# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for Nanaimo --- title: "Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply" question: "Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit.json" --- # Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply? **Short answer:** In 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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - Online: Online Building Permit Application, https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application - In person: Service and Resource Centre (Building Inspections), 411 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 0E4 (Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except statutory holidays) - Phone: Building Inspections, 250-755-4429 - Email: Building Inspections, building.inspections@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Needed for:** 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). - Source: [Application for a Residential Building Permit, Residential building permit page, 'When do I need a building permit?'](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit) - Official wording: "any detached building over 107.64 ft² / 10 m²" … "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" - Source: [Alteration Permit, Alteration permit page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not needed for:** 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. - Source: [Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, Building a Fence](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit) - Official wording: "No building permit is required for a fence; however, the fence must be in compliance with the Zoning Bylaw." - Source: [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05), s. 5.2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Alteration Permit, Building a deck](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** 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. - Source: [Online Building Permit Application](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What to submit:** 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. - Source: [Alteration Permit, Alteration permit page, required information](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit) - Official wording: "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]" - Source: [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05), s. 10.1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Processing time:** 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. - Source: [Application for a Residential Building Permit, How long does it take before I can get my permit?](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Online Building Permit Application, Building Permit Application Process](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Inspections:** 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. - Source: [Building Permit Inspection Request, Building Permit Inspection Request page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/request-inspection/) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05), s. 17.4](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) - Official wording: "shall give at least 24 hours’ notice to the municipality when requesting an inspection" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** 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. - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 - Source: [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05), s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) - Official wording: "Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The 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. ## Steps 1. 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. 2. 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. 3. 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. 4. 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. ## Good to know - 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. - Incomplete applications cause delays. Single family dwellings can pay a $150 surcharge for review in three working days. - 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. - Complex buildings need more, including letters of assurance from registered professionals. - Files over 25 MB each need arrangements with staff. ## What you'll need - 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 ## Official forms and pages - [Residential Building Permit page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit) - [Online Building Permit Application](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application) - [Residential Building Permit Application Guide (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/residentialbuildingpermitapplicationguide.pdf) - [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees.md) - [Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite.md) - [Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permits in British Columbia: how to apply, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/building-permit.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/building-permit.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/building-permit.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/building-permit.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/building-permit.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/building-permit.md) ## Sources - [Application for a Residential Building Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Alteration Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Permits, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits) (read 2026-11-05) - [Online Building Permit Application, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Permit Inspection Request, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/request-inspection/) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit/_ --- --- title: "Nanaimo fence rules: permits and height limits" question: "Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fence-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fence-rules.json" --- # Nanaimo fence rules: permits and height limits **Question:** Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **Cost:** No permit fee for a fence. A retaining wall that needs a building permit pays the normal permit fee. **Where:** - Phone: Planning / Building Inspections, 250-755-4429 - Email: Building Inspections, building.inspections@nanaimo.ca - Email: Planning, planning@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Permit:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, Building a Fence / Building a Retaining Wall](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05), s. 5.2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) - Official wording: "nor to retaining structures less than 1.2 metres in height" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, front yard:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height, s. 6.10.2 table](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height, s. 6.10.8](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "the maximum height of a fence adjacent to a park" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, side and rear yards:** 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). - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height, s. 6.10.2 table, 6.10.5, 6.10.6](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Corner lots and sightlines:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height, s. 6.10.2 table, 6.9.1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Zoning Bylaw part of Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "6.9.1 Obstruct Line of Vision 200.00 150.00 250.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other rules:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height, s. 6.10.1, 6.10.3, 6.11.2, definition of Fence](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, Building a Fence](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Zoning Bylaw part of Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "6.10.2 Exceed Maximum Fence Height 200.00 150.00 250.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.10 (Fence Height) and s. 6.9 (Visibility at Intersections) - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 4500" … "6.10 FENCE HEIGHT" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works In 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. ## Maximum heights - 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. - A fence outside the required setback area may be up to 3 m. - R11, AR1, AR2 and Industrial: 2.4 m. R12 total site: 1.8 m. Next to a park: 1.2 m. - 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. - Your zone may have another row in the table. Find it on NanaimoMap or ask Planning. ## Steps 1. Find your zone on NanaimoMap or call Planning. 2. Confirm your property line (see the property lines answer). Build only on your own property, not over rights-of-way or easements. 3. 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. 4. If the fence would be over the limit, ask Planning about a variance. ## Good to know - 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. - Exceeding the maximum fence height is a bylaw offence with a $200 ticket ($150 if paid early). - Pool enclosure fences are set by the Building Bylaw. - 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. ## Official forms and pages - [Fence or Retaining Wall Permit page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit) - [Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup.md) - [Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/fence-rules.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/fence-rules.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/fence-rules.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/fence-rules.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/fence-rules.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/fence-rules.md) ## Sources - [Fence or Retaining Wall Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/fence-or-retaining-wall-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.10 Fence Height](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fence-rules/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages question: "Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit.json" --- # Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages **Question:** Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - Online: Online Building Permit Application (eApply for non-dwelling accessory buildings), https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/online-building-permit-application - Phone: Building Inspections, 250-755-4429 - Email: Building Inspections, building.inspections@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Sheds:** A building permit is required for a new shed or other standalone accessory building over 10 m² (107.64 ft²). - Source: [Accessory Building Permit](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/accessory-building-permit) - Official wording: "A building permit is required when you are constructing a new accessory building." … "detached garages, sheds, and other standalone buildings over 10m² (107.64 ft²)" - Source: [Application for a Residential Building Permit, When do I need a building permit?](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit) - Official wording: "any detached building over 107.64 ft² / 10 m²" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Decks:** 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. - Source: [Single/Two Family Dwelling Alteration Permit, Building a deck](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Garages and carports:** A new detached garage over 10 m² (107.64 ft²) needs a building permit. - Source: [Accessory Building Permit](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/accessory-building-permit) - Official wording: "detached garages, sheds, and other standalone buildings over 10m² (107.64 ft²)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning limits:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.6 Accessory Uses, s. 6.6.2 to 6.6.6](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224; Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.6 (Accessory Uses - Buildings and Structures) - Source: [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05), s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) - Official wording: "Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.6 Accessory Uses](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 4500" … "6.6 ACCESSORY USES - BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The 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. ## Decks A 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: - It is not the main entrance to your home. - It is no more than 2 feet above grade within 4 feet of its edge. - It has no roof. - It is not attached to the dwelling. No permit is needed for minor non-structural repairs to a deck approved under a permit, or to replace railings that were approved. ## Steps 1. Check zoning in [Zoning Bylaw 4500](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) section 6.6 for your zone. 2. 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. 3. Book inspections once the permit is issued. ## Good to know - 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. - 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. - Fabric-covered sheds are allowed under the Zoning Bylaw. Shipping containers are handled by the City's Locate Permit page. - Covenants, watercourse setbacks, rights-of-way and property-line distances can affect where a deck may go whether or not a permit is needed. ## What you'll need - Signed building permit application - Appointment of Agent form, if you are not the registered owner - Site plan and drawings ## Official forms and pages - [Accessory Building Permit page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/accessory-building-permit) - [Alteration Permit page (decks)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit) - [Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit.md) - [Nanaimo building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees.md) - [Nanaimo fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fence-rules.md) - [Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Deck and shed permit thresholds in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) ## Sources - [Accessory Building Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/accessory-building-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Single/Two Family Dwelling Alteration Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/alteration-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Application for a Residential Building Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.6 Accessory Uses](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF, consolidated 2026-OCT-05)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo building permit fees question: "How much does a building permit cost?