# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for Saanich --- title: "Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply" question: "Do I need a building permit in Saanich, and how do I apply?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit.json" --- # Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a building permit in Saanich, and how do I apply? **Short answer:** In Saanich you need a District building permit to build, alter, move or demolish a building, and for any new building over 10 m² (107 sq ft). Apply online through a MySaanich account. For a complete application the District aims to respond within 12 business days (residential). **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** A $100 non-refundable application fee is paid with the application and counts toward the permit fee. See the building-permit-fees answer. **How long:** For a complete application the District aims to respond within 12 business days (residential) or 15 days (commercial). These are targets, and the first response may be comments, not a permit. **Where:** - Online: Residential Permits (MySaanich portals), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html (Create a MySaanich account, then choose New Build, Addition, Renovation, Other or Demolition.) - In person: Inspection Services, Saanich Municipal Hall, 770 Vernon Avenue, Victoria BC V8X 2W7 - Phone: Inspection Services, 250-475-5457 - Phone: Book an inspection, 250-475-5458 - Email: Inspection Services, inspections@saanich.ca ## Key facts - **Needed for:** A building permit is needed before constructing, plumbing, repairing or altering a building or structure (including a retaining wall), moving or demolishing one, occupying a new one, installing a masonry fireplace or wood-burning appliance, or changing its use. Saanich's Q&A: all new buildings over 10 m² (107 sq ft). A separate application is needed for each structure. - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 7.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "constructing, plumbing, repairing or altering a building or structure, including a retaining wall" … "changing the use or occupancy of a building" - Source: [Permit Q&A](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) - Official wording: "You need a building permit for all new buildings over 10 sq m (107 sq ft)." - Source: [Residential Permits](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) - Official wording: "a separate Building Permit application is still required FOR EACH STRUCTURE" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not needed for:** Not needed for: minor repairs or alterations to non-structural parts; repairing or replacing a fixture or water heater with no piping change; an accessory building under 10 m² used for utility purposes that creates no hazard; retaining structures under 1.20 m high; a fence (but see retaining walls); a trellis, arbour or similar landscape structure on a single-family lot, or a soil-supporting wall under 1.20 m. - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 7.3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "for minor repairs or alterations to non-structural components of a building" … "for an accessory building less than 10 square metres in area that is used for utility" … "for retaining structures less than 1.20 metres in height" - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 3.3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "except as set out in Part 11 [Retaining Walls] of this bylaw, a fence" … "a trellis, an arbour, a wall supporting soil that is less than 1.20 metres in height" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** Online. Create a MySaanich account and use one of the residential portals (New Build, Addition, Renovation, Other, Demolition); commercial permits have their own online application. Incomplete applications are not accepted. - Source: [Residential Permits](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) - Official wording: "A MySaanich account is required to complete an application, upload documents, pay application fees, book inspections, view your application status and more!" … "launch of five digital submission portals" - Source: [Permit Q&A](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) - Official wording: "Access the Commercial Building Permit application here." … "Incomplete applications are not accepted." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What to submit:** Depends on permit type. For a new build (single-family dwelling, garden suite, houseplex or accessory building over 10 m²): a title search no more than 30 days old, copies of encumbrances Saanich is party to, digital plans, arborist report, letters of assurance if designed by a registered professional, energy compliance report, stormwater design (most new dwellings), project data table. - Source: [Residential Building Permit - New checklist](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/02_App_Residential_New_Checklist.Fillable.pdf) - Official wording: "Title Search (current within 30 days)" … "Digital Plans" … "Project Data Table (if not provided on the plans)" … "Letters of Assurance (if designed by a Registered" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Processing time:** For a complete application the District aims to respond within 12 business days (residential) or 15 days (commercial). The first response may be comments, not a permit. A garden suite permit takes about six weeks from a complete application. - Source: [Inspection Services, Building Permit Application Review Timelines](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services.html) - Official wording: "the District aims to provide a response within 12 business days for a residential application and 15 days for a commercial application" … "An initial response does not mean that the building permit is ready to be issued." - Source: [Garden Suites, Garden Suites FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/garden-suites.html) - Official wording: "Upon receipt of a complete application, it will take approximately six weeks to obtain a Building Permit." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Inspections:** Book through your MySaanich account or by calling 250-475-5458; book before 3:00 p.m. on the business day before to be inspected the next business day. The Building Bylaw (s. 7.13) separately requires at least 48 hours' notice before covering work or for a final inspection. (Sources differ: see the sources) - Source: [Residential Inspections Guide](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/Residential%20Inspections%20Guide%20-%20FINAL%20-%202025.pdf) - Official wording: "going online to your MySaanich account, or by calling 250-475-5458" … "Inspections must be booked before 3:00 p.m. on the business day before the required inspection to be inspected the next business day." - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 7.13](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "every owner must give at least 48 hours’ notice" … "(b) of intent to cover work that is required under this bylaw to be, or has been ordered" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** Inspection Services, District of Saanich, 770 Vernon Avenue, Victoria BC V8X 2W7. Phone 250-475-5457, email inspections@saanich.ca. Inspections booking line 250-475-5458. - Source: [Residential Building Permit - New checklist](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/02_App_Residential_New_Checklist.Fillable.pdf) - Official wording: "District of Saanich 770 Vernon Avenue Checklist for Victoria BC V8X 2W7 t. 250-475-5457 Residential Building Permit - New" … "Checklist for Victoria BC V8X 2W7 t. 250-475-5457 Residential Building Permit - New f. 250-475-5418 District of Saanich - Inspection Services" … "f. 250-475-5418 District of Saanich - Inspection Services inspections@saanich.ca SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING, GARDEN SUITE, HOUSEPLEX OR" - Source: [Residential Inspections Guide](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/Residential%20Inspections%20Guide%20-%20FINAL%20-%202025.pdf) - Official wording: "going online to your MySaanich account, or by calling 250-475-5458" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529 - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "BUILDING BYLAW, 2019, NO. 9529" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Saanich's Inspection Services reviews applications against the BC Building Code and the District's [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf), then inspects the work. A permit is needed before you construct, plumb, repair or alter a building or structure (including a retaining wall), move or demolish one, occupy a new one, install a masonry fireplace or wood-burning appliance, or change a building's use. Saanich's Permit Q&A says all new buildings over 10 m² (107 sq ft) need one. Each structure needs its own application. The bylaw does not require a permit for minor repairs to non-structural parts, replacing a fixture or water heater with no piping change, an accessory building under 10 m² used for utility purposes that creates no hazard, retaining structures under 1.20 m high, a fence, or a trellis, arbour or similar landscape structure on a single-family lot. The Q&A also lists patios and pools as not needing a building permit, though a plumbing permit and pool fence rules may apply. ## Steps 1. Create a MySaanich account. 2. Choose the portal for your project: New Build, Addition, Renovation, Other or Demolition. Commercial permits have their own online application. 3. Upload what the checklist asks for. For a new build that includes a title search no more than 30 days old, digital plans, an arborist report, an energy compliance report and, for most new dwellings, a stormwater design. Incomplete applications are not accepted. 4. Pay the application fee. The permit fee and other District charges must be paid before the permit is issued. 5. Book inspections through MySaanich or on 250-475-5458. ## Good to know - To be inspected the next business day, book before 3:00 p.m. the business day before. The bylaw separately requires at least 48 hours' notice before covering work or for a final inspection, so plan for the longer notice. - Processing times are targets. A garden suite permit takes about six weeks from a complete application. - Checklists for other project types are separate PDFs on the Residential Permits page. ## What you'll need - Title search no more than 30 days old (new build) - Copies of encumbrances Saanich is party to - Digital plans - Arborist report - Letters of assurance, if a registered professional designed it - Energy compliance report, stormwater design (most new dwellings) and project data table ## Official forms and pages - [Residential Permits, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) - [Residential Building Permit - New checklist (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/02_App_Residential_New_Checklist.Fillable.pdf) - [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit-fees.md) - [Saanich permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Saanich secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite.md) - [Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/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) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/building-permit.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/building-permit.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/building-permit.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/building-permit.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/building-permit.md) ## Sources - [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Permit Q&A, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Residential Permits, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Inspection Services, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Residential Building Permit - New checklist (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/02_App_Residential_New_Checklist.Fillable.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Residential Inspections Guide (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/Residential%20Inspections%20Guide%20-%20FINAL%20-%202025.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Garden Suites, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/garden-suites.html) (read 2026-11-06) _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 District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit/_ --- --- title: "Saanich fence rules: permits and height limits" question: "Do I need a permit to build a fence in Saanich, and how high can it be?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fence-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fence-rules.json" --- # Saanich fence rules: permits and height limits **Question:** Do I need a permit to build a fence in Saanich, and how high can it be? **Short answer:** In Saanich an ordinary fence needs no building permit, but the Zoning Bylaw limits height to 1.5 m (4.9 ft) toward the street and 1.9 m (6.2 ft) in other yards. Pool fences need a written permit from Inspection Services, and retaining walls are regulated separately. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** No permit fee for an ordinary fence. A bylaw notice for a fence over the height limit is $150 ($100 if paid early); a municipal ticket is $150 ($200 after 30 days). **How long:** No permit for an ordinary fence. For a pool fence, ask Inspection Services. **Where:** - Phone: Inspection Services, 250-475-5457 - Email: Inspection Services, inspections@saanich.ca - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456 - In person: Saanich Municipal Hall, 770 Vernon Ave., Victoria BC V8X 2W7 ## Key facts - **Permit:** No building permit for an ordinary fence: the Building Bylaw does not apply to fences except retaining walls (usually needed from 1.20 m high). A swimming pool or liquid storage tank fence needs a written permit from Inspection Services under Bylaw 6016. Zoning height limits still apply. - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 3.3(a) and 7.3(d)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "except as set out in Part 11 [Retaining Walls] of this bylaw, a fence" … "for retaining structures less than 1.20 metres in height" - Source: [Swimming Pool and Liquid Storage Tank Fence Bylaw, 1988, No. 6016, Bylaw 6016 s. 6](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/swimming-pool-and-liquid-storage-tank-fence-bylaw-1988-no-6016.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall erect, add to or replace, except for maintenance purposes, any fence or" … "The fence and gate shall be not less than 1.2 m (4’) in height above the ground at" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, front yard:** 1.5 m (4.9 ft) for a fence between the principal building's minimum setback and a lot line abutting a street. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 6.2(f)(i)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "any lot line abutting a street, shall exceed a height of 1.5m (4.9 ft)" … "Unless expressly provided for elsewhere in this section" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, side and rear yards:** 1.9 m (6.2 ft) for a fence in any other yard. Deer fences up to 2.5 m (8 ft) are allowed on agricultural lots, and on other lots if not bordering a street or on a street corner. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 6.2(f)(ii) and (g)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "no fence in any other yard shall exceed a height of 1.9 m (6.2 ft)" … "deer fences and deer fence extensions not exceeding a" … "On lots zoned for Agricultural use" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Corner lots and sightlines:** In single- and two-family zones, no fence over 1 m (3.3 ft) high within the corner area bounded by the street lot lines and a line joining points 9.0 m (29.53 ft) from where they meet. On arterial highways, Ministry consent is needed for structures over 60 cm wide and 90 cm high within 6 m of the intersection. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 6.3(b)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "no person shall construct, install, suffer or maintain a fence which exceeds a height of 1 m (3.3 ft) in the area bounded by the intersecting lot lines at a street corner" … "9.0 m (29.53 ft) from their point of intersection" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.15(b)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "permit landscaping or any structure to exceed 60 cm (1.96 ft) in width and 90 cm (2.95 ft)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other rules:** Height is measured from natural grade. A fence on a retaining wall counts toward one combined limit, except a guard or fence up to 1.07 m (42 in) may sit on a retaining wall. Within 7.5 m of the ocean, a fence or wall may not exceed 0.6 m. No rule on barbed or electric wire found. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 6.2(a), (c), (e), (h)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "The height of a fence or retaining wall shall mean the vertical distance between natural" … "the combined height of the retaining" … "a fence or guard not exceeding a height of 1.07 m (42 in) may be" … "fences and retaining walls may be constructed" … "No building, structure, retaining wall, screen, or fence or combination thereof in excess of" … "0.6 m (1.96 ft) in height shall be constructed or located on a lot within 7.5 m (24.6 ft) of" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, ss. 6.2 and 6.3 (height). Pool and tank fences: Swimming Pool and Liquid Storage Tank Fence Bylaw, 1988, No. 6016. Retaining walls: Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, Part 11. - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "ZONING BYLAW, 2003, NO. 8200" … "Constructing fence in excess of 1.5 metres (4.9" - Source: [Swimming Pool and Liquid Storage Tank Fence Bylaw, 1988, No. 6016, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/swimming-pool-and-liquid-storage-tank-fence-bylaw-1988-no-6016.pdf) - Official wording: "SWIMMING POOL AND LIQUID STORAGE TANK FENCE BY-LAW, 1988, NO. 6016" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Building Bylaw](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) does not apply to fences, except retaining walls, so an ordinary fence needs no building permit. Height limits come from the [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf), s. 6.2: - 1.5 m (4.9 ft) for a fence between the main building's minimum setback and a lot line that abuts a street. - 1.9 m (6.2 ft) in any other yard. - Deer fences up to 2.5 m (8 ft) are allowed on agricultural lots, and on other lots if not bordering a street or on a street corner. Height is measured from natural grade. ## Steps 1. Check your zone and lot lines (see the zoning-lookup answer). 2. Keep the fence within the height limits above. 3. If the fence is for a swimming pool or liquid storage tank, get a written permit from Inspection Services under [Bylaw 6016](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/swimming-pool-and-liquid-storage-tank-fence-bylaw-1988-no-6016.pdf). 4. If you build a retaining wall, ask Inspection Services whether a permit is needed. One is usually needed from 1.20 m high. ## Good to know - Corner lots: in single- and two-family zones, no fence over 1 m (3.3 ft) high within the corner area bounded by the street lot lines and a line joining points 9.0 m (29.53 ft) from where they meet. On arterial highways, Ministry consent is needed for structures over 60 cm wide and 90 cm high within 6 m of the intersection. - A fence on a retaining wall counts toward one combined limit, except a guard or fence up to 1.07 m (42 in) may sit on a retaining wall. - Within 7.5 m of the ocean, a fence or wall may not exceed 0.6 m. - The Zoning Bylaw sections read set no rule on barbed wire or electric fencing. Ask Bylaw Enforcement or Inspection Services. - A bylaw notice for a fence over the limit is $150 ($100 if paid early); a municipal ticket is $150 ($200 after 30 days). ## Official forms and pages - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - [Swimming Pool and Liquid Storage Tank Fence Bylaw, 1988, No. 6016 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/swimming-pool-and-liquid-storage-tank-fence-bylaw-1988-no-6016.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup.md) - [Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/fence-rules.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/fence-rules.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fence-rules.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/fence-rules.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/fence-rules.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/fence-rules.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Swimming Pool and Liquid Storage Tank Fence Bylaw, 1988, No. 6016 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/swimming-pool-and-liquid-storage-tank-fence-bylaw-1988-no-6016.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Residential Permits, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fence-rules/_ --- --- title: Saanich permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages question: "Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit.json" --- # Saanich permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages **Question:** Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage in Saanich? **Short answer:** In Saanich a new shed, garage or other accessory building over 10 m² (107 sq ft) needs a building permit. A smaller utility building that creates no hazard does not, but must meet zoning. A deck is applied for as an addition; no deck size or height threshold is stated. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** See the building-permit-fees answer. The application fee starts at $100 for work under $15,000. **How long:** For a complete application the District aims to respond within 12 business days (residential). **Where:** - Online: Residential Permits (MySaanich), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html - Phone: Inspection Services, 250-475-5457 - Email: Inspection Services, inspections@saanich.ca ## Key facts - **Sheds:** A new accessory building over 10 m² (107 sq ft) needs a building permit. One under 10 m² used for utility purposes that creates no hazard does not, but it must still meet zoning. - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 3.3(b), 7.3(c)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres in area that is used for utility" - Source: [Permit Q&A](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) - Official wording: "Constructing or renovating an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres (107 square feet) that complies with zoning requirements and does not create a hazard" - Source: [Residential Building Permit - New checklist, Checklist - New](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/02_App_Residential_New_Checklist.Fillable.pdf) - Official wording: "Accessory building (more than 10 m2 or 107 ft2)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Decks:** A deck is applied for as an Addition (the page says 'incl. deck'), and Saanich has a deck checklist. A patio or similar landscape structure needs no permit. No height or size threshold for decks is stated. - Source: [Residential Permits](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) - Official wording: "Adding to an existing single-family or duplex dwelling, incl. deck." - Source: [Deck checklist](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/07_App_Residential_Deck%20Checklist.pdf) - Official wording: "Residential Building Permit - Deck" - Source: [Permit Q&A](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) - Official wording: "Constructing a trellis, arbour (no roof), patio, or other similar landscape structure" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Garages and carports:** Not named separately in the sources read. Any new building over 10 m² (107 sq ft) needs a building permit, and the New Build application covers accessory buildings. - Source: [Permit Q&A](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) - Official wording: "You need a building permit for all new buildings over 10 sq m (107 sq ft)." - Source: [Residential Permits](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) - Official wording: "New single-family dwelling, garden suite, accessory building, houseplex" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning limits:** RS lots (some RS zones excluded): accessory buildings at least 7.5 m from the front lot line (15 m if over 2,000 m²), 1.5 m from rear and interior side lines, 3.5 m from exterior side line; max 3.75 m high, one storey; 1.2 m from the house. Total coverage 10% (under 1,330 m²), 7% (1,330 to 1,999 m²), 5% (2,000 m² and over). Other zones: see the zone schedule. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.34](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "7.5 m (24.6 ft) from the front lot line or, for lots having an area exceeding 2000 m2 (21,528 ft2), 15 m (49.2 ft) from the front lot line." … "1.5 m (4.9 ft) from a rear lot line or interior side lot line." … "3.5 m (11.5 ft) from an exterior side lot line." … "Shall not exceed a maximum height of 3.75 m (12.3 ft)." … "Shall not exceed a maximum of one storey." … "(i) 1.2 metres (4.0 ft) between walls or columns, and" … "Shall not exceed the lot coverage requirements outlined in Table 5.3." … "1330 m2 (14,316 ft2) – 1999 m2 (21,517 ft2)" - Source: [Zoning - Frequently Asked Questions | District of Saanich, Zoning FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/zoning/zoning-frequently-asked-questions.html) - Official wording: "If you are RS zoned, refer to section 5.34 of the Zoning Bylaw" … "For all other zones, refer to the applicable zone schedule." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529; Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "BUILDING BYLAW, 2019, NO. 9529" - Source: [https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf, Schedule 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "ZONING BYLAW, 2003, NO. 8200" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf), a new accessory building over 10 m² (107 sq ft) needs a building permit. One under 10 m² used for utility purposes that creates no hazard does not, but it must still meet zoning. Garages and carports are not named separately in the sources read. Any new building over 10 m² needs a permit, and the New Build application covers accessory buildings. A deck is applied for as an Addition, and Saanich has a deck checklist. The District's pages state no height or size threshold for decks. A patio or similar landscape structure needs no permit. Ask Inspection Services about your deck. ## Steps 1. Check zoning limits for your lot (see below and the zoning-lookup answer). 2. Apply online through MySaanich: New Build for an accessory building over 10 m², Addition for a deck. 3. Pay the fees and book inspections. ## Good to know - On RS lots (some RS zones are excluded), accessory buildings must be at least 7.5 m from the front lot line (15 m if the lot is over 2,000 m²), 1.5 m from rear and interior side lines, 3.5 m from the exterior side line, and 1.2 m from the house. They may be at most 3.75 m high and one storey. - Total accessory building coverage is 10% on lots under 1,330 m², 7% on lots of 1,330 to 1,999 m², and 5% on lots of 2,000 m² and over. Other zones have their own rules in the zone schedule. - The [Zoning Bylaw](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) applies even to buildings that need no permit. ## Official forms and pages - [Deck checklist (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/07_App_Residential_Deck%20Checklist.pdf) - [Residential Permits, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) ## Related questions - [Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit.md) - [Saanich building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit-fees.md) - [Saanich fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fence-rules.md) - [Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Deck and shed permit thresholds in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) ## Sources - [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Permit Q&A, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Residential Permits, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Deck checklist (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/07_App_Residential_Deck%20Checklist.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Residential Building Permit - New checklist (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Inspections/02_App_Residential_New_Checklist.Fillable.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning - Frequently Asked Questions | District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/zoning/zoning-frequently-asked-questions.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit/_ --- --- title: Saanich building permit fees question: "How much does a building permit cost in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit-fees/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit-fees.json" --- # Saanich building permit fees **Question:** How much does a building permit cost in Saanich? **Short answer:** In Saanich a building permit costs $100 for the first $1,000 of value, plus $13 per $1,000 for the next $499,000, plus $10 per $1,000 above $500,000. A non-refundable application fee of $100 or more is paid with the application and counts toward the permit fee. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** $100 for the first $1,000 of value, plus $13 per $1,000 for the next $499,000, plus $10 per $1,000 above $500,000. The application fee is part of the permit fee. **How long:** The application fee is paid when you apply. The permit fee and other District charges must be paid before the permit is issued. **Where:** - Online: Residential Permits (MySaanich), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html - Phone: Inspection Services, 250-475-5457 - Email: Inspection Services, inspections@saanich.ca ## Key facts - **Lowest fee:** $100 (permits where the value of the work is $1,000 or less). The non-refundable application fee is $100 for work under $15,000 and counts toward the permit fee. - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, Appendix A, Building Permit Fees s. 2(a)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "For permits where the value of the work is $1,000.00 or less: $100.00;" - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, Appendix A s. 1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "$100.00: for permits where the value of the work is less than $15,000.00;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How the fee is worked out:** $100 for the first $1,000 of value, plus $13 per $1,000 for the next $499,000, plus $10 per $1,000 for value above $500,000. Value is set by the Manager of Inspection Services. - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, Appendix A s. 2(b)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "$100.00 for the first $1,000.00 plus;" … "$13.00 per thousand for the next $499,000.00 plus;" … "$10.00 per thousand for all value in excess of $500,000.00." - Source: [Permit Q&A](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) - Official wording: "We base fee charges on the value of construction, as determined by the Manager of Inspection Services." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Application or plan review fee:** Non-refundable application fee paid with the application: $100 (under $15,000), $300 ($15,001 to $100,000), $1,000 ($100,001 to $500,000), $3,000 ($500,001 to $2 million), $7,500 ($2 million to $10 million), $15,000 (over $10 million). It is part of the permit fee, not extra. - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, Appendix A s. 1 and 2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "An application shall be accompanied by a non-refundable application fee" … "$300.00: for permits where the value of the work is $15,001.00" … "$1,000.00: for permits where the value of the work is $100,001.00" … "shall form part of, and is not in addition to, the building permit fee" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees:** Demolition $50 (waived if part of a building permit for one structure). Plumbing $20 a fixture; $50 application fee waived with a building permit. Security deposit: $1,000 for additions or accessory buildings over 25 m², $2,000 new single family dwelling, $10,000 complex building. Fee doubles (up to $20,000 extra) if work starts early. (Sources differ: Water and sewer service connection fees, development cost charges, re-inspection fees (from the third re-inspection), permit extension $200 and other charges are in Appendix A and the Service Connection Fees page. The Permit Fees PDF (updated September 2025) matches the bylaw Appendix A figures.) - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, Appendix A, Building and Plumbing fees](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "shall be $50.00." … "Plumbing Fixtures (each)" … "$20.00" … "Waived if part of a Building Permit" … "an accessory building greater than 25 square" … "(c) for a new single family dwelling or simple building (including demolition of" … "(d) for a complex building: $10,000.00;" - Source: [Permit Q&A](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) - Official wording: "$1,000 - New Accessory Building" … "$2,000 - New Single Family Dwellings and Simple Buildings" … "the demolition fee is waived" - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 10.16](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "The building permit or other permit fee is doubled for every permit application if construction commenced before the building official issued a permit, to a maximum of $20,000.00 over and above the standard fee." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to pay:** The application fee is paid when applying (online through MySaanich). Under Building Bylaw s. 10.8 the security deposit is also paid at application (the Permit Q&A says at issuance). The permit fee and other District charges must be paid before the permit is issued. (Sources differ: Bylaw s. 10.8 says the security deposit is paid at the time of application; the Q&A says at issuance. Not resolved; wording differs.) - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 10.7](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "Before receiving a building permit for a building or structure, the owner must first pay to the District" … "the building permit fee prescribed in Appendix A" … "An applicant for a building permit must pay to the District, at the time of the application," … "Before receiving a building permit for a building or structure, the owner must first pay to" - Source: [Residential Permits](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) - Official wording: "upload documents, pay application fees" - Source: [Permit Q&A](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) - Official wording: "Surety deposits are paid at the time of issuance of Building Permits." - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, s. 10.8](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "An applicant for a building permit must pay to the District, at the time of the application" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, Part 21 Appendix A (Fees) - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, title and Part 21](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "BUILDING BYLAW, 2019, NO. 9529" … "PART 21: APPENDIX A" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Fees are set in Appendix A of the [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf). The permit fee is $100 for the first $1,000 of value, plus $13 per $1,000 for the next $499,000, plus $10 per $1,000 for value above $500,000. For permits where the value of the work is $1,000 or less, the fee is $100. The Manager of Inspection Services sets the value of the work. A non-refundable application fee is paid with the application and is part of the permit fee, not extra: - $100 for work under $15,000 - $300 for $15,001 to $100,000 - $1,000 for $100,001 to $500,000 - $3,000 for $500,001 to $2 million - $7,500 for $2 million to $10 million - $15,000 for over $10 million ## Steps 1. Apply online through MySaanich and pay the application fee. 2. Pay the permit fee and any other District charges before the permit is issued. 