspections at 250-755-4429.\n- Exceeding the maximum fence height is a bylaw offence with a $200 ticket ($150 if paid early).\n- Pool enclosure fences are set by the Building Bylaw.\n- A trellis, gate or arbor up to 2.4 m high and 2.0 m wide marking a pedestrian access may be excluded from the height limit.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit","title":"Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fence-rules/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fence-rules.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fence-rules.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages","question":"Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage?","slug":"deck-shed-garage-permit","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"building-and-renovating","name":"Building, renovating and your property"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In the City of Nanaimo, a shed, garage or other detached building over 10 square metres (107.64 square feet) needs a building permit. A new deck needs one unless it is low, uncovered, not the main entrance and not attached to the house. The City's pages do not mention carports.","aliases":["shed permit nanaimo","garage permit nanaimo","deck permit nanaimo","carport permit nanaimo","accessory building nanaimo"],"cost":"Based on the value of construction; see the building permit fees answer. The minimum fee and first $1,000 of construction value is $105.","how_long":"The City's commitment is to process a complete residential application in three weeks.","where":[{"type":"online","label":"Online Building Permit Application (eApply for non-dwelling accessory buildings)","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application"},{"type":"phone","label":"Building Inspections","value":"250-755-4429"},{"type":"email","label":"Building Inspections","value":"building.inspections@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":["Signed building permit application","Appointment of Agent form, if you are not the registered owner","Site plan and drawings"],"forms":[{"title":"Accessory Building Permit page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/accessory-building-permit"},{"title":"Alteration Permit page (decks)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit"},{"title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf"},{"title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"building-permit","title":"Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit/"},{"slug":"building-permit-fees","title":"Nanaimo building permit fees","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees/"},{"slug":"fence-rules","title":"Nanaimo fence rules: permits and height limits","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fence-rules/"},{"slug":"secondary-suite","title":"Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/deck-shed-garage-permit/"}],"topic":{"title":"Deck and shed permit thresholds in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},"facts":{"shed":{"label":"Sheds","value":"A building permit is required for a new shed or other standalone accessory building over 10 m² (107.64 ft²).","short":"Yes, if over 10 m²","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/accessory-building-permit","title":"Accessory Building Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Accessory Building Permit","quotes":["A building permit is required when you are constructing a new accessory building.","detached garages, sheds, and other standalone buildings over 10m&sup2; (107.64 ft&sup2;)"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit","title":"Application for a Residential Building Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"When do I need a building permit?","quotes":["any detached building over 107.64 ft&sup2; / 10 m&sup2;"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"deck":{"label":"Decks","value":"A building permit is required to build a new deck, repair structural members, or rebuild a deck or its stairs. None is needed only if the deck is not the main entrance, is no more than 2 feet above grade within 4 feet of its edge, has no roof and is not attached to the dwelling.","short":"Yes, unless 2 feet or less above grade and no roof","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit","title":"Single/Two Family Dwelling Alteration Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Building a deck","quotes":["A building permit is required to build a new deck, repair existing structural members and to rebuild an existing deck and/or stairs.","the deck is not part of the principle entrance into your dwelling;","the deck is not more than two feet above grade within four feet of the edge of the deck;","the deck is not covered with a roof;","the deck is not attached to the dwelling; and,"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"garage_carport":{"label":"Garages and carports","value":"A new detached garage over 10 m² (107.64 ft²) needs a building permit.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/accessory-building-permit","title":"Accessory Building Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Accessory Building Permit","quotes":["detached garages, sheds, and other standalone buildings over 10m&sup2; (107.64 ft&sup2;)"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"zoning_limits":{"label":"Zoning limits","value":"Accessory buildings must be at least 1.2 m from other buildings and not in front, side or flanking setback areas. Rear setback is 1.5 m (1.0 m at a lane) in R1 to R7, R10, R14, AR1, AR2; 3.0 m elsewhere. Height is 4.5 m, 5.0 m or 5.5 m by roof pitch, or 7 m outside the required yard setback area. Floor area is 100 m² in total in those zones.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.6 Accessory Uses","section":"s. 6.6.2 to 6.6.6","quotes":["Accessory buildings shall not be closer than 1.2m to any principal building or other accessory building","R1, R2, R3, R4, 1.5m 1.0m","All Other Zones 3.0m 1.5m","< 6:12 4.5m","≥ 6:12* 5.0m","≥ 8:12* 5.5m","The total combined Gross Floor Area of all accessory buildings on","the lot shall not exceed 100m2.","An accessory building shall not be permitted within the front yard, side yard, or flanking side yard setback","the maximum permitted height for the","is located outside of the required yard setback area for a principal"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224; Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.6 (Accessory Uses - Buildings and Structures)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.6 Accessory Uses","section":"s. 6.6","quotes":["Zoning Bylaw No. 4500","6.6 ACCESSORY USES - BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":5,"stated":5,"matched":5,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe City of Nanaimo requires a building permit for a new shed, garage or other standalone accessory building over 10 m² (107.64 sq ft). The City pages do not say what applies below 10 m², but zoning rules (setbacks, height) apply regardless. A new detached garage over 10 m² needs a permit. Carports are not mentioned on the City's pages, so ask Building Inspections. An attached garage is part of the dwelling and falls under the general rules for additions.\n\n## Decks\n\nA permit is required to build a new deck, repair structural members, or rebuild a deck or its stairs. A deck needs none only if all of these are true:\n\n- It is not the main entrance to your home.\n- It is no more than 2 feet above grade within 4 feet of its edge.\n- It has no roof.\n- It is not attached to the dwelling.\n\nNo permit is needed for minor non-structural repairs to a deck approved under a permit, or to replace railings that were approved.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Check zoning in [Zoning Bylaw 4500](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) section 6.6 for your zone.\n2. Apply online with the signed application, an Appointment of Agent form if needed, and plans. Non-dwelling accessory buildings use the City's eApply system.\n3. Book inspections once the permit is issued.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Accessory buildings must be at least 1.2 m from other buildings and not in the front, side or street-side setback areas. In R1 to R7, R10, R14, AR1 and AR2 the rear setback is 1.5 m (1.0 m at a lane), and total floor area is 100 m². Other zones have 3.0 m rear setbacks and other area limits.\n- Height is 4.5 m, 5.0 m or 5.5 m depending on roof pitch, or 7 m outside the required yard setback area.\n- Fabric-covered sheds are allowed under the Zoning Bylaw. Shipping containers are handled by the City's Locate Permit page.\n- Covenants, watercourse setbacks, rights-of-way and property-line distances can affect where a deck may go whether or not a permit is needed.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/accessory-building-permit","title":"Accessory Building Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit","title":"Single/Two Family Dwelling Alteration Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit","title":"Application for a Residential Building Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.6 Accessory Uses","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo building permit fees","question":"How much does a building permit cost?","slug":"building-permit-fees","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"building-and-renovating","name":"Building, renovating and your property"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"A City of Nanaimo building permit costs $105 for the minimum and the first $1,000 of construction value, plus $10 per $1,000 up to $100,000 and $7 per $1,000 above that. Plumbing and other fees are extra. Jobs over $20,000 pay a 10 percent application fee up front.","aliases":["building permit fee nanaimo","how much is a building permit nanaimo","permit fee calculator nanaimo"],"cost":"$105 minimum and first $1,000; $10 per $1,000 from $1,000.01 to $100,000; $7 per $1,000 above $100,000. Plumbing $40 minimum plus $8 per fixture. Re-inspection $150.","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"online","label":"Building Permit Fee Calculator","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/permit-fee-calculator"},{"type":"phone","label":"Building Inspections","value":"250-755-4429"},{"type":"email","label":"Building Inspections","value":"building.inspections@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Building Permit Fee Calculator","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/permit-fee-calculator"},{"title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"building-permit","title":"Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/building-permit-fees/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/building-permit-fees/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/building-permit-fees/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/building-permit-fees/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/building-permit-fees/"},{"place":"ca/bc/gibsons","name":"Gibsons","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gibsons/building-permit-fees/"}],"topic":{"title":"Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees/"},"facts":{"minimum_fee":{"label":"Lowest fee","value":"$105, which covers the minimum fee and the first $1,000 of construction value.","short":"$105 (includes first $1,000 of value)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"Schedule A, Development Services Fees, Building Inspection Section","quotes":["Minimum fee and first $1000 of Construction Value (CV) $105"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fee_formula":{"label":"How the fee is worked out","value":"$105 for the first $1,000 of construction value, plus $10 per $1,000 from $1,000.01 to $100,000, plus $7 per $1,000 above $100,000. A 5% reduction applies when an architect or engineer provides a Letter of Assurance and the inspector confirms in writing that the City is relying on it.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"Schedule A, Building Permit Value of Construction","quotes":["Minimum fee and first $1000 of Construction Value (CV) $105","Additional fee for CV from $1,000.01 - $100,000 $10/$1,000","Additional fee for CV from $100,000.01 - Greater $7/$1,000","Five percent reduction in the"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"application_fee":{"label":"Application or plan review fee","value":"When the estimated construction value is over $20,000, an application fee of 10% of the estimated building permit fee (minimum $175) is paid at application. It counts toward the permit fee, but the City keeps it if you do not proceed with the project.","short":"10% of permit fee, minimum $175 (value over $20,000)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"Schedule A, Application Fees","quotes":["of construction exceeds $20,000 shall pay 10 percent of the","issuance - minimum $175","The fee paid shall be applied towards the total cost of the","with the project, the City will retain the fee."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"other_fees":{"label":"Other fees","value":"Plumbing permit $40 minimum plus $8 per fixture. Re-inspection $150. Special inspection of an existing building $100. Permit renewal $100 (value up to $50,000) or $250. Bond for new residential construction $750, refundable after occupancy approval if City property is undamaged. Pre-2005 suite authorization $500 minimum. Accelerated single-family review $150 surcharge.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"Schedule A, Building Inspection Section","quotes":["Minimum Charge $40","Per fixture (includes swimming pools, interceptors, hot water $8","shall be $150.","The fee for a requested inspection of an existing building. $100","$0 - $50,000 $100","$50,000.01 - greater $250","Where a permit is required in order to authorize an illegal suite $500 minimum","may request that the Building Permit review be accelerated."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/residentialbuildingpermitapplicationguide.pdf","title":"Residential Building Permit Application Guide (PDF)","section":"Charges for a Building Permit, Bond Fee","quotes":["Refundable after occupancy approval, providing there is no damage to City services, roads, sidewalks, etc."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"how_to_pay":{"label":"How to pay","value":"The application fee (for work over $20,000) is requested after the online application is accepted; the remainder of the fees must be paid before the permit is issued. The pages read do not say which payment methods are accepted for building permits.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"Schedule A, Application Fees","quotes":["The remainder of the applicable fees shall be","payable prior to issuance of a Building Permit."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/residentialbuildingpermitapplicationguide.pdf","title":"Residential Building Permit Application Guide (PDF)","section":"Application Requirements","quotes":["The application fee will be requested after your online BP application has been accepted."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336, Schedule A (Development Services Fees, Building Inspection Section)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"s. 1 and 2, Schedule A","quotes":["This Bylaw may be cited as \"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336\".","BUILDING INSPECTION SECTION"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe City of Nanaimo sets building permit fees in Schedule A of the [Fees and Charges Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf). The main fee depends on the value of the construction. The City's Building Permit Fee Calculator gives a rough figure only; it leaves out connection, plumbing fixture and sprinkler fees.\n\n## Main fee\n\n- $105 covers the minimum fee and the first $1,000 of construction value.\n- $1,000.01 to $100,000: add $10 per $1,000.\n- Over $100,000: add $7 per $1,000.\n- If an architect or engineer provides a Letter of Assurance and the inspector confirms in writing that the City relies on it, the fee is reduced by 5 percent.\n\n## Other fees\n\n- Application fee: when the estimated construction value is over $20,000, 10 percent of the estimated permit fee (minimum $175) is paid at application. It counts toward the permit fee, but the City keeps it if you do not proceed.\n- Plumbing permit: $40 minimum plus $8 per fixture.\n- Re-inspection: $150. Special inspection of an existing building: $100.\n- Permit renewal: $100 (work valued up to $50,000) or $250.\n- Bond for new residential construction: $750, refundable after occupancy approval if City property is undamaged.\n- Accelerated single-family review: $150 surcharge.\n- Authorizing a suite built before 2005: $500 minimum.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- The application fee is requested after the online application is accepted; the rest is paid before the permit is issued. The City's pages do not say which payment methods are accepted, so ask Building Inspections.\n- Demolition, moving, sign, sprinkler and service pipe fees are also in the schedule.\n- Development Cost Charges and School Site Acquisition Charges are separate.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/permit-fee-calculator","title":"Building Permit Fee Calculator, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/residentialbuildingpermitapplicationguide.pdf","title":"Residential Building Permit Application Guide (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo 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?","slug":"zoning-lookup","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"building-and-renovating","name":"Building, renovating and your property"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Look up your property's zone in the \"Zoning\" layer of NanaimoMap, the City of Nanaimo's online map, then read that zone's rules in Zoning Bylaw 4500. Current Planning staff can confirm your zone at 250-755-4429 ext. 4509.","aliases":["nanaimo zoning map","what is my zoning nanaimo","nanaimomap","zoning bylaw 4500","letter of zoning confirmation"],"cost":"Free to look up online. A Letter of Zoning Confirmation Request is $100 in the Fees and Charges Bylaw 7336.","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"online","label":"NanaimoMap (use the Zoning layer)","value":"https://nanmap.nanaimo.ca/Html5Viewer/index.html?viewer=NanaimoMap"},{"type":"phone","label":"Current Planning","value":"250-755-4429 ext. 4509"},{"type":"email","label":"Current Planning","value":"planning@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Zoning Bylaw page (chapters by zone)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning"},{"title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf"},{"title":"Planning and Development General Inquiries","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries"}],"related":[{"slug":"secondary-suite","title":"Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/zoning-lookup/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/zoning-lookup/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/zoning-lookup/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/zoning-lookup/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/zoning-lookup/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/zoning-lookup/"}],"topic":{"title":"Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup/"},"facts":{"how_to_find":{"label":"How to find your zone","value":"Check your property's zoning on NanaimoMap, the City's interactive map, using its Zoning layer. Staff in Current Planning can help confirm your zone.","short":"Online map (NanaimoMap), Zoning layer","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries","title":"Planning and Development General Inquiries, City of Nanaimo","section":"General Inquiries","quotes":["check your property’s zoning using NanaimoMap (“Zoning” layer)"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning","title":"Zoning Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"Zoning","quotes":["Please contact Current Planning staff if you require assistance to confirm zoning."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"zoning_bylaw":{"label":"Zoning bylaw","value":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500; the City's consolidated copy is dated March 23, 2026 (2026-MAR-23).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","section":"Page 2","quotes":["This consolidated version of the Zoning Bylaw is dated 2026-MAR-23."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning","title":"Zoning Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"Zoning","quotes":["Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (Updated March 23, 2026)."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"what_zone_controls":{"label":"What the zone controls","value":"The Zoning Bylaw sets the permitted use of land in each zone, plus form, density, height, yard setbacks, lot coverage and lot size. It also covers watercourse setbacks, accessory buildings, secondary suites, fence height, short-term rentals and home-based businesses.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning","title":"Zoning Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"What is Zoning?","quotes":["The Zoning Bylaw establishes the permitted use of land within the City as well as form, density, height, yard setbacks, lot coverage, and lot size."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries","title":"Planning and Development General Inquiries, City of Nanaimo","section":"General Inquiries","quotes":["contains information on required watercourse setbacks, accessory building allowances, secondary suites, fence height, short-term rentals, home-based businesses, and more."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"contact":{"label":"Contact","value":"Current Planning Section, 250-755-4429 ext. 4509, planning@nanaimo.ca. The general line is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning","title":"Zoning Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"Contact Us","quotes":["Current Planning Section 250-755-4429 ext. 4509 planning@nanaimo.ca"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries","title":"Planning and Development General Inquiries, City of Nanaimo","section":"Contact Us","quotes":["Planning and Development General Inquiries 250-755-4429 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","section":"Page 1","quotes":["Zoning Bylaw No. 4500"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":5,"stated":5,"matched":5,"none":0,"unknown":0},"zoning":{"bylaw":{"title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","accessed":"2026-11-07","note":"The bylaw is organised by part (one part per zone family, with shared use and regulation tables), so zone line ranges cover the whole part. CD3 is deleted in the bylaw. Zones R1a and R1b are subzones of R1 (R1 / R1a / R1b)."},"zones":64,"zone_pages":52,"index_url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning/index.json","lookup_url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning/lookup","map":{"has_map":true,"has_addresses":true,"zones_geojson":"/data/ca/bc/nanaimo/zones.geojson","addresses_json":"/data/ca/bc/nanaimo/addresses.json","source_url":"https://services1.arcgis.com/D2GiQOd2jzaj2Pzh/arcgis/rest/services/Zoning_Bylaw_4500/FeatureServer/11","viewer":{"title":"NanaimoMap","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/your-government/maps-data/nanaimomap"},"caveat":"The City says to contact Current Planning staff if you need help confirming your zoning.","accessed":"2026-11-07"}},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nEvery property in Nanaimo has a zone that sets what it can be used for, plus building form, density, height, yard setbacks, lot coverage and lot size. The City of Nanaimo publishes these rules in [Zoning Bylaw 4500](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf); the City's consolidated copy is dated March 23, 2026. The bylaw also covers watercourse setbacks, accessory buildings, secondary suites, fence height, short-term rentals and home-based businesses.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Open NanaimoMap and turn on the \"Zoning\" layer to see your property's zone.\n2. Open the matching chapter of the Zoning Bylaw from the City's Zoning Bylaw page.\n3. Read the general regulations too, for the topics listed above.\n4. To confirm your zone, email planning@nanaimo.ca or call Current Planning at 250-755-4429 ext. 4509. The general line is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- To use land for something your zone does not allow, or to add density, you need a rezoning. To vary setbacks or height, you need a variance.\n- The Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw calls this bylaw \"Zoning Bylaw 2011 No. 4500\"; it is the same bylaw.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries","title":"Planning and Development General Inquiries, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning","title":"Zoning Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules","question":"Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house?","slug":"secondary-suite","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"building-and-renovating","name":"Building, renovating and your property"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Yes, in most City of Nanaimo zones that allow a house, duplex or row house. You need a building permit for a secondary suite or carriage house. Zoning allows one suite per dwelling, or two on some single-dwelling lots if exactly one is in a detached building. One parking space is required.","aliases":["basement suite nanaimo","legal suite nanaimo","carriage house nanaimo","garden suite nanaimo","laneway house nanaimo"],"cost":"Building permit fee based on construction value (see the building permit fees answer). Authorizing a suite built before 2005 without a permit: $500 minimum.","how_long":"The City's commitment is to process a complete residential application in three weeks.","where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Building Inspections","value":"250-755-4429"},{"type":"email","label":"Building Inspections","value":"building.inspections@nanaimo.ca"},{"type":"email","label":"Planning (zoning questions)","value":"planning@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":["Building permit application","Appointment of Agent form, if you are not the registered owner","Drawings","Notice on Title form"],"forms":[{"title":"Secondary Suite Permit page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/secondary-suite-permit"},{"title":"Carriage House page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/carriage-house"},{"title":"Secondary Suite Forms","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/forms-and-guidelines/secondary-suite-forms"},{"title":"Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) Permit page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/SSMUH-permit"},{"title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"building-permit","title":"Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit/"},{"slug":"building-permit-fees","title":"Nanaimo building permit fees","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees/"},{"slug":"deck-shed-garage-permit","title":"Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit/"},{"slug":"zoning-lookup","title":"Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/secondary-suite/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/secondary-suite/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/secondary-suite/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/secondary-suite/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/secondary-suite/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/secondary-suite/"}],"topic":{"title":"Secondary suite and carriage house rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/secondary-suite/"},"facts":{"suite_allowed":{"label":"Secondary suite allowed","value":"Allowed as an accessory use in all zones where a single residential dwelling, duplex, row house, or certain multiple family dwellings (stand-alone, or attached side to side with no unit above or below) is a permitted principal use and is present on the lot. Not permitted in a mobile home.","short":"Yes, in zones with a single dwelling, duplex or row house","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites","section":"s. 6.15.1, 6.15.2.2","quotes":["Secondary suites shall be permitted as an accessory use, subject to conditions of use as specified in individual zones, in all zones where the following uses are permitted as a principal use and where such use is present on the lot","secondary suites are not permitted in a mobile home."