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees.json" --- # Nanaimo building permit fees **Question:** How much does a building permit cost? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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. **Where:** - Online: Building Permit Fee Calculator, https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/permit-fee-calculator - Phone: Building Inspections, 250-755-4429 - Email: Building Inspections, building.inspections@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Lowest fee:** $105, which covers the minimum fee and the first $1,000 of construction value. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), Schedule A, Development Services Fees, Building Inspection Section](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "Minimum fee and first $1000 of Construction Value (CV) $105" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How the fee is worked out:** $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. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), Schedule A, Building Permit Value of Construction](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Application or plan review fee:** 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. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), Schedule A, Application Fees](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees:** 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. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), Schedule A, Building Inspection Section](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Residential Building Permit Application Guide, Charges for a Building Permit, Bond Fee](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/residentialbuildingpermitapplicationguide.pdf) - Official wording: "Refundable after occupancy approval, providing there is no damage to City services, roads, sidewalks, etc." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to pay:** 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. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), Schedule A, Application Fees](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "The remainder of the applicable fees shall be" … "payable prior to issuance of a Building Permit." - Source: [Residential Building Permit Application Guide, Application Requirements](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/residentialbuildingpermitapplicationguide.pdf) - Official wording: "The application fee will be requested after your online BP application has been accepted." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336, Schedule A (Development Services Fees, Building Inspection Section) - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), s. 1 and 2, Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336"." … "BUILDING INSPECTION SECTION" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The 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. ## Main fee - $105 covers the minimum fee and the first $1,000 of construction value. - $1,000.01 to $100,000: add $10 per $1,000. - Over $100,000: add $7 per $1,000. - 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. ## Other fees - 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. - Plumbing permit: $40 minimum plus $8 per fixture. - Re-inspection: $150. Special inspection of an existing building: $100. - Permit renewal: $100 (work valued up to $50,000) or $250. - Bond for new residential construction: $750, refundable after occupancy approval if City property is undamaged. - Accelerated single-family review: $150 surcharge. - Authorizing a suite built before 2005: $500 minimum. ## Good to know - 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. - Demolition, moving, sign, sprinkler and service pipe fees are also in the schedule. - Development Cost Charges and School Site Acquisition Charges are separate. ## Official forms and pages - [Building Permit Fee Calculator](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/permit-fee-calculator) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/building-permit-fees.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/building-permit-fees.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/building-permit-fees.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/building-permit-fees.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/building-permit-fees.md) - [Gibsons](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gibsons/building-permit-fees.md) ## Sources - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Permit Fee Calculator, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/permit-fee-calculator) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential Building Permit Application Guide (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/property-development/building-permits/residentialbuildingpermitapplicationguide.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees/_ --- --- 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?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup.json" --- # 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? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **Cost:** Free to look up online. A Letter of Zoning Confirmation Request is $100 in the Fees and Charges Bylaw 7336. **Where:** - Online: NanaimoMap (use the Zoning layer), https://nanmap.nanaimo.ca/Html5Viewer/index.html?viewer=NanaimoMap - Phone: Current Planning, 250-755-4429 ext. 4509 - Email: Current Planning, planning@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **How to find your zone:** 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. - Source: [Planning and Development General Inquiries](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries) - Official wording: "check your property’s zoning using NanaimoMap (“Zoning” layer)" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning) - Official wording: "Please contact Current Planning staff if you require assistance to confirm zoning." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4500; the City's consolidated copy is dated March 23, 2026 (2026-MAR-23). - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), Page 2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "This consolidated version of the Zoning Bylaw is dated 2026-MAR-23." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (Updated March 23, 2026)." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What the zone controls:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, What is Zoning?](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Planning and Development General Inquiries](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries) - Official wording: "contains information on required watercourse setbacks, accessory building allowances, secondary suites, fence height, short-term rentals, home-based businesses, and more." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** Current Planning Section, 250-755-4429 ext. 4509, planning@nanaimo.ca. The general line is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, Contact Us](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning) - Official wording: "Current Planning Section 250-755-4429 ext. 4509 planning@nanaimo.ca" - Source: [Planning and Development General Inquiries, Contact Us](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries) - Official wording: "Planning and Development General Inquiries 250-755-4429 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), Page 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 4500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Every 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. ## Steps 1. Open NanaimoMap and turn on the "Zoning" layer to see your property's zone. 2. Open the matching chapter of the Zoning Bylaw from the City's Zoning Bylaw page. 3. Read the general regulations too, for the topics listed above. 4. 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. ## Good to know - 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. - The Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw calls this bylaw "Zoning Bylaw 2011 No. 4500"; it is the same bylaw. ## Zones 64 zones are listed from [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (consolidated 2026-MAR-23)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning/index.json Look up the zone of an address: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning/lookup?address=123+Main+St ## Official forms and pages - [Zoning Bylaw page (chapters by zone)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning) - [Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - [Planning and Development General Inquiries](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/zoning-lookup.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/zoning-lookup.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/zoning-lookup.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/zoning-lookup.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/zoning-lookup.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/zoning-lookup.md) ## Sources - [Planning and Development General Inquiries, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/development-applications/general-inquiries) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/land-use-bylaws/zoning) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules question: "Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite.json" --- # Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules **Question:** Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - Phone: Building Inspections, 250-755-4429 - Email: Building Inspections, building.inspections@nanaimo.ca - Email: Planning (zoning questions), planning@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Secondary suite allowed:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites, s. 6.15.1, 6.15.2.2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites, s. 6.15.3](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites, s. 6.15.2, 5 (definition)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Parking:** 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. - Source: [Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453, Part IV, s. 4.2, Table 2; s. 1.3](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permits:** 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. - Source: [Secondary Suite Permit](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/secondary-suite-permit) - Official wording: "A permit is required for the construction of a new suite or upgrade of an existing suite." - Source: [Carriage House Permit](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/carriage-house) - Official wording: "A building permit is required when you are constructing a new carriage house or altering an existing accessory building." - Source: [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) Permit, SSMUH permit](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/SSMUH-permit) - Official wording: "A permit for Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing is required for new residential builds of three or four dwelling units" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), Schedule A, Building Inspection Section](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "Where a permit is required in order to authorize an illegal suite $500 minimum" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.15 (Secondary Suites); Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224; Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 4500" … "6.15 SECONDARY SUITES" - Source: [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) - Official wording: "Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224" - Source: [Bylaw Search Results (complete list), Bylaw list](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/All) - Official wording: "OFF-STREET PARKING REGULATIONS BYLAW 2026 NO. 7453" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The 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. ## Limits - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. ## Steps 1. Check your zoning and lot with Planning (planning@nanaimo.ca or 250-755-4429). 2. Apply for a building permit with the application, Appointment of Agent if needed, drawings and the Notice on Title form. 3. Book inspections. ## Good to know - 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) go through the Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing permit. - 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. - Authorizing an unpermitted suite built before 2005 costs $500 minimum. ## What you'll need - Building permit application - Appointment of Agent form, if you are not the registered owner - Drawings - Notice on Title form ## Official forms and pages - [Secondary Suite Permit page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/secondary-suite-permit) - [Carriage House page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/carriage-house) - [Secondary Suite Forms](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/forms-and-guidelines/secondary-suite-forms) - [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) Permit page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/SSMUH-permit) - [Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit.md) - [Nanaimo building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit-fees.md) - [Nanaimo permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Secondary suite and carriage house rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/secondary-suite.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/secondary-suite.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/secondary-suite.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/secondary-suite.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/secondary-suite.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/secondary-suite.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/secondary-suite.md) ## Sources - [Secondary Suite Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/secondary-suite-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Carriage House Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/carriage-house) (read 2026-11-05) - [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) Permit, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/property-development/building-permits/residential-building-permit/SSMUH-permit) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.15 Secondary Suites](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 2016 No. 7224 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7224.