3. Pay any security deposit that applies. ## Good to know - Other fees: demolition $50 (waived if part of a building permit for one structure); plumbing $20 a fixture, with the $50 plumbing application fee waived when you have a building permit. - Security deposit: $1,000 for additions or accessory buildings over 25 m², $2,000 for a new single family dwelling, $10,000 for a complex building. - The fee doubles (up to $20,000 extra) if work starts early. - The bylaw says the security deposit is paid at application, while the Permit Q&A says at issuance. Confirm with Inspection Services. - Water and sewer connection fees, development cost charges and re-inspection fees are separate. See Appendix A and the District's Service Connection Fees page. ## Official forms and pages - [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, Appendix A (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit.md) - [Saanich permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Saanich secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/building-permit-fees.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/building-permit-fees.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit-fees.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/building-permit-fees.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/building-permit-fees.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/building-permit-fees.md) ## Sources - [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Permit Q&A, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/permit-q-as.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Residential Permits, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/inspections-services/residential-permits.html) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit-fees/_ --- --- title: "Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows" question: "How do I find out how my property is zoned in Saanich and what I can build on it?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup.json" --- # Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows **Question:** How do I find out how my property is zoned in Saanich and what I can build on it? **Short answer:** In Saanich, search your address in SaanichMap and the zoning appears in the details panel. Then read that zone in Zoning Bylaw No. 8200. To confirm, contact the Planning Department at 250-475-5471 or zoning@saanich.ca. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** The sources read do not state a fee for looking up zoning. **How long:** Immediate online. Ask Planning if you need written confirmation. **Where:** - Online: SaanichMap, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/about-saanich/saanichmap.html - Online: Zoning Bylaw 8200, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/zoning/zoning-bylaw-8200.html - Phone: Planning Department, 250-475-5471 - Email: Planning Department, zoning@saanich.ca ## Key facts - **How to find your zone:** Use SaanichMap (the Saanich GIS map): search the address, select the parcel, and the zoning is listed in the details panel on the left. A Property Information Report (zoning, lot size, school district, tax levies) is generated from the same search. A new SaanichMap is planned for December 2026. - Source: [Zoning FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/zoning/zoning-frequently-asked-questions.html) - Official wording: "Your property’s zoning information can be found by accessing the Saanich GIS Map." … "the zoning will be listed in the details on the left side of the screen when viewed from a desktop computer" - Source: [SaanichMap](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/about-saanich/saanichmap.html) - Official wording: "A modern, streamlined version of SaanichMap is planned to launch in December 2026." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 8200, dated September 2003, with later amendments; the PDF includes amendments up to at least Bylaw 10299 (2026). No 'current to' date is stated. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, cover page and definitions](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "The Corporation of the District of Saanich Zoning B y l a w 8200 September 2003" … "B. 10299 2026 B. 10299 2026 Manager of Bylaw and Licensing Services - means the Manager of Bylaw and Licensing Services of The District of Saanich or any employee authorized to act on that person's behalf" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, Definitions](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "B. 10299 2026 Director of Planning - means the Director of Planning of The District of Saanich or that person's designate." … "1.1 This bylaw may be cited as the "Zoning Bylaw, 2003". Saanich Zoning Bylaw 8200 1-1" … "This page intentionally left blank." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What the zone controls:** Each zone sets the uses allowed, where buildings may be located, minimum lot size and dimensions for subdivision, and building height and density. - Source: [Zoning FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/zoning/zoning-frequently-asked-questions.html) - Official wording: "The uses that can occur on a property;" … "Where buildings and other structures may be located on a property;" … "Building height, and how much development is allowed on a site (density)." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** Planning Department: (250) 475-5471, zoning@saanich.ca - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 8200, Zoning Bylaw 8200 page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/zoning/zoning-bylaw-8200.html) - Official wording: "Share on LinkedIn ## Contact Us Planning Phone: (250) 475-5471 Email: zoning@saanich.ca ## Related Links - Zoning Bylaw Amendment List" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 - Source: [https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf, Schedule 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "ZONING BYLAW, 2003, NO. 8200" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Each zone in the [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) sets the uses allowed, where buildings may be located, the minimum lot size and dimensions for subdivision, and building height and density. SaanichMap is the District's GIS map. Search your address, select the parcel, and the zoning is listed in the details panel on the left. A Property Information Report (zoning, lot size, school district, tax levies) comes from the same search. ## Steps 1. Open SaanichMap and search your address. 2. Select your parcel and read the zoning in the left-hand panel. 3. Find that zone in the Zoning Bylaw and read the uses, setbacks, height and density. 4. For anything unclear, contact the Planning Department. ## Good to know - The Zoning Bylaw is dated September 2003, with later amendments. The PDF does not state a "current to" date, so ask Planning if the exact current wording matters. - Saanich says a new SaanichMap is planned for December 2026, so the steps above may change. Check the SaanichMap page. - The Zoning Bylaw is separate from building permit rules; see the building-permit answer. ## Zones 177 zones are listed from [Zoning Bylaw No. 8200 (Saanich, September 2003; office consolidation current on the District website, amendments include B. 10058 2025)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning/index.json Look up the zone of an address: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning/lookup?address=123+Main+St ## Official forms and pages - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite.md) - [Saanich fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fence-rules.md) - [Saanich permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Saanich home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/home-based-business.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/zoning-lookup.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/zoning-lookup.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/zoning-lookup.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/zoning-lookup.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/zoning-lookup.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/zoning-lookup.md) ## Sources - [SaanichMap, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/about-saanich/saanichmap.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning FAQ, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/zoning/zoning-frequently-asked-questions.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw 8200, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/zoning/zoning-bylaw-8200.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup/_ --- --- title: Saanich secondary suite and carriage house rules question: "Can I add a secondary suite or a garden suite in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite.json" --- # Saanich secondary suite and carriage house rules **Question:** Can I add a secondary suite or a garden suite in Saanich? **Short answer:** Yes. In Saanich a secondary suite is a permitted use in all RS, RD and A zones, inside a single family dwelling or houseplex. Detached garden suites are allowed on some lots. You need a building permit and then an occupancy permit before anyone moves in. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Building permit fees apply; see the building-permit-fees answer. **How long:** A garden suite permit takes about six weeks from a complete application. For a secondary suite the District does not state a separate time. **Where:** - Online: Secondary Suites, District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/secondary-suites.html - Phone: Inspection Services, 250-475-5457 - Email: Inspection Services, inspections@saanich.ca ## Key facts - **Secondary suite allowed:** Yes. A secondary suite is a permitted accessory use in all RS, RD and A zones, inside a single family dwelling or houseplex. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.24(b)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "a secondary suite is a permitted accessory use in all RS, RD, and A zones" … "The secondary suite must be located within a single family dwelling or houseplex;" - Source: [Secondary Suites](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/secondary-suites.html) - Official wording: "Secondary suites are a permitted accessory use in all RS, RD and A zones." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** Garden suites (detached) are allowed on RS and RD lots in a zone listing Garden Suite as a use, inside the Sewer Service Area and/or Urban Containment Boundary, at least 400 m² and 12 m wide, with a single family dwelling. One per lot. Not for short-term rental, bed and breakfast or boarding. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.35](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "The lot must be within the Sewer Service Area and/or within the Urban Containment Boundary;" … "The lot must have a minimum area of 400 m2;" … "The lot must be a minimum of 12 m wide; and" … "No more than one garden suite is permitted on a lot." … "Short-term rental use is prohibited in a garden suite." - Source: [Garden Suites](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/garden-suites.html) - Official wording: "Be in an RS or RD* zone" … "as of June 30, 2024 both a garden suite and a secondary suite will be permitted on RS and RD zoned properties" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** One secondary suite per real estate entity, inside the house or houseplex (not on a separate titled parcel); no boarding. On RS lots outside the Urban Containment Boundary: one secondary suite or one garden suite. No separate suite size limit found; the dwelling's total floor area follows its zone (e.g. RS-2: FSR 0.50 or 215 m²). No owner-occupancy rule found. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.24(b)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "No more than one secondary suite is permitted per real estate entity;" … "Boarding is not permitted within the secondary suite." … "c) Not more than one secondary suite or one garden suite on any RS zoned lot outside of the" … "(c) Shall not exceed a Floor Space Ratio (R) of 0.50 or" - Source: [Secondary Suites](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/secondary-suites.html) - Official wording: "You must meet the conditions of the relevant zone or Schedule G (e.g. maximum floor area/floor space ratio)." … "may not be connected to the primary dwelling unit by a breezeway or enclosed hallway" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Parking:** One additional on-site parking space for the suite occupant, unless the regulations say otherwise. Tandem parking on the driveway is allowed. The space must have an energized EV outlet for Level 2 charging. - Source: [Secondary Suites](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/secondary-suites.html) - Official wording: "Unless the applicable regulations say otherwise, you must provide one additional onsite parking space for the Secondary Suite occupant." … "We allow tandem parking on the driveway." … "The Secondary Suites parking space must also have an Energized EV Outlet for Level 2 electric vehicle charging." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.24(b)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "one additional on-site parking space for the occupant of the suite must be installed" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permits:** A building permit (Renovation or Addition application for an existing house; New Build for a new one), then an occupancy permit for the suite from Inspection Services, which is required before anyone occupies it. A garden suite needs a building permit and plumbing permit. - Source: [Secondary Suites](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/secondary-suites.html) - Official wording: "Complete and submit a Renovation Application." … "You need an Occupancy Permit for the Secondary Suite from the Saanich Building Inspections Division" … "Same as above, except you would need to complete and submit a New Build Application." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.24(b)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "unless an occupancy permit has been issued for the secondary" - Source: [Garden Suites, Garden Suites FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/garden-suites.html) - Official wording: "You will need a Building Permit and Plumbing Permit." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (ss. 5.24 and 5.35); Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529 - Source: [https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf, Schedule 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "ZONING BYLAW, 2003, NO. 8200" - Source: [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) - Official wording: "BUILDING BYLAW, 2019, NO. 9529" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf), s. 5.24, a secondary suite is a permitted accessory use in all RS, RD and A zones, inside a single family dwelling or houseplex. - One secondary suite per real estate entity, inside the house or houseplex (not on a separate titled parcel). No boarding. - On RS lots outside the Urban Containment Boundary, you may have one secondary suite or one garden suite. - The zoning rules read set no separate size limit for the suite, and no rule that the owner must live there. The dwelling's total floor area follows its zone. Ask Planning to confirm for your lot. A garden suite (detached) is allowed on RS and RD lots in a zone that lists Garden Suite as a use, inside the Sewer Service Area and/or Urban Containment Boundary, on a lot at least 400 m² and 12 m wide with a single family dwelling. One per lot. It cannot be used for short-term rental, bed and breakfast or boarding. ## Steps 1. Confirm your zone allows a suite (see the zoning-lookup answer). 2. Apply for a building permit through MySaanich: Renovation or Addition for an existing house, New Build for a new one. 3. Provide one additional on-site parking space for the suite occupant, unless the regulations say otherwise. Tandem parking on the driveway is allowed. The space must have an energized EV outlet for Level 2 charging. 