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"detached_allowed":{"label":"Coach house or garden suite allowed","value":"A secondary suite can be in an accessory building (carriage house, garden suite) when the principal use is a single residential dwelling and the lot is zoned R5 or R14, is a corner lot, has a side or rear line on a lane, is a through lot, or is 500 m² or larger. The suite cannot be stratified, needs 30 m² of private open space, and can be up to 100 m².","short":"Yes, in accessory building, if lot conditions met","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites","section":"s. 6.15.3","quotes":["A secondary suite can be included within an accessory building where the principal use is","a lot zoned R5 or R14;","a corner lot;","a lot whose side or rear lot line abuts a lane;","a through lot; or","a lot that is 500m2 in area or greater; and","no secondary suite within an accessory building shall be stratified from the","a minimum area of 30m2 of private open space is provided for the secondary"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"limits":{"label":"Limits","value":"One secondary suite per dwelling, but a single residential dwelling can have up to two if no other principal use is on the lot, the lot is not zoned R2 or R3, and exactly one suite is in an accessory building. A suite in the same building as a single dwelling is limited to 40% of the habitable floor space, up to 100 m². A suite has no more than three bedrooms.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites","section":"s. 6.15.2, 5 (definition)","quotes":["Not more than one secondary suite shall be permitted per single","where the principal use is single residential dwelling up to two secondary","ii. the lot is not zoned R2 or R3; and","the gross floor area of a secondary suite shall not exceed","40% of the habitable floor space of the principal building up to a","maximum of 100m2.","SECONDARY SUITE - means one or more habitable rooms, but not more than three bedrooms and one"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The City's Secondary Suite Permit page says 'Only one suite is allowed per dwelling (e.g., if you have a suite in your basement, a carriage house is not allowed)'; this conflicts with the current Zoning Bylaw s. 6.15.2.1(b), which is followed here. For a duplex, row house or multiple family unit the suite may not exceed the main unit's floor area, up to 100 m². Three or four total units on a lot go through the Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing permit. No owner-occupancy rule was found in s. 6.15 or on the permit pages."},"parking":{"label":"Parking","value":"The Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw requires 1 space for a secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit (and 2 for a single residential dwelling). There is no minimum in Area 5 on the bylaw's Schedule A map.","short":"1 space per suite (none in Area 5)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf","title":"Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453 (PDF)","section":"Part IV, s. 4.2, Table 2; s. 1.3","quotes":["Accessory Dwelling Unit 1 space Secondary Suite","Single Residential Dwelling 2 spaces per dwelling unit","there is no minimum requirement for the number of Vehicle Parking Spaces"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"permits":{"label":"Permits","value":"A building permit is needed to build a new suite or upgrade an existing one, and for a new carriage house or altered accessory building. Three or four dwelling units on a lot (suites count) need a Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing permit. Authorizing a pre-2005 unpermitted suite costs $500 minimum.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/secondary-suite-permit","title":"Secondary Suite Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Secondary Suite Permit","quotes":["A permit is required for the construction of a new suite or upgrade of an existing suite."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/carriage-house","title":"Carriage House Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"Carriage House Permit","quotes":["A building permit is required when you are constructing a new carriage house or altering an existing accessory building."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/SSMUH-permit","title":"Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) Permit, City of Nanaimo","section":"SSMUH permit","quotes":["A permit for Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing is required for new residential builds of three or four dwelling units"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"Schedule A, Building Inspection Section","quotes":["Where a permit is required in order to authorize an illegal suite $500 minimum"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.15 (Secondary Suites); Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224; Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites","section":"s. 6.15","quotes":["Zoning Bylaw No. 4500","6.15 SECONDARY SUITES"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/All","title":"Bylaw Search Results (complete list), City of Nanaimo","section":"Bylaw list","quotes":["OFF-STREET PARKING REGULATIONS BYLAW 2026 NO. 7453"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe City of Nanaimo's [Zoning Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) allows a secondary suite as an accessory use in zones where a single residential dwelling, duplex, row house or certain multiple-family dwellings (stand-alone, or side by side with no unit above or below) is a permitted principal use and is on the lot. Suites are not allowed in a mobile home. A suite is a self-contained unit with a separate entrance, no more than three bedrooms and one cooking facility. Zones may add conditions.\n\n## Limits\n\n- Normally one suite per dwelling. A single residential dwelling can have two if no other principal use is on the lot, the lot is not zoned R2 or R3, and exactly one suite is in an accessory building.\n- A suite in the same building as a single dwelling is limited to 40 percent of the habitable floor space, up to 100 m². For a duplex, row house or multiple-family unit, it may not exceed the main unit's floor area, up to 100 m².\n- Carriage house or garden suite (in an accessory building): the lot must be zoned R5 or R14, be a corner lot, have a side or rear line on a lane, be a through lot, or be 500 m² or larger. It cannot be stratified, needs 30 m² of private open space, and can be up to 100 m², no more than the zone allows for an accessory building. It must be at least 3 m from the house.\n- Parking: the [Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf) requires 1 space for a secondary suite, with no minimum in Area 5 on its map.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Check your zoning and lot with Planning (planning@nanaimo.ca or 250-755-4429).\n2. Apply for a building permit with the application, Appointment of Agent if needed, drawings and the Notice on Title form.\n3. Book inspections.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- A building permit is needed to build a new suite or upgrade an existing one, and for a new carriage house or altered accessory building.\n- Three or four dwelling units on a lot (suites count) go through the Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing permit.\n- The City's Secondary Suite Permit page says only one suite is allowed per dwelling, which differs from the bylaw's two-suite allowance above. Call to confirm.\n- Authorizing an unpermitted suite built before 2005 costs $500 minimum.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/secondary-suite-permit","title":"Secondary Suite Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/carriage-house","title":"Carriage House Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/SSMUH-permit","title":"Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) Permit, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf","title":"Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf","title":"Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/All","title":"Bylaw Search Results (complete list), City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo tree removal rules and permits","question":"Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property?","slug":"tree-removal","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"building-and-renovating","name":"Building, renovating and your property"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In the City of Nanaimo you need a permit to cut a protected tree, which includes any tree in a Development Permit Area, a significant tree, or a City tree. For other trees you can remove up to four a year from your parcel without one.","aliases":["tree bylaw nanaimo","tree removal permit nanaimo","cut down tree nanaimo","tree permit cost nanaimo"],"cost":"$50 application fee plus $10 for each tree 6 cm or more across and $100 for each significant tree, capped at $500 per hectare or $2,500. No fee for a hazardous tree. Cutting without a permit costs twice the fee.","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Urban Forester (Development Engineering)","value":"250-755-4446"},{"type":"email","label":"Urban Forester","value":"urban.forester@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Home Tree Care page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/home-tree-care"},{"title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 7126 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"zoning-lookup","title":"Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup/"},{"slug":"building-permit","title":"Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/tree-removal/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/tree-removal/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/tree-removal/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/tree-removal/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/tree-removal/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/tree-removal/"}],"topic":{"title":"Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal/"},"facts":{"permit_needed":{"label":"When a permit is needed","value":"A permit from the City's Director is needed to cut a tree (stem 6 cm or more across, able to reach 4.5 m) unless an exemption applies (up to 4 unprotected, non-significant trees a year). Protected trees always need one: City trees, significant trees, trees in a Development Permit Area or slope or buffer covenant area. Damaging roots inside the drip line, topping, or attaching a sign also needs a permit.","short":"Yes, for stems 6 cm or more across (some exemptions)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf","title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)","section":"s. 2 (Tree, Protected tree), s. 5(1)","quotes":["No person shall carry out any of the following activities in respect of a tree without first obtaining a Permit issued by the Director for that purpose:","cut any tree or suffer any tree to be cut;","where the diameter of tree stem is six (6) cm or more and is capable of reaching a mature height of 4.5 m or greater within its natural range","(a) a City tree; (b) a significant tree; (c) a tree within a Development Permit Area;","(c) a tree within a Development Permit Area;"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"exemptions":{"label":"Exemptions","value":"No permit is needed for a tree that is not a protected tree (not a City tree, significant tree or tree in a Development Permit Area) if: you remove up to 4 non-significant trees per calendar year from your parcel; it is a hedge; it is dead; or a certified arborist finds it hazardous and the Director gives written approval first.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf","title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)","section":"s. 6(1), s. 7(1)","quotes":["Notwithstanding Section 5, a person may cut or remove a tree, other than a protected tree, without first obtaining a Permit if:","to a maximum total of four (4) trees in a calendar year on their parcel of land","(this exemption is void where a subdivision or other development permit has been applied for)","an owner is removing or pruning an existing hedge located on their parcel","the tree is dead; or,","prior to any removal or pruning written approval from the Director","Emergency removal of a hazard tree or branches as the result of a weather event","Notwithstanding Section 5, a person may cut or remove a tree, other than a","protected tree, without first obtaining a Permit if:"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fee":{"label":"Fee","value":"$50 application fee plus $10 for each tree 6 cm or more across and $100 for each significant tree, to be cut or pruned. Total fee is capped at $500 per hectare or $2,500. No fee for removing a hazardous tree. Cutting without a permit costs twice the fee. Transfer or renewal of a permit is $50.","short":"$50 plus $10 per tree 6 cm or more across","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf","title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)","section":"Schedule E, s. 16(2)","quotes":["The minimum charge for a tree permit will be fifty dollar ($50) (application fee) plus the cost of each tree as indicated below.","Trees, other than significant, over 6 cm diameter $10.00 each tree","Significant Trees $100.00 each tree","Five hundred dollars ($500) per hectare of land upon which trees are to be cut; or,","Twenty-five hundred dollars ($2500) in total.","There shall be no fee charged for a permit authorizing the removal of a hazardous","a person who cuts or removes a tree without holding a permit must pay a fee equal to twice the amount of the fee payable","Permit Transfer Fee $50.00","Permit Renewal Fee $50.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"replacement":{"label":"Replacement trees","value":"Replacement trees (Schedule G) must be planted and kept for at least two years for trees cut without a permit or contrary to its conditions, and for protected trees cut even with a permit. Trees 100 mm or more across need 2 to 8 replacements by size; street trees 1 to 3. Security of 120% of replacement value is required.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf","title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)","section":"Schedule G; s. 15(1)","quotes":["shall replace the tree by planting one or more replacement trees as set out below and maintain the replacement trees for a minimum of at least two years","100 mm to 151mm 2 replacement trees (min height of 1.5m)","610mm of greater 8 replacement trees (min height 2.0m)","Less than 300mm 1 replacement tree","601mm or greater 3 replacement trees","shall be equal to 120% of the value of all the replacement trees or retained trees, site restoration and clean up measures required by the City of Nanaimo","An owner must replace every tree that is removed contrary to this Bylaw as","cuts down a protected tree, with or without a permit;"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"city_trees":{"label":"City trees","value":"A City tree (street, boulevard or median tree on City land) is a protected tree, so cutting or pruning it needs a permit; the 4-trees-a-year and hazard exemptions do not apply to protected trees. The Director may refuse removal to improve views, reduce shade or reduce leaf, flower or seed litter.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf","title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)","section":"s. 2 (City Tree, Protected tree), s. 6(1), s. 11(1)","quotes":["means any tree located on property owned or in the control of the City including a street tree, a Boulevard Tree and a median tree.","(a) a City tree; (b) a significant tree; (c) a tree within a Development Permit Area;","other than a protected tree, without first obtaining a Permit if:","maintain or enhance view corridors;","prevent a City tree or a tree on Provincial Crown Land from shading areas"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"Cutting any tree without a permit is a $500 bylaw notice ticket ($625 if paid late; no early-payment discount). Working contrary to permit conditions is $250 ($312.50 late). A court conviction can bring a fine up to $50,000.","short":"Notice $500","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)","section":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 schedule","quotes":["5(1)(a) Cut any tree 500.00 - 625.00","5(1)(b) Work contrary to tree removal permit 250.00 - 312.50"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf","title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)","section":"s. 18.1","quotes":["commits an offence against this Bylaw and is liable upon summary conviction to pay a fine of not more than $50,000"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf","title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":7,"stated":7,"matched":7,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nUnder the City of Nanaimo's [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 7126](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf), a tree is a woody plant with a stem 6 cm or more across that can reach 4.5 m. A permit from the City's Director is needed to cut one, and for damaging roots inside the drip line or topping a tree, unless an exemption applies.\n\nProtected trees always need a permit: City trees (street, boulevard or median trees on City land), significant trees listed in the bylaw's schedules, any tree in a Development Permit Area, and trees in slope or buffer covenant areas, or kept under an approved development permit landscape plan.\n\n## No permit needed\n\nFor a tree that is not protected, no permit is needed if:\n\n- you remove up to 4 non-significant trees per calendar year from your parcel;\n- it is a hedge, or it is dead;\n- a certified arborist finds it hazardous and the Director gives written approval first.\n\nThese exemptions do not apply to protected trees. Customary pruning with standard arboricultural practice is also exempt.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Call the Urban Forester (250-755-4446) to check whether your tree is protected.\n2. Apply for a tree removal permit and pay the fee.\n3. If replacement is required, plant and keep the trees for at least two years.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Replacement trees are required for trees cut without a permit or contrary to its conditions, and for protected trees cut even with a permit. Trees 100 mm or more across need 2 to 8 replacements by size; street trees 1 to 3. Security of 120 percent of replacement value is required.\n- The Director may refuse removal of a City tree to improve views, reduce shade or reduce leaf, flower or seed litter.\n- Cutting a tree without a permit is a $500 bylaw notice ticket ($625 if paid late). Working contrary to permit conditions is $250. A court conviction can bring a fine up to $50,000. You must also replace unlawfully removed trees and pay double the permit fee.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf","title":"Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/home-tree-care","title":"Home Tree Care, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/tree-removal/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/tree-removal.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/tree-removal.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits","question":"When is garbage collected, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags?","slug":"garbage-collection","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"garbage-and-recycling","name":"Garbage, recycling and waste"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"The City of Nanaimo collects organics (green cart) weekly, while garbage (black cart) and recycling (blue cart) alternate, each every second week. Find your day with the Nanaimo Recycles search tool or app. Each cart may hold no more than 35 kg.","aliases":["nanaimo garbage pickup day","nanaimo garbage schedule","black cart nanaimo","extra garbage bags nanaimo","nanaimo holiday garbage collection"],"cost":"A daily solid waste collection charge of $0.69315 per dwelling unit, plus $0.31925 a day for a garbage cart upsize, billed to property owners with the user rates (Bylaw 7128, Schedule A). Cart size exchange $60.","how_long":"Garbage is picked up every second week. After a City-recognized holiday, collection moves ahead one weekday.","where":[{"type":"online","label":"Collection calendar and reminders","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage","note":"Enter your address, or use the Nanaimo Recycles app."},{"type":"phone","label":"Zero Waste Hotline","value":"250-756-5390","note":"Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m."},{"type":"email","label":"Zero Waste Hotline","value":"Zero.Waste@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Black Cart - Landfill Materials","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/garbage"},{"title":"Cart Exchange","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/cart-exchange"},{"title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 7128 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf"}],"related":[],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/garbage-collection/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/garbage-collection/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/garbage-collection/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/garbage-collection/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/garbage-collection/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/garbage-collection/"}],"topic":{"title":"Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection/"},"facts":{"frequency":{"label":"How often","value":"Organics (green cart, food and yard waste) weekly. Recycling (blue) and garbage (black) alternate, each every second week. Holidays: collection moves ahead one weekday after a City-recognized holiday (add-a-day); none on Saturday or Sunday. Curbside service is for single-family homes up to fourplexes.","short":"Organics weekly; garbage, recycling every other week","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"s. 4(1)","quotes":["(a) Collection on a weekly basis of Comingled Organic Waste from one (1)","wheeled Comingled Organic Waste Cart; and","every second scheduled Comingled Organic Waste collection day (alternating with Garbage collection); and"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"s. 2 (Add-a-day)","quotes":["the day for collection advances by one week day following any holiday","recognized by the City. There shall be no collection on"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/curbside-basics","title":"Curbside Basics, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["This service is available to eligible single-family homes and up to fourplexes."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"collection_day":{"label":"Finding your day","value":"Enter your address in the Nanaimo Recycles search tool on the City page or app to see your collection calendar, get reminders and print a calendar. A calendar is also mailed unless you opt out. Zero Waste Hotline 250-756-5390 (Mon to Fri, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Multi-family buildings: contact the contractor named on the bins.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage","title":"Recycling, Compost and Garbage, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Enter your address in the search bar below to review your customised collection schedule.","Zero Waste Hotline 250-756-5390 Monday to Friday | 8 am to 4:30 pm","please contact the private contractor named on your collection bins to learn their schedule."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"carts":{"label":"Carts","value":"Each home gets recycling (blue), compost (green) and garbage (black) carts. Single-family: blue 240 L (can upsize to 360 L or downsize to 120 L), black 120 L (can upsize to 240 L), green 120 L (no upsize). Homes with a suite: shared set with blue 360 L, black 240 L (can upsize to 360 L), green 240 L. Exchange: property owner applies online; $60 fee; delivery takes 6 to 8 weeks; size can be changed once every 12 months.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/cart-exchange","title":"Cart Exchange, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["The standard Blue Cart (recycling) size is 240 litres. Residents may upsize to a 360 litre cart, or downsize to a 120‑litre cart if they have mobility constraints.","The standard Black Cart size is 120 litres. Residents may choose to upsize to a 240 litre cart for an additional annual fee.","An 120 litre capacity is assigned per dwelling unit, and homes with suites are provided with a shared upsized 240 litre organics cart.","You may change your cart size once per year, per Bylaw 7128.","The $60 fee will be applied to your user rate account","Please allow up to six to eight weeks for delivery.","Cart Exchange Requests must be submitted by the property owner","The standard Blue Cart (recycling) size is 360 litres.","The standard Black Cart (garbage) size is 240 litres."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"s. 9(5), Schedule A","quotes":["A Basic Service User may opt to change the size of their carts once every twelve","Per 1 or more cart exchanged (at the same time) and $60.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"set_out":{"label":"Setting carts out","value":"Put carts out by 8:00 a.m. on collection day, not the night before (City asks 5 to 8 a.m.). Take empty carts in the same day after collection (City page: no later than 9 p.m.). Carts as close to the edge of the street as possible without blocking vehicles or pedestrians, lids facing the street, 1 m apart and 1 m from obstacles, 3 m of overhead clearance.