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Search Results (complete list), City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/All) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo tree removal rules and permits question: "Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/tree-removal/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/tree-removal.json" --- # Nanaimo tree removal rules and permits **Question:** Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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. **Where:** - Phone: Urban Forester (Development Engineering), 250-755-4446 - Email: Urban Forester, urban.forester@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **When a permit is needed:** 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. - Source: [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21), s. 2 (Tree, Protected tree), s. 5(1)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exemptions:** 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. - Source: [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21), s. 6(1), s. 7(1)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** $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. - Source: [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21), Schedule E, s. 16(2)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Replacement trees:** 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. - Source: [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21), Schedule G; s. 15(1)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **City trees:** 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. - Source: [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21), s. 2 (City Tree, Protected tree), s. 6(1), s. 11(1)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** 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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 schedule](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "5(1)(a) Cut any tree 500.00 - 625.00" … "5(1)(b) Work contrary to tree removal permit 250.00 - 312.50" - Source: [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21), s. 18.1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) - Official wording: "commits an offence against this Bylaw and is liable upon summary conviction to pay a fine of not more than $50,000" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 - Source: [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21), s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) - Official wording: "Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under 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. Protected 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. ## No permit needed For a tree that is not protected, no permit is needed if: - you remove up to 4 non-significant trees per calendar year from your parcel; - it is a hedge, or it is dead; - a certified arborist finds it hazardous and the Director gives written approval first. These exemptions do not apply to protected trees. Customary pruning with standard arboricultural practice is also exempt. ## Steps 1. Call the Urban Forester (250-755-4446) to check whether your tree is protected. 2. Apply for a tree removal permit and pay the fee. 3. If replacement is required, plant and keep the trees for at least two years. ## Good to know - 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. - The Director may refuse removal of a City tree to improve views, reduce shade or reduce leaf, flower or seed litter. - 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. ## Official forms and pages - [Home Tree Care page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/home-tree-care) - [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 7126 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup.md) - [Nanaimo building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/building-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/tree-removal.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/tree-removal.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/tree-removal.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/tree-removal.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/tree-removal.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/tree-removal.md) ## Sources - [Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (PDF, consolidated 2022-NOV-21)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7126.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Home Tree Care, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/home-tree-care) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/tree-removal/_ --- --- title: "Nanaimo garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits" question: "When is garbage collected, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/garbage-collection/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/garbage-collection.json" --- # Nanaimo garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits **Question:** When is garbage collected, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - Online: Collection calendar and reminders, https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage (Enter your address, or use the Nanaimo Recycles app.) - Phone: Zero Waste Hotline, 250-756-5390 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Email: Zero Waste Hotline, Zero.Waste@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **How often:** 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. - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, s. 4(1)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "(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" - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, s. 2 (Add-a-day)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "the day for collection advances by one week day following any holiday" … "recognized by the City. There shall be no collection on" - Source: [Curbside Basics, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/curbside-basics) - Official wording: "This service is available to eligible single-family homes and up to fourplexes." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Finding your day:** 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. - Source: [Recycling, Compost and Garbage, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Carts:** 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. - Source: [Cart Exchange, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/cart-exchange) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, s. 9(5), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Setting carts out:** 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. - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, s. 11(1)(f)-(j)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Black Cart - Landfill Materials, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/garbage) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits and extra garbage:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, ss. 9, 10, 11(1)(e)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** 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. - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, Schedule A; s. 17](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128. - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION BYLAW 2011 NO. 7128" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under 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. ## Steps 1. 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. 2. Put carts out by 8 a.m. on collection day, not the night before (the City asks for 5 to 8 a.m.). 3. 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. 4. Take empty carts in the same day after collection (the City page says no later than 9 p.m.). ## Good to know - Each cart may hold no more than 35 kg (75 lb). Items over 2 feet (60 cm) in any dimension are not collected. - 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. - 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. - 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. - Report a damaged, lost or stolen cart to the City. Replacement due to loss, damage or disposal is billed at actual cost. - Paying the collection fee by the billing date earns a 5% discount. Unpaid fees at December 31 are added to taxes. ## Official forms and pages - [Black Cart - Landfill Materials](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/garbage) - [Cart Exchange](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/cart-exchange) - [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 7128 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) ## The same question elsewhere - [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/garbage-collection.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/garbage-collection.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/garbage-collection.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/garbage-collection.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/garbage-collection.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/garbage-collection.md) ## Sources - [Recycling, Compost and Garbage, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage) (read 2026-11-05) - [Black Cart - Landfill Materials, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/garbage) (read 2026-11-05) - [Cart Exchange, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/cart-exchange) (read 2026-11-05) - [Curbside Basics, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/curbside-basics) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/garbage-collection/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo yard waste collection and drop-off question: "Where does yard waste and brush go?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/yard-waste/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/yard-waste.json" --- # Nanaimo yard waste collection and drop-off **Question:** Where does yard waste and brush go? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - In person: Regional District of Nanaimo Regional Landfill (south of the City), https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates - In person: Church Road Transfer Station (near Parksville), https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates - Phone: Zero Waste Hotline (City), 250-756-5390 ## Key facts - **Curbside collection:** 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. - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, ss. 2, 4(1)(a), 10(1)(q)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Green Cart - Organic Materials, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste) - Official wording: "Food scraps, leaves, grass and light trimmings can stick to the cart" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to set it out:** 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. - Source: [Green Cart - Organic Materials, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste) - Official wording: "Place items loosely in carts." - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, ss. 10(1)(g), 11(1)(e)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "than 35 kilograms (75 pounds) of material;" … "oversized items of any kind exceeding two (2) feet in any dimension;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Drop-off:** 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. - Source: [Solid Waste Disposal Facilities, Regional District of Nanaimo, RDN page](https://www.rdn.ca/water-waste-environment/solid-waste-recycling/solid-waste-disposal-facilities) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo, RDN banned items](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items) - Official wording: "Yard Waste | Accepted | Accepted" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cost:** 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). (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).) - Source: [Hours and Tipping Fees, Regional District of Nanaimo, RDN tipping fees](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates) - Official wording: "Yard Waste including Invasive Plant Species | 0-100kg" … "101kg or greater | $8 flat rate $60/tonne" - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "Solid Waste Collection Fee Daily Charge" - Source: [Solid Waste Disposal Facilities, Regional District of Nanaimo, RDN facilities page](https://www.rdn.ca/water-waste-environment/solid-waste-recycling/solid-waste-disposal-facilities) - Official wording: "Garden Waste (including invasive plant species) | $8 (up to 50kg) | $160/tonne (100+kg)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not accepted:** 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. - Source: [Green Cart - Organic Materials, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste) - Official wording: "Sawdust, Wood, Wood Refuse" … "Soil, Sod, or Rocks" … "Pet Waste - Plastics - Recyclables" - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, s. 10(1)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "(r) Sod and soil" - Source: [Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo, RDN banned items](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items) - Official wording: "Land Clearing Waste | Not Accepted | Not Accepted" … "Clean Soil | Not Accepted | Not Accepted" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** 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). - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION BYLAW 2011 NO. 7128" - Source: [Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo, RDN banned items](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items) - Official wording: "Bylaw 1784: Tipping Fee and Solid Waste Disposal Regulation" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The 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). ## Steps 1. 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. 2. 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. 3. Pay the tipping fee: $8 flat for loads up to 100 kg, then $60 per tonne. ## Good to know - 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. - RDN facilities do not accept land clearing waste or clean soil. - The RDN's two web pages give different drop-off rates; the Tipping Fees page, dated April 1, 2026, is used here. - The City's pages do not describe a separate branch or bundle pickup. Call the Zero Waste Hotline with questions. ## Official forms and pages - [Green Cart - Organic Materials](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste) - [Hours and Tipping Fees (RDN)](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/garbage-collection.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/yard-waste.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/yard-waste.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/yard-waste.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/yard-waste.