4. Get an occupancy permit for the suite from Inspection Services. It is required before anyone occupies the suite. ## Good to know - A garden suite needs a building permit and a plumbing permit. - Short-term rental of a suite is not allowed in Saanich; see the short-term-rental answer. ## Official forms and pages - [Secondary Suites, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/secondary-suites.html) - [Garden Suites, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/garden-suites.html) ## Related questions - [Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit.md) - [Saanich building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit-fees.md) - [Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup.md) - [Saanich short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/short-term-rental.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Secondary suite and carriage house rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/secondary-suite.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/secondary-suite.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/secondary-suite.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/secondary-suite.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/secondary-suite.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/secondary-suite.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/secondary-suite.md) ## Sources - [Secondary Suites, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/secondary-suites.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Garden Suites, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/development-applications/garden-suites.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Building Bylaw, 2019, No. 9529 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/BUILDING%20BYLAW,%202019,%20NO.%209529.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite/_ --- --- title: Saanich tree removal rules and permits question: "Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/tree-removal/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/tree-removal.json" --- # Saanich tree removal rules and permits **Question:** Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property in Saanich? **Short answer:** Yes, in Saanich for protected trees. These include Arbutus, Garry oak, Pacific dogwood and Pacific yew, other large trees, and any tree 60 cm or more across. You need a tree cutting permit from the District. A bylaw notice for cutting a protected tree is $500 per tree. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** No fee for hazard, utility, foundation, unsuitable-tree, fire-hazard, agricultural or rural allowance removals. For building footprint, driveway, parking, septic or services removals: $50 plus $30 per additional tree, or $100 plus $30 if a rezoning or development permit is also needed. **How long:** The sources read do not state a processing time. Contact Parks. **Where:** - Online: Application for Tree Cutting Permit, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/natural-environment/trees/application-for-tree-cutting-permit.html - Phone: Saanich Parks (tree permit fees), 250-475-5522 - Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456 ## Key facts - **When a permit is needed:** Yes, for protected trees: Arbutus, Garry oak, Pacific dogwood and Pacific yew (2 m tall or 4 cm thick); Douglas-fir, grand fir, bigleaf maple and western red cedar 30 cm or more across; any tree 60 cm or more; streamside-area, replacement, nest and Saanich-owned trees. Also any tree whose removal needs an OCP development permit; over 2 trees a year on steep-slope parcels. - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272, s. 1 definition of Protected Tree](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) - Official wording: "Arbutus (Arbutus menziesii);" … "Garry Oak (Quercus garryana);" … "any tree having a D.B.H. that is 60 centimetres or more;" … "any tree growing on Saanich-owned property." … "No person shall alter, cut, damage or remove any tree, the removal of which requires a" … "development permit under the Saanich Official Community Plan, prior to the issuance of a" … "No person shall cut down more than 2 trees in any one calendar year growing on" - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272, ss. 7, 9](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall alter, cut, damage or remove any protected tree" … "No person shall cut down more than 2 trees in any one calendar year growing on" - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, Tree Protection Bylaw page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/natural-environment/trees/tree-protection-bylaw.html) - Official wording: "Yes - even protected trees that are dead or dying require a permit." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exemptions:** Not covered by the bylaw: Saanich and CRD park operations, federal or provincial land cut by that body, and ALR land cut for farming. Trees below the protected sizes need no permit (but see s. 8). Pruning to sound practice needs no permit (not Significant Trees). Hazard trees need a permit (s. 19), except imminent natural danger: cut, report next business day. - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272, ss. 4, 5, 10, 17](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) - Official wording: "ALR Land that are altered, damaged, cut or removed for the purpose of agricultural" … "A tree cutting permit is not required for the pruning of a protected tree, other than a Significant Tree" … "the owner may cut the tree or have it cut, but shall report the cutting to the Director of Parks and Recreation within the next business day" … "the owner may cut the tree or have it cut, but shall report the cutting to the" … "Where the applicant has demonstrated that the protected tree is a hazardous tree or" - Source: [Application for Tree Cutting Permit, Application page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/natural-environment/trees/application-for-tree-cutting-permit.html) - Official wording: "You generally do not need a permit to perform basic pruning on a protected tree" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** No fee for permits on hazard, utility, foundation, unsuitable-tree, fire-hazard, agricultural or rural-allowance grounds. For trees removed for a building footprint, driveway, parking, septic or services: $50 plus $30 per additional tree, or $100 plus $30 if a rezoning or development permit is also needed. Amending a permit $40. - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272, ss. 30, 31, 32, 34](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) - Official wording: "There will be no permit fee for tree cutting permits issued pursuant to s. 18, 19 a), b), c)," … "$50.00" … "$100.00" … "$30.00 per" … "non-refundable administration fee in the amount of $40.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Replacement trees:** Replacement trees are required: 1 per tree for hazard, utility, foundation, unsuitable-tree and rural-allowance removals; 2 for building footprint, driveway or septic removals; 3 for road or subdivision services. Min. size 4 cm (deciduous) or 3 m tall (conifer). Security deposit $300 per tree (first group), $700 (others). None for fire-hazard or agricultural removals. - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272, ss. 40-45](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) - Official wording: "No replacement trees are required for protected trees permitted for removal under s. 19 e)" … "For each tree altered, cut, damaged or removed under sections 19 a), b), c), d) or g)," … "one (1) replacement tree is required;" … "two (2)" … "three (3)" … "$300.00 per" … "$700.00 per" … "not less than 3 metres in height" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **City trees:** Trees on Saanich-owned land are protected trees. You cannot prune a tree on municipal land, including boulevards and parks; contact Parks for any tree work on public property. - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272, s. 1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) - Official wording: "any tree growing on Saanich-owned property." - Source: [Application for Tree Cutting Permit, Application page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/natural-environment/trees/application-for-tree-cutting-permit.html) - Official wording: "You cannot prune a tree growing on municipally owned land, including trees on boulevards or in parks." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Cutting a protected tree: Bylaw notice $500 per tree ($450 if paid within 14 days). Municipal ticket: $1,000 per tree. On conviction in court: not less than $1,000 first offence, $2,000 after. Significant tree: $5,000 minimum on conviction. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, Schedule 21](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Cutting down a protected tree 7 $500.00 $50.00" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 21](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Cutting down a protected tree 7 $1,000 per tree" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, s. 3.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "if received by the District within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to" … "if received by the District more than 28 days after the person received or is" - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272, s. 65](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) - Official wording: "is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than $1,000 for a first" … "a fine of not less than $5,000." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272 - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) - Official wording: "TREE PROTECTION BYLAW, 2014, NO. 9272" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) requires a permit to cut a protected tree. Protected trees include: - Arbutus, Garry oak, Pacific dogwood and Pacific yew (2 m tall or 4 cm thick). - Douglas-fir, grand fir, bigleaf maple and western red cedar 30 cm or more across. - Any tree 60 cm or more across. - Streamside-area, replacement, nest and Saanich-owned trees. - Any tree whose removal needs an Official Community Plan development permit. Do not cut it before the permit. On steep-slope parcels, more than 2 trees a year need a permit. Not covered: Saanich and CRD park operations, federal or provincial land cut by that body, and ALR land cut for farming. Trees below the protected sizes need no permit. Pruning to sound practice needs no permit, except for Significant Trees. ## Steps 1. Check whether your tree is protected, using the sizes above. 2. Apply for a tree cutting permit through the District. 3. If a replacement is required, plant it and pay the security deposit. ## Good to know - Replacement trees: 1 per tree for hazard, utility, foundation, unsuitable-tree and rural-allowance removals; 2 for building footprint, driveway or septic removals; 3 for road or subdivision services. Minimum size is 4 cm (deciduous) or 3 m tall (conifer). The security deposit is $300 per tree (first group) or $700 (others). None are required for fire-hazard or agricultural removals. Cash-in-lieu of $300 or $700 per tree applies where the lot cannot fit the replacements. - Hazard trees need a permit. The exception is imminent natural danger: cut it, then report the next business day. Dead or dying protected trees still need a permit. - Trees on Saanich-owned land are protected. You cannot prune a tree on municipal land, including boulevards and parks. Contact Parks. - Amending a permit costs $40. - Fines for cutting a protected tree: a bylaw notice is $500 per tree ($450 if paid within 14 days); a municipal ticket is $1,000 per tree. On conviction in court, the fine is not less than $1,000 for a first offence and $2,000 after. For a Significant Tree it is at least $5,000. Replacement trees may also be required. ## Official forms and pages - [Application for Tree Cutting Permit](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/natural-environment/trees/application-for-tree-cutting-permit.html) - [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) - [Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup.md) - [Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/tree-removal.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/tree-removal.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/tree-removal.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/tree-removal.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/tree-removal.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/tree-removal.md) ## Sources - [Tree Protection Bylaw, 2014, No. 9272 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/tree-protection-bylaw-2014-no-9272.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Tree Protection Bylaw, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/natural-environment/trees/tree-protection-bylaw.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Application for Tree Cutting Permit, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/natural-environment/trees/application-for-tree-cutting-permit.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/tree-removal/_ --- --- title: "Saanich garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits" question: "When is garbage collected in Saanich, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: shared sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/garbage-collection/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/garbage-collection.json" --- # Saanich garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits **Question:** When is garbage collected in Saanich, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags? **Short answer:** Saanich collects garbage and organics (green cart) every two weeks, on the same day. Blue Box recycling is run by the CRD, not Saanich. Find your day in the online collection calendar. Extra garbage bags need a $3 Saanich sticker, up to two per collection. The 2026 solid waste fee is $194.13 plus cart fees. **Who handles it:** More than one level of government **Cost:** 2026: Solid Waste Services fee $194.13 per dwelling per year, plus cart fees. Garbage: 120 L $41.16, 180 L $61.74. Organics: 80 L $35.25, 120 L $49.35, 240 L $98.70, 360 L $129.75. Extra bag sticker $3. Cart size change $30; lost or damaged cart $50 to replace. Billed in three instalments on the utility bill. **How long:** Garbage and organics every two weeks. Carts at the curb by 7 a.m. on collection day. **Where:** - Online: Collection Schedules (calendar), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/collection-schedules.html - Online: Cart exchange requests, utilitybilling@saanich.ca - Phone: Saanich Public Works (cart assistance program), 250-475-5599 - Online: Cart assistance program email, greenergarbage@saanich.ca ## Key facts - **How often:** Garbage and organics (green cart) are collected every two weeks, on the same day, by separate trucks. Blue Box recycling is not run by Saanich; it is the CRD Blue Box Program (collection by GFL Environmental). - Source: [Greener Garbage Collection Guidelines, General Program Information](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection-guidelines.html) - Official wording: "Separate trucks collect organics and garbage waste on the same day every two weeks." - Source: [Missed Collection, Missed Collection page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/missed-collection.html) - Official wording: "Saanich does not provide Blue Box collection" … "For missed Blue Box collection or inquiries please contact GFL Environmental" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Finding your day:** Enter your address in the online collection calendar on the Collection Schedules page, or use the Saanich GreenerGarbage app for your schedule and reminders. Reminders can also come by email, text or voicemail. - Source: [Collection Schedules, Collection Schedules page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/collection-schedules.html) - Official wording: "Enter your address below for your garbage & organics collection dates" … "Download the Greener Garbage App (App Store or Google Play) and set up your notification preferences." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Carts:** Garbage carts: 120 L or 180 L. Organics (green) carts: 80, 120, 240 or 360 L. Change or add with the Cart Exchange Form (mail, utilitybilling@saanich.ca, fax): $30 per size change, free for new owners or tenants within three months, no fee to add a cart. Lost or damaged cart: $50 to replace. - Source: [Cart Exchanges, Adding or Changing a Cart page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/your-utility-bill/managing-your-account/cart-exchanges.html) - Official wording: "Complete and submit a Cart Exchange Form to add, remove or exchange cart sizes." … "We apply a $30 service fee for cart exchanges." … "New owners or tenants can exchange cart sizes for free within three months." … "There is no service fee for ordering additional carts." … "utilitybilling@saanich.ca" - Source: [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233, Schedule A](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - Official wording: "120-litre regulation garbage container" … "180-litre regulation garbage container" … "80-litre regulation organics recycling container" … "360-litre regulation organics recycling container" … "Repair or Replace Lost or Damaged Regulation Container" … "$50.00 per container" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Setting carts out:** Put carts at the curb by 7 a.m. on collection day, as close to the curb as possible with the front facing the road, at least 1 m clear on all sides and 3 m clear above, without blocking sidewalks, bike lanes or the road. Carts must be accessible to the collector between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. - Source: [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233, ss. 5.1, 6.