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"s. 11(1)(f)-(j)","quotes":["set out for collection by 8:00 a.m. on the appropriate scheduled collection","one (1) meter apart and one (1) meter away from obstacles to the side of","on collection day point their carts so the lid opens up into the street;","the street and keep all wheeled carts, when not set out for collection, on"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/garbage","title":"Black Cart - Landfill Materials, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Place carts at the curb between 5 and 8 am on the morning of your scheduled collection day.","Remove carts from the curb after collection, no later than 9 pm.","Placing carts out the night before collection day is an offence under the BC Wildlife Act."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"limits":{"label":"Limits and extra garbage","value":"Each cart may hold no more than 35 kg (75 lb). Items over 2 feet (60 cm) in any dimension are not collected. Extra garbage or recycling: upsize or add a cart (one standard upsize of 120 L each for garbage and recycling per dwelling unit); no bag or tag system found.","short":"Max 35 kg per cart; no bag or tag system found","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"ss. 9, 10, 11(1)(e)","quotes":["ensure that all wheeled carts set out for collection, do not contain more","than 35 kilograms (75 pounds) of material;","oversized items of any kind exceeding two (2) feet in any dimension;","Each dwelling unit shall be entitled to one standard upsize of 120 litres in garbage collection capacity.","Each dwelling unit shall be entitled to one standard upsize of 120 litres in recycling collection capacity."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The ticket schedule (Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 7159) describes s. 11(1)(e) as \"Container weighs more than 22 kilograms (50 pounds)\" while Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 7128 s. 11(1)(e) says 35 kg (75 lb); the City Fine Schedule B of Bylaw 7128 also says 35 kg. Bylaw followed. Searched for bags, tags, extra: none found for extra bags."},"fee":{"label":"Fee","value":"A daily solid waste collection charge per dwelling unit of $0.69315, billed to property owners with the user rates. A garbage cart upsize adds $0.31925 a day. Paying by the billing date earns a 5% discount. Unpaid fees at December 31 are added to taxes.","short":"$0.69315 a day per dwelling unit","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"Schedule A; s. 17","quotes":["Solid Waste Collection Fee Daily Charge","Additional fee for each garbage cart upsize $0.31925","subject to a discount of five (5) percent","A fee imposed under this bylaw which remains unpaid on the 31st day of December"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION BYLAW 2011 NO. 7128"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":7,"stated":7,"matched":7,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nUnder the [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf), curbside service in the City of Nanaimo is for single-family homes up to fourplexes. Organics (green cart, food and yard waste) are collected weekly; recycling (blue) and garbage (black) alternate. There is no collection on Saturday or Sunday. Multi-family buildings should contact the contractor named on the bins.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Enter your address in the Nanaimo Recycles search tool on the City page or in the app to see your calendar, get reminders and print a calendar. A calendar is also mailed unless you opt out.\n2. Put carts out by 8 a.m. on collection day, not the night before (the City asks for 5 to 8 a.m.).\n3. Place them as close to the edge of the street as possible without blocking vehicles or pedestrians, lids facing the street, 1 m apart and 1 m from obstacles, with 3 m of overhead clearance.\n4. Take empty carts in the same day after collection (the City page says no later than 9 p.m.).\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Each cart may hold no more than 35 kg (75 lb). Items over 2 feet (60 cm) in any dimension are not collected.\n- No bag or tag system for extra garbage was found. You can upsize instead: one standard upsize of 120 L each for garbage and recycling per dwelling unit.\n- Cart sizes: single-family homes get blue 240 L, black 120 L and green 120 L (green cannot be upsized). Homes with a suite share a set of blue 360 L, black 240 L (can upsize to 360 L) and green 240 L.\n- To exchange a cart, the property owner applies online. The fee is $60, delivery takes 6 to 8 weeks, and size can be changed once every 12 months.\n- Report a damaged, lost or stolen cart to the City. Replacement due to loss, damage or disposal is billed at actual cost.\n- Paying the collection fee by the billing date earns a 5% discount. Unpaid fees at December 31 are added to taxes.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage","title":"Recycling, Compost and Garbage, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/garbage","title":"Black Cart - Landfill Materials, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/cart-exchange","title":"Cart Exchange, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/curbside-basics","title":"Curbside Basics, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/garbage-collection/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/garbage-collection.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/garbage-collection.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo yard waste collection and drop-off","question":"Where does yard waste and brush go?","slug":"yard-waste","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"garbage-and-recycling","name":"Garbage, recycling and waste"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In Nanaimo, leaves, grass and light trimmings go in the green cart, collected weekly by the City. Branches and logs are not accepted in the carts; take them to the Regional District of Nanaimo's Regional Landfill or Church Road Transfer Station, where a load up to 100 kg is $8.","aliases":["nanaimo branches disposal","nanaimo garden waste","nanaimo grass clippings","nanaimo brush pickup","nanaimo leaves"],"cost":"Green cart: part of the solid waste collection fee ($0.69315 per dwelling unit per day). RDN drop-off: $8 flat for loads up to 100 kg, then $60 per tonne (RDN Tipping Fees page, effective April 1, 2026).","how_long":"Green cart collected weekly; both RDN facilities are open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.","where":[{"type":"in_person","label":"Regional District of Nanaimo Regional Landfill (south of the City)","value":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates"},{"type":"in_person","label":"Church Road Transfer Station (near Parksville)","value":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates"},{"type":"phone","label":"Zero Waste Hotline (City)","value":"250-756-5390"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Green Cart - Organic Materials","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste"},{"title":"Hours and Tipping Fees (RDN)","url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates"}],"related":[{"slug":"garbage-collection","title":"Nanaimo garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/garbage-collection/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/yard-waste/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/yard-waste/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/yard-waste/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/yard-waste/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/yard-waste/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/yard-waste/"}],"topic":{"title":"Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste/"},"facts":{"curbside":{"label":"Curbside collection","value":"Yes, in the green cart: comingled organic waste (food waste plus yard and garden waste such as leaves, grass and light trimmings) is collected weekly. Branches and logs are not accepted in the carts.","short":"Yes, weekly in green cart","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"ss. 2, 4(1)(a), 10(1)(q)","quotes":["a mixture of both food waste and yard waste","Collection on a weekly basis of Comingled Organic Waste from one (1)","(q) Branches and Logs"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste","title":"Green Cart - Organic Materials, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Food scraps, leaves, grass and light trimmings can stick to the cart"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"preparation":{"label":"How to set it out","value":"Place items loosely in the green cart; each cart no more than 35 kg (75 lb); items over 2 feet (60 cm) in any dimension are not collected. Branches and logs are not collected curbside.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste","title":"Green Cart - Organic Materials, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Place items loosely in carts."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"ss. 10(1)(g), 11(1)(e)","quotes":["than 35 kilograms (75 pounds) of material;","oversized items of any kind exceeding two (2) feet in any dimension;"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"drop_off":{"label":"Drop-off","value":"Regional District of Nanaimo Regional Landfill (south of the City) and Church Road Transfer Station (near Parksville) accept yard waste. Both are open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on provincial and federal statutory holidays except Easter Monday.","short":"RDN Regional Landfill or Church Road Transfer Station","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.rdn.ca/water-waste-environment/solid-waste-recycling/solid-waste-disposal-facilities","title":"Solid Waste Disposal Facilities, Regional District of Nanaimo","section":"RDN page","quotes":["The Regional District of Nanaimo owns and operates two solid waste management facilities: the Regional Landfill and Church Road Transfer Station.","Monday to Sunday","8 a.m. to 5 p.m.","They are close for all provincial and federal Statutory Holidays, except Easter Monday."]},{"url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items","title":"Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo","section":"RDN banned items","quotes":["Yard Waste | Accepted | Accepted"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"cost":{"label":"Cost","value":"Curbside: yard waste goes in the green cart, which is part of the solid waste collection fee ($0.69315 per dwelling unit per day). RDN drop-off: $8 flat rate for loads up to 100 kg, then $60 per tonne (RDN Tipping Fees page, effective April 1, 2026).","short":"Curbside in fee; drop-off $8 up to 100 kg","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates","title":"Hours and Tipping Fees, Regional District of Nanaimo","section":"RDN tipping fees","quotes":["Yard Waste including Invasive Plant Species | 0-100kg","101kg or greater | $8 flat rate $60/tonne"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"Schedule A","quotes":["Solid Waste Collection Fee Daily Charge"]},{"url":"https://www.rdn.ca/water-waste-environment/solid-waste-recycling/solid-waste-disposal-facilities","title":"Solid Waste Disposal Facilities, Regional District of Nanaimo","section":"RDN facilities page","quotes":["Garden Waste (including invasive plant species) | $8 (up to 50kg) | $160/tonne (100+kg)"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The RDN Tipping Fees page says $8 up to 100 kg and $60/tonne above; the RDN Solid Waste Disposal Facilities page says $8 up to 50 kg and $160/tonne at 100+ kg. Tipping Fees page followed (it is the dated April 1, 2026 listing)."},"not_accepted":{"label":"Not accepted","value":"Not in the green cart: sawdust, wood and wood refuse; soil, sod and rocks; plastics (including compostable and biodegradable); pet waste; garbage; liquids. Branches and logs, sod and soil are also excluded by the bylaw. RDN facilities do not accept land clearing waste or clean soil.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste","title":"Green Cart - Organic Materials, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Sawdust, Wood, Wood Refuse","Soil, Sod, or Rocks","Pet Waste - Plastics - Recyclables"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"s. 10(1)","quotes":["(r) Sod and soil"]},{"url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items","title":"Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo","section":"RDN banned items","quotes":["Land Clearing Waste | Not Accepted | Not Accepted","Clean Soil | Not Accepted | Not Accepted"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (curbside); Regional District of Nanaimo Tipping Fee and Solid Waste Disposal Regulation Bylaw No. 1784 (drop-off).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION BYLAW 2011 NO. 7128"]},{"url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items","title":"Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo","section":"RDN banned items","quotes":["Bylaw 1784: Tipping Fee and Solid Waste Disposal Regulation"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe City of Nanaimo's green cart takes food scraps and yard waste together (leaves, grass and light trimmings). Under the [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf), branches and logs are not accepted in the carts, so larger yard work goes to the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN).\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Put leaves, grass and light trimmings loose in the green cart. Each cart may hold no more than 35 kg (75 lb), and items over 2 feet (60 cm) in any dimension are not collected.\n2. Take branches, logs and big loads to the RDN Regional Landfill (south of the City) or the Church Road Transfer Station (near Parksville). Both are open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on provincial and federal statutory holidays except Easter Monday.\n3. Pay the tipping fee: $8 flat for loads up to 100 kg, then $60 per tonne.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Not accepted in the green cart: sawdust, wood and wood refuse, soil, sod and rocks, plastics (including compostable and biodegradable), pet waste, garbage and liquids.\n- RDN facilities do not accept land clearing waste or clean soil.\n- The RDN's two web pages give different drop-off rates; the Tipping Fees page, dated April 1, 2026, is used here.\n- The City's pages do not describe a separate branch or bundle pickup. Call the Zero Waste Hotline with questions.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste","title":"Green Cart - Organic Materials, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates","title":"Hours and Tipping Fees, Regional District of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items","title":"Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.rdn.ca/water-waste-environment/solid-waste-recycling/solid-waste-disposal-facilities","title":"Solid Waste Disposal Facilities, Regional District of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/yard-waste/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/yard-waste.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/yard-waste.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo watering restrictions","question":"Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions?","slug":"water-restrictions","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"water-roads-and-snow","name":"Water, sewer, roads and snow"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Yes. The City of Nanaimo's Waterworks bylaw sets four watering stages. Stage 1 applies in April and October and Stage 2 from May to September. Stages 3 and 4 start only when the City gives notice. Check the City's Watering Restrictions page for the stage in effect now.","aliases":["nanaimo sprinkling restrictions","nanaimo watering schedule","nanaimo odd even watering","water restriction stage nanaimo","nanaimo lawn watering permit"],"cost":null,"how_long":"A new lawn permit allows extra sprinkling for 14 days.","where":[{"type":"online","label":"Watering Restrictions","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions"},{"type":"phone","label":"Public Works (new lawn permits)","value":"250-758-5222"},{"type":"email","label":"Water Resources","value":"water.resources@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Watering Restrictions, City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions"},{"title":"Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 7004 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf"}],"related":[],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/water-restrictions/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/water-restrictions/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/water-restrictions/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/water-restrictions/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/water-restrictions/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/water-restrictions/"}],"topic":{"title":"Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions/"},"facts":{"in_effect":{"label":"When restrictions apply","value":"Stage 1 (night watering only) applies in April and October and Stage 2 (every other day) from May to September. Stage 3 (voluntary cuts) and Stage 4 (full watering ban) start when the General Manager gives notice. The City page of November 4, 2026 says Stage 1 is in effect.","short":"Stage 1 April and October; Stage 2 May to September","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf","title":"Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004 (PDF)","section":"ss. 43-46","quotes":["During the months of April and October, no person shall:","During the months of May, June, July, August, and September, no person shall:","all persons are encouraged to voluntarily reduce domestic water use in an effort to avoid a comprehensive watering ban.","If the General Manager, Engineering & Public Works (7004.15) gives notice that a reduction","in water use is necessary requiring Watering Restriction Level 4, no person shall:","gives notice that a reduction in water use is necessary requiring Watering Restriction Level 4, no person shall:"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions","title":"Watering Restrictions, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Stage 1 watering restrictions are currently in effect.","To view the current Water Restriction Stage for Nanaimo, and how you can conserve water, see RDN Team WaterSmart."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The City web page says Stage 1 is in effect on November 4, 2026, but the bylaw ties Stage 1 to April and October only. Bylaw months quoted; the page is the only source of the current stage."},"schedule":{"label":"Sprinkling schedule","value":"Stage 1 (April, October): sprinklers 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. any day. Stage 2 (May to September): even addresses on even days, odd on odd, 7 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m., 2 hours a day. Stage 3 (as required, voluntary): one day a week, odd addresses Monday, even Thursday. Stage 4: no lawn watering.","short":"Stage 1: 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.; Stage 2: odd/even days","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf","title":"Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004 (PDF)","section":"ss. 43-44, 46","quotes":["(a) Use a sprinkler to water a lawn or garden growing on a property except between","the hours of 7:00 pm to 7:00 am daily;","An even-numbered address except on even-numbered days between the","hours of 7:00 am to 10:00 am or 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and for no more than 2","hours per day;","(a) Water lawns or boulevards at any time including newly seeded or sodded lawns;"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/water-resources/water-restrictions-simple-2026.pdf","title":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/water-resources/water-restrictions-simple-2026.pdf","section":"City Watering Restrictions Guide 2026","quotes":["STAGE 1 – April and October","Odd addresses: Monday; even addresses: Thursday","Not Permitted: Lawn watering, filling pools/fountains/hot tubs"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"exempt_watering":{"label":"Allowed at any time","value":"Vegetable gardens and fruit trees: any day and time. Flowers, shrubs and ornamental trees: any time in Stages 1 to 3 with a hand-held container or shut-off hose (Stage 4: only 7 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m.). Drip or micro-irrigation: any time in Stages 1 to 3; Stage 4 only 7 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m. (soaker hoses do not count). New trees and shrubs: any time during planting and the next 24 hours. Businesses needing water for normal operations are exempt.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf","title":"Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004 (PDF)","section":"s. 47","quotes":["(f) A person may water vegetable gardens or fruit trees at any day and time.","Stage 1, Stage 2, or Stage 3 if using a hand-held container or a hose equipped","(h) A person may use micro-irrigation or drip-irrigation as follows:","(i) Any day and any time during Watering Restriction Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage","(e) A person may water new trees and shrubs during installation and for the following","Soaker hoses and weeper hoses are not considered to be micro-irrigation or"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions","title":"Watering Restrictions, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Vegetable gardens and fruit trees may be watered at any time"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"new_lawns":{"label":"New lawns","value":"A permit from the Public Works Department allows a new seeded or sodded lawn to be sprinkled outside permitted days (within restricted hours) for 14 days. Call Public Works at 250-758-5222. No permits at Stage 4; permits may be refused or invalid at Stages 2 and 3 at the General Manager's discretion.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf","title":"Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004 (PDF)","section":"s. 47(a), (b), (d); s. 46(f)","quotes":["A person who has installed a new lawn, either newly seeded or new sod, may apply to the City of Nanaimo Water Public Works Department for a permit which","New sod or newly seeded lawn may be sprinkled for 14 days after installation,","Permits may not be issued or be valid during Watering Restriction Stage 2, Stage 3","(f) Obtain a new lawn watering permit."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions","title":"Watering Restrictions, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["New lawns (seed or sod) may qualify for a 14-day watering permit to water outside restricted days. To apply, contact Public Works at 250‑758‑5222."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"City page says permits \"may not be issued during Stage 3 or 4\"; the bylaw says during Stage 2, 3 or 4, at the General Manager's discretion. Bylaw followed."},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"Stage 1 breach: $100. Stage 2 breach: $200 (early $150, late $250). Stage 4 breach: $400 (early $300, late $500). Using water contrary to restrictions (s. 23): $200.","short":"Stage 1 $100; Stage 2 $200; Stage 4 $400","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw","quotes":["43(a) Water at time not permitted during Stage 1 100.00 125.00 75.00","44(a) Water on day or time not permitted or 200.00 150.00 250.00","46(a) Water lawns or boulevards during Stage 4 400.00 300.00 500.00","23 Use water contrary to restrictions 200.00 150.00 250.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf","title":"Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004 (PDF)","section":"title","quotes":["WATERWORKS RATE AND REGULATION BYLAW 2006 NO. 7004"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nNanaimo's restrictions are written in the [Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf). Stage 1 applies in April and October, and Stage 2 from May to September. Stage 3 and Stage 4 start only when the General Manager gives notice. The bylaw does not say what applies from November to March. For anything in effect right now, check the City's Watering Restrictions page.\n\n## The stages\n\n- Stage 1 (April, October): sprinklers 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., any day.\n- Stage 2 (May to September): even addresses on even days, odd addresses on odd days, 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. or 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., 2 hours a day.\n- Stage 3 (when required, voluntary): one day a week, odd addresses Monday, even addresses Thursday.\n- Stage 4: no lawn watering. Washing sidewalks and driveways and filling pools, fountains or hot tubs are also banned.\n- Stages 1 and 2 also limit washing vehicles, boats, trailers, windows and house siding to a hand-held container or a hose with a shut-off device.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Exempt: vegetable gardens and fruit trees, any day and time. Flowers, shrubs and ornamental trees: any time in Stages 1 to 3 with a hand-held container or shut-off hose (Stage 4: only 7 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m.). Drip or micro-irrigation: any time in Stages 1 to 3, and 7 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m. in Stage 4 (soaker hoses do not count). New trees and shrubs: any time during planting and the next 24 hours. Businesses needing water for normal operations are exempt.\n- A permit from Public Works (250-758-5222) allows a new seeded or sodded lawn to be sprinkled outside permitted days, within restricted hours, for 14 days. There are no permits at Stage 4, and they may be refused or invalid at Stages 2 and 3 at the General Manager's discretion. The City page says permits may not be issued in Stage 3 or 4, so confirm first.\n- Tickets: Stage 1 breach $100. Stage 2 breach $200 (early $150, late $250). Stage 4 breach $400 (early $300, late $500). Using water contrary to restrictions is $200.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions","title":"Watering Restrictions, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf","title":"Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/water-resources/water-restrictions-simple-2026.pdf","title":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/water-resources/water-restrictions-simple-2026.pdf","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/water-restrictions/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/water-restrictions.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/water-restrictions.