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/yard-waste.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/yard-waste.md) ## Sources - [Green Cart - Organic Materials, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/recycling-compost-garbage/kitchen-waste) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Hours and Tipping Fees, Regional District of Nanaimo](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-hours-and-rates) (read 2026-11-05) - [Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items) (read 2026-11-05) - [Solid Waste Disposal Facilities, Regional District of Nanaimo](https://www.rdn.ca/water-waste-environment/solid-waste-recycling/solid-waste-disposal-facilities) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/yard-waste/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo watering restrictions question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Water, sewer, roads and snow owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/water-restrictions/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/water-restrictions.json" --- # Nanaimo watering restrictions **Question:** Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **How long:** A new lawn permit allows extra sprinkling for 14 days. **Where:** - Online: Watering Restrictions, https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions - Phone: Public Works (new lawn permits), 250-758-5222 - Email: Water Resources, water.resources@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **When restrictions apply:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004, ss. 43-46](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf) - Official wording: "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:" - Source: [Watering Restrictions, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Sprinkling schedule:** 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. - Source: [Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004, ss. 43-44, 46](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf) - Official wording: "(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;" - Source: [https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/water-resources/water-restrictions-simple-2026.pdf, City Watering Restrictions Guide 2026](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/water-resources/water-restrictions-simple-2026.pdf) - Official wording: "STAGE 1 – April and October" … "Odd addresses: Monday; even addresses: Thursday" … "Not Permitted: Lawn watering, filling pools/fountains/hot tubs" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Allowed at any time:** 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. - Source: [Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004, s. 47](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf) - Official wording: "(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" - Source: [Watering Restrictions, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions) - Official wording: "Vegetable gardens and fruit trees may be watered at any time" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **New lawns:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004, s. 47(a), (b), (d); s. 46(f)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Watering Restrictions, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** 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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004. - Source: [Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004, title](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf) - Official wording: "WATERWORKS RATE AND REGULATION BYLAW 2006 NO. 7004" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Nanaimo'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. ## The stages - 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 addresses on odd days, 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. or 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., 2 hours a day. - Stage 3 (when required, voluntary): one day a week, odd addresses Monday, even addresses Thursday. - Stage 4: no lawn watering. Washing sidewalks and driveways and filling pools, fountains or hot tubs are also banned. - 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. ## Good to know - 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. - 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. - 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. ## Official forms and pages - [Watering Restrictions, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions) - [Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 7004 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf) ## The same question elsewhere - [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/water-restrictions.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/water-restrictions.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/water-restrictions.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/water-restrictions.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/water-restrictions.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/water-restrictions.md) ## Sources - [Watering Restrictions, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/water-sewage/watering-restrictions) (read 2026-11-05) - [Waterworks Rate and Regulation Bylaw 2006 No. 7004 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7004.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/water-resources/water-restrictions-simple-2026.pdf](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/water-resources/water-restrictions-simple-2026.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/water-restrictions/_ --- --- title: "Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one" question: "How do I get a dog licence, and what does it cost?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence.json" --- # Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one **Question:** How do I get a dog licence, and what does it cost? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - Online: Apply for a new dog licence or renew online, https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences - In person: Service and Resource Centre, 411 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 0E4 - In person: Nanaimo Animal Control Services, 1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road, Nanaimo - By mail: Mail a cheque to City Hall (renewals), 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J6 - Phone: Dog Licensing, 250-755-4525 - Email: Dog Licensing, dog.lic@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Licence required:** Yes. Anyone who owns, possesses or harbours a dog over 16 weeks old must hold a dog licence, obtained before January 1 each year. (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.) - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 16-17](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Dog Licences, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences) - Official wording: "All dogs over the age of 4 months living in the City must be licensed." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Issued by:** The City of Nanaimo (Revenue Services, with Nanaimo Animal Control). - Source: [Dog Licences, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences) - Official wording: "Contact Revenue Services or Nanaimo Animal Control for information regarding your dog licence" … "Dog Licensing 250-755-4525" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $25 a year if paid by February 28; $30 if paid after February 28. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336, Schedule A, Schedule A, Dog Licence Fees](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Dog Licence Fees, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-fees) - Official wording: "Spayed/Neutered Dog | $25.00 | $30.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $50 a year if paid by February 28; $60 if paid after February 28. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336, Schedule A, Schedule A, Dog Licence Fees](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Dog Licence Fees, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-fees) - Official wording: "Not Spayed/Neutered | $50.00 | $60.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees and discounts:** 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. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336, Schedule A, Schedule A, Dog Licence Fees](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Licences expire December 31 each year. Renewal notices are mailed in late January; renew by February 28 to get the lower rate. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 18](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "expires on the 31st day of December of the year in which it is issued" - Source: [Dog Licence Renewals, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-renewals) - Official wording: "Renewal notices are mailed in late January" … "Renew by February 28 each year to avoid missing the discount and receiving a ticket" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to get one:** 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. - Source: [Apply for a New Dog Licence, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/apply-for-a-new-dog-licence) - Official wording: "Apply for a licence online using the form below or in person at 1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road or 411 Dunsmuir Street." - Source: [Dog Licence Renewals, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-renewals) - Official wording: "By mail to 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5J6" … "Online using your account number and access code" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, unlicensed dog:** $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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Animal Responsibility Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "16 Unlicensed dog $125.00 $ 93.75 $156.25" … "$175.00 $131.25 $218.25" … "Fail to obtain dog licence" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (licence requirement); fees are in Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336, Schedule A, title](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "FEES AND CHARGES BYLAW 2021 NO. 7336" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under 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). ## Steps 1. For a new licence, apply online, or in person at 1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road or 411 Dunsmuir Street. 2. Show proof the dog is spayed or neutered (a vet certificate or other satisfactory evidence) to get the lower fee. 3. 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. 4. Renewal notices are mailed in late January. Renew by February 28 to get the lower rate. ## Good to know - The dog must be spayed or neutered by March 31 for the reduced fee to apply for that licence year. - Unlicensed dog ticket: $125 for a first offence, $175 for a second or later one. Failing to obtain a licence is $125. - Dogs deemed aggressive have a separate licence fee; see the aggressive dogs answer. ## What you'll need - Proof of spay or neuter for the lower fee (vet certificate or other satisfactory evidence) ## Official forms and pages - [Dog Licences (City of Nanaimo)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences) - [Dog Licence Fees](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-fees) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) ## Related questions - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Nanaimo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets.md) - [Nanaimo dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Nanaimo rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/dog-licence.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/dog-licence.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/dog-licence.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/dog-licence.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/dog-licence.md) - [Gibsons](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gibsons/dog-licence.md) ## Sources - [Dog Licences, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dog Licence Fees, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-fees) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dog Licence Renewals, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dog-licence-renewals) (read 2026-11-05) - [Apply for a New Dog Licence, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/apply-for-a-new-dog-licence) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 9 of 9 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo dog leash rules and off-leash areas question: "Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules.json" --- # Nanaimo dog leash rules and off-leash areas **Question:** Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **How long:** Leash rules apply year round. Seasonal dog bans apply at some beaches and Pipers Lagoon. **Where:** - Phone: Nanaimo Animal Control Services, 250-616-0233 - Phone: Bylaw Regulation and Security, 250-755-4422 ## Key facts - **Leash rule:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 43, 45](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 2 (Public Place)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "“Public Place” means all land owned, held, operated or administered by any level of government, including a school district." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Maximum leash length:** A leash can be no longer than 6 feet (1.83 m) and strong enough to restrain the dog without breaking. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 2 (Leash)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: ""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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Off-leash areas:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, Schedule B](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "Designated Off-Leash Dog Areas" … "Beban Park 2300 Bowen Road Fenced area only" … "Westwood Lake Park 231 Westwood Road Only areas as designated by" - Source: [Dogs in Parks, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/dogs-in-parks) - Official wording: "Nanaimo's 12 off-leash dog parks" … "Print off this map of Nanaimo's dog off-leash areas (PDF format)." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Places dogs are not allowed:** 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. - Source: [Dogs in Parks, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/dogs-in-parks) - Official wording: ""No dog" areas" … "Pipers Lagoon (from April 1 to October 31)" … "Departure Bay Beach Beach (from May 1 to September 30)" - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 48](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cleaning up:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 86-87](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** $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. (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.) - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Animal Responsibility Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "43 Unleashed dog $100.00 $ 75.00 $125.00" … "45 Insufficient care, custody or $100.00 $ 75.00 $125.