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - Official wording: "Shall, on their designated collection day place the regulation container(s)" … "in front of the premises, by 7:00 am, as close to the curb as possible" … "at least one metre horizontally on all sides including the back, and three" … "must be accessible to the Collector between the hours of 7:00 am and 7:00 pm" - Source: [Greener Garbage Collection Guidelines, General Program Information](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection-guidelines.html) - Official wording: "Make sure you get your carts to the curb by 7 a.m." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits and extra garbage:** Everything must fit inside the cart with the lid fully closed. Extra garbage: up to two extra bags per collection with Saanich stickers ($3 each), each bag no heavier than 25 kg, placed with the cart. Stickers are not for extra organics; sold at Municipal Hall and recreation centres. - Source: [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233, ss. 4.1, 7.1; Schedule A](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - Official wording: "No regulation container shall be filled to a point where the lid cannot be fully" … "Each extra bag of garbage" … "shall not exceed 25kg" … "Extra Garbage Tickets** $3.00 each" - Source: [Greener Garbage Collection Guidelines, Additional Services](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection-guidelines.html) - Official wording: "We'll collect up to 2 extra bags of garbage on your scheduled collection day that have Saanich-issued stickers on them." … "Stickers currently cost $3 per bag. You can buy them at Saanich Municipal Hall or any of the Saanich recreation centres." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** 2026: a Solid Waste Services fee of $194.13 per dwelling per year, plus annual cart fees. Garbage: 120 L $41.16, 180 L $61.74. Organics: 80 L $35.25, 120 L $49.35, 240 L $98.70, 360 L $129.75. Billed in three instalments on the utility bill. - Source: [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233, Schedule A, s. 3.4(a)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - Official wording: "SOLID WASTE SERVICES FEE SCHEDULE (EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026)" … "$194.13 per dwelling unit or non-" … "$41.16 per year per container" … "$61.74 per year per container" … "$129.75 per year per container" … "in three equal instalments" - Source: [Cart Selection, Cart Selection page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/cart-information/cart-selection.html) - Official wording: "Households will be charged a solid waste services base fee of $194.13 and an annual cart fee" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233 - Source: [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - Official wording: "GARBAGE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL BYLAW, 2013, NO. 9233" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Garbage and organics (the green cart) are collected every two weeks, on the same day, by separate trucks. Blue Box recycling is not run by Saanich; it is the CRD Blue Box Program, collected by GFL Environmental. Saanich collects on statutory holidays except those in December and January. Under the [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf), everything must fit inside the cart with the lid fully closed. Garbage carts are 120 L or 180 L; organics carts are 80, 120, 240 or 360 L. Saanich owns the carts; leave them when you move. For extra garbage, up to two extra bags per collection are allowed with Saanich stickers ($3 each), each bag no heavier than 25 kg, placed with the cart. Stickers are not for extra organics and are sold at Municipal Hall and recreation centres. **Set-out.** Put carts at the curb by 7 a.m. on collection day, as close to the curb as possible with the front facing the road, at least 1 m clear on all sides and 3 m clear above, without blocking sidewalks, bike lanes or the road. Carts must be accessible to the collector between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. No time is given for bringing carts back in. ## Steps 1. Enter your address in the online calendar on the [Collection Schedules page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/collection-schedules.html), or use the Saanich GreenerGarbage app for reminders by email, text or voicemail. 2. To change a cart size, send the Cart Exchange Form by mail, to utilitybilling@saanich.ca, or by fax. It is $30 per size change, free for new owners or tenants within three months, and there is no fee to add a cart. 3. If you cannot move your cart, apply for the assistance program: greenergarbage@saanich.ca or 250-475-5599. ## Good to know - 2026 fees: Solid Waste Services $194.13 per dwelling per year, plus cart fees (garbage 120 L $41.16, 180 L $61.74; organics 80 L $35.25, 120 L $49.35, 240 L $98.70, 360 L $129.75). Billed in three instalments on the utility bill. A 5% penalty is added to balances unpaid 45 days after billing. - Lost or damaged carts beyond warranty cost $50 per container to repair or replace. - Opting out of collection needs the Director of Engineering's permission, and the base fee is still charged. Properties with five or more units may arrange private collection. ## Official forms and pages - [Collection Schedules, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/collection-schedules.html) - [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - [Cart Selection, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/cart-information/cart-selection.html) - [Cart Exchanges, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/your-utility-bill/managing-your-account/cart-exchanges.html) - [Greener Garbage Collection Guidelines, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection-guidelines.html) - [Missed Collection, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/missed-collection.html) ## Related questions - [Saanich yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/yard-waste.md) - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/garbage-collection.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/garbage-collection.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/garbage-collection.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/garbage-collection.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/garbage-collection.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/garbage-collection.md) ## Sources - [Collection Schedules, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/collection-schedules.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Cart Selection, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/cart-information/cart-selection.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Cart Exchanges, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/your-utility-bill/managing-your-account/cart-exchanges.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Greener Garbage Collection Guidelines, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection-guidelines.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Missed Collection, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/missed-collection.html) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with any government. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/garbage-collection/_ --- --- title: Saanich yard waste collection and drop-off question: "Where does yard waste and brush go in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/yard-waste/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/yard-waste.json" --- # Saanich yard waste collection and drop-off **Question:** Where does yard waste and brush go in Saanich? **Short answer:** In Saanich, yard waste goes in the green organics cart (collected every two weeks), or to the Yard and Garden Waste Drop-off at 1040 McKenzie Ave, open Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A fall leaf collection also runs. No separate drop-off charge is stated. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** No separate drop-off or leaf-collection charge is stated; the annual Solid Waste Services fee ($194.13 in 2026) includes the garden recycling drop-off and leaf collection. A special pick-up of yard trimmings is $50 per cubic metre (minimum $50). **How long:** Drop-off open year-round, Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Sundays and statutory holidays. **Where:** - In person: Yard and Garden Waste Drop-off, Saanich Operations Centre, 1040 McKenzie Ave (Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; residents only, vehicles up to 3/4 ton, one load a day) - Online: Leaf Collection Program, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/leaf-collection-program.html ## Key facts - **Curbside collection:** Yes, in the green organics cart, collected every two weeks: leaves, grass clippings, prunings, plants and branches. In fall Saanich also runs a leaf collection (2026 first pass starts November 2) for broad leaves raked in rows or piles by the road. - Source: [Cart Selection, Cart Selection page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/cart-information/cart-selection.html) - Official wording: "We accept yard trimmings in the organics cart. Include your grass clippings, leaves, prunings, plants and branches." - Source: [Leaf Collection Program, Leaf Collection page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/leaf-collection-program.html) - Official wording: "November 2: official start date for first pass collection." … "Only broad leaves can be collected." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to set it out:** Cart: everything must fit with the lid closed; no size rule for branches is given for the cart. Leaf program: broad leaves only, in rows or piles no more than 1 m from the road, clear of catch basins, sidewalks and bike lanes, not in ditches; no limit on piles. Drop-off: branches no longer than 2 m and 5 cm thick. - Source: [Leaf Collection Program, Guidelines](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/leaf-collection-program.html) - Official wording: "Leaves must be in rows or piles no more than 1 metre away from the road." … "No limit to number of piles or rows." … "Leaves must not be placed in ditches." - Source: [Garden Recycling Drop-off, What you can drop off](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/garden-recycling-drop-off-webcam.html) - Official wording: "branches (no larger than 2m in length and 5cm in diameter)" - Source: [Greener Garbage Collection Guidelines, General Program Information](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection-guidelines.html) - Official wording: "Everything must fit inside the carts with the lids closed." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Drop-off:** Yard and Garden Waste Drop-off at the Saanich Operations Centre, 1040 McKenzie Ave: Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Sundays and statutory holidays; open year-round. Residents only, vehicles up to 3/4 ton, one load a day; proof of residency may be requested. (Sources differ: The Outdoor Burning page gives the address as 1010 McKenzie Avenue; all other pages say 1040. Hours are the posted current hours and may change (a Remembrance Day closure is posted for November 11, 2026).) - Source: [Garden Recycling Drop-off, Drop-off page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/garden-recycling-drop-off-webcam.html) - Official wording: "located at the Saanich Operations Centre (1040 McKenzie Avenue) and operates year-round" … "Monday to Saturday: Open (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)" … "Residential use only - Proof of residency may be requested" … "Maximum vehicle size is 3/4 ton" … "One load per day" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cost:** No separate drop-off or leaf-collection charge is stated: the annual Solid Waste Services fee ($194.13 in 2026) includes the garden recycling drop-off and leaf collection. A special pick-up of yard trimmings is $50 per cubic metre (minimum $50). - Source: [Cart Selection, Cart Selection page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/cart-information/cart-selection.html) - Official wording: "Includes the Saanich Public Works garden recycling drop-off and leaf collection." - Source: [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233, Schedule A](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - Official wording: "Special Pick-up of Garbage or Yard Trimmings*** $50.00 per cubic metre" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not accepted:** Drop-off does not accept soil, sod, tree root balls, ashes, rock, demolition wood or animal waste. The fall leaf program takes broad leaves only (no tree needles, acorns, chestnuts, pinecones, grass clippings or prunings). - Source: [Garden Recycling Drop-off, What you can and can't drop off](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/garden-recycling-drop-off-webcam.html) - Official wording: "soil, sod, tree root balls" … "ashes, rock, demolition wood" … "animal waste" - Source: [Leaf Collection Program, We don't accept](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/leaf-collection-program.html) - Official wording: "We're not able to accept a number of items in our leaf collection program as it contaminates our final product. The mulched leaves are used in our parks, allotment gardens and for Garry Oak restoration. Please put the following in your organics recycling cart: - Tree needles - Acorns - Chestnuts" … "Please put the following in your organics recycling cart: - Tree needles - Acorns - Chestnuts - Pinecones" … "- Tree needles - Acorns - Chestnuts - Pinecones - Grass clippings - Prunings - Garden waste" - Source: [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233, s. 1.17](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - Official wording: "It does not include: soil, sod, ashes, rocks, root balls, animal" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233 - Source: [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) - Official wording: "GARBAGE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL BYLAW, 2013, NO. 9233" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works **Curbside.** Leaves, grass clippings, prunings, plants and branches go in the green organics cart, collected every two weeks. Everything must fit with the lid closed. If it will not fit, order a bigger or extra cart, or use the drop-off. The cart rules are in the [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf). **Fall leaf collection.** Each fall Saanich collects broad leaves raked in rows or piles by the road (the 2026 first pass starts November 2). Keep piles no more than 1 m from the road, clear of catch basins, sidewalks and bike lanes, and not in ditches. There is no limit on piles. It takes broad leaves only: no tree needles, acorns, chestnuts, pinecones, grass clippings or prunings. **Drop-off.** Yard and Garden Waste Drop-off, Saanich Operations Centre, 1040 McKenzie Ave: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Sundays and statutory holidays, open year-round. Residents only, vehicles up to 3/4 ton, one load a day; proof of residency may be requested. Branches must be no longer than 2 m and 5 cm thick. It does not accept soil, sod, tree root balls, ashes, rock, demolition wood or animal waste. ## Steps 1. Use the green cart first. 2. For extra, take it to 1040 McKenzie Ave, or set leaves out under the [Leaf Collection Program](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/leaf-collection-program.html). 3. For a special pick-up of yard trimmings, the charge is $50 per cubic metre (minimum $50). ## Good to know - The [Garden Recycling Drop-off page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/garden-recycling-drop-off-webcam.html) shows the current hours, which can change; a Remembrance Day closure is posted for November 11, 2026. - The Outdoor Burning page gives the address as 1010 McKenzie Avenue; every other page and the bylaw say 1040. - No separate drop-off or leaf-collection charge is stated: the annual Solid Waste Services fee ($194.13 in 2026) includes both. ## Official forms and pages - [Garden Recycling Drop-off, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/garden-recycling-drop-off-webcam.html) - [Cart Selection, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/cart-information/cart-selection.html) - [Greener Garbage Collection Guidelines, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection-guidelines.html) - [Leaf Collection Program, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/leaf-collection-program.html) - [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/garbage-collection.md) - [Saanich backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-fire.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/yard-waste.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/yard-waste.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/yard-waste.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/yard-waste.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/yard-waste.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/yard-waste.md) ## Sources - [Garden Recycling Drop-off, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/garden-recycling-drop-off-webcam.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Cart Selection, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/cart-information/cart-selection.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Greener Garbage Collection Guidelines, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection-guidelines.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Leaf Collection Program, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/leaf-collection-program.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Garbage Collection and Disposal Bylaw, 2013, No. 9233 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/garbage-collection-and-disposal-bylaw-2013-no-9233.