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one","question":"How do I get a dog licence, and what does it cost?","slug":"dog-licence","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"pets-and-wildlife","name":"Pets, animals and wildlife"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Every dog over 16 weeks old in the City of Nanaimo needs a City licence each calendar year. The fee is $25 for a spayed or neutered dog and $50 for one that is not, if paid by February 28; it rises to $30 and $60 after that. Apply online or in person.","aliases":["dog license nanaimo","dog tag nanaimo","renew dog licence nanaimo","how much is a dog licence"],"cost":"Paid by February 28: $25 spayed or neutered, $50 not. After February 28: $30 and $60. Replacement tag $5; licence transfer $5. No charge for a certified guide or service dog or an R.C.M.P. service dog. Fees are non-refundable.","how_long":"Licences expire December 31 each year. Tags are perpetual. If you pay online a tag is mailed after payment; in person you get it right away.","where":[{"type":"online","label":"Apply for a new dog licence or renew online","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences"},{"type":"in_person","label":"Service and Resource Centre","value":"411 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 0E4"},{"type":"in_person","label":"Nanaimo Animal Control Services","value":"1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road, Nanaimo"},{"type":"mail","label":"Mail a cheque to City Hall (renewals)","value":"455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J6"},{"type":"phone","label":"Dog Licensing","value":"250-755-4525"},{"type":"email","label":"Dog Licensing","value":"dog.lic@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":["Proof of spay or neuter for the lower fee (vet certificate or other satisfactory evidence)"],"forms":[{"title":"Dog Licences (City of Nanaimo)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences"},{"title":"Dog Licence Fees","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-fees"},{"title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"how-many-pets","title":"How many dogs or cats you can keep in Nanaimo","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets/"},{"slug":"dog-leash-rules","title":"Nanaimo dog leash rules and off-leash areas","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules/"},{"slug":"dangerous-dogs","title":"Nanaimo rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/dog-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/dog-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/dog-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/dog-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/dog-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/gibsons","name":"Gibsons","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gibsons/dog-licence/"}],"topic":{"title":"Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence/"},"facts":{"required":{"label":"Licence required","value":"Yes. Anyone who owns, possesses or harbours a dog over 16 weeks old must hold a dog licence, obtained before January 1 each year.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 16-17","quotes":["No Person shall own, possess or harbour an Unlicensed Dog within the boundaries of the City.","A Person who owns, possesses or harbours any Dog over the age of 16 weeks shall obtain a Dog Licence before the first day of January each year"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences","title":"Dog Licences, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["All dogs over the age of 4 months living in the City must be licensed."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"City web pages (Dog Licences, Renewals) and the animal brochure say \"over the age of 4 months\"; the bylaw says over 16 weeks (the bylaw defines an Unlicensed Dog as one over 16 weeks). Bylaw followed."},"issued_by":{"label":"Issued by","value":"The City of Nanaimo (Revenue Services, with Nanaimo Animal Control).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences","title":"Dog Licences, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Contact Revenue Services or Nanaimo Animal Control for information regarding your dog licence","Dog Licensing 250-755-4525"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fee_altered":{"label":"Fee, spayed or neutered","value":"$25 a year if paid by February 28; $30 if paid after February 28.","short":"$25 by February 28 ($30 after February 28)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Dog Licence Fees","quotes":["Description February February 28th 28th Sterilized $25.00 $30.00 Unsterilized $50.00 $60.00 Dog Deemed Aggressive $75.00 $90.00 Replacement Licence Tag $5.00 $5.00"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-fees","title":"Dog Licence Fees, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Spayed/Neutered Dog | $25.00 | $30.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fee_unaltered":{"label":"Fee, not spayed or neutered","value":"$50 a year if paid by February 28; $60 if paid after February 28.","short":"$50 by February 28 ($60 after February 28)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Dog Licence Fees","quotes":["28th 28th Sterilized $25.00 $30.00 Unsterilized $50.00 $60.00 Dog Deemed Aggressive $75.00 $90.00 Replacement Licence Tag $5.00 $5.00"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-fees","title":"Dog Licence Fees, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Not Spayed/Neutered | $50.00 | $60.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"other_fees":{"label":"Other fees and discounts","value":"Early-payment rate applies if paid by February 28. Replacement tag $5; licence transfer $5. No charge for a certified guide or service dog or an R.C.M.P. service dog. No seniors discount found. Fees are non-refundable.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Dog Licence Fees","quotes":["Replacement Licence Tag $5.00 $5.00","Licence Transfer Fee $5.00 $5.00","A Guide Dog or Service Dog certified under the Guide Dog and","A Dog owned and utilized as an R.C.M.P. Service Dog No Charge","Fees paid for Dog Licenses are non-refundable."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"renewal":{"label":"Renewal","value":"Licences expire December 31 each year. Renewal notices are mailed in late January; renew by February 28 to get the lower rate.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 18","quotes":["expires on the 31st day of December of the year in which it is issued"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-renewals","title":"Dog Licence Renewals, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Renewal notices are mailed in late January","Renew by February 28 each year to avoid missing the discount and receiving a ticket"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"how_to_get":{"label":"How to get one","value":"New licence: apply online, or in person at 1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road or 411 Dunsmuir Street. Renew or pay online, in person at those two places, or by mail (cheque) to 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J6.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/apply-for-a-new-dog-licence","title":"Apply for a New Dog Licence, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Apply for a licence online using the form below or in person at 1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road or 411 Dunsmuir Street."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-renewals","title":"Dog Licence Renewals, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["By mail to 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5J6","Online using your account number and access code"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine_unlicensed":{"label":"Fine, unlicensed dog","value":"$125 for a first offence of keeping an unlicensed dog (s. 16), $175 for a second or later offence; failing to obtain a licence (s. 17) is $125. Early payment $93.75 / $131.25; late payment $156.25 / $218.25.","short":"$125 (1st offence), $175 (later)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Animal Responsibility Bylaw","quotes":["16 Unlicensed dog $125.00 $ 93.75 $156.25","$175.00 $131.25 $218.25","Fail to obtain dog licence"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (licence requirement); fees are in Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"title","quotes":["FEES AND CHARGES BYLAW 2021 NO. 7336"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":9,"stated":9,"matched":9,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nUnder the [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf), nobody may own, possess or harbour an unlicensed dog in the City of Nanaimo. The licence must be obtained before January 1 each year. Fees are set in the [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf). Licences are issued by the City (Revenue Services, with Nanaimo Animal Control).\n\n## Steps\n\n1. For a new licence, apply online, or in person at 1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road or 411 Dunsmuir Street.\n2. Show proof the dog is spayed or neutered (a vet certificate or other satisfactory evidence) to get the lower fee.\n3. Pay. To renew, pay online with your account number and access code, in person at those two places, or by mailing a cheque to 455 Wallace Street.\n4. Renewal notices are mailed in late January. Renew by February 28 to get the lower rate.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- The dog must be spayed or neutered by March 31 for the reduced fee to apply for that licence year.\n- Unlicensed dog ticket: $125 for a first offence, $175 for a second or later one. Failing to obtain a licence is $125.\n- Dogs deemed aggressive have a separate licence fee; see the aggressive dogs answer.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences","title":"Dog Licences, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-fees","title":"Dog Licence Fees, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-renewals","title":"Dog Licence Renewals, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/apply-for-a-new-dog-licence","title":"Apply for a New Dog Licence, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 9 of 9 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo dog leash rules and off-leash areas","question":"Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules?","slug":"dog-leash-rules","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"pets-and-wildlife","name":"Pets, animals and wildlife"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In the City of Nanaimo, dogs must be on a leash (6 feet or shorter) in any public place except 12 designated off-leash parks, such as Beban Park (fenced area) and Westwood Lake Park. Public beaches in parks are closed to animals from May to September.","aliases":["off leash dog park nanaimo","dog park nanaimo","dogs on leash nanaimo","dog beach nanaimo"],"cost":null,"how_long":"Leash rules apply year round. Seasonal dog bans apply at some beaches and Pipers Lagoon.","where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Nanaimo Animal Control Services","value":"250-616-0233"},{"type":"phone","label":"Bylaw Regulation and Security","value":"250-755-4422"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Dogs in Parks (City of Nanaimo, list and map of off-leash areas)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/dogs-in-parks"},{"title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF), Schedule B","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"dog-licence","title":"Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence/"},{"slug":"dangerous-dogs","title":"Nanaimo rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/dog-leash-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/dog-leash-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/dog-leash-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/dog-leash-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/dog-leash-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/dog-leash-rules/"}],"topic":{"title":"Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules/"},"facts":{"leash_rule":{"label":"Leash rule","value":"In any public place (land owned by any level of government), a dog must be on a leash held by a competent person, with one end securely fixed to a collar or harness on the dog. Off leash only in designated off-leash areas, under effective voice or hand control.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 43, 45","quotes":["The Owner of a Dog must not allow the Dog to be in a Public Place unless the Dog is on a Leash with one end securely affixed to a collar or harness securely attached to the Dog","the Owner of a Dog may allow the Dog to be Off-Leash in the areas listed in Schedule “B” to this Bylaw"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 2 (Public Place)","quotes":["“Public Place” means all land owned, held, operated or administered by any level of government, including a school district."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"leash_length":{"label":"Maximum leash length","value":"A leash can be no longer than 6 feet (1.83 m) and strong enough to restrain the dog without breaking.","short":"6 feet (1.83 m)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 2 (Leash)","quotes":["\"Leash\" means a line or chain that does not exceed 6 feet (1.83 meters) in","length and is of sufficient strength to restrain a Dog without breaking."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"off_leash_areas":{"label":"Off-leash areas","value":"12 designated parks: Beaufort, Beban (fenced area only), Cable Bay Trail, Colliery Dam, Diver Lake, Gallows Point, Invermere Beach, May Richards Bennett Pioneer, Northfield Rotary Lookout (fenced), St. George Ravine, Wardropper (fenced) and Westwood Lake. Several are only the areas marked by signs. Map and brochure on the City Dogs in Parks page.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"Schedule B","quotes":["Designated Off-Leash Dog Areas","Beban Park 2300 Bowen Road Fenced area only","Westwood Lake Park 231 Westwood Road Only areas as designated by"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/dogs-in-parks","title":"Dogs in Parks, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Nanaimo's 12 off-leash dog parks","Print off this map of Nanaimo's dog off-leash areas (PDF format)."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"dogs_not_allowed":{"label":"Places dogs are not allowed","value":"City page: no dogs at playgrounds, sports fields, cemeteries, Buttertubs Marsh, Pipers Lagoon (Apr 1 to Oct 31) or Departure Bay Beach (May 1 to Sep 30). The bylaw bars all animals from public beaches in parks from May to September and from wading and spray pool decks.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/dogs-in-parks","title":"Dogs in Parks, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["\"No dog\" areas","Pipers Lagoon (from April 1 to October 31)","Departure Bay Beach Beach (from May 1 to September 30)"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 48","quotes":["be on a Public Beach during the months of May through September inclusive; or","be on the deck of a wading pool or a spray pool."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"clean_up":{"label":"Cleaning up","value":"The person with the dog must immediately remove and lawfully dispose of its excrement on any public place, public beach, or private property not owned or occupied by the owner. Bags must be sealed in an impermeable bag before going in a public litter receptacle.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 86-87","quotes":["Every Person must immediately remove and lawfully dispose of any excrement deposited by a","Dog in their care and custody on any Public Place, Public Beach, or private property not owned or","securely contained in an impermeable bag or other impermeable container"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine_at_large":{"label":"Fine, dog at large or off leash","value":"$100 for an unleashed dog (s. 43). Early payment $75; late payment $125. Insufficient control of a dog in an off-leash park (s. 45) is also $100.","short":"$100 ($75 if paid early)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Animal Responsibility Bylaw","quotes":["43 Unleashed dog $100.00 $ 75.00 $125.00","45 Insufficient care, custody or $100.00 $ 75.00 $125.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The City Dogs in Parks page says violators \"can be fined $150 per dog\" and gives a \"maximum fine of $500\". The ticket schedule (Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 7159) says $100; the bylaw itself allows court fines up to $50,000 (s. 114). Schedule followed."},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":7,"stated":7,"matched":7,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nUnder the [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf), a dog in a public place (land owned by any level of government, including a school district) must be on a leash held by a competent person. One end must be securely fixed to a collar or harness on the dog. A leash can be no longer than 6 feet (1.83 m) and must be strong enough to restrain the dog without breaking.\n\n## Off-leash areas\n\nDogs may be off leash only in the 12 designated parks, and must be under effective voice or hand control: Beaufort, Beban (fenced area only), Cable Bay Trail, Colliery Dam, Diver Lake, Gallows Point, Invermere Beach, May Richards Bennett Pioneer, Northfield Rotary Lookout (fenced), St. George Ravine, Wardropper (fenced) and Westwood Lake. Some are only the areas marked by signs. The City's Dogs in Parks page has a map.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Pick up after your dog right away on any public place, public beach, or private property you do not own or occupy. Seal the waste in an impermeable bag before putting it in a public litter bin.\n- The City page lists no-dog areas: playgrounds, sports fields, cemeteries, Buttertubs Marsh, Pipers Lagoon (April 1 to October 31) and Departure Bay Beach (May 1 to September 30).\n- The bylaw bars all animals from public beaches in parks from May to September, and from wading and spray pool decks.\n- The City page also says two dogs maximum per person in the off-leash parks, dogs must be leashed entering and leaving, and no dogs under 4 months or females in heat.\n- An unleashed dog is a $100 ticket ($75 if paid early, $125 if late). The City page says $150 per dog and a $500 maximum; confirm with the City.\n- Report problems to Animal Control or Bylaw Regulation and Security.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/dogs-in-parks","title":"Dogs in Parks, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs","question":"What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs?","slug":"dangerous-dogs","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"pets-and-wildlife","name":"Pets, animals and wildlife"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In the City of Nanaimo, the Poundkeeper can declare a dog aggressive if it has bitten, injured or aggressively chased a person or animal. The owner must then get a special licence within 14 days, muzzle and leash the dog in public, and carry $1,000,000 in liability insurance.","aliases":[],"cost":"Aggressive dog licence $75 if paid by February 28, $90 after. Tickets run from $200 to $500.","how_long":"Apply within 14 days of the notice. Insurance proof and a photo are due each year by January 30.","where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Nanaimo Animal Control Services","value":"250-616-0233"},{"type":"phone","label":"Dog Licensing","value":"250-755-4525"},{"type":"email","label":"Dog Licensing","value":"dog.lic@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":["Owner over 19 years of age","Veterinarian proof of sterilization and permanent identification of the dog","Liability insurance of $1,000,000 naming the City (every year), and a photo (every year)"],"forms":[{"title":"Dangerous or Aggressive Dogs (City of Nanaimo)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dangerous-or-aggressive-dogs"},{"title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"dog-licence","title":"Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence/"},{"slug":"dog-leash-rules","title":"Nanaimo dog leash rules and off-leash areas","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/dangerous-dogs/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/dangerous-dogs/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/dangerous-dogs/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/dangerous-dogs/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/dangerous-dogs/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/dangerous-dogs/"}],"topic":{"title":"Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs/"},"facts":{"how_declared":{"label":"How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive","value":"A dog is an \"Aggressive Dog\" if it has attacked, bitten or injured a person or shown a tendency to; bitten, killed or injured a companion animal, poultry or livestock; aggressively pursued or harassed a person or animal; has a known propensity to attack without provocation; is kept or trained for fighting; or is a Dangerous Dog under Community Charter s. 49. The Poundkeeper decides and serves a written notice on the owner.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 2 (Aggressive Dog), s. 74","quotes":["has attacked, bitten or caused injury to a Person or has","demonstrated a propensity, tendency or disposition to do so;","is a Dangerous Dog as defined by Section 49 of the Community","Where the Poundkeeper determines that a Dog meets the definition of an Aggressive Dog, the Poundkeeper will issue a written notice to the Owner"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"owner_rules":{"label":"Rules for owners","value":"Apply for an Aggressive Dog licence within 14 days of the notice (owner over 19; vet proof of sterilization, permanent ID). Outside the property: leash of 6 feet or less and muzzle. Post warning signs at every entrance. On the property: indoors, or behind a fence at least 6 feet high, or in a locked rear-yard enclosure approved by the Poundkeeper. Not on school grounds, within 30 m of a playground, in off-leash areas or in a park. Each year by January 30: $1,000,000 liability insurance naming the City, and a photo.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 26-29, 78, 80","quotes":["An Owner must apply for an Aggressive Dog licence within 14 days of receiving a notice under Section 74.","secure the Dog by a collar or harness and a Leash that is a maximum length of 1.83 metres","keep the Dog Muzzled when not on the Owner’s property;","behind a secure fence at least 6 feet in height","within 30m of any playground apparatus;","who is over 19 years of age","prominently display at each entrance to the property and building in, or upon which the Dog","by no later than January 30th:","in the minimum amount of $1,000,000, for any injuries which may be caused by"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fee":{"label":"Licence fee","value":"$75 a year if paid by February 28; $90 if paid after February 28 (\"Dog Deemed Aggressive\").","short":"$75 a year if paid by February 28 ($90 after)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Dog Licence Fees","quotes":["Dog Deemed Aggressive $75.00 $90.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"report":{"label":"How to report","value":"Call Nanaimo Animal Control at 250-616-0233.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dangerous-or-aggressive-dogs","title":"Dangerous or Aggressive Dogs, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Contact Nanaimo Animal Control: 250-616-0233"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city","title":"Animals in the City, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["To report an incident occurring in the City of Nanaimo please call 250-616-0233."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"$500 ($375 early, $500 late) for failing to secure, muzzle or confine an aggressive dog, keeping one unlawfully, or having it on school grounds/in a park/off-leash area; $250 for failing to get the licence within 14 days or to give the January 30 documents; $200 for no warning signs.","short":"$500 ($375 early, $500 late)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Animal Responsibility Bylaw","quotes":["26 Fail to obtain aggressive $250.00 $187.50 $312.50","27 Unlawfully keep aggressive $500.00. $375.00 $500.00","29 Fail to provide $250.00 $187.50 $312.50","78(a) Fail to secure aggressive $500.00 $375.00 $500.00","78(b) Fail to muzzle aggressive $500.00 $375.00 $500.00","78(c) Fail to display aggressive $200.00 $150.00 $250.00","78(d) Fail to confine aggressive $500.00 $375.00 $500.00","81(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f) Fail to comply with"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (Part 7, Aggressive Dogs), with Community Charter s. 49.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 76","quotes":["A Dangerous Dog may also be dealt with by the City in accordance with Section 49 of the Community Charter."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nUnder Part 7 of the [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf), the Poundkeeper decides and serves a written notice on the owner. A dog counts as aggressive if it has attacked, bitten or injured a person or shown a tendency to; bitten, killed or injured a companion animal, poultry or livestock; aggressively pursued or harassed a person or animal; is known to attack without provocation; is kept or trained for fighting; or is a Dangerous Dog under section 49 of the Community Charter.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Apply for an Aggressive Dog licence within 14 days of the notice. The owner must be over 19, with vet proof of sterilization and permanent identification.\n2. Post warning signs at every entrance.\n3. By January 30 each year, provide $1,000,000 liability insurance naming the City, and a photo.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Outside the property: leash of 6 feet or less, and a muzzle.\n- On the property: indoors, behind a fence at least 6 feet high, or in a locked rear-yard enclosure approved by the Poundkeeper.\n- Not allowed on school grounds, within 30 m of a playground, in off-leash areas or in a park.\n- Tell an animal control officer immediately if the dog is loose or has bitten or attacked, and within 2 days of moving, selling, giving away or the death of the dog. The Poundkeeper may add training or handling conditions.\n- After at least 2 years with no further complaints and a behaviour course, the owner may apply to the Manager, Bylaw Services for relief.\n- Tickets: $500 for failing to secure, muzzle or confine the dog, keeping one unlawfully, or having it on school grounds, in a park or off leash ($375 early); $250 for missing the 14-day licence or January 30 documents; $200 for no warning signs.\n- To report a dog, call Nanaimo Animal Control.