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under 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. ## Off-leash areas Dogs 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. ## Good to know - 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. - 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). - The bylaw bars all animals from public beaches in parks from May to September, and from wading and spray pool decks. - 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. - 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. - Report problems to Animal Control or Bylaw Regulation and Security. ## Official forms and pages - [Dogs in Parks (City of Nanaimo, list and map of off-leash areas)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/dogs-in-parks) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF), Schedule B](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence.md) - [Nanaimo rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/dog-leash-rules.md) ## Sources - [Dogs in Parks, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-trails/dogs-in-parks) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs question: "What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs.json" --- # Nanaimo rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs **Question:** What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - Phone: Nanaimo Animal Control Services, 250-616-0233 - Phone: Dog Licensing, 250-755-4525 - Email: Dog Licensing, dog.lic@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 2 (Aggressive Dog), s. 74](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Rules for owners:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 26-29, 78, 80](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Licence fee:** $75 a year if paid by February 28; $90 if paid after February 28 ("Dog Deemed Aggressive"). - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336, Schedule A, Schedule A, Dog Licence Fees](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog Deemed Aggressive $75.00 $90.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** Call Nanaimo Animal Control at 250-616-0233. - Source: [Dangerous or Aggressive Dogs, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dangerous-or-aggressive-dogs) - Official wording: "Contact Nanaimo Animal Control: 250-616-0233" - Source: [Animals in the City, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city) - Official wording: "To report an incident occurring in the City of Nanaimo please call 250-616-0233." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** $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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Animal Responsibility Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (Part 7, Aggressive Dogs), with Community Charter s. 49. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”" - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 76](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "A Dangerous Dog may also be dealt with by the City in accordance with Section 49 of the Community Charter." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under 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. ## Steps 1. 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. 2. Post warning signs at every entrance. 3. By January 30 each year, provide $1,000,000 liability insurance naming the City, and a photo. ## Good to know - Outside the property: leash of 6 feet or less, and a muzzle. - On the property: indoors, behind a fence at least 6 feet high, or in a locked rear-yard enclosure approved by the Poundkeeper. - Not allowed on school grounds, within 30 m of a playground, in off-leash areas or in a park. - 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. - After at least 2 years with no further complaints and a behaviour course, the owner may apply to the Manager, Bylaw Services for relief. - 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. - To report a dog, call Nanaimo Animal Control. ## What you'll need - 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) ## Official forms and pages - [Dangerous or Aggressive Dogs (City of Nanaimo)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dangerous-or-aggressive-dogs) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence.md) - [Nanaimo dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-leash-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/dangerous-dogs.md) ## Sources - [Dangerous or Aggressive Dogs, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/home-property/dog-licences/dangerous-or-aggressive-dogs) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animals in the City, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dangerous-dogs/_ --- --- title: How many dogs or cats you can keep in Nanaimo question: "How many dogs or cats can I keep?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets.json" --- # How many dogs or cats you can keep in Nanaimo **Question:** How many dogs or cats can I keep? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **Cost:** Ticket for exceeding a limit $100 (early payment $75, late $125). **Where:** - Phone: Nanaimo Animal Control Services, 250-616-0233 - Phone: Business Licences, 250-755-4482 ## Key facts - **Dogs allowed:** No more than 4 dogs over 16 weeks old on any property. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 9.1(a)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "No Person shall keep, on any Property, more than: (a) 4 Dogs over the age of 16 weeks;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cats allowed:** No more than 5 cats over 12 weeks old on any property. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 9.1(b)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "(b) 5 Cats over the age 12 weeks; or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other animal limits:** 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). - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 6, 7, 9.1(c)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exceptions:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 8, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** $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). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Animal Responsibility Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [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. ## Limits - Dogs over 16 weeks old: 4. - Cats over 12 weeks old: 5. - Companion animals in total: 6. - Animals of any kind: 12, unless the bylaw says otherwise. - Small flock birds, mice, rats, gerbils or hamsters: 12 combined. - Hook-bill birds, chinchillas, ferrets, hedgehogs, rabbits or sugar gliders: 4 combined. - Guinea pigs or reptiles: 6 combined. ## Good to know - You may keep or board more than 4 dogs only if zoning allows it and you hold a valid business licence. - A registered-society animal rescue may temporarily care for more dogs or cats if it notifies the Poundkeeper. - The limits do not apply to the pound, BC SPCA and vet premises, or to livestock and poultry where agriculture is a permitted use. - Certified pigeon club members may keep up to 50 racing pigeons on parcels over 0.4 hectares. - Failing to meet the rescue-notice or boarding requirements is a $150 ticket ($112.50 early, $187.50 late). ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/dog-licence.md) - [Nanaimo backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-chickens.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog and cat limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/how-many-pets.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/how-many-pets.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/how-many-pets.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/how-many-pets.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/how-many-pets.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/how-many-pets.md) - [Gibsons](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gibsons/how-many-pets.md) ## Sources - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules question: "Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-chickens/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-chickens.json" --- # Nanaimo backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules **Question:** Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **Cost:** No permit, licence or registration fee for keeping hens was found in the bylaw or on the City's page. **Where:** - Phone: Nanaimo Animal Control Services, 250-616-0233 - Phone: Planning (zoning questions), 250-755-4429 - Email: Planning, planning@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Hens allowed:** 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). - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 65-67](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Most hens:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 66](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "(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." - Source: [Animals in the City, web page FAQ](https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city) - Official wording: "Less than .045 hectares: no more than 4 hens or ducks" … "1 acre or more: 12 hens or ducks maximum" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Roosters:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 66(c)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "(c) no roosters, cocks, cockerels, or peafowl are kept on the Property;" … "no roosters, cocks, cockerels, or peafowl are kept on the Property;" - Source: [Animals in the City, web page FAQ](https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city) - Official wording: "may be kept on any property." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coop rules:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 66](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "(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" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated), Zoning Bylaw 4500 s. 8.5.2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit or registration:** None set. Nanaimo's bylaw and the City's page set no permit, licence or fee for keeping hens. - **Bees:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 56-58](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other livestock:** 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. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, ss. 69-73, 2 (Livestock)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated), Zoning Bylaw 4500 s. 8.2.1, 8.5.2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316; enclosure setbacks come from the Zoning Bylaw No. 4500. - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW 2021 NO. 7316.”" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated), title](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Nanaimo Zoning Bylaw No. 4500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Chickens, 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. ## Hens and ducks - Parcels under 0.045 hectares: up to 4 hens or ducks combined. - Parcels from 0.045 to under 0.4 hectares: up to 6. - Parcels over 0.4 hectares: the bylaw sets no hen cap, so the general 12-animal limit applies unless agriculture is a permitted use. - No roosters, cockerels or peafowl on the smaller parcels (under 0.4 hectares) where hens are kept under this exception. - 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. - Not inside a dwelling, on a balcony or deck, or in a cage except to transport. - No butchering on the property. ## Bees - 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. - 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, and the keeper must be registered under the Bee Act. ## Good to know - 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. - Rabbits: pens 3 m from property lines, and sterilized. - 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. ## Official forms and pages - [Animals in the City (City of Nanaimo)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) ## Related questions - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Nanaimo](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/how-many-pets.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/backyard-chickens.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/backyard-chickens.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/backyard-chickens.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/backyard-chickens.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/backyard-chickens.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/backyard-chickens.md) ## Sources - [Animals in the City, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/green-initiatives/urban-forestry/animals-trees-gardens/animals-in-the-city) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _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. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-chickens/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo RV, boat and trailer parking rules question: "Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Parking, tickets and driving owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/rv-boat-trailer-parking/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json" --- # Nanaimo RV, boat and trailer parking rules **Question:** Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard? **Short answer:** In 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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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). **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Information, 250-755-4422 (Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Email: Bylaw Information, bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **On the street:** 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. - Source: [Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000, s. 4(21), (37), (39)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **On your property:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, ss. 6.12.1-6.12.4](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Living in an RV:** 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. - Source: [Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000, s. 4(37)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf) - Official wording: "Upon any portion of a highway for the purpose of taking up overnight abode." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, ss. 6.7.7-6.7.8](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242, Property Maintenance Bylaw s. 7](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf) - Official wording: "erect or occupy a temporary" … "shelter for the purposes of transitory, short-term, interim or permanent lodging" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** 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). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Traffic and Highways / Zoning](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** 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). - Source: [Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000, title](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf) - Official wording: "TRAFFIC AND HIGHWAYS REGULATION BYLAW 1993 NO. 5000" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, title](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Nanaimo Zoning Bylaw No. 4500" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The 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. ## On the street - No vehicle may be parked on a street 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. - Parking to take up overnight abode (sleeping or living in it) is not allowed on any part of a street. - A vehicle left apparently unattended on a public road for more than 72 hours may be moved or impounded. ## On your lot - 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. - 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. - 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. ## Good to know - 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. - 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). - 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. ## Official forms and pages - [Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 5000 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf) - [Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) ## The same question elsewhere - [RV, boat and trailer parking rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) ## Sources - [Traffic and Highways Regulation Bylaw 1993 No. 5000 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/5000.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_ --- --- title: "Nanaimo noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines" question: "What are the noise rules and quiet hours?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules.json" --- # Nanaimo noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines **Question:** What are the noise rules and quiet hours? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **Cost:** Ticket $100; $75 if paid early; $125 if paid late (Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 7159). **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Regulation and Security, 250-755-4422 (Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; after-hours calls are assigned for the next business day) - Email: Bylaw Information, bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca - Phone: Nanaimo Animal Control Services (dog noise), 250-616-0233 - Phone: Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency (criminal activity, risk of harm), 250-754-2345 ## Key facts - **General rule:** 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. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750, s. 3](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Quiet hours:** 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. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750, s. 4(1)(a), (f), (g)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Noise Bylaw, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Construction hours:** 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. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750, s. 4(1)(e), (h)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Noise Bylaw, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other limits:** 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). - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750, s. 4(1), s. 5](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Noise Bylaw, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw) - Official wording: "The hours of operation of industrial zoned properties are not restricted or regulated" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, business hours:** 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. - Source: [Noise Bylaw, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, after hours:** 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. - Source: [Noise Bylaw, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** $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)). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Noise Control Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "3 Noise causing disturbance 100.00 75.00 125.00" - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750, Schedule B](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) - Official wording: "Noise causing disturbance 3 $100.00" … "Objectionable noise 4(2) $100.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750. - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Nanaimo "NOISE CONTROL BYLAW 1994 NO. 4750"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [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. ## Good to know - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. ## Official forms and pages - [Noise Bylaw page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw) - [Noise Control Bylaw 4750 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) - [Noise Bylaw Exemption](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw/noise-bylaw-exemption) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Noise bylaws in British Columbia: quiet hours, construction hours and fines by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/noise-rules.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/noise-rules.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/noise-rules.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/noise-rules.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/noise-rules.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/noise-rules.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/noise-rules.md) ## Sources - [Noise Bylaw, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/noise-bylaw) (read 2026-11-05) - [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo unsightly property rules and how to report question: "How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/unsightly-property/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/unsightly-property.json" --- # Nanaimo unsightly property rules and how to report **Question:** How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **Cost:** Ticket $150 for most offences; $200 for graffiti or obstructing an officer. Early payment $112.50 and $150 (Bylaw 7159). **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Regulation and Security, 250-755-4422 (Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Email: Bylaw Information, bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca - Online: Bylaw Complaint Form, https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/how-to-make-a-bylaw-complaint ## Key facts - **What counts:** 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. - Source: [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242, ss. 4-7](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** 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. - Source: [Unsightly Property Bylaw, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/unsightly-property-bylaw) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What happens next:** 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. - Source: [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242, s. 8](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** 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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Property Maintenance Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242. - Source: [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “PROPERTY MAINTENANCE AND STANDARDS BYLAW" … "2017 NO. 7242”." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under 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. ## Steps 1. 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. 2. A bylaw officer investigates. If the complaint is verified, a letter directs the owner to fix it. ## Good to know - The owner can appeal in writing to the Corporate Officer within 14 days of the letter; no action is taken until Council decides. - 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. - The City bills the owner as a debt. Costs unpaid by December 31 are added to property taxes. - 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. - Demolition or construction waste counts only where a building permit has been issued. ## Official forms and pages - [Unsightly Property Bylaw page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/unsightly-property-bylaw) - [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 7242 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf) - [Nuisance Abatement and Cost Recovery Bylaw 7250 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7250.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines.md) - [Nanaimo noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/unsightly-property.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/unsightly-property.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/unsightly-property.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/unsightly-property.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/unsightly-property.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/unsightly-property.md) ## Sources - [Unsightly Property Bylaw, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-complaints/unsightly-property-bylaw) (read 2026-11-05) - [Property Maintenance and Standards Bylaw 2017 No. 7242 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7242.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/unsightly-property/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo backyard fire and burning rules question: "Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-fire/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-fire.json" --- # Nanaimo backyard fire and burning rules **Question:** Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **Cost:** No fee for the yard-waste open burning permit "at this time". Special event fire permit $50; ceremonial fire permit no fee. **Where:** - Online: Open Burning Permit Application, https://forms.office.com/r/tR0AMN4C2R?origin=lprLink (Only open the month before burning is allowed) - Phone: Nanaimo Fire Rescue (burn permits), 250-753-7311 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) ## Key facts - **Backyard campfires:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108, s. 30(7)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Outdoor Burning Regulation Quick Guide, Quick guide](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/fire-rescue/burning-regulation-quick-guide.pdf) - Official wording: "Camp Fires - see requirements" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Burning yard waste:** 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. - Source: [Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Outdoor Burning Regulation Quick Guide, Quick guide](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/fire-rescue/burning-regulation-quick-guide.pdf) - Official wording: "Outdoor Woodstoves Burn Barrels Burn Piles" - Source: [Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108, s. 30(3), (5), (6)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** 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. - Source: [Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108, s. 29(2)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fire bans:** 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. - Source: [Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108, s. 29(3)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf) - Official wording: "the Fire Chief may" … "impose a general ban on all Open Burning for the duration of the said adverse" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Instead of burning:** 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. - Source: [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (consolidated 2025-DEC-15), Bylaw 7128 s. 2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) - Official wording: "means a mixture of both food waste and yard waste" - Source: [Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo, RDN banned items](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items) - Official wording: "Yard Waste | Accepted | Accepted" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** $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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (Part 6, Burning Permits). - Source: [Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108, title](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf) - Official wording: "FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY REGULATION BYLAW 2011 NO. 7108" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under 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. ## Steps 1. 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. 2. 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. 3. Before any fire, check for a Provincial fire ban and the Provincial Venting Index. ## Good to know - Yard-waste burning is for organic garden refuse, pruning and wood branches only. Fridays and Saturdays, sunrise to sunset, in April and November. - One pile, no more than 1.5 m across, at least 3 m from combustibles, hand-fed, with a competent person attending. - Burn barrels, construction material, stumps, land-clearing debris and household garbage may not be burned. - The Fire Chief may ban all open burning when smoke will not disperse. - Alternative: the Green Cart collects food and yard waste (not branches) weekly. See the yard waste answer. - Ticket: $200 ($150 early, $250 late) for burning without a permit, outside permitted times, during a ban, or leaving a fire unattended, among others. ## Official forms and pages - [Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations) - [Burning Regulation Quick Guide (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/fire-rescue/burning-regulation-quick-guide.pdf) - [Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 7108 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf) - [Coastal Fire Centre bans and restrictions (gov.bc.ca)](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/fire-bans-and-restrictions/coastal-fire-centre-bans) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fireworks.md) - [Nanaimo yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/yard-waste.