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/yard-waste/_ --- --- title: Saanich watering restrictions question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Water, sewer, roads and snow owner: regional owner_body: Capital Regional District sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/water-restrictions/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/water-restrictions.json" --- # Saanich watering restrictions **Question:** Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions in Saanich? **Short answer:** Yes. The CRD's Stage 1 watering rules apply in Saanich every year from May 1 to September 30. Lawns: even-numbered addresses water Wednesday and Saturday; odd-numbered addresses Thursday and Sunday. Tickets are issued under CRD bylaws, not Saanich's. **Who handles it:** Regional district (Capital Regional District, https://www.crd.ca) **Cost:** Ticket under CRD Bylaw 1857: $200 for lawn watering outside your Stage 1 days or hours, and $200 for wasting water in Stage 1 ($300 Stage 2, $400 Stage 3). A court can fine $100 to $10,000 per day. **How long:** Stage 1 runs May 1 to September 30 every year. The CRD can bring in Stage 2 or 3 (or change dates) at any time, taking effect 48 hours after notice. **Where:** - Online: CRD Watering Schedule, https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule - Online: Saanich Watering Schedules, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/water/watering-schedules.html ## Key facts - **When restrictions apply:** Stage 1 of the CRD Water Conservation Bylaw is in effect every year from May 1 to September 30. The CRD Commission can bring in Stage 2 or 3 (or change dates) at any time; those take effect 48 hours after notice. Applies to customers of the Regional Water Supply System, which includes Saanich. - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099), s. 4](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) - Official wording: "Stage 1 Water Use Restrictions prescribed in Schedule “A” are in effect each" … "year from May 1 to September 30 inclusive" … "take effect 48 hours after the" - Source: [Watering Schedules, Watering Schedules page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/water/watering-schedules.html) - Official wording: "The Stage 1 Watering Schdule of the Capital Region District Water Conservation Bylaw is in effect May 1 through September 30 every year." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Sprinkling schedule:** Lawns: even-numbered addresses Wednesday and Saturday; odd-numbered addresses Thursday and Sunday. Any method 4-10 a.m. and 7-10 p.m.; timed or automatic irrigation systems may also run from 12:01 a.m. For multi-unit complexes use the complex's address number. - Source: [Watering Schedules, Watering Schedules page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/water/watering-schedules.html) - Official wording: "Even numbered addresses may water:" … "Wednesday and Saturday" … "Odd numbered addresses may water:" … "Thursday and Sunday" … "4 a.m. – 10 a.m." - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099), Schedule A, s. 1(1)(a)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) - Official wording: "the property has an even-numbered address, the lawn watering is on" … "Wednesdays or Saturdays" … "Thursdays or Sundays" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Allowed at any time:** Hand-held container or hose with shut-off nozzle, and micro or drip irrigation, for trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables: any day, any time. Sprinklers on those plants: any day, 4-10 a.m. and 7-10 p.m. You may fill pools, hot tubs and ponds. Vehicles and boats: handheld container or hose with automatic shut-off nozzle. - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099), Schedule A, s. 1(1)(b)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) - Official wording: "Micro-irrigation" … "or Drip-irrigation systems" … "hand held hose equipped with an automatic shut-off nozzle" - Source: [Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District, Watering Schedules (CRD)](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule) - Official wording: "Hand Watering & Micro/Drip Irrigation" … "Any day, any time" … "You may use water to fill wading pools, swimming pools, hot tubs, or garden pond during Stage 1 Water Restrictions." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **New lawns:** No permit needed. New sod may be watered outside your lawn days (any day, 4-10 a.m. and 7-10 p.m.) on installation and for the first 21 days. Newly seeded lawns: until growth is established or 49 days, whichever is less. Then go back to your lawn days. - Source: [Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District, Watering Schedules (CRD)](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule) - Official wording: "A permit is not required to install new sod and/or newly seeded lawns." … "for new sod on installation and during the first 21 days after installation" … "or for 49 days after installations, whichever is less" - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099), Schedule A, s. 1(1)(b)(iii)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) - Official wording: "newly seeded lawns, water until growth is" … "established or for 49 days after installation, whichever is less" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Ticket under CRD Bylaw 1857: $200 for lawn watering outside your Stage 1 days or hours, and $200 for wasting water in Stage 1 ($300 Stage 2, $400 Stage 3). A court can fine $100 to $10,000 per day. - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099), s. 10](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) - Official wording: "is liable to a fine not" … "less than $100 and not exceeding $10,000" … "Capital Regional District Ticket lnformation Authorization Bylaw, 1990" - Source: [CRD Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw No. 1857, Schedule 26 to Bylaw No. 1857](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/1857-consolidated-capital-regional-district-ticket-information-authorization-bylaw-1990b) - Official wording: "Stage 1 – water lawn contrary to even-numbered" … "Wasting water during Stage 1" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Capital Regional District Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099) - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099), title](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) - Official wording: "CAPITAL REGIONAL DISTRICT WATER CONSERVATION" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Water restrictions in Saanich come from the Capital Regional District, under the [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016). It applies to customers of the Regional Water Supply System, which includes Saanich. Stage 1 is in effect every year from May 1 to September 30. The CRD can bring in Stage 2 or 3, or change dates, at any time; those take effect 48 hours after notice. The CRD says it has not needed Stage 2 or 3 since 2002. **Lawns.** Even-numbered addresses: Wednesday and Saturday. Odd-numbered addresses: Thursday and Sunday. Any method from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.; timed or automatic irrigation systems may also run from 12:01 a.m. Multi-unit complexes use the complex's address number. **Trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables.** A hand-held container, a hose with a shut-off nozzle, or micro or drip irrigation: any day, any time. Sprinklers on those plants: any day, 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. You may fill pools, hot tubs and ponds. Vehicles and boats: handheld container or hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle. **New lawns.** No permit is needed. New sod may be watered outside your lawn days (any day, 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) on installation and for the first 21 days. Newly seeded lawns: until growth is established or 49 days, whichever is less. Then go back to your lawn days. ## Steps 1. Check your address number and water on your lawn days. 2. Check the [CRD Watering Schedule page](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule) for any stage change before you water. ## Good to know - Tickets are under CRD Bylaw 1857: $200 for lawn watering outside your Stage 1 days or hours, and $200 for wasting water in Stage 1 ($300 in Stage 2, $400 in Stage 3). A court can fine $100 to $10,000 per day. - Nurseries, farms, turf farms and tree farms are exempt. - Saanich's own Water Utility Bylaw sets no lawn-watering schedule. ## Official forms and pages - [Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule) - [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099) (PDF)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) - [CRD Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw No. 1857 (PDF)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/1857-consolidated-capital-regional-district-ticket-information-authorization-bylaw-1990b) - [Watering Schedules, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/water/watering-schedules.html) ## Related questions - [Saanich garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/garbage-collection.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/water-restrictions.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/water-restrictions.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/water-restrictions.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/water-restrictions.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/water-restrictions.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/water-restrictions.md) ## Sources - [Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule) (read 2026-11-06) - [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099) (PDF)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) (read 2026-11-06) - [CRD Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw No. 1857 (PDF)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/1857-consolidated-capital-regional-district-ticket-information-authorization-bylaw-1990b) (read 2026-11-06) - [Watering Schedules, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/water/watering-schedules.html) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Capital Regional District. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/water-restrictions/_ --- --- title: "Saanich dog licences: fees and how to get one" question: "How do I get a dog licence in Saanich, and what does it cost?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-licence.json" --- # Saanich dog licences: fees and how to get one **Question:** How do I get a dog licence in Saanich, and what does it cost? **Short answer:** In Saanich, every dog over four months old needs a licence from the District each calendar year. A spayed or neutered dog costs $25 if paid before February 1 ($30 after); a dog that is not costs $35 ($40 after). Saanich sets the fees, but CRD Animal Care Services enforces the rules. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Spayed or neutered dog: $25 before February 1, $30 from February 1. Not spayed or neutered: $35 before February 1, $40 from February 1. Free for a dog spayed or neutered in the 12 months before applying (one free licence per dog), and for certified guide or service dogs. Replacement tag $5. CKC-registered kennel breeders pay $50 for all their dogs. **How long:** A licence runs for the calendar year (January to December) and must be renewed every year. Saanich issued permanent tags in 2023, so the tag number stays the same. **Where:** - Online: Dog Licences page (apply, renew or pay), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html - In person: Municipal Hall, 770 Vernon Ave., Victoria BC V8X 2W7 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Saanich Municipal Hall, 250-475-1775 - Phone: CRD Animal Care Services, 250-478-0624 ## Key facts - **Licence required:** Yes. Every dog over four months old needs a licence, renewed each year (a new licence each calendar year, to be obtained by February 1). - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 16](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "shall obtain a dog licence on or before the first day of February in each year" … "any dog over the age of four months" - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - Official wording: "all dogs over the age of four months have a valid licence" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Issued by:** The District of Saanich (apply to its Collector; pay at Municipal Hall, by mail or online). The licence reminder, tag and payment all go through Saanich, not the CRD. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 18.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "shall apply to the Collector and shall pay the fees" - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - Official wording: "The District of Saanich issued permanent dog tags to all dog owners in 2023" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $25 if paid before February 1; $30 from February 1. Free for a dog spayed or neutered in the 12 months before applying (one free licence per dog). - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 19.1(a), 19.2, 19.5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "the sum of $25.00 for each spayed female or castrated male dog" … "if a new licence has not been taken out on or before the first day of February" … "a licence shall be issued free of charge for a dog which has been castrated or spayed during the 12 month period" - Source: [Dog Licences, Fees table](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - Official wording: "Neutered or spayed dog" … "$25.00" … "$30.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $35 if paid before February 1; $40 from February 1. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 19.1(b), 19.5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "the sum of $35.00 for each female dog which is not spayed or male dog which is not castrated" … "shall be increased by the amount of $5.00" - Source: [Dog Licences, Fees table](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - Official wording: "Fee before February 1 | Fee after February 1 | Unfixed dog | $35.00 | $40.00" … "Fee after February 1 | Unfixed dog | $35.00 | $40.00 | Neutered or spayed dog | $25.00 | $30.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees and discounts:** Replacement tag $5. Free licence for certified guide or service dogs. No fee for a newcomer with a current licence from another municipality (they must notify Saanich). Kennel breeders registered with the Canadian Kennel Club pay $50 for all their dogs. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 19.4, 19.6, 19.7, 20](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "shall pay a replacement fee of $5.00 in respect of the tag" … "a licence shall be issued free of charge for a guide dog" … "shall be exempted from paying a licence fee in the current year" … "shall be $50.00 for all dogs owned by him/her" - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - Official wording: "Replacement Tag" … "Exceptions to licence fees are given to Certified Guide and Service Dogs" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Licences run for the calendar year (January to December) and must be renewed every year; renew before February 1 to avoid the $5 extra. Saanich issued permanent tags in 2023, so the tag number stays the same each year. - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - Official wording: "Dog licences must be renewed annually and are valid for the calendar year from January to December" … "You will receive a $5.00 discount when you renew before February 1" - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 17](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "is for the calendar year in which it was obtained" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to get one:** Renew by mail (cheque to 770 Vernon Avenue, Victoria BC V8X 2W7), the 24-hour drop box at Municipal Hall (cheques only), in person at Municipal Hall (cash, cheque, Interac, credit card), or online (credit card only, using the account number on your invoice). New licences: submit the online application; with more than two dogs call 250-475-5484. - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - Official wording: "By Mail: Mail your cheque and bottom portion of your dog renewal notice to 770 Vernon Avenue, Victoria, BC V8X 2W7" … "In person at the Municipal Hall: You can pay in person at the Municipal Hall using cash, cheque, Interac or credit card" … "Online: You can renew your dog licence online, using the account number on your invoice" … "If you have more than two dogs please contact us at 250-475-5484 to register" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, unlicensed dog:** Bylaw notice: $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days; $200 if paid more than 28 days after). Municipal ticket: $150 if paid within 30 days, $200 after 30 days. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 8, s. 16 / Bylaw notice schedule, animal control, section 16](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "faeces No dog licence 16 $150.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a Keeping wild animal without a 35 $150.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a" … "habitat of bird or animal Page 15 of 37" … "Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 Failure to remove canine 14.1 $150.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a faeces No dog licence 16 $150.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a Keeping wild animal without a 35 $150.