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dangerous-or-aggressive-dogs","title":"Dangerous or Aggressive Dogs, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city","title":"Animals in the City, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs.json"}},{"title":"How many dogs or cats you can keep in Nanaimo","question":"How many dogs or cats can I keep?","slug":"how-many-pets","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"pets-and-wildlife","name":"Pets, animals and wildlife"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In the City of Nanaimo you may keep no more than 4 dogs over 16 weeks old and 5 cats over 12 weeks old on a property. There is also a cap of 6 companion animals in total and 12 animals of any kind, unless the bylaw says otherwise. Going over a limit is a $100 ticket.","aliases":[],"cost":"Ticket for exceeding a limit $100 (early payment $75, late $125).","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Nanaimo Animal Control Services","value":"250-616-0233"},{"type":"phone","label":"Business Licences","value":"250-755-4482"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"dog-licence","title":"Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence/"},{"slug":"backyard-chickens","title":"Nanaimo backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-chickens/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/how-many-pets/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/how-many-pets/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/how-many-pets/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/how-many-pets/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/how-many-pets/"},{"place":"ca/bc/gibsons","name":"Gibsons","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gibsons/how-many-pets/"}],"topic":{"title":"Dog and cat limits in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/how-many-pets/"},"facts":{"dog_limit":{"label":"Dogs allowed","value":"No more than 4 dogs over 16 weeks old on any property.","short":"Max 4 dogs","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 9.1(a)","quotes":["No Person shall keep, on any Property, more than: (a) 4 Dogs over the age of 16 weeks;"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"cat_limit":{"label":"Cats allowed","value":"No more than 5 cats over 12 weeks old on any property.","short":"Max 5 cats","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 9.1(b)","quotes":["(b) 5 Cats over the age 12 weeks; or"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"other_limits":{"label":"Other animal limits","value":"No more than 6 companion animals in total, and no more than 12 animals of any kind unless the bylaw says otherwise. Also: 12 small flock birds, mice, rats, gerbils or hamsters; 4 hook-bill birds, chinchillas, ferrets, hedgehogs, rabbits or sugar gliders; 6 guinea pigs or reptiles (each as a combined group).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 6, 7, 9.1(c)","quotes":["Unless expressly permitted by this Bylaw, no Person shall keep, on any Property, more than 12","(c) 6 Companion Animals.","(a) 12 Small Flock Birds, domestic mice, domestic rats, gerbils, or hamsters, or combination","(b) 4 Hook Bill Birds, chinchillas, domestic ferrets, hedgehogs, Rabbits, sugar gliders, or","(c) 6 guinea pigs or Reptiles, or combination thereof."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"exceptions":{"label":"Exceptions","value":"More than 4 dogs or 5 cats allowed for: temporary care as a registered-society animal rescue (must notify the Poundkeeper); keeping or boarding more than 4 dogs if zoning allows and the person has a valid business licence; pound, BC SPCA and vet premises; livestock or poultry where agriculture is a permitted use. Racing pigeons: up to 50 for certified pigeon club members on parcels over 0.4 ha.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 8, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4","quotes":["a Person may temporarily care for more than 4 Dogs over the age","Animal rescue organization operated by a society registered under the Societies Act","a Person may keep or maintain more than 4 Dogs, or board Dogs","Nanaimo’s Zoning Bylaw and has obtained a valid Business Licence.","The keeping of Livestock or Poultry on a Property on which agriculture is a permitted use","may keep up to a maximum of fifty","(50) racing pigeons on any parcel of land over .4 hectares."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"$100 for keeping more than 4 dogs, 5 cats, 6 companion animals or 12 animals (early $75, late $125). Other over-limit offences (s. 7) are also $100. Failing to meet the s. 9.2 notice or s. 9.3 requirements is $150 ($112.50 early, $187.50 late).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Animal Responsibility Bylaw","quotes":["9.1(a) Keep more than 4 dogs $100.00 $75.00 $125.00","9.1(b) Keep more than 5 cats $100.00 $75.00 $125.00","9.1(c) Keep more than 6 $100.00 $75.00 $125.00","9.2 Fail to notify Poundkeeper $150.00 $112.50 $187.50"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) caps how many animals you can keep on any one property in the City of Nanaimo.\n\n## Limits\n\n- Dogs over 16 weeks old: 4.\n- Cats over 12 weeks old: 5.\n- Companion animals in total: 6.\n- Animals of any kind: 12, unless the bylaw says otherwise.\n- Small flock birds, mice, rats, gerbils or hamsters: 12 combined.\n- Hook-bill birds, chinchillas, ferrets, hedgehogs, rabbits or sugar gliders: 4 combined.\n- Guinea pigs or reptiles: 6 combined.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- You may keep or board more than 4 dogs only if zoning allows it and you hold a valid business licence.\n- A registered-society animal rescue may temporarily care for more dogs or cats if it notifies the Poundkeeper.\n- The limits do not apply to the pound, BC SPCA and vet premises, or to livestock and poultry where agriculture is a permitted use.\n- Certified pigeon club members may keep up to 50 racing pigeons on parcels over 0.4 hectares.\n- Failing to meet the rescue-notice or boarding requirements is a $150 ticket ($112.50 early, $187.50 late).","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules","question":"Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock?","slug":"backyard-chickens","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"pets-and-wildlife","name":"Pets, animals and wildlife"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Yes, with limits. In the City of Nanaimo you may keep up to 6 hens or ducks on a residential lot of 0.045 to under 0.4 hectares, or 4 on a smaller lot, with no roosters. Beekeeping is allowed (1 hive on lots under 0.4 hectares). Other livestock is allowed only on land zoned for it.","aliases":[],"cost":"No permit, licence or registration fee for keeping hens was found in the bylaw or on the City's page.","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Nanaimo Animal Control Services","value":"250-616-0233"},{"type":"phone","label":"Planning (zoning questions)","value":"250-755-4429"},{"type":"email","label":"Planning","value":"planning@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Animals in the City (City of Nanaimo)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city"},{"title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"how-many-pets","title":"How many dogs or cats you can keep in Nanaimo","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/backyard-chickens/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/backyard-chickens/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/backyard-chickens/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/backyard-chickens/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/backyard-chickens/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/backyard-chickens/"}],"topic":{"title":"Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens/"},"facts":{"hens_allowed":{"label":"Hens allowed","value":"Poultry may be kept only on parcels over 0.4 ha, except that hens or ducks are allowed on smaller residential parcels: up to 6 on parcels from 0.045 ha to under 0.4 ha, and up to 4 on parcels under 0.045 ha, with conditions. Not allowed inside a dwelling unit, on a balcony or deck, or in a cage (except to transport).","short":"Yes, up to 6 hens; 4 on parcels under 0.045 ha","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 65-67","quotes":["No Person shall keep or harbour any Poultry on any parcel of land unless that parcel of land has","an area greater than .4 hectares.","(a) a maximum of 6 hens or ducks, or combination thereof, on a parcel of land less than .4","hectares in size but greater than .045 hectares in size; or","(b) if the parcel of land is smaller than .045 hectares in size, a maximum of 4 hens or ducks,","within any Dwelling Unit, or on a balcony or deck; or"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"max_hens":{"label":"Most hens","value":"4 hens or ducks combined on parcels under 0.045 ha; 6 on parcels from 0.045 ha to under 0.4 ha. The bylaw sets no hen cap above 0.4 ha, but the general 12-animal limit (s. 6) applies unless agriculture is a permitted use (s. 9.4(d)). City web page says 12 on 1 acre or more.","short":"4 to 6 hens or ducks, by parcel size","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 66","quotes":["(a) a maximum of 6 hens or ducks, or combination thereof, on a parcel of land less than .4","(b) if the parcel of land is smaller than .045 hectares in size, a maximum of 4 hens or ducks,","Unless expressly permitted by this Bylaw, no Person shall keep, on any Property, more than 12 Animals.","The keeping of Livestock or Poultry on a Property on which agriculture is a permitted use pursuant to the applicable zoning bylaw."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city","title":"Animals in the City, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page FAQ","quotes":["Less than .045 hectares: no more than 4 hens or ducks","1 acre or more: 12 hens or ducks maximum"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The City web page (Animals in the City) gives \"Less than .45 hectares: no more than 6\" and \"1 acre or more: 12\"; the bylaw says 0.4 ha for the 6-hen tier and sets no hen-specific cap on larger parcels (general limits in s. 6 apply). Bylaw followed for small lots; the 12 figure is from the web page only."},"roosters":{"label":"Roosters","value":"No roosters, cocks, cockerels or peafowl where hens or ducks are kept under the small-lot exception (parcels under 0.4 ha). The bylaw sets no rooster rule for larger parcels; the City web page wording on this is unclear.","short":"No on parcels under 0.4 ha","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 66(c)","quotes":["(c) no roosters, cocks, cockerels, or peafowl are kept on the Property;","no roosters, cocks, cockerels, or peafowl are kept on the Property;"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city","title":"Animals in the City, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page FAQ","quotes":["may be kept on any property."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The bylaw condition is written as a proviso to the small-lot exception in s. 66; the web page states a city-wide ban. Roosters are named in the definition of Poultry."},"coop_rules":{"label":"Coop rules","value":"At least 0.37 m² of enclosure per hen or duck. Any enclosure, portable or fixed, must meet the setbacks of the zone; in AR1 and AR2 zones animal pens and enclosures must be at least 15 m from all lot lines. Keep enclosures clean, dry and free of odours; no butchering on the property.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 66","quotes":["(d) a minimum Enclosure of .37m2 must be provided per hen or duck;","(e) any Enclosure containing hens or ducks, whether portable or stationary, must comply with","the setback requirements of the zone;","(f) Enclosures housing hens or ducks and the areas around them must be kept clean, dry,","(h) no butchering or euthanizing of hens or ducks occurs on the Property; and"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)","section":"Zoning Bylaw 4500 s. 8.5.2","quotes":["buildings, structures, cages, enclosures, runs or pens used for the keeping of animals, drinking or feeding troughs or manure piles shall not be located less than 15m from all lot lines."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"registration":{"label":"Permit or registration","value":null,"status":"none","note":"Nanaimo's bylaw and the City's page set no permit, licence or fee for keeping hens.","sources":[]},"bees":{"label":"Bees","value":"Allowed. On parcels under 0.4 ha: 1 hive (one hive box and no more than 2 nucs on top). On parcels over 0.4 ha: up to 3 hives per 0.4 ha. Hives at least 7.5 m from neighbours unless behind a solid fence or hedge at least 1.83 m high with the entrance facing away; water within 1 m; keeper must be registered under the Bee Act.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 56-58","quotes":["No Person shall keep or harbour bees in excess of 1 beehive, consisting of no more than 1 hive","box and 2 nucs on top, on any parcel of land under .4 hectares.","3 beehives, consisting of no more than 1 hive box and 2 nucs per hive, per .4 hectares.","Apiaries shall not be located within 7.5 meters of an adjacent property line unless:","Every Person keeping Bees must be registered under the Bee Act, RSBC 1996, Chapter"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"other_livestock":{"label":"Other livestock","value":"Livestock (goats, horses, alpaca, sheep, swine) may be kept only on property zoned for it; the Zoning Bylaw permits Agriculture in the AR1 and AR2 zones, with animal pens at least 15 m from all lot lines. Not in a dwelling unit; no grazing on unfenced land unless tethered. Rabbits: pens 3 m from property lines, sterilized.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"ss. 69-73, 2 (Livestock)","quotes":["No Person shall keep any Livestock on any property, within the City, other than property zoned","for such uses in the City’s Zoning Bylaw.","cows, donkeys, emus, goats, horses, llamas, mules, ostriches, sheep,","situated at least 3 metres away from each Property line.","(b) 4 Hook Bill Birds, chinchillas, domestic ferrets, hedgehogs, Rabbits, sugar gliders, or","A Person must not keep any Rabbit which is not Sterilized."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)","section":"Zoning Bylaw 4500 s. 8.2.1, 8.5.2","quotes":["Agriculture P P Roadside stands for agriculture or horticulture products grown on the lot are permitted","shall not be located less than 15m from all lot lines."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316; enclosure setbacks come from the Zoning Bylaw No. 4500.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)","section":"title","quotes":["City of Nanaimo Zoning Bylaw No. 4500"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":8,"stated":7,"matched":7,"none":1,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nChickens, bees and livestock in the City of Nanaimo are regulated by the [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) together with the Zoning Bylaw. Poultry may be kept on parcels over 0.4 hectares; on smaller residential parcels hens or ducks are allowed with conditions. The bylaw and the City's page set no permit, licence or fee for keeping hens.\n\n## Hens and ducks\n\n- Parcels under 0.045 hectares: up to 4 hens or ducks combined.\n- Parcels from 0.045 to under 0.4 hectares: up to 6.\n- Parcels over 0.4 hectares: the bylaw sets no hen cap, so the general 12-animal limit applies unless agriculture is a permitted use.\n- No roosters, cockerels or peafowl on the smaller parcels (under 0.4 hectares) where hens are kept under this exception.\n- At least 0.37 m² of enclosure per bird. The enclosure must meet the zone's setbacks, and be kept clean, dry and free of odours.\n- Not inside a dwelling, on a balcony or deck, or in a cage except to transport.\n- No butchering on the property.\n\n## Bees\n\n- Lots under 0.4 hectares: 1 hive (one hive box and no more than 2 nucs on top). Larger lots: up to 3 hives per 0.4 hectares.\n- Hives at least 7.5 m from neighbours unless behind a solid fence or hedge at least 1.83 m high with the entrance facing away.\n- Water within 1 m, and the keeper must be registered under the Bee Act.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Livestock (goats, horses, alpaca, sheep, swine) only on property zoned for it. The Zoning Bylaw permits agriculture in the AR1 and AR2 zones, with animal pens at least 15 m from all lot lines. Not in a dwelling.\n- Rabbits: pens 3 m from property lines, and sterilized.\n- The City's Animals in the City page says 12 hens at 1 acre or more and describes the rooster ban as city-wide; the bylaw says otherwise, so confirm with Animal Control or Planning.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city","title":"Animals in the City, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-chickens/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-chickens.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-chickens.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo RV, boat and trailer parking rules","question":"Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard?","slug":"rv-boat-trailer-parking","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"parking-and-driving","name":"Parking, tickets and driving"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In Nanaimo no vehicle may stay on a street more than 24 hours without written permission, and a trailer may not be left on a street unhitched. On a single-dwelling lot, cars, RVs and boats combined are capped at four, or the number of spaces the Parking Bylaw requires if greater.","aliases":["park rv on street nanaimo","boat on driveway nanaimo","trailer parking bylaw nanaimo","overnight parking nanaimo","sleeping in vehicle nanaimo"],"cost":"Street tickets are $35 each (early $26.25, late $43.75). Zoning tickets for RVs, boats or too many vehicles on a lot are $200 (early $150, late $250).","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Bylaw Information","value":"250-755-4422","note":"Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m."},{"type":"email","label":"Bylaw Information","value":"bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 5000 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf"},{"title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf"}],"related":[],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"}],"topic":{"title":"RV, boat and trailer parking rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"},"facts":{"on_street":{"label":"On the street","value":"No vehicle may be parked on any street for more than 24 hours continuously without written permission of the General Manager, Engineering and Public Works. A trailer may not be left on a street without its towing vehicle attached. A vehicle left apparently unattended on a public road for more than 72 hours may be moved or impounded (s. 16). Parking to take up overnight abode is not allowed on any part of a street.","short":"24 hours without written permission","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf","title":"Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000 (PDF)","section":"s. 4(21), (37), (39)","quotes":["On any highway for a continuous period exceeding 24 hours, without","first obtaining the written permission of the General Manager,","A trailer on any portion of a highway without the motive power unit attached.","Upon any portion of a highway for the purpose of taking up overnight abode.","may move or cause to be moved a vehicle, or seize,","detain or impound a vehicle","the vehicle is left apparently unattended on a highway, public place, or other public right-","of-way for a period exceeding 72 hours."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"on_property":{"label":"On your property","value":"On a lot with a single residential dwelling, the combined total of motor vehicles, recreational vehicles and recreational boats parked or stored is at most four, or the number of parking spaces the Parking Bylaw requires, whichever is greater. No commercial boats, and no commercial vehicle over 8,600 kg gross weight, on residential lots. No more than two unlicensed motor vehicles on any lot.","short":"Max 4 vehicles, RVs and boats combined (or required spaces)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF)","section":"ss. 6.12.1-6.12.4","quotes":["a) Where the principal use is single residential dwelling, the maximum total combined","number of motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, and recreational boats parked or","stored on a lot shall be: four, or an amount equal to the number of parking spaces","required by the Parking Bylaw, whichever is greater; and","No lot zoned residential shall be used for the parking, storage or repair of commercial boats.","more than two unlicensed motor vehicles"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"living_in":{"label":"Living in an RV","value":"Not on a street: parking to take up overnight abode is prohibited. On a residential lot: sleeping in an RV is allowed only (a) during construction of a single dwelling while the building permit is in good standing, or (b) for non-paying guests of the owner or occupant for up to 42 days in a calendar year. RVs may not be rented. Tents, tarps and other temporary shelters for sleeping or camping are prohibited on any property.","short":"No on street; lot only while building or guests 42 days","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf","title":"Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000 (PDF)","section":"s. 4(37)","quotes":["Upon any portion of a highway for the purpose of taking up overnight abode."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF)","section":"ss. 6.7.7-6.7.8","quotes":["Temporary accommodation within a recreational vehicle is permitted during the","construction of a single residential dwelling provided a building permit has been issued for","for non-paying guests of the owner or occupant of a single residential dwelling on the lot, provided such","use does not exceed 42 days in the calendar year."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf","title":"Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (PDF)","section":"Property Maintenance Bylaw s. 7","quotes":["erect or occupy a temporary","shelter for the purposes of transitory, short-term, interim or permanent lodging"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"Parked over 24 hours (s. 4(21)), overnight abode (4(37)), trailer without towing vehicle (4(39)): $35 each (early $26.25, late $43.75). Zoning: unlawful RV occupation (6.7.7), RV occupation over 42 days (6.7.8), too many vehicles on a lot (6.12.3), commercial boat (6.12.4): $200 (early $150, late $250).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Traffic and Highways / Zoning","quotes":["4(21) Parked over 24 hours 35.00 26.25 43.75","4(37) Park taking up overnight abode 35.00 26.25 43.75","4(39) Park trailer without power unit attached 35.00 26.25 43.75","6.7.7 Unlawful Occupation of Recreational 200.00 150.00 250.00","6.7.8 Occupy Recreational Vehicle Exceeding 200.00 150.00 250.00","6.12.3 Exceed Number of Vehicles Permitted 200.00 150.00 250.00","6.12.4 Commercial Boat Not Permitted 200.00 150.00 250.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000 (street parking); Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (lots); Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (temporary shelters).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf","title":"Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000 (PDF)","section":"title","quotes":["TRAFFIC AND HIGHWAYS REGULATION BYLAW 1993 NO. 5000"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF)","section":"title","quotes":["City of Nanaimo Zoning Bylaw No. 4500"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":5,"stated":5,"matched":5,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe City of Nanaimo has no web page on RV or boat parking, so the rules come from the [Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf) for streets and the [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) for private lots. No RV- or boat-specific street rule was found. Posted signs and time limits may be stricter.\n\n## On the street\n\n- No vehicle may be parked on a street more than 24 hours continuously without written permission of the General Manager, Engineering and Public Works.\n- A trailer may not be left on a street without its towing vehicle attached.\n- Parking to take up overnight abode (sleeping or living in it) is not allowed on any part of a street.\n- A vehicle left apparently unattended on a public road for more than 72 hours may be moved or impounded.\n\n## On your lot\n\n- A lot with a single residential dwelling: motor vehicles, recreational vehicles and recreational boats parked or stored total at most four, or the number of parking spaces the Parking Bylaw requires, whichever is greater. For multiple-family lots of up to four units the limit is three per principal dwelling unit.\n- No commercial boats and no commercial vehicle over 8,600 kg gross weight on residential lots. No more than two unlicensed motor vehicles on any lot.\n- A recreational vehicle is a camper, travel trailer, fifth wheel or motor home up to 2.6 m wide. No size limit for an RV or boat on a residential lot was found.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Sleeping in an RV on a residential lot is allowed only during construction of a single dwelling while the building permit is in good standing, or for non-paying guests of the owner or occupant for up to 42 days in a calendar year. RVs may not be rented.\n- Tents, tarps and other temporary shelters for sleeping or camping are prohibited on any property under the [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf).\n- Tickets: $35 for parking over 24 hours, overnight abode, or a trailer without its towing vehicle. $200 for unlawful RV occupation, RV occupation over 42 days, too many vehicles on a lot, or a commercial boat.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf","title":"Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf","title":"Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/rv-boat-trailer-parking/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines","question":"What are the noise rules and quiet hours?","slug":"noise-rules","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"bylaws-and-complaints","name":"Bylaws, noise and complaints"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In the City of Nanaimo, amplified sound clearly audible in a residential area is a disturbance between 11 p.m. and 9 a.m. Construction is not allowed before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m., Monday to Saturday (9 a.m. on Sundays and statutory holidays). The ticket is $100.","aliases":["nanaimo noise bylaw","quiet hours nanaimo","construction hours nanaimo","noisy neighbours nanaimo","lawnmower hours nanaimo"],"cost":"Ticket $100; $75 if paid early; $125 if paid late (Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 7159).","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Bylaw Regulation and Security","value":"250-755-4422","note":"Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; after-hours calls are assigned for the next business day"},{"type":"email","label":"Bylaw Information","value":"bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca"},{"type":"phone","label":"Nanaimo Animal Control Services (dog noise)","value":"250-616-0233"},{"type":"phone","label":"Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency (criminal activity, risk of harm)","value":"250-754-2345"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Noise Bylaw page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw"},{"title":"Noise Control Bylaw 4750 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf"},{"title":"Noise Bylaw Exemption","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw/noise-bylaw-exemption"}],"related":[{"slug":"bylaw-fines","title":"Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/noise-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/noise-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/noise-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/noise-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/noise-rules/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/noise-rules/"}],"topic":{"title":"Noise bylaws in British Columbia: quiet hours, construction hours and fines by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/noise-rules/"},"facts":{"general_rule":{"label":"General rule","value":"No one may make, cause or permit noise or sound, on a highway or elsewhere, in a private or public place, that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the neighbourhood or people nearby.