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Backyard fire and burning rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-fire.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/backyard-fire.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/backyard-fire.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/backyard-fire.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/backyard-fire.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/backyard-fire.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/backyard-fire.md) ## Sources - [Outdoor Burning Regulations and Permits, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/burning-regulations) (read 2026-11-05) - [Outdoor Burning Regulation Quick Guide (PDF), City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/fire-rescue/burning-regulation-quick-guide.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fire Protection and Life Safety Regulation Bylaw 2011 No. 7108 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7108.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Solid Waste Collection Bylaw 2011 No. 7128 (consolidated 2025-DEC-15)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7128.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Banned Items, Regional District of Nanaimo](https://rdn.bc.ca/solid-waste-banned-items) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-fire/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo fireworks rules question: "Are fireworks allowed?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fireworks/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fireworks.json" --- # Nanaimo fireworks rules **Question:** Are fireworks allowed? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - Online: Fireworks Permits and Info, https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info - Phone: Nanaimo Fire Rescue, 250-753-7311 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) ## Key facts - **Setting off fireworks:** 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. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049, ss. 5-6](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Fireworks Permits and Info, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info) - Official wording: "Without a Fireworks permit, fireworks are NOT permitted within the City of Nanaimo." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Selling fireworks:** No. No one may offer for sale, sell, give or trade fireworks within the City. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049, s. 4](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall offer for sale, sell, give, or trade Fireworks within the boundaries of the City." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What counts as fireworks:** "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. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049, Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** 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. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049, ss. 13-14, Schedule B](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) - Official wording: "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%)" - Source: [Fireworks Permits and Info, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info) - Official wording: "A fireworks permit must be obtained at the discretion of the Fire Chief or their delegates in order to discharge any fireworks" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** $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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, Schedule A, Fireworks Regulation Bylaw](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049, Schedule B](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) - Official wording: "Selling fireworks 4 $200.00" … "Not in accordance with permit 8 (b) $100.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049, s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) - Official wording: "This bylaw may be cited as the "FIREWORKS REGULATION BYLAW 2007 No. 7049"" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [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. ## Steps 1. Apply to the Fire Chief at least 14 days before the event. 2. Have a valid Fireworks Supervisor's Certificate, $2,000,000 public liability insurance, a fire safety plan and the property owner's permission. 3. Pay the $100 permit fee and the $1,000 security deposit. A site inspection is a further $100. ## Good to know - The Fire Chief may discount the fee 90% for City-sponsored events and certain not-for-profit events. - If Fire Rescue attendance is required, it is charged at $250 per hour for equipment and $65 per hour per person, plus 10%. - 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. - The maximum court fine is $10,000. - Sky lanterns are prohibited under the City's outdoor burning quick guide. ## What you'll need - Valid Fireworks Supervisor's Certificate - Public liability insurance of $2,000,000 - $1,000 security deposit - Fire safety plan - Property owner's permission ## Official forms and pages - [Fireworks Permits and Info](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info) - [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 7049 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/backyard-fire.md) - [Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/fireworks.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/fireworks.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/fireworks.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/fireworks.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/fireworks.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/fireworks.md) ## Sources - [Fireworks Permits and Info, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue/fireworks-permits---info) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2007 No. 7049 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/fireworks/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work question: "What are the common bylaw fines?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines.json" --- # Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work **Question:** What are the common bylaw fines? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **Cost:** Full penalty, early and late amounts differ by offence (for example $100, $75 and $125). Court fines can be much higher. **Where:** - In person: Service and Resource Centre, 411 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 0E4 - By mail: Bylaw Ticket Review Form by mail, 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo - Phone: Bylaw Information, 250-755-4422 - Email: Bylaw Information, bylaw.info@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **How tickets work:** 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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, s. 4](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "The bylaws and bylaw contraventions designated in Schedule “A” attached hereto and forming part of this bylaw may be dealt with by bylaw notice." - Source: [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750, Noise bylaw s. 7](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Common fines:** 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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying early:** 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). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, s. 5(2)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying late:** 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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, s. 5(3), 6(2)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Disputing a ticket:** 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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, ss. 6(1), 7(2)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Dispute Parking Ticket or Bylaw Violation, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/dispute-parking-ticket-or-bylaw-violation) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Adjudication, web page](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-tickets/adjudication) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Schedule A, title](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "BYLAW NOTICE ENFORCEMENT BYLAW 2012 NO. 7159" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Most 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). ## Examples Full penalties from Schedule A: - 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). ## Good to know - 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). - If paid more than 28 days after, the higher late amount applies (for example $125 instead of $100). - 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. - 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. - The City review page counts the 14 days from when the ticket was issued; the bylaw counts from receipt, so act promptly. ## Official forms and pages - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 7159 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - [Bylaw Tickets](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-tickets) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/noise-rules.md) - [Nanaimo unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/unsightly-property.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Bylaw tickets in British Columbia: early payment, late payment and disputes by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/bylaw-fines.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/bylaw-fines.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/bylaw-fines.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/bylaw-fines.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/bylaw-fines.md) - [Gibsons](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gibsons/bylaw-fines.md) - [North Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/north-cowichan/bylaw-fines.md) ## Sources - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 2021 No. 7316 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7316.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Noise Control Bylaw 1994 No. 4750 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4750.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dispute Parking Ticket or Bylaw Violation, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/dispute-parking-ticket-or-bylaw-violation) (read 2026-11-05) - [Adjudication, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/public-safety/city-bylaws/bylaw-tickets/adjudication) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines/_ --- --- 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?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence.json" --- # 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? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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:** - Online: General Business Licence application and Short-Term Rental application, https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence - In person: Service and Resource Centre, 411 Dunsmuir Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 0E4 - Phone: Business Licensing, 250-755-4482 - Email: Business Licensing, business.licence@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Who needs one:** 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. - Source: [Business Licences](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Get a Business Licence](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02), s. 3.1, 3.3, 3.4](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) - Official wording: "A separate City licence is required for each location where a business operates" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** 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. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), Business Licence Fees, Tables I to IV](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02), s. 5.2, 6.2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** 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. - Source: [Get a Business Licence](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** 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. - Source: [Business Licences, Renew your business licence](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences) - Official wording: "Business licences, except Special Event or Temporary licences, expire annually on December 31." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02), s. 9.1 to 9.3](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Inter-community licence:** 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. - Source: [Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw 2025 No. 7435, s. 3.2, 4.1, 4.3](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/b7435.pdf) - Official wording: "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;" - Source: [Get a Business Licence, Inter-community licences](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence) - Official wording: "can purchase an inter-community business licence for an additional annual fee of $170" - Source: [Mobile business licences, Province of British Columbia, Partnerships and participating communities](https://www.gov.bc.ca/mobilebusinesslicence) - Official wording: "City of Nanaimo" … "Central Vancouver Island" … "City of Port Alberni" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Carrying on a business with no licence: $250 ($187.50 if paid early, $312.50 if paid late). Failing to display the licence: $100. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159, Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 schedule](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02), s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) - Official wording: "Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The 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. ## Steps 1. Check zoning with Planning before you sign a lease or buy. 2. Get any approvals your business needs first: zoning, Building Code, Fire Code, police, health, parks or provincial. 3. 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. 4. Pay before the licence is issued. 5. 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. ## Good to know - 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. - 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. - 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. ## Official forms and pages - [Get a Business Licence (applications and payment options)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence) - [Business Licences](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences) - [Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business.md) - [Nanaimo short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/short-term-rental.