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 8, s. 16 / Municipal ticket schedule, no dog licence](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "No dog licence 16 $150.00 $200.00" … "13.6, 13.8 Dog harming bird or animal or habitat of bird or 13.7 $150.00 $200.00 animal Failure to remove canine faeces 14.1 $150.00 $200.00 No dog licence 16 $150.00 $200.00 Keeping wild animal without a permit 35 $150.00 $200.00 Feeding deer 35.1 $150.00 $200.00" - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - Official wording: "Owners of unlicenced dogs can be fined up to $200.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "ANIMALS BYLAW, 2004, NO. 8556" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf), every dog over four months old in Saanich needs a licence each calendar year. You apply to Saanich (the bylaw's "Collector"), not the CRD, and you can pay at Municipal Hall, by mail or online. The reminder, tag and payment all go through Saanich. | Dog | Before February 1 | From February 1 | |---|---|---| | Spayed or neutered | $25 | $30 | | Not spayed or neutered | $35 | $40 | A dog spayed or neutered in the 12 months before you apply gets one free licence. Guide and service dogs are free. A newcomer with a current licence from another municipality pays no fee but must tell Saanich. Kennel breeders registered with the Canadian Kennel Club pay $50 for all their dogs. A replacement tag is $5. ## Steps 1. Go to the [Dog Licences page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) or Municipal Hall. 2. Apply and pay before February 1 to avoid the extra $5. 3. Keep your permanent tag; the number stays the same each year. ## Good to know - Without a licence, a bylaw notice is $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days, $200 if paid more than 28 days after). A municipal ticket is $150 if paid within 30 days and $200 after. A court conviction carries a minimum fine of $100. - Complaints and enforcement are handled by CRD Animal Care Services, 250-478-0624. ## Official forms and pages - [Dog Licences, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-leash-rules.md) - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/how-many-pets.md) - [Saanich rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/dog-licence.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/dog-licence.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-licence.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/dog-licence.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/dog-licence.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/dog-licence.md) ## Sources - [Dogs in Saanich | District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Dog Licences, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dog-licences.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 9 of 9 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-licence/_ --- --- title: Saanich dog leash rules and off-leash areas question: "Where can dogs be off leash in Saanich, and what are the leash rules?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-leash-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-leash-rules.json" --- # Saanich dog leash rules and off-leash areas **Question:** Where can dogs be off leash in Saanich, and what are the leash rules? **Short answer:** In Saanich, a dog off your property must be under a person's control, and on a leash in public places unless the area is leash-optional. A leash must be non-extendable and no longer than 2.4 m. A dog running at large is a $150 bylaw notice or a $150 municipal ticket. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Dog running at large: bylaw notice $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days, $200 if paid more than 28 days after); municipal ticket $150 if paid within 30 days, $200 after. **How long:** Rules apply at all times; some areas have seasonal dog closures (May to August) or fenced-diamond closures (March 1 to October 31). **Where:** - Online: Dogs in Parks FAQ (maps of leash-optional and on-leash parks), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html - Phone: CRD Animal Care Services, 250-478-0624 - Phone: Saanich Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456 (Monday to Friday, normal working hours) ## Key facts - **Leash rule:** Off your own property a dog must be accompanied by and under control of a person. Dogs on highways, school and college grounds, parks, public beaches, trails and other public property must be on a leash held by a person who has control, except in leash-optional areas (where the dog must still be under control). In leash-optional areas you must carry a leash and the dog must wear a collar. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 10, 12.1, 12.5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "no person shall suffer or permit any dog owned, harboured or in one’s charge to run at large or be on any public place unless the dog is accompanied by and under control of a person" … "provided the dog is confined by a leash held by a person who has the dog under control" … "must carry a leash for the dog and cause the dog to wear a collar" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Maximum leash length:** A leash must be a fixed, non-extendable leash not more than 2.4 m long. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 1 definitions](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "NON-EXTENDABLE LEASH means a fixed, non-extendable leash not more than 2.4 meters in length" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Off-leash areas:** Leash optional (dog under control): Schedule C parks 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.; Schedule D parks; fenced areas of Hyacinth, Lambrick and Rudd parks; beaches outside the Migratory Bird Sanctuary; marked areas of Cuthbert Holmes Park, PKOLS trail and Schedule K. Maps: Saanich Dogs in Parks FAQ. Parks on neither list: on leash. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 12.2, 12.3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "the following areas are leash optional provided the dog is under control of a person" … "the parks listed in Schedule “C” attached hereto between the hours of 6:00 am" … "the parks listed in Schedule “D” attached hereto except for any area marked with signage as an on leash area" … "within a 10 meter radius of any playground equipment" - Source: [Dogs in Parks FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) - Official wording: "See the map below for more information on leash optional parks" … "if it is not on those lists, the default is dogs must be on a leash in those parks" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Places dogs are not allowed:** No dogs: Quick's Bottom; Schedule K shaded areas; P-5 land (except Rithet's Bog leashed perimeter trail); Cedar Hill golf course; artificial turf, hard courts, playgrounds. May to August: Whitehead Park, Cordova Bay beach area, PKOLS beach. Fenced baseball diamonds Mar 1 to Oct 31 (Saanich FAQ page). - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 13.1 to 13.6](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "Lands known as Quick’s Bottom lands" … "to be in any of the following areas during the months of May to August, inclusive" … "to be on artificial turf fields and all hard surface sports courts" … "to be on any playground" - Source: [Dogs in Parks FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) - Official wording: "Dogs are not permitted in fenced baseball diamonds from March 1 to October 31." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cleaning up:** A person in control of a dog must immediately remove the dog's droppings and put them in a garbage bin, on public property or anyone else's private property. Exception for people physically unable to comply. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 14.1, 14.2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "unless the person immediately removes and disposes of the excrement in a garbage bin" … "shall not apply to persons who are incapable of complying because of physical disability" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** Municipal ticket: $150 if paid within 30 days, $200 after (dog running at large, s. 10; unleashed dog in a prohibited area, ss. 12.1, 12.3). Bylaw notice: $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days; $200 if more than 28 days). (Sources differ: Saanich's Dogs in Parks FAQ lists "Dog running at large" and several other leash offences at $100 within 30 days and $150 after; the Ticket Bylaw 9029 (consolidated through Amendment 10278) says $150 and $200, so the bylaw is followed. The FAQ page looks out of date. Court conviction: minimum fine $100 first offence, $200 later (Animals Bylaw s. 72.2(a)).) - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 8, s. 10](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog running at large 10 $150.00 $200.00" … "Unleashed dog in prohibited area" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 8, s. 10](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog running at large" … "10" … "$150.00" … "$50.00" - Source: [Dogs in Parks FAQ, Dogs in Parks FAQ, fines table](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) - Official wording: "What are the fines relating to dogs in Saanich Parks?" … "Dog running at large" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "ANIMALS BYLAW, 2004, NO. 8556" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf), off your own property a dog must be accompanied by and under the control of a person. On highways, school and college grounds, parks, public beaches, trails and other public property, the dog must be on a leash held by a person in control, except in leash-optional areas, where it must still be under control. In those areas you must carry a leash and the dog must wear a collar. A leash must be fixed (non-extendable) and not more than 2.4 m long. The [Dogs in Parks FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) says retractable leashes may be used in leash-optional areas because no leash is required there. Leash-optional: Schedule C parks from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.; Schedule D parks; fenced areas of Hyacinth, Lambrick and Rudd parks; beaches outside the Migratory Bird Sanctuary; marked areas of Cuthbert Holmes Park, PKOLS trail and Schedule K. A park on neither list is on leash. No dogs: Quick's Bottom, Schedule K shaded areas, Cedar Hill golf course, artificial turf, hard courts and playgrounds. From May to August: Whitehead Park, Cordova Bay beach area and PKOLS beach. ## Steps 1. Check the maps on the [Dogs in Parks FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) before you go. 2. Bring a leash and a bag. You must immediately remove your dog's droppings and put them in a garbage bin, unless you are physically unable to. ## Good to know - Running at large: a bylaw notice is $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days, $200 after 28 days); a municipal ticket is $150 if paid within 30 days and $200 after. A court conviction carries a minimum fine of $100, or $200 for a later offence. - The Dogs in Parks FAQ lists lower ticket amounts ($100/$150). The bylaw is followed here; confirm with Saanich. - The FAQ also says dogs are not allowed in fenced baseball diamonds from March 1 to October 31; that is not in the bylaw text. The Director of Parks can close an area to dogs by sign. - Report problems to CRD Animal Care Services, 250-478-0624. ## Official forms and pages - [Dogs in Parks FAQ, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-licence.md) - [Saanich rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-leash-rules.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/dog-leash-rules.md) ## Sources - [Dogs in Saanich | District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Dogs in Parks FAQ, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-leash-rules/_ --- --- title: Saanich rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs question: "What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dangerous-dogs/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dangerous-dogs.json" --- # Saanich rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs **Question:** What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs in Saanich? **Short answer:** In Saanich, an Animal Control Officer can declare a dog dangerous or aggressive. Owners then face strict rules: a muzzle and leash in public, secure confinement at home, and a yearly fee of $150 (dangerous) or $75 (aggressive). Report a dog to CRD Animal Services at 250-478-0624. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Yearly fee: dangerous dog $150; aggressive dog $75 (each dog over four months old). Fines: municipal ticket $500 if paid within 30 days, $750 after, for a dangerous or aggressive dog not confined in a public place; bylaw notice $500. **How long:** Rules apply for as long as the designation stands. An owner may ask the Chief Constable to remove an aggressive designation after 6 months if the dog has completed a behaviour training program; this can be done only once. **Where:** - Phone: CRD Animal Services (report a dog), 250-478-0624 (Office) - Phone: CRD Animal Services after-hours emergency, 1-833-931-3585 - Online: Report by email, animalservices@crd.bc.ca - Phone: Saanich Police non-emergency, 250-475-4321 ## Key facts - **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** Dangerous dog: has killed or seriously injured a person; an Animal Control Officer reasonably believes it is likely to; or it killed or seriously injured a domestic animal off its owner's property. Aggressive dog: an officer believes repeated aggressive behaviour makes injury likely, or it caused a non-serious injury without provocation. Animal Control Officer: a CRD bylaw officer or Saanich police member. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 1 definitions](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "DANGEROUS DOG means a dog that" … "has killed or caused a serious injury to a person" … "AGGRESSIVE DOG means a dog which meets one or more of the following conditions" … "repeated aggressive behaviour" … "a Capital Regional District Bylaw Enforcement Officer" … "any member of the Saanich Police Department" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Rules for owners:** Dangerous dog: in public or on others' land only firmly held on a non-extendable leash by a competent person and properly muzzled; at home kept indoors or in a locked pen (at least 1.82 m x 1.22 m x 1.82 m); warning sign at each entrance; nobody under 19 may own it or handle it in public. Aggressive dog: on a non-extendable leash held by a competent person in public, otherwise securely confined. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 11.1 to 11.12](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "which is muzzled by a properly fitted device" … "The enclosed pen shall be at least 1.82 metres (6 feet) long, 1.22 metres (4 feet) wide and 1.82 metres (6 feet) high" … "No person under the age of 19 shall own or keep a dangerous dog" … "unless the dog is firmly held on a non-extendable leash by a person competent to restrain the dog" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Licence fee:** Dangerous dog $150; aggressive dog $75, for every such dog over four months old. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 19.8](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "The sum of $150.00 for every dangerous dog over the age of 4 months" … "The sum of $75.00 for every aggressive dog over the age of 4 months" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** Report to CRD Animal Services: online Animal Complaint Form, animalservices@crd.bc.ca, 250-478-0624 (office) or 1-833-931-3585 (after-hours emergency). - Source: [Dogs in Saanich, Dogs in Saanich page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich.html) - Official wording: "File an Animal Complaint Form through the CRD. You can also email animalservices@crd.bc.ca or call 250-478-0624 (office) or 1-833-931-3585 (after hours emergency)." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Municipal ticket: $500 if paid within 30 days, $750 after (dangerous or aggressive dog in public place, not confined, or aggressive dog at large); $150/$200 for not posting the sign, not notifying the officer or removing the sign. Bylaw notice: $500 (less $50 within 14 days), or $150. A court can impose minimum fines of $200 to $1,000 depending on injury (s. 72.2). (Sources differ: Saanich's Dogs in Parks FAQ table shows "Aggressive dog running at large" at $200/$250 and a $1000 line for injury; the Ticket Bylaw 9029 says $500/$750, so the bylaw is followed. The FAQ page looks out of date.) - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 8, ss. 11.1 to 11.9](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Dangerous or aggressive dog in public place 11.1 $500.00 $750.00" … "Failing to Post Dangerous Dog Sign 11.7 $150.00 $200.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 8, ss. 11.1 to 11.9](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Dangerous or aggressive dog" … "in public place" … "$500.00" … "$50.00" … "n/a" - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 72.2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "the minimum fine shall be $1000,00" … "the minimum fine shall be $200.