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","section":"s. 3","quotes":["No person shall make, cause or permit to be made any noise or sound in or on a","highway or elsewhere, in a private or public place, in the Municipality, which disturbs or","tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the","neighbourhood or of persons in the vicinity."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"quiet_hours":{"label":"Quiet hours","value":"Amplified sound (radio, stereo, TV or other sound equipment) clearly audible at a point of reception in a residential area between 11 p.m. and 9 a.m. is listed as a disturbance. Lawnmowers and rototillers not before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m.; loading, unloading and handling refuse or materials in residential areas not before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m.","short":"None set; amplified sound banned 11 p.m. to 9 a.m.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","section":"s. 4(1)(a), (f), (g)","quotes":["where the noise or sound is clearly audible at a point of reception in a residential","area between the hours of 11:00 p.m. one day and 9:00 a.m. the following day.","Using a lawnmower or rototiller before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.","before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. in any residential area."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw","title":"Noise Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Please note that the playing or operation of any amplified sound at a level or in a manner that unreasonably disturbs your neighbors at any time of the day is also prohibited."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"construction_hours":{"label":"Construction hours","value":"Not allowed before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m., Monday to Saturday, nor before 9 a.m. or after 9 p.m. on Sundays and statutory holidays. Blasting and drilling or compressor work to prepare for blasting: only 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, never on Sundays or statutory holidays.","short":"Mon-Sat 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","section":"s. 4(1)(e), (h)","quotes":["before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m., Monday to","Saturday and before 9:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m., on Sundays and Statutory","before 7:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m.,","Monday to Saturday and at all times on Sundays and Statutory Holidays."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw","title":"Noise Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["before 7:00 am or after 9:00 pm, Monday to Saturday and before 9:00 am or after 9:00 pm on Sundays or Statutory Holidays."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"other_limits":{"label":"Other limits","value":"No decibel limit found. Also listed as disturbances: vehicles (not buses or trucks) audible beyond 150 m; idling a diesel engine, truck or bus over 15 minutes in one place; animals that persistently cry, bark or howl. Exempt: emergency vehicles, warning horns, utilities and government work, church bells, authorized parades and festivals, and certain deliveries or moving. The City says industrial-zone hours are not restricted. Dogs: see Animal Responsibility Bylaw s. 88 (15 minutes in any 60).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","section":"s. 4(1), s. 5","quotes":["Being in the care or control of any vehicle, except for buses and trucks, which","creates or emits a noise or sound which is audible beyond 150 metres in any","Idling or continuously running of a diesel engine, a truck or bus for more than 15","Harbouring or keeping any animal or bird which persistently cries, barks, or howls.","Police, Fire Department or Emergency vehicles when engaged upon a service of"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw","title":"Noise Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["The hours of operation of industrial zoned properties are not restricted or regulated"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"contact_day":{"label":"Who to call, business hours","value":"Bylaw, Regulation and Security, 250-755-4422, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays; bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca. Barking dogs: Nanaimo Animal Control, 250-616-0233.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw","title":"Noise Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["please contact the Bylaw, Regulation and Security at 250-755-4422 to register a complaint between 8 am and 4:30 pm weekdays.","Animal related incidents and noise from dogs should be reported to Nanaimo Animal Control Services at 250-616-0233."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"contact_after_hours":{"label":"Who to call, after hours","value":"No after-hours noise line is listed. After-hours calls to 250-755-4422 are assigned to a Bylaw Enforcement Officer for investigation on the next business day. If the noise involves unlawful or criminal activity with risk of harm, call the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345; in an emergency, call 911.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw","title":"Noise Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["After hours calls will be assigned to a Bylaw Enforcement Officer for investigation on the next business day.","contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345. In the case of an emergency, call 911."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"$100 (early payment $75, late payment $125) for noise causing disturbance (s. 3). The bylaw's own ticket schedule also sets $100 for objectionable noise (s. 4(2)).","short":"$100 ($75 if paid early)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Noise Control Bylaw","quotes":["3 Noise causing disturbance 100.00 75.00 125.00"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","section":"Schedule B","quotes":["Noise causing disturbance 3 $100.00","Objectionable noise 4(2) $100.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["City of Nanaimo \"NOISE CONTROL BYLAW 1994 NO. 4750\"."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":8,"stated":8,"matched":8,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) bans noise, in a private or public place, that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the neighbourhood or people nearby. It also lists specific disturbances with set hours. The bylaw sets no decibel limit.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Amplified sound (radio, stereo, TV or other sound equipment) clearly audible in a residential area is a disturbance between 11 p.m. and 9 a.m.\n- Construction is not allowed before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m., Monday to Saturday, or before 9 a.m. or after 9 p.m. on Sundays and statutory holidays.\n- Blasting, and drilling or compressor work to prepare for it, is allowed only 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday, never on Sundays or statutory holidays.\n- Lawnmowers and rototillers: not before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m. Loading, unloading and handling refuse or materials in residential areas: same hours.\n- Also listed as disturbances: vehicles (other than buses or trucks) audible beyond 150 m, idling a diesel engine, truck or bus over 15 minutes in one place, and animals that persistently cry, bark or howl. For dogs, the Animal Responsibility Bylaw uses 15 minutes in any 60.\n- Exempt: emergency vehicles, warning horns, utilities and government work, church bells, authorized parades and festivals, and certain deliveries or moving. The City says industrial-zone hours are not restricted, and extraordinary construction projects authorized by the Managing Director of Public Works are exempt.\n- To complain, call Bylaw Regulation and Security, or Animal Control for barking dogs. No after-hours noise line is listed. If the noise involves unlawful or criminal activity with a risk of harm, call the RCMP at 250-754-2345; in an emergency call 911.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw","title":"Noise Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo unsightly property rules and how to report","question":"How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property?","slug":"unsightly-property","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"bylaws-and-complaints","name":"Bylaws, noise and complaints"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Report an unsightly or overgrown property in Nanaimo to Bylaw Regulation and Security at 250-755-4422 or bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca. The Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 7242 covers rubbish, graffiti, standing water, noxious weeds and overgrowth.","aliases":["overgrown lot nanaimo","messy yard bylaw nanaimo","property maintenance bylaw nanaimo","blackberry bylaw nanaimo","nuisance property nanaimo"],"cost":"Ticket $150 for most offences; $200 for graffiti or obstructing an officer. Early payment $112.50 and $150 (Bylaw 7159).","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Bylaw Regulation and Security","value":"250-755-4422","note":"Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m."},{"type":"email","label":"Bylaw Information","value":"bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca"},{"type":"online","label":"Bylaw Complaint Form","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/how-to-make-a-bylaw-complaint"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Unsightly Property Bylaw page","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/unsightly-property-bylaw"},{"title":"Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 7242 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf"},{"title":"Nuisance Abatement and Cost Recovery Bylaw 7250 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7250.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"bylaw-fines","title":"Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines/"},{"slug":"noise-rules","title":"Nanaimo noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/unsightly-property/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/unsightly-property/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/unsightly-property/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/unsightly-property/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/unsightly-property/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/unsightly-property/"}],"topic":{"title":"Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property/"},"facts":{"what_counts":{"label":"What counts","value":"Owners and occupiers must not let rubbish (garbage, discarded items, derelict vehicles and boats, yard waste piles) collect or overflow a container, let water accumulate, or let graffiti stay visible from a neighbouring property or public place. They must remove noxious weeds (Himalayan blackberry, English ivy, Canada thistle, giant hogweed, knotweed, Scotch broom), nuisance brush or overgrowth, and tent caterpillar or fall webworm infestations. Temporary shelters (tents, tarps) for sleeping or camping are not allowed.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf","title":"Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (PDF)","section":"ss. 4-7","quotes":["cause or permit rubbish to collect or accumulate on or around lands or buildings","cause or permit graffiti to accumulate or remain on any fence, surface, or structure","which is visible from an adjacent property or public place.","remove from the entire property all noxious weeds and all brush or overgrowth","infestations of tent caterpillars and fall web worm.","Himalayan blackberries, English ivy, Canada thistle, giant","erect or occupy a temporary","shelter for the purposes of transitory, short-term, interim or permanent lodging"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"how_to_report":{"label":"How to report","value":"Contact the Bylaw, Regulation and Security Division between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays: 250-755-4422, fax 250-755-4432, bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/unsightly-property-bylaw","title":"Unsightly Property Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Should you wish to report an unsightly property, please contact us between 8:00am and 4:30pm weekdays at:","Bylaw, Regulation and Security Division 250-755-4422"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"process":{"label":"What happens next","value":"A bylaw officer investigates; if the complaint is verified, a letter directs the owner to fix it. If not done within 21 days of the letter (and no appeal), the City or its agents may enter and do the work. The owner can appeal in writing to the Corporate Officer within 14 days of the letter; no action until Council decides. Costs are billed to the owner as a debt; unpaid by December 31, they are added to property taxes.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf","title":"Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (PDF)","section":"s. 8","quotes":["a letter may be issued directing the property owner to rectify the contravention.","Where, after the expiry of 21 days from the date of the letter, the property owner","has failed to comply with the requirements set out in the letter and has not","prior to the expiration of 14 days from the date of the letter directing that the","recoverable as a debt.","If the costs are unpaid by December 31st in the same year, the costs will be added"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"Rubbish, standing water, overflowing containers, or construction waste: $150 (early $112.50, late $187.50). Graffiti: $200 (early $150, late $250). Failing to clear noxious weeds or overgrowth, remove infestation, or allowing temporary shelter: $150. Obstructing an officer: $200.","short":"$150 ($112.50 early, $187.50 late)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Property Maintenance Bylaw","quotes":["4.1 Cause or permit rubbish to collect 150.00 112.50 187.50","4.5 Cause or permit graffiti to accumulate 200.00 150.00 250.00","5.1 Fail to clear noxious weeds, brush or 150.00 112.50 187.50","7.1 Allow temporary shelter 150.00 112.50 187.50"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf","title":"Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["This Bylaw may be cited as “PROPERTY MAINTENANCE AND STANDARDS BYLAW","2017 NO. 7242”."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":5,"stated":5,"matched":5,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nUnder the [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf), owners and occupiers in the City of Nanaimo must not let rubbish (garbage, discarded items, derelict vehicles and boats, yard waste piles) collect or overflow a container, let water accumulate, or leave graffiti visible from a neighbouring property or public place. They must remove noxious weeds (Himalayan blackberry, English ivy, Canada thistle, giant hogweed, knotweed, Scotch broom), nuisance brush or overgrowth, and tent caterpillar or fall webworm infestations. Tents or tarps used as sleeping or camping shelters are not allowed.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Contact Bylaw Regulation and Security (weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) by phone at 250-755-4422 or at bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca, with the address and what you see.\n2. A bylaw officer investigates. If the complaint is verified, a letter directs the owner to fix it.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- The owner can appeal in writing to the Corporate Officer within 14 days of the letter; no action is taken until Council decides.\n- If the work is not done within 21 days of the letter and there is no appeal, the City or its agents may enter and do it.\n- The City bills the owner as a debt. Costs unpaid by December 31 are added to property taxes.\n- Tickets: $150 for rubbish, standing water, overflowing containers, construction waste, uncleared weeds or overgrowth, infestations, or temporary shelters (early $112.50, late $187.50). Graffiti is $200 (early $150, late $250), as is obstructing an officer.\n- Demolition or construction waste counts only where a building permit has been issued.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/unsightly-property-bylaw","title":"Unsightly Property Bylaw, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf","title":"Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/unsightly-property/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/unsightly-property.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/unsightly-property.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo backyard fire and burning rules","question":"Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste?","slug":"backyard-fire","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"bylaws-and-complaints","name":"Bylaws, noise and complaints"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"In the City of Nanaimo, backyard fires are allowed only for cooking (no permit needed). Burning yard waste needs a free permit and is limited to lots of 1 acre or more, or Protection Island, on Fridays and Saturdays in April and November. No fires are allowed during a provincial fire ban.","aliases":["burn permit nanaimo","fire pit nanaimo","campfire bylaw nanaimo","open burning nanaimo","beach fire nanaimo"],"cost":"No fee for the yard-waste open burning permit \"at this time\". Special event fire permit $50; ceremonial fire permit no fee.","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"online","label":"Open Burning Permit Application","value":"https://forms.office.com/r/tR0AMN4C2R?origin=lprLink","note":"Only open the month before burning is allowed"},{"type":"phone","label":"Nanaimo Fire Rescue (burn permits)","value":"250-753-7311","note":"Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m."}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations"},{"title":"Burning Regulation Quick Guide (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/fire-rescue/burning-regulation-quick-guide.pdf"},{"title":"Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 7108 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf"},{"title":"Coastal Fire Centre bans and restrictions (gov.bc.ca)","url":"https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/fire-bans-and-restrictions/coastal-fire-centre-bans"}],"related":[{"slug":"fireworks","title":"Nanaimo fireworks rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fireworks/"},{"slug":"yard-waste","title":"Nanaimo yard waste collection and drop-off","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/yard-waste/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/backyard-fire/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/backyard-fire/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/backyard-fire/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/backyard-fire/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/backyard-fire/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/backyard-fire/"}],"topic":{"title":"Backyard fire and burning rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-fire/"},"facts":{"campfires":{"label":"Backyard campfires","value":"Backyard cooking fires on private property need no permit if solely for cooking food, contained in a device or barrier no more than 24 inches across, burning only clean dry wood or pressed wood/briquettes, lasting no more than 2 hours, and no Provincial fire ban is in effect. Any fire not for cooking is prohibited. Beach fires and fires in City parks are prohibited.","short":"Cooking fires only, no permit, up to 24 inches","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations","title":"Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Within the City of Nanaimo residents are permitted to have backyard cooking fires on their private property, without a permit.","The cooking fire device or barrier does NOT exceed 24 inches in diameter.","The fire duration is not more than 2 hours.","Any fire that is ignited without the purpose of cooking food is prohibited and may result with a fine.","Beach fires within the City of Nanaimo are prohibited."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf","title":"Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (PDF)","section":"s. 30(7)","quotes":["Permit requirements shall not apply to outdoor cooking fires, provided the fire is","contained to a device or fixture designed for containing the fire and not exceeding","24 inches in diameter."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/fire-rescue/burning-regulation-quick-guide.pdf","title":"Outdoor Burning Regulation Quick Guide (PDF), City of Nanaimo","section":"Quick guide","quotes":["Camp Fires - see requirements"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"The Quick Guide lists \"Camp Fires\" and \"Fire Pits - see requirements\" as permitted on private property, while the Burning Regulations page says any fire not for cooking is prohibited. The bylaw only exempts cooking fires. Cooking-fire requirements followed."},"open_burning":{"label":"Burning yard waste","value":"Only organic yard waste (garden refuse, pruning, wood branches), by permit, on lots of 1 acre or more or on Protection Island. Only Fridays and Saturdays, sunrise to sunset, in April and November. One burn pile, no more than 1.5 m across, at least 3 m from combustibles, hand-fed, with a competent person attending. Burn barrels and other burn piles (Quick Guide), construction material, stumps, land-clearing debris and household garbage may not be burned.","short":"Only with a permit, lots of 1 acre or more; Apr and Nov","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations","title":"Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["During the months of April and November only, residents can obtain an Open Burning permit (no fee at this time) for one (1) burn pile, provided that the burn pile is on a lot that is one (1) acre in size or greater OR the lot is located on Protection Island.","Burning is only permitted from sunrise to sunset, Fridays and Saturdays only, during the months of April and November."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/fire-rescue/burning-regulation-quick-guide.pdf","title":"Outdoor Burning Regulation Quick Guide (PDF), City of Nanaimo","section":"Quick guide","quotes":["Outdoor Woodstoves Burn Barrels Burn Piles"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf","title":"Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (PDF)","section":"s. 30(3), (5), (6)","quotes":["except on Fridays and Saturdays from sunrise to sunset during the","maintain an Open Burning fire greater than one and half (1.5) metres","locate an Open Burning fire less than three (3) metres from any","No person shall cause, allow or permit open burning of construction materials,"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"permit":{"label":"Permit","value":"Yes. An open burning permit is required for yard-waste burning; no fee at this time. Apply online (form open only the month before burning is allowed) or call Nanaimo Fire Rescue at 250-753-7311, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Special event fire permit $50; ceremonial (religious or cultural) fire permit no fee. No permit needed for cooking fires.","short":"Yes for yard-waste burning, no fee","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations","title":"Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["a permit can be obtained by calling the Nanaimo Fire Rescue Department at 250-753-7311","While there is a fee of $50.00 associated with a burn permit for special events, there is no fee for religious and cultural ceremony burn permits.","There is currently no permit or charge required for this type of fire."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf","title":"Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (PDF)","section":"s. 29(2)","quotes":["No person shall ignite any Open Burning fire or cause or permit any Open Burning","fire to be ignited at any time unless the person first obtains a Burning Permit."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fire_bans":{"label":"Fire bans","value":"During a Provincially declared fire or burning ban, no fires are permitted. The Fire Chief may also ban all open burning when adverse atmospheric conditions stop smoke dispersing. Check Coastal Fire Centre bans and restrictions (gov.bc.ca) and the Provincial Venting Index before burning.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations","title":"Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["NOTE: During a Provincially declared Fire/Burning ban - NO FIRES ARE PERMITTED","Check the latest updates here:","Coastal Fire Centre Bans and Restrictions – Gov.bc.ca"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf","title":"Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (PDF)","section":"s. 29(3)","quotes":["the Fire Chief may","impose a general ban on all Open Burning for the duration of the said adverse"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"alternatives":{"label":"Instead of burning","value":"Green Cart (organics) collects food waste and yard waste (not branches) weekly. Yard waste can also be taken to the Regional District of Nanaimo Regional Landfill or Church Road Transfer Station.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (consolidated 2025-DEC-15)","section":"Bylaw 7128 s. 2","quotes":["means a mixture of both food waste and yard waste"]},{"url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items","title":"Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo","section":"RDN banned items","quotes":["Yard Waste | Accepted | Accepted"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"$200 (early $150, late $250) for open burning without a permit, burning outside permitted times, burning during a general fire ban, a fire too large, too close to combustibles, not hand-fed, burning prohibited materials, or leaving a fire unattended.","short":"$200 ($150 early, $250 late)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw","quotes":["29(2) Open burning fire without permit 200.00 150.00 250.00","29(3) Burning contrary to general fire ban 200.00 150.00 250.00","30(3) Open burning outside permitted times 200.00 150.00 250.00","30(7) Fire unattended 200.00 150.00 250.