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/business-licence.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/business-licence.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/business-licence.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/business-licence.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/business-licence.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/business-licence.md) ## Sources - [Business Licences, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences) (read 2026-11-05) - [Get a Business Licence, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence) (read 2026-11-05) - [Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-02)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Inter-Community Business Licence Bylaw 2025 No. 7435 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/b7435.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Mobile business licences, Province of British Columbia](https://www.gov.bc.ca/mobilebusinesslicence) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo home-based business rules question: "Can I run a business from my home?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: City of Nanaimo sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business.json" --- # Nanaimo home-based business rules **Question:** Can I run a business from my home? **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. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Nanaimo, https://www.nanaimo.ca) **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). **Where:** - Phone: Business Licensing, 250-755-4482 - Email: Business Licensing, business.licence@nanaimo.ca - Email: Planning (zoning questions), planning@nanaimo.ca ## Key facts - **Allowed:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.20.1, 6.20.9](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** 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). - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.20.2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "At least one resident of the dwelling unit, secondary suite, or recreational vehicle must hold a business licence for the home-based business." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01), Business Licence Fees, Table IV](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) - Official wording: "All other businesses $165.00" … "Non-profit organizations with non-profit status $50.00" - Source: [Business Licences, Types of business licences](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.20.3, 6.20.6](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf, Table 2, Home Based Business](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf) - Official wording: "No requirement for Type 1 businesses" … "1 space per Type 2 or Type 3 business" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Businesses not allowed:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.20.3, 6.20.5](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.20 (Home Based Business); Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23), s. 6.20](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 4500" … "6.20 HOME BASED BUSINESS" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated), s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) - Official wording: "Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works In 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. | | Type 1 | Type 2 | Type 3 | |---|---|---|---| | 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 | | Business floor area | 42 m² or 50% of the unit, whichever is less | 100 m² or 50% | 200 m² or 50% | | Customer return trips a day | none | 8 | 12 | | Non-resident employees | 0 | 1 | 2 | | Parking | none | 1 space | 1 space | ## Steps 1. Check your zone and lot size with Planning. 2. Get a City business licence (see the business licence answer). ## Good to know - Customer trips are allowed only from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. - 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. - 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. - Several home businesses at one home share the combined limits. - Exceeding the limits is a $200 bylaw notice ticket ($150 if paid early). ## What you'll need - If you rent and customers will visit, a signed owner declaration ## Official forms and pages - [Home-Based Business Regulations (Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.20) (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/home-based-business-regulations.pdf) - [Zoning Bylaw 4500 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - [General Business Licence application](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence/new-business-licence-application) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence.md) - [Nanaimo zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Home-based business rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/home-based-business.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/home-based-business.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/home-based-business.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/home-based-business.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/home-based-business.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/home-based-business.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/home-based-business.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.20 Home Based Business (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/home-based-business-regulations.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw No. 4500 (PDF, consolidated 2026-MAR-23)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Business Licences, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2021 No. 7336 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUN-01)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7336.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Nanaimo. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business/_ --- --- title: Nanaimo short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) question: "Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Nanaimo?" place: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/nanaimo category: Housing and renting owner: shared sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/short-term-rental/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/short-term-rental.json" --- # Nanaimo short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) **Question:** Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Nanaimo? **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. **Who handles it:** More than one level of government **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:** - Online: Short-Term Rental Application Form, https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence/short-term-application-form - Phone: Business Licensing, 250-755-4482 - Email: Business Licensing, business.licence@nanaimo.ca - Phone: ServiceBC short-term rental registry, 1-833-828-2240 - Email: ServiceBC short-term rental registry, STRregistry@sbc.gov.bc.ca ## Key facts - **Allowed:** 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. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated), s. 6.16.1, 6.16.2, 6.16.4](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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." - Source: [Provincial short-term rental principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia, List of communities where the principal residence requirement applies](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) - Official wording: "Nanaimo Nelson New Westminster" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** 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. - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated), s. 3.2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) - Official wording: "A short-term rental operator must not operate or advertise a short-term rental" - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, How much is the business licence fee?](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/short-term-rentals) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Provincial registration:** 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. - Source: [Short-term rental registration, Province of British Columbia, Registration overview, Failure to register](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) - Official wording: "Short-term rental hosts, platforms and strata hotel platforms in B.C. must register and pay annual registration fees." … "Your listings will no longer be advertised," - Source: [Provincial short-term rental principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia, Principal residence requirement and registration fees](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Operating rules:** 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. (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.) - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated), s. 6.16.5, 6.16.6](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "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" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated), s. 13.2, 13.3](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) - Official wording: "The short-term rental business licence account number must be displayed on all" … "short-term rental platform advertising." - Source: [Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453, Table 2](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf) - Official wording: "Short-Term Rental 1 space per rental unit" - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, What is a parking plan?](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/short-term-rentals) - Official wording: "Short-Term Rental | 1 per guest booking" … "you'd require 4 off-street parking spaces" … "guest parking is not permitted on the street" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** 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. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUL-27), Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318 schedule](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) - Official wording: "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: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318; Zoning Bylaw No. 4500, s. 6.16; Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453 - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated), s. 1](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) - Official wording: "Business Licence Bylaw 2021 No. 7318" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated), s. 6.16](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 4500" … "6.16 SHORT-TERM RENTAL" - Source: [Bylaw Search Results (complete list), Bylaw list](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/All) - Official wording: "OFF-STREET PARKING REGULATIONS BYLAW 2026 NO. 7453" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The 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. ## Steps 1. Check that the home is your primary residence and, in a strata, get strata approval. 2. Draw a parking plan showing the required off-street spaces. 3. Get a short-term rental business licence ($165 a year) before you operate or advertise, using the City's application form. 4. Register with the Province and pay the annual fee. Without registration, listings are removed and bookings cancelled. 5. Put the licence account number on every platform ad and post the licence where guests can see it. ## Good to know - 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. - 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. - 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. ## What you'll need - 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 ## Official forms and pages - [Short-Term Rentals (City of Nanaimo)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/short-term-rentals) - [Short-Term Rental Application Form](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/getting-a-business-licence/short-term-application-form) - [Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7318.pdf) - [Provincial short-term rental registration](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) ## Related questions - [Nanaimo business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/business-licence.md) - [Nanaimo secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/secondary-suite.md) - [Nanaimo home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/home-based-business.md) - [Nanaimo bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Short-term rental rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/short-term-rental.md) - [Lantzville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lantzville/short-term-rental.md) - [Ladysmith](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ladysmith/short-term-rental.md) - [Parksville](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/parksville/short-term-rental.md) - [Sechelt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/sechelt/short-term-rental.md) - [Qualicum Beach](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/qualicum-beach/short-term-rental.md) - [Lake Cowichan](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-cowichan/short-term-rental.md) ## Sources - [Short-Term Rentals, City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/doing-business/business-licences/short-term-rentals) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2012 No. 7159 (PDF, consolidated 2026-JUL-27)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7159.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Off-Street Parking Regulations Bylaw 2026 No. 7453 (PDF)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/7453.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Short-term rental registration, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) (read 2026-11-05) - [Provincial short-term rental principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 4500, section 6.10 Fence Height (consolidated)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/ViewBylaw/4500.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Business Licence Bylaw 7318 (consolidated)](https://www.nanaimo.ca/docs/doing-business/business-licences/business-licence-bylaw-7318-cons.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Search Results (complete list), City of Nanaimo](https://www.nanaimo.ca/bylaws/All) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with any government. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/nanaimo/short-term-rental/_