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (Part 6, Burning Permits).","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf","title":"Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (PDF)","section":"title","quotes":["FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY REGULATION BYLAW 2011 NO. 7108"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":7,"stated":7,"matched":7,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nUnder the [Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf), the City of Nanaimo allows two kinds of backyard fire, and prohibits any fire that is not for cooking. Fires on beaches and in City parks are prohibited.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Cooking fire: no permit. It must be solely for cooking food, in a device or barrier no more than 24 inches across, burn only clean dry wood or pressed wood/briquettes, and last no more than 2 hours.\n2. Yard waste: your lot must be 1 acre or more, or on Protection Island. Apply online (the form opens the month before burning is allowed) or call Nanaimo Fire Rescue.\n3. Before any fire, check for a Provincial fire ban and the Provincial Venting Index.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Yard-waste burning is for organic garden refuse, pruning and wood branches only. Fridays and Saturdays, sunrise to sunset, in April and November.\n- One pile, no more than 1.5 m across, at least 3 m from combustibles, hand-fed, with a competent person attending.\n- Burn barrels, construction material, stumps, land-clearing debris and household garbage may not be burned.\n- The Fire Chief may ban all open burning when smoke will not disperse.\n- Alternative: the Green Cart collects food and yard waste (not branches) weekly. See the yard waste answer.\n- Ticket: $200 ($150 early, $250 late) for burning without a permit, outside permitted times, during a ban, or leaving a fire unattended, among others.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations","title":"Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/fire-rescue/burning-regulation-quick-guide.pdf","title":"Outdoor Burning Regulation Quick Guide (PDF), City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf","title":"Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf","title":"Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (consolidated 2025-DEC-15)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items","title":"Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-fire/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-fire.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-fire.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo fireworks rules","question":"Are fireworks allowed?","slug":"fireworks","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"bylaws-and-complaints","name":"Bylaws, noise and complaints"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"No. In the City of Nanaimo no one may light, discharge or possess fireworks without a Fireworks Permit from the Fire Chief, and no one may sell, give or trade them. There are no general dates or hours for residents. Tickets are $200.","aliases":["firecrackers nanaimo","halloween fireworks nanaimo","fireworks permit nanaimo","can i set off fireworks in nanaimo"],"cost":"Permit $100 per event, plus $100 per site inspection; $1,000 security deposit. Tickets $200 (selling, possessing or firing without a permit) or $100 (permit breaches).","how_long":"Apply to the Fire Chief at least 14 days before the event.","where":[{"type":"online","label":"Fireworks Permits and Info","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info"},{"type":"phone","label":"Nanaimo Fire Rescue","value":"250-753-7311","note":"Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m."}],"documents":["Valid Fireworks Supervisor's Certificate","Public liability insurance of $2,000,000","$1,000 security deposit","Fire safety plan","Property owner's permission"],"forms":[{"title":"Fireworks Permits and Info","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info"},{"title":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 7049 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"backyard-fire","title":"Nanaimo backyard fire and burning rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-fire/"},{"slug":"bylaw-fines","title":"Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/fireworks/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/fireworks/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/fireworks/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/fireworks/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/fireworks/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/fireworks/"}],"topic":{"title":"Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks/"},"facts":{"use":{"label":"Setting off fireworks","value":"No. No one may light or discharge fireworks in Nanaimo without a valid Fireworks Permit issued by the Fire Chief, and possession without a permit is also prohibited. There are no general dates or hours for residents to set off consumer fireworks.","short":"No, without a Fireworks Permit","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf","title":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049 (PDF)","section":"ss. 5-6","quotes":["No person shall explode, light, activate, fire or discharge Fireworks within the boundaries","unless that person holds a valid Fireworks Permit issued under this bylaw."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info","title":"Fireworks Permits and Info, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Without a Fireworks permit, fireworks are NOT permitted within the City of Nanaimo."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"sale":{"label":"Selling fireworks","value":"No. No one may offer for sale, sell, give or trade fireworks within the City.","short":"No","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf","title":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049 (PDF)","section":"s. 4","quotes":["No person shall offer for sale, sell, give, or trade Fireworks within the boundaries of the City."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"what_counts":{"label":"What counts as fireworks","value":"\"Fireworks\" means all fireworks classified Class 7 under the federal Explosives Regulation. It does not include sparklers, Christmas crackers, caps for toy guns, certain model rocket engines, or highway flares and small distress signals.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf","title":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049 (PDF)","section":"Schedule A","quotes":["means all of those fireworks classified as \"Class 7\" in the Explosives","Regulation (Canada), C.R.C., c.599","but does not include sparklers, Christmas crackers,"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"permit":{"label":"Permit","value":"Apply to the Fire Chief at least 14 days before the event. Fee $100 per event (plus $100 per site inspection). Needs a valid Fireworks Supervisor's Certificate, $2,000,000 public liability insurance, a $1,000 security deposit, a fire safety plan and property owner permission. The Fire Chief may discount the fee 90% for City-sponsored events and certain not-for-profit events.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf","title":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049 (PDF)","section":"ss. 13-14, Schedule B","quotes":["Every application for a Fireworks Permit shall be made to the Fire Chief at least 14 days","in the amount of $1,000, to be used for the purposes of paying any costs and expenses incurred","not less than two million dollars","(d) proof of a valid Fireworks Supervisor’s Certificate;","Fireworks permit 7 $100.00 per event","Site inspection 12 $100.00 per inspection","Permit Fee may be discounted by the Fire Chief by ninety percent (90%)"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info","title":"Fireworks Permits and Info, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["A fireworks permit must be obtained at the discretion of the Fire Chief or their delegates in order to discharge any fireworks"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"$200 (early $150, late $250) for selling, possessing without a permit, or discharging without a permit. $100 (early $75, late $125) for not following the permit, not supervising, or failing to present the permit.","short":"$200 ($150 early) for no permit","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A, Fireworks Regulation Bylaw","quotes":["4 Sell fireworks 200.00 150.00 250.00","5 Possess without permit 200.00 150.00 250.00","6 Discharge fireworks without permit 200.00 150.00 250.00","8(b) Not in accordance with permit 100.00 75.00 125.00"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf","title":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049 (PDF)","section":"Schedule B","quotes":["Selling fireworks 4 $200.00","Not in accordance with permit 8 (b) $100.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf","title":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049 (PDF)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["This bylaw may be cited as the \"FIREWORKS REGULATION BYLAW 2007 No. 7049\""]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) bars anyone from lighting or discharging fireworks in Nanaimo without a valid permit issued by the Fire Chief. Possession without a permit is also prohibited, and no one may offer for sale, sell, give or trade fireworks in the City. \"Fireworks\" means those classified Class 7 under the federal Explosives Regulation. It does not include sparklers, Christmas crackers, caps for toy guns, certain model rocket engines, or highway flares and small distress signals.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Apply to the Fire Chief at least 14 days before the event.\n2. Have a valid Fireworks Supervisor's Certificate, $2,000,000 public liability insurance, a fire safety plan and the property owner's permission.\n3. Pay the $100 permit fee and the $1,000 security deposit. A site inspection is a further $100.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- The Fire Chief may discount the fee 90% for City-sponsored events and certain not-for-profit events.\n- If Fire Rescue attendance is required, it is charged at $250 per hour for equipment and $65 per hour per person, plus 10%.\n- Tickets: $200 ($150 early, $250 late) for selling, possessing or discharging without a permit. $100 ($75 early, $125 late) for not following the permit, not supervising, or failing to present the permit.\n- The maximum court fine is $10,000.\n- Sky lanterns are prohibited under the City's outdoor burning quick guide.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info","title":"Fireworks Permits and Info, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf","title":"Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fireworks/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fireworks.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fireworks.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work","question":"What are the common bylaw fines?","slug":"bylaw-fines","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"bylaws-and-complaints","name":"Bylaws, noise and complaints"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Nanaimo's bylaw tickets are set in Schedule A of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 7159. Examples: unleashed dog $100, noise $100, rubbish on property $150, parked over 24 hours $35. Paying within 14 days of receiving the notice earns a lower early-payment amount.","aliases":["nanaimo bylaw ticket amounts","bylaw fine schedule nanaimo","how much is a bylaw ticket nanaimo","nanaimo noise fine"],"cost":"Full penalty, early and late amounts differ by offence (for example $100, $75 and $125). Court fines can be much higher.","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"in_person","label":"Service and Resource Centre","value":"411 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 0E4"},{"type":"mail","label":"Bylaw Ticket Review Form by mail","value":"455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo"},{"type":"phone","label":"Bylaw Information","value":"250-755-4422"},{"type":"email","label":"Bylaw Information","value":"bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 7159 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf"},{"title":"Bylaw Tickets","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-tickets"}],"related":[{"slug":"noise-rules","title":"Nanaimo noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules/"},{"slug":"unsightly-property","title":"Nanaimo unsightly property rules and how to report","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/unsightly-property/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/bylaw-fines/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/bylaw-fines/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/bylaw-fines/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/bylaw-fines/"},{"place":"ca/bc/gibsons","name":"Gibsons","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gibsons/bylaw-fines/"},{"place":"ca/bc/north-cowichan","name":"North Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/north-cowichan/bylaw-fines/"}],"topic":{"title":"Bylaw tickets in British Columbia: early payment, late payment and disputes by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/bylaw-fines/"},"facts":{"how_tickets_work":{"label":"How tickets work","value":"Most bylaw offences are ticketed by bylaw notice under the Local Government Bylaw Notice Enforcement Act, using the penalties in Schedule A of the Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw. The Noise Control Bylaw and the Fireworks bylaw also carry their own fine schedules for Offence Act tickets.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"s. 4","quotes":["The bylaws and bylaw contraventions designated in Schedule “A” attached hereto and forming part of this bylaw may be dealt with by bylaw notice."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","section":"Noise bylaw s. 7","quotes":["if an information is laid by means of a ticket, in accordance with the","procedure set out in the Offence Act, a fine as stipulated in Schedule"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"example_fines":{"label":"Common fines","value":"Unleashed dog $100; unlicensed dog $125; noise $100; rubbish on property $150; parked over 24 hours $35; meter violation $30; garbage cart over 35 kg $100; watering breach $100 (Stage 1), $200 (Stage 2), $400 (Stage 4). Early and late payment amounts differ.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"Schedule A","quotes":["43 Unleashed dog $100.00 $ 75.00 $125.00","3 Noise causing disturbance 100.00 75.00 125.00","4.1 Cause or permit rubbish to collect 150.00 112.50 187.50","5(2) Meter violation 30.00 22.50 37.50","4(21) Parked over 24 hours 35.00 26.25 43.75","44(a) Water on day or time not permitted or 200.00 150.00 250.00","43(a) Water at time not permitted during Stage 1 100.00 125.00 75.00","46(a) Water lawns or boulevards during Stage 4 400.00 300.00 500.00"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"early_payment":{"label":"Paying early","value":"Yes. If the City receives payment within 14 days of the person receiving (or being presumed to receive) the notice, the lower Early Payment Penalty in Schedule A applies (for example $75 instead of $100).","short":"Lower amount if paid in 14 days (e.g. $75 vs $100)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"s. 5(2)","quotes":["If received by the City within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to","have received the notice, is the Early Payment Penalty set out in Schedule “A”."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"late_payment":{"label":"Paying late","value":"If paid more than 28 days after the notice was received or presumed received, the higher Late Payment Penalty in Schedule A applies (for example $125 instead of $100). A person may pay after 14 days but may not dispute after 14 days.","short":"Higher amount after 28 days (e.g. $125 vs $100)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"s. 5(3), 6(2)","quotes":["If more than 28 days after the person received or is presumed to have received","the bylaw notice, is subject to a late payment surcharge","but no person may dispute the notice after 14 days of receiving the bylaw"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"dispute":{"label":"Disputing a ticket","value":"Within 14 days of receiving the notice, pay it or request dispute. The City reviews first: submit the Bylaw Ticket Review Form online, by mail (455 Wallace Street) or in person (411 Dunsmuir Street). If you disagree with the review, you can go to adjudication (hearing with an independent adjudicator). Adjudicator cannot reduce the amount; if the ticket is upheld you pay an extra $25 fee and the full non-discounted amount. Paid tickets cannot be disputed.","short":"Within 14 days; extra $25 if upheld","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"ss. 6(1), 7(2)","quotes":["must, within 14 days of the date on which","Every person who is unsuccessful in a dispute adjudication in relation to a bylaw","must pay the City an additional fee of $25"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/dispute-parking-ticket-or-bylaw-violation","title":"Dispute Parking Ticket or Bylaw Violation, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["Parking Ticket or Bylaw Violation Review","Mail to: 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J6","a paid ticket or a ticket in collections cannot be reviewed."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-tickets/adjudication","title":"Adjudication, City of Nanaimo","section":"web page","quotes":["The adjudicator has no authority to reduce the ticket amount","There will be an additional $25 fee in the event the ticket is deemed valid. The ticket will also be due at the full non-discounted price."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","section":"title","quotes":["BYLAW NOTICE ENFORCEMENT BYLAW 2012 NO. 7159"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nMost offences in the City of Nanaimo are ticketed by bylaw notice under the Local Government Bylaw Notice Enforcement Act, using the penalties in Schedule A of the [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf). The Noise Control Bylaw and the Fireworks bylaw also carry their own fine schedules for Offence Act tickets. Court prosecution is also available, with maximum fines set in each bylaw (for example $50,000 in the Animal Responsibility, Property Maintenance and Waterworks bylaws).\n\n## Examples\n\nFull penalties from Schedule A:\n\n- Unleashed dog: $100. Unlicensed dog: $125.\n- Noise: $100.\n- Rubbish on property: $150.\n- Parked over 24 hours: $35. Meter violation: $30.\n- Garbage cart over 35 kg: $100.\n- Watering breach: $100 (Stage 1), $200 (Stage 2), $400 (Stage 4).\n\n## Good to know\n\n- If the City receives payment within 14 days of you receiving (or being presumed to receive) the notice, the lower early-payment amount applies (for example $75 instead of $100).\n- If paid more than 28 days after, the higher late amount applies (for example $125 instead of $100).\n- Within 14 days of receiving the notice, pay it or ask for a review. Submit the Bylaw Ticket Review Form online, by mail to 455 Wallace Street, or in person at 411 Dunsmuir Street. You may pay after 14 days but may not dispute.\n- If you disagree with the review, you can go to adjudication with an independent adjudicator, who cannot reduce the amount. If the ticket is upheld you pay an extra $25 fee and the full non-discounted amount. Paid tickets cannot be disputed.\n- The City review page counts the 14 days from when the ticket was issued; the bylaw counts from receipt, so act promptly.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf","title":"Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf","title":"Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/dispute-parking-ticket-or-bylaw-violation","title":"Dispute Parking Ticket or Bylaw Violation, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-tickets/adjudication","title":"Adjudication, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply","question":"Do I need a business licence in Nanaimo, and how do I get one?","slug":"business-licence","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"business","name":"Starting and running a business"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Yes. Any business in the City of Nanaimo needs a City business licence, including short-term rentals and non-profits that operate more than 12 days a year. Most pay $165 a year. Apply online or with a PDF form to Business Licensing (250-755-4482). Licences expire each December 31.","aliases":["business license nanaimo","nanaimo business licence application","renew business licence nanaimo","start a business nanaimo"],"cost":"Most businesses pay $165 a year ($50 for a non-profit or child care), pro-rated by quarter in the first year. Banks and credit unions pay $1,100. Fees are not refundable once issued.","how_long":"The City does not state a processing time. Zoning, Building Code, Fire Code, police, health, parks or provincial approvals may be needed first.","where":[{"type":"online","label":"General Business Licence application and Short-Term Rental application","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence"},{"type":"in_person","label":"Service and Resource Centre","value":"411 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 0E4"},{"type":"phone","label":"Business Licensing","value":"250-755-4482"},{"type":"email","label":"Business Licensing","value":"business.licence@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":[],"forms":[{"title":"Get a Business Licence (applications and payment options)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence"},{"title":"Business Licences","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences"},{"title":"Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf"}],"related":[{"slug":"home-based-business","title":"Nanaimo home-based business rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business/"},{"slug":"short-term-rental","title":"Nanaimo short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/short-term-rental/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/business-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/business-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/business-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/business-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/business-licence/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/business-licence/"}],"topic":{"title":"Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence/"},"facts":{"who_needs":{"label":"Who needs one","value":"Businesses, including non-profits that operate more than 12 days in a calendar year, and short-term rentals, need a City business licence. Businesses based outside Nanaimo that work in the city need a non-resident City licence or a valid Inter-Community Business Licence. A separate licence is needed for each location and each different business type.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences","title":"Business Licences, City of Nanaimo","section":"Business Licences","quotes":["Businesses, including non-profits that operate more than 12 days in a calendar year and short-term rentals, require a business licence to operate in the City of Nanaimo."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence","title":"Get a Business Licence, City of Nanaimo","section":"Get a Business Licence","quotes":["Businesses based outside Nanaimo that provide services or conduct work within the city must obtain either a non-resident City of Nanaimo business licence or a valid Inter-Community Business Licence issued by a participating municipality."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02)","section":"s. 3.1, 3.3, 3.4","quotes":["A separate City licence is required for each location where a business operates"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fee":{"label":"Fee","value":"Most businesses pay $165 a year; non-profits $50; child care $50; pubs and lounges $165; banks and credit unions $1,100. Mobile food vending, temporary businesses and some others have their own fees. New businesses are pro-rated by quarter for the first year (not temporary, special event or mobile food). Fees are not refundable once issued.","short":"$165 a year (most businesses)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"Business Licence Fees, Tables I to IV","quotes":["All other businesses $165.00","Non-profit organizations with non-profit status $50.00","Child Care $50.00","Cabaret/Lounge/Pub $165.00","Bank/Credit Union/Trust Co. $1,100.00"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02)","section":"s. 5.2, 6.2","quotes":["Business licence fees for new businesses starting after the first, second, and third","Business licence fees are not refundable after the licence has been issued."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"how_to_apply":{"label":"How to apply","value":"Apply online with the General Business Licence Application (or the Short-Term Rental application), or print a PDF form and submit by email, mail or in person at 411 Dunsmuir Street. Zoning, Building Code, Fire Code, police, health, parks or provincial approvals may be needed first. Check zoning with Planning before you sign a lease or buy.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence","title":"Get a Business Licence, City of Nanaimo","section":"Get a Business Licence","quotes":["The following applications can be submitted electronically:","Depending on the nature of your application, additional review and/or approval pertaining to zoning, Building Code, Fire Code, police, health, parks use or provincial requirements may be necessary before your business licence can be issued.","Before you purchase or sign a lease, please check with the Planning and Development Department first"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"renewal":{"label":"Renewal","value":"Licences expire December 31 each year (except special event and temporary licences). Invoices are usually mailed or emailed early in December, but you must renew by December 31 whether or not you get notice. A lapsed licence is terminated and needs a new application, with no pro-rated rate.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences","title":"Business Licences, City of Nanaimo","section":"Renew your business licence","quotes":["Business licences, except Special Event or Temporary licences, expire annually on December 31."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02)","section":"s. 9.1 to 9.3","quotes":["must ensure that their business licence is renewed annually by December 31st, whether notice is given by the City or not","If a licence is not renewed as required by this Bylaw, the licence shall be terminated"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"inter_community":{"label":"Inter-community licence","value":"Yes. A business with a fixed Nanaimo premises that works in other communities can add an Inter-Community Business Licence for $170 a year (no fee for non-profits). It covers the participating communities in the Province's Central Vancouver Island and Vancouver Island groups, such as Courtenay, Duncan, Parksville, Port Alberni, Victoria and Sooke; see gov.bc.ca/mobilebusinesslicence.","short":"Yes, $170 a year (free for non-profits)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/b7435.pdf","title":"Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw 2025 No. 7435 (PDF)","section":"s. 3.2, 4.1, 4.3","quotes":["The fee for an Inter-Community Business Licence is $170","A non-profit organization may obtain an Inter-Community Businesses and will not","is not an Excluded Business;"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence","title":"Get a Business Licence, City of Nanaimo","section":"Inter-community licences","quotes":["can purchase an inter-community business licence for an additional annual fee of $170"]},{"url":"https://www.gov.bc.ca/mobilebusinesslicence","title":"Mobile business licences, Province of British Columbia","section":"Partnerships and participating communities","quotes":["City of Nanaimo","Central Vancouver Island","City of Port Alberni"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"Carrying on a business with no licence: $250 ($187.50 if paid early, $312.50 if paid late). Failing to display the licence: $100.","short":"$250 ($187.50 if paid early)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)","section":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 schedule","quotes":["3.1 Carry on a business with no licence $250 $187.50 $312.50","13.1 Fail to display business licence $100 $75 $125"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":7,"stated":7,"matched":7,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe City of Nanaimo requires a business licence for businesses, including non-profits that operate more than 12 days in a calendar year, and for short-term rentals. A separate licence is needed for each location and each different business type. A business based outside Nanaimo that works in the city needs a non-resident City licence or a valid Inter-Community Business Licence. The [Business Licence Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) also exempts special events in City facilities or parks under an agreement with Parks, Recreation and Culture.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Check zoning with Planning before you sign a lease or buy.\n2. Get any approvals your business needs first: zoning, Building Code, Fire Code, police, health, parks or provincial.\n3. Apply online with the General Business Licence Application (or the Short-Term Rental application), or print a PDF form and submit it by email, mail or in person at 411 Dunsmuir Street.\n4. Pay before the licence is issued.\n5. Renew by December 31 each year, whether or not you get notice. Invoices are usually mailed or emailed early in December. A lapsed licence is terminated and needs a new application, with no pro-rated rate.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Other fees: pubs and lounges $165; food cart on private property $165, in public $165 (cart) or $365 (trailer or truck); temporary businesses range from $6 a day to $165.\n- Inter-Community Business Licence: a business with a fixed Nanaimo premises that works in other communities can add one for $170 a year (no fee for non-profits), on top of the Nanaimo fee. It covers participating communities in the Province's Central Vancouver Island and Vancouver Island groups; see gov.bc.ca/mobilebusinesslicence.\n- Carrying on a business without a licence is a $250 ticket ($187.50 if paid early, $312.50 if paid late). Failing to display the licence is $100. A court conviction can bring a fine up to $50,000.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences","title":"Business Licences, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence","title":"Get a Business Licence, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/b7435.pdf","title":"Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw 2025 No. 7435 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.gov.bc.ca/mobilebusinesslicence","title":"Mobile business licences, Province of British Columbia","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo home-based business rules","question":"Can I run a business from my home?","slug":"home-based-business","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"business","name":"Starting and running a business"},"owner":"municipal","owner_label":"Municipal","owner_body":{"name":"City of Nanaimo","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca"},"short_answer":"Yes. The City of Nanaimo allows home-based businesses in any dwelling unit or secondary suite, with a City business licence. Size, customer trips and non-resident staff are capped by the type of home you live in, and some uses (such as restaurants and auto body repair) are banned.","aliases":["home occupation nanaimo","home business rules nanaimo","work from home business licence","home-based business bylaw"],"cost":"The City's fee table has no separate home-based line; its general fee for \"all other businesses\" is $165 a year ($50 for non-profits).","how_long":null,"where":[{"type":"phone","label":"Business Licensing","value":"250-755-4482"},{"type":"email","label":"Business Licensing","value":"business.licence@nanaimo.ca"},{"type":"email","label":"Planning (zoning questions)","value":"planning@nanaimo.ca"}],"documents":["If you rent and customers will visit, a signed owner declaration"],"forms":[{"title":"Home-Based Business Regulations (Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.20) (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/home-based-business-regulations.pdf"},{"title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf"},{"title":"General Business Licence application","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence/new-business-licence-application"}],"related":[{"slug":"business-licence","title":"Nanaimo business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence/"},{"slug":"zoning-lookup","title":"Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/home-based-business/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/home-based-business/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/home-based-business/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/home-based-business/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/home-based-business/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/home-based-business/"}],"topic":{"title":"Home-based business rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/home-based-business/"},"facts":{"allowed":{"label":"Allowed","value":"Yes. A home-based business is permitted in any dwelling unit or secondary suite regardless of zoning, if it meets all of s. 6.20. It may also be in an accessory building (permanent structure) when the principal use is a single residential dwelling, and in a recreational vehicle in the R11 zone.","short":"Yes, in any dwelling unit regardless of zoning","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","section":"s. 6.20.1, 6.20.9","quotes":["A home-based business shall be permitted:","in any dwelling unit or secondary suite, regardless of zoning, provided it","meets all other applicable requirements of this section; and","the principal use on the subject property is a single residential dwelling;","the accessory building is a permanent structure."]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"licence":{"label":"Business licence","value":"Yes. At least one resident of the home must hold a business licence for the home-based business. The Fees and Charges Bylaw has no separate home-based line; its general fee for 'All other businesses' is $165 a year (non-profits $50).","short":"Yes: $165 a year (general fee)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","section":"s. 6.20.2","quotes":["At least one resident of the dwelling unit, secondary suite, or recreational vehicle must hold a business licence for the home-based business."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","section":"Business Licence Fees, Table IV","quotes":["All other businesses $165.00","Non-profit organizations with non-profit status $50.00"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences","title":"Business Licences, City of Nanaimo","section":"Types of business licences","quotes":["Home-Based - A business that operates within a dwelling unit or within an accessory building located on the same property as where the operator resides"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"limits":{"label":"Limits","value":"Type 1 (multi-family unit, suite, mobile or modular home, RV, float home, or house on a lot under 370 m²): 42 m² or 50% of the unit, no client trips, no non-resident employees. Type 2 (lot 370 to under 2,020 m²): 100 m² or 50%, 8 return trips a day, 1 employee. Type 3 (2,020 m²+): 200 m² or 50%, 12 trips, 2 employees. Trips only 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Parking: none for Type 1; 1 space for Type 2 or 3.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","section":"s. 6.20.3, 6.20.6","quotes":["42m2 or 50% of the","100m2 or 50% of the 200m2 or 50% of the","customer or 0 8 return trips 12 return trips","resident 0 1 2 employees permitted to work on-site","≥ 370m2 and Vehicle, Float Home, ≥ 2,020m2 < 2,020m2","or Single Residential Dwelling on a lot < 370m2","such trips shall be limited to between the hours of 7am and 9pm, seven days a week."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf","title":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf","section":"Table 2, Home Based Business","quotes":["No requirement for Type 1 businesses","1 space per Type 2 or Type 3 business"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"not_allowed":{"label":"Businesses not allowed","value":"For all types: auto body repair; commercial sawmill; boarding kennel, animal training and commercial dog breeding; restaurant; retail sales of items not made by the business; storage, wrecking, dismantling, painting or plating of vehicles, boats, aircraft or machinery. Types 1 and 2 also: automotive repair and detailing, and carpentry or cabinet-making. Type 1 also: personal service use and pet daycare.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","section":"s. 6.20.3, 6.20.5","quotes":["The following uses are specifically prohibited as a home-based business for all home-","auto body repair;","commercial sawmill;","boarding kennel, animal training, and commercial dog breeding;","restaurant;","retail sales of items other than items manufactured by the home-based","Automotive repair of a","major or minor nature;","automotive detailing;","personal service use;","pet daycare;"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.20 (Home Based Business); Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","section":"s. 6.20","quotes":["Zoning Bylaw No. 4500","6.20 HOME BASED BUSINESS"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":5,"stated":5,"matched":5,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nIn the City of Nanaimo a home-based business is permitted in any dwelling unit or secondary suite regardless of zoning, if it meets all of section 6.20 of [Zoning Bylaw 4500](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf). At least one resident of the home must hold the business licence. It may also be in a permanent accessory building when the principal use is a single residential dwelling, or in a recreational vehicle in the R11 zone. Tenants who expect customers at the home must include a signed owner declaration.\n\n| | Type 1 | Type 2 | Type 3 |\n|---|---|---|---|\n| Home | Multi-family unit, suite, mobile or modular home, RV, float home, or house on a lot under 370 m² | Lot 370 m² to under 2,020 m² | Lot 2,020 m² or more |\n| Business floor area | 42 m² or 50% of the unit, whichever is less | 100 m² or 50% | 200 m² or 50% |\n| Customer return trips a day | none | 8 | 12 |\n| Non-resident employees | 0 | 1 | 2 |\n| Parking | none | 1 space | 1 space |\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Check your zone and lot size with Planning.\n2. Get a City business licence (see the business licence answer).\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Customer trips are allowed only from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.\n- Banned for all types: auto body repair, commercial sawmill, boarding kennel, animal training and commercial dog breeding, restaurant, retail sales of items not made by the business, and storage, wrecking, dismantling, painting or plating of vehicles, boats, aircraft or machinery. Types 1 and 2 also ban automotive repair and detailing, and carpentry or cabinet-making; Type 1 also bans personal service use and pet daycare.\n- All storage must be inside the dwelling or accessory building. No odour, noise, smoke, dust or vibration may cross lot lines. Vehicle repair must be wholly inside a permanent building.\n- Several home businesses at one home share the combined limits.\n- Exceeding the limits is a $200 bylaw notice ticket ($150 if paid early).","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/home-based-business-regulations.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.20 Home Based Business (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences","title":"Business Licences, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf","title":"Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf","title":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated)","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business.json"}},{"title":"Nanaimo short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)","question":"Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Nanaimo?","slug":"short-term-rental","place":{"path":"ca/bc/nanaimo","name":"Nanaimo","region":{"code":"bc","name":"British Columbia"},"country":{"code":"ca","name":"Canada"}},"category":{"slug":"housing-and-renting","name":"Housing and renting"},"owner":"shared","owner_label":"More than one level of government","owner_body":null,"short_answer":"Yes, but only in your primary residence, with a City of Nanaimo short-term rental business licence ($165 a year) and a provincial registration. Stays must be under 30 days, with up to four guests aged 19 or older.","aliases":["airbnb nanaimo","vrbo bylaw nanaimo","short term rental licence nanaimo","bed and breakfast nanaimo","rent my suite nightly nanaimo"],"cost":"City business licence $165 for the year, pro-rated by quarter in the first year. Provincial registration is $100 a year for your principal residence, or $450 for a secondary unit such as a suite or carriage home.","how_long":"Licences renew yearly; renew by December 31.","where":[{"type":"online","label":"Short-Term Rental Application Form","value":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence/short-term-application-form"},{"type":"phone","label":"Business Licensing","value":"250-755-4482"},{"type":"email","label":"Business Licensing","value":"business.licence@nanaimo.ca"},{"type":"phone","label":"ServiceBC short-term rental registry","value":"1-833-828-2240"},{"type":"email","label":"ServiceBC short-term rental registry","value":"STRregistry@sbc.gov.bc.ca"}],"documents":["Parking plan showing the required off-street spaces","Strata Authorization Form, if you live in a strata","Property Owner Authorization Form, if you are not the owner"],"forms":[{"title":"Short-Term Rentals (City of Nanaimo)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/short-term-rentals"},{"title":"Short-Term Rental Application Form","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence/short-term-application-form"},{"title":"Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (PDF)","url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7318.pdf"},{"title":"Provincial short-term rental registration","url":"https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry"}],"related":[{"slug":"business-licence","title":"Nanaimo business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence/"},{"slug":"secondary-suite","title":"Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite/"},{"slug":"home-based-business","title":"Nanaimo home-based business rules","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business/"},{"slug":"bylaw-fines","title":"Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines/"}],"nearby":[{"place":"ca/bc/lantzville","name":"Lantzville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/short-term-rental/"},{"place":"ca/bc/ladysmith","name":"Ladysmith","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/short-term-rental/"},{"place":"ca/bc/parksville","name":"Parksville","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/short-term-rental/"},{"place":"ca/bc/sechelt","name":"Sechelt","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/short-term-rental/"},{"place":"ca/bc/qualicum-beach","name":"Qualicum Beach","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/short-term-rental/"},{"place":"ca/bc/lake-cowichan","name":"Lake Cowichan","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/short-term-rental/"}],"topic":{"title":"Short-term rental rules in British Columbia, by municipality","url":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/short-term-rental/"},"facts":{"allowed":{"label":"Allowed","value":"Yes, in the operator's primary residence only: an entire dwelling unit or bedrooms. Where there is also a suite, one short-term rental is allowed per lot. Stays must be under 30 consecutive days. The Province's principal residence requirement also applies in Nanaimo.","short":"Yes, operator's primary residence only","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)","section":"s. 6.16.1, 6.16.2, 6.16.4","quotes":["A Short-Term Rental is permitted to be accommodated in an entire dwelling unit or","bedroom(s) provided it is located within the short-term rental operator’s primary","only one short-term rental is","A short-term rental stay must be less than 30 consecutive days."]},{"url":"https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement","title":"Provincial short-term rental principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia","section":"List of communities where the principal residence requirement applies","quotes":["Nanaimo Nelson New Westminster"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"licence":{"label":"Business licence","value":"Yes. A short-term rental business licence must be issued before you operate or advertise. The fee is $165 for the year, pro-rated by quarter in the first year. Licences are renewed by December 31 each year.","short":"Yes, $165 a year","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated)","section":"s. 3.2","quotes":["A short-term rental operator must not operate or advertise a short-term rental"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/short-term-rentals","title":"Short-Term Rentals, City of Nanaimo","section":"How much is the business licence fee?","quotes":["The business licence fee for a short-term rental is $165 for the entire year.","the fee is pro-rated quarterly for your first year of business","licence fees are due by December 31st each year"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"provincial_registration":{"label":"Provincial registration","value":"Yes. Short-term rental hosts in B.C. must register with the Province and pay an annual fee: $100 a year for the host's principal residence, $450 for a secondary unit such as a suite or carriage home. Without registration, listings are removed and bookings cancelled.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry","title":"Short-term rental registration, Province of British Columbia","section":"Registration overview, Failure to register","quotes":["Short-term rental hosts, platforms and strata hotel platforms in B.C. must register and pay annual registration fees.","Your listings will no longer be advertised,"]},{"url":"https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement","title":"Provincial short-term rental principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia","section":"Principal residence requirement and registration fees","quotes":["The unit the host lives in is their principal residence. The guests have access to the host's space (bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living room). Fee: $100 annually This includes:","Any accommodation that is separate from the home where the host lives, sleeps, and eats is considered a secondary unit, even if it is located on the same property or connected by an interior door. Guests stay in their own private space and do not have access to the host's bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen. Fee: $450 annually This includes:"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"rules":{"label":"Operating rules","value":"Whole unit: up to 4 guests aged 19 or older. Rooms only: up to 2 bedrooms, run as one rental, up to 4 guests aged 19 or older. The licence account number must be on all platform ads, and the licence posted where guests can see it. Parking: 1 off-street space per rental unit, in addition to the spaces the dwelling needs, all on the property.","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)","section":"s. 6.16.5, 6.16.6","quotes":["a maximum of four (4) persons, 19 years of age or older are permitted to occupy the short-","A maximum of two (2) bedrooms are permitted to be rented in the primary","The two (2) bedrooms must be operated as one (1) short-term rental"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated)","section":"s. 13.2, 13.3","quotes":["The short-term rental business licence account number must be displayed on all","short-term rental platform advertising."]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf","title":"Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453 (PDF)","section":"Table 2","quotes":["Short-Term Rental 1 space per rental unit"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/short-term-rentals","title":"Short-Term Rentals, City of Nanaimo","section":"What is a parking plan?","quotes":["Short-Term Rental | 1 per guest booking","you'd require 4 off-street parking spaces","guest parking is not permitted on the street"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"},"sources_differ":"Parking conflict: the City's short-term rental page (updated March 11, 2026) lists 1 space per guest booking under the old Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw, while the current Bylaw No. 7453 (adopted 2026-JUL-27) says 1 space per rental unit; the bylaw is followed here. The City page also says guest parking is not permitted on the street and that all parking must be on the property."},"fine":{"label":"Fine","value":"Operating or advertising without a business licence: $500 ($375 if paid early, $625 if paid late). Not following licence conditions: $500. Not showing the licence number on platform ads: $500.","short":"$500 ($375 if paid early)","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUL-27)","section":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 schedule","quotes":["3.2 Operate or advertise a short-term rental $500 $375 $625","3.5 Fail to comply with short-term rental $500 $375 $625","13.3 Fail to display short-term rental $500 $375 $625"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}},"bylaw":{"label":"Bylaw","value":"Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318; Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.16; Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453","status":"stated","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated)","section":"s. 1","quotes":["Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)","section":"s. 6.16","quotes":["Zoning Bylaw No. 4500","6.16 SHORT-TERM RENTAL"]},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/All","title":"Bylaw Search Results (complete list), City of Nanaimo","section":"Bylaw list","quotes":["OFF-STREET PARKING REGULATIONS BYLAW 2026 NO. 7453"]}],"check":{"result":"matched","text_date":"2026-11-06"}}},"facts_summary":{"total":6,"stated":6,"matched":6,"none":0,"unknown":0},"body_markdown":"## How it works\n\nThe City of Nanaimo allows short-term rentals (stays under 30 consecutive days) in the operator's primary residence only: an entire dwelling unit or bedrooms. Where there is also a suite, one short-term rental is allowed per lot. The City's page says they are allowed in zones where residential use is permitted. Bed and breakfast was deleted from the Zoning Bylaw in 2025. The Province's principal residence requirement also applies in Nanaimo.\n\n## Steps\n\n1. Check that the home is your primary residence and, in a strata, get strata approval.\n2. Draw a parking plan showing the required off-street spaces.\n3. Get a short-term rental business licence ($165 a year) before you operate or advertise, using the City's application form.\n4. Register with the Province and pay the annual fee. Without registration, listings are removed and bookings cancelled.\n5. Put the licence account number on every platform ad and post the licence where guests can see it.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Whole unit: up to 4 guests aged 19 or older. Rooms only: up to 2 bedrooms, run as one rental, up to 4 guests aged 19 or older.\n- Parking: 1 off-street space per rental unit, in addition to the spaces the dwelling needs, all on the property. The City's page says 1 space per guest booking, which differs from the new [Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf); confirm with Business Licensing.\n- Operating or advertising without a licence is a $500 ticket ($375 if paid early, $625 if paid late). Not following licence conditions, or not showing the licence number on ads, is $500 each. Not displaying the licence itself is $100.","sources":[{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/short-term-rentals","title":"Short-Term Rentals, City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf","title":"Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUL-27)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf","title":"Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453 (PDF)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry","title":"Short-term rental registration, Province of British Columbia","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement","title":"Provincial short-term rental principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf","title":"Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf","title":"Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated)","accessed":"2026-11-05"},{"url":"https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/All","title":"Bylaw Search Results (complete list), City of Nanaimo","accessed":"2026-11-05"}],"sources_read":"2026-11-05","review":{"status":"machine_checked","badge":"Checked against official text","label":"Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text."},"urls":{"html":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/short-term-rental/","markdown":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/short-term-rental.md","json":"https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/short-term-rental.json"}}]}