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "ANIMALS BYLAW, 2004, NO. 8556" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf), an Animal Control Officer (a CRD bylaw officer or a Saanich police member) decides whether a dog is dangerous or aggressive. - Dangerous dog: it has killed or seriously injured a person; an officer reasonably believes it is likely to; or it killed or seriously injured a domestic animal off its owner's property. - Aggressive dog: an officer believes repeated aggressive behaviour makes injury likely, or it caused a non-serious injury without provocation. Owner rules for a dangerous dog: in public or on others' land it must be firmly held on a non-extendable leash by a competent person and properly muzzled. At home it must be kept indoors or in a locked pen (at least 1.82 m x 1.22 m x 1.82 m), with a warning sign at each entrance. Nobody under 19 may own it or handle it in public. For an aggressive dog: a non-extendable leash held by a competent person in public, otherwise securely confined. The yearly fee is $150 for a dangerous dog and $75 for an aggressive dog. ## Steps 1. To report a dog, use the CRD Animal Complaint Form, email animalservices@crd.bc.ca, or call 250-478-0624. After hours in an emergency, call 1-833-931-3585. 2. If you own a designated dog, tell the officer within two working days if you sell, give away or lose the dog to death, and immediately if it is loose or has bitten or attacked anyone. ## Good to know - A dangerous or aggressive dog not confined in a public place: a municipal ticket is $500 if paid within 30 days and $750 after; a bylaw notice is $500 (less $50 if paid within 14 days). Not posting the sign, not notifying the officer or removing the sign is $150/$200 as a ticket. - A court can impose minimum fines of $200 to $1,000 depending on injury. - The [Dogs in Parks FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) table lists lower amounts. The bylaw is followed here; confirm with Saanich. - The Pound Keeper may impound such a dog for up to 14 days. ## Official forms and pages - [Dogs in Saanich, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich.html) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-licence.md) - [Saanich dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dangerous-dogs.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/dangerous-dogs.md) ## Sources - [Dogs in Saanich, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Dogs in Parks FAQ, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/dogs-in-saanich/dogs-in-parks-faq.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dangerous-dogs/_ --- --- title: How many dogs or cats you can keep in Saanich question: "How many dogs or cats can I keep in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/how-many-pets/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/how-many-pets.json" --- # How many dogs or cats you can keep in Saanich **Question:** How many dogs or cats can I keep in Saanich? **Short answer:** In Saanich you may keep no more than five dogs over four months old on any parcel. The same limit of five applies to cats over four months old, unless the parcel is larger than 2.02 ha (5 acres). More than five dogs without a permit is a $150 bylaw notice or municipal ticket. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** More than five dogs without a permit: bylaw notice $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days); municipal ticket $150 if paid within 30 days, $200 after. **How long:** The limits apply at all times. **Where:** - Phone: CRD Animal Care Services, 250-478-0624 - Phone: Saanich Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456 (Monday to Friday, normal working hours) ## Key facts - **Dogs allowed:** No more than five dogs over four months old on any parcel in Saanich. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 8.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "no person shall keep more than five dogs over the age of four months on any parcel of land within the Municipality" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cats allowed:** No more than five cats over four months old on any parcel, unless the parcel is larger than 2.02 ha (5 acres). - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 31](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "keep or harbour more than five cats over the age of four months on any parcel of land" … "Except where the area of the parcel of land exceeds 2.02 ha (5 acres)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other animal limits:** Pigeons: 25 pairs. Bantams: five (more only on parcels over 0.4 ha in an A zone). Beehives: four on RS-zoned lots. Hens and other poultry have their own limits (see backyard chickens). Farm animals: no more than two on an RS lot, which must be over 0.65 ha. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 4, 39.1, 45, 48.2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "shall not keep or harbour more than two farm animals" … "no person shall keep more than five bantams on any parcel" … "No person shall keep more than 25 pairs of pigeons" … "No person shall keep more than four hives" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exceptions:** The five-dog limit does not apply to kennel operators (kennel use needs a lot over 0.4 ha and zoning that permits it) or to people solely breeding dogs under a Canadian Kennel Club-registered name. The cat limit does not apply to cat kennel operators. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 8.2, 32, 50.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "Section 8.1 shall not apply to any person who operates a kennel" … "Section 31 shall not apply to any person who carries on a kennel operation for cats" … "has an area greater than 0.4 ha (one acre)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Dogs (more than 5 without a permit, s. 8.1): municipal ticket $150 if paid within 30 days, $200 after; bylaw notice $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days). No ticket amount is listed for the cat limit; a court conviction under the bylaw carries a minimum fine of $100. - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 8, s. 8.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Keeping more than 5 dogs without a permit 8.1 $150.00 $200.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 8, s. 8.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Keeping more than 5 dogs" … "$150.00" - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 72.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "to a minimum fine of $100.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "ANIMALS BYLAW, 2004, NO. 8556" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) limits how many animals you can keep on one parcel. - Dogs: no more than five over four months old. - Cats: no more than five over four months old, unless the parcel is larger than 2.02 ha (5 acres). - Pigeons: 25 pairs. - Bantams: five (more only on parcels over 0.4 ha in an A zone). - Beehives: four on RS-zoned lots. - Farm animals: no more than two on an RS lot, which must be over 0.65 ha. - Hens and other poultry have their own limits; see backyard chickens. The five-dog limit does not apply to kennel operators (a kennel needs a lot over 0.4 ha and zoning that permits it) or to people solely breeding dogs under a Canadian Kennel Club-registered name. The cat limit does not apply to cat kennel operators. ## Steps 1. Count the dogs and cats over four months old on your parcel. 2. If you are over the limit, contact Saanich Bylaw Enforcement at 250-475-5456 before keeping the extra animals. ## Good to know - More than five dogs without a permit: a bylaw notice is $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days); a municipal ticket is $150 if paid within 30 days and $200 after. - No ticket amount is listed for the cat limit. A court conviction under the bylaw carries a minimum fine of $100. - Every dog over four months old also needs a licence. ## Official forms and pages - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-licence.md) - [Saanich backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-chickens.md) - [Saanich rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dangerous-dogs.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog and cat limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/how-many-pets.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/how-many-pets.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/how-many-pets.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/how-many-pets.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/how-many-pets.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/how-many-pets.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/how-many-pets.md) ## Sources - [Complaint Process - District of Saanich | District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/how-many-pets/_ --- --- title: Saanich backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules question: "Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-chickens/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-chickens.json" --- # Saanich backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules **Question:** Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock in Saanich? **Short answer:** Yes. In Saanich you may keep up to five hens on a single-family or rural-zoned parcel between 557 m² and 1,114.8 m², if the flock is registered (free) and you live there. Roosters are not allowed in single-family zones. Bees and farm animals depend on lot size and zoning. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Hen registration is free. No fee is stated for the other rules. **How long:** Register the flock before keeping hens; the registration form is emailed to planning@saanich.ca. **Where:** - Online: Backyard Chickens page (Hen Registration Form), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/backyard-chickens.html - Online: Email the registration form, planning@saanich.ca - Phone: Saanich Municipal Hall, 250-475-1775 ## Key facts - **Hens allowed:** Yes. Up to five hens are allowed on a single-family residential or rural-zoned parcel between 557 m² (6,000 sq. ft.) and 1,114.8 m² (12,000 sq. ft.), if the flock is registered and the hen owner lives on the parcel. On parcels over 1,114.8 m² poultry (hens included) are allowed up to the limits in the bylaw table. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 38.1 to 38.3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall keep any poultry on any parcel of land having an area less than 1,114.8" … "a maximum of five hens are permitted on any parcel in a single" … "the owner of the hens resides on the parcel where the hens are to be kept" … "the area of the parcel is not less than 557 m2 (6,000 sq. ft.)" - Source: [Backyard Chickens, Backyard Chickens page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/backyard-chickens.html) - Official wording: "Under specific regulations, backyard hens are permitted in the District of Saanich." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Most hens:** Five hens on parcels of 557 to 1,114.8 m². Parcels over 1,114.8 m²: 10 poultry up to 1,858 m²; 30 up to 0.4 ha; no limit above 0.4 ha. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 38.2, 38.3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "a maximum of five hens are permitted on any parcel" … "a) 1,114.8 m2 - 1,858 m2" … "10" … "over 1,858 m2 - 0.4 ha" … "30" … "no limit" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Roosters:** No. Roosters (including bantam roosters) are not allowed in any single-family residential zone. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 40](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall keep or harbour any rooster or bantam rooster in any single family" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coop rules:** For hens on lots under 1,114.8 m² in single-family zones: coop and run in the rear yard, at least 3 m from the rear and side lot lines and 3 m from any door or window of a residence; not over 2 m high; at least 0.37 m² of coop floor and 0.92 m² of roofed run per hen; no more than 9.2 m² of land. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 38.4](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "is located at least 3 m from the rear lot line and side lot lines of the parcel" … "is located at least 3 m from any door or window of a residential building" … "is located in the rear yard of the parcel" … "at least .37 m2 of coop floor area and at least .92 m2 of" … "occupies an area of land not exceeding 9.2 m2 (99 sq. ft.)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit or registration:** Registration with the District is required for hens on single-family residential parcels under 1,114.8 m². No fee. Download the Hen Registration Form and email it to planning@saanich.ca. Saanich also requires a BC Premises ID registration. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 38.6, 38.7](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "There shall be no fee payable by the owner to the Municipality for the registration of a" … "unless that person has registered that flock" - Source: [Backyard Chickens, Backyard Chickens page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/backyard-chickens.html) - Official wording: "Download the Hen Registration Form and email your finished copy to planning@saanich.ca" … "You are also required to apply for the BC Premises ID Registration of Livestock and Poultry Premises" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bees:** Allowed on parcels in any A (agricultural) zone, and on RS-zoned lots only if the parcel is over 465 m² (5,005 sq. ft.). Maximum four hives on an RS lot. Hives must be at least 6.05 m (20 ft) from any property line unless inside a greenhouse. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 48.1, 48.2, 49](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "the parcel is located within any RS Zone and has an area greater than 465 m2" … "No person shall keep more than four hives on any parcel of land in any RS Zone" … "within 6.05 metres (20 feet) of any property line" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other livestock:** Farm animals (cattle, horses, goats, sheep, swine etc.): in an A zone only if the parcel is over 0.2 ha; in an RS zone only if over 0.65 ha, and no more than two; not allowed in RD, RC, RT, RM, RA, C, M and similar zones. Other poultry (ducks, geese, turkeys) only on parcels over 1,114.8 m². Rabbits must be in a secure enclosure. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, ss. 4, 38.1, 35.2.3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "within any A Zone, unless the parcel has an area greater than .2 hectares" … "within any RS Zone unless the parcel has an area greater than .65 hectares" … "No owner or occupier of property shall keep a rabbit on the property except" - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, s. 1 definitions](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "POULTRY means any bird normally raised for food or egg production" - Source: [Chicken FAQs](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/chicken-faqs.html) - Official wording: "Other types of poultry as defined in the Animals Bylaw are allowed only on property with an area larger than 1,114 m2" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (hens: ss. 38 to 41). Zones are defined in the Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200. - Source: [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) - Official wording: "ANIMALS BYLAW, 2004, NO. 8556" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) (hens: ss. 38 to 41) sets the rules. Zones come from the Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200. **Hens.** Up to five hens are allowed on a single-family residential or rural-zoned parcel between 557 m² (6,000 sq. ft.) and 1,114.8 m² (12,000 sq. ft.), if the flock is registered and the hen owner lives on the parcel. On parcels over 1,114.8 m² the limit counts all poultry: 10 up to 1,858 m²; 30 up to 0.4 ha; no limit above 0.4 ha. Roosters, including bantam roosters, are not allowed in any single-family residential zone. **Coop rules** (lots under 1,114.8 m²): coop and run in the rear yard, at least 3 m from the rear and side lot lines and 3 m from any door or window of a residence; not over 2 m high; at least 0.37 m² of coop floor and 0.92 m² of roofed run per hen. Also: no more than 3 m³ of manure in a closed container; eggs and meat not for sale; hens not slaughtered or buried on the parcel; feed in pest-proof containers. **Bees.** Allowed in any A (agricultural) zone, and on RS-zoned lots only if the parcel is over 465 m² (5,005 sq. ft.), with at most four hives. Hives must be at least 6.05 m (20 ft) from any property line unless inside a greenhouse. **Other livestock.** Farm animals: in an A zone only if the parcel is over 0.2 ha; in an RS zone only if over 0.65 ha and no more than two; not allowed in RD, RC, RT, RM, RA, C, M and similar zones. Other poultry (ducks, geese, turkeys) only on parcels over 1,114.8 m². Rabbits must be in a secure enclosure. ## Steps 1. Download the Hen Registration Form from the [Backyard Chickens page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/backyard-chickens.html). 2. Email it to planning@saanich.ca. There is no fee. 3. Also register for a BC Premises ID, which Saanich requires. ## Good to know - Saanich's [Chicken FAQs](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/chicken-faqs.html) say 5 chickens on lots over 557 m² and 10 over 1,114 m²; the bylaw counts all poultry. The bylaw is followed here. ## Official forms and pages - [Backyard Chickens, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/backyard-chickens.html) - [Chicken FAQs, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/chicken-faqs.html) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) ## Related questions - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/how-many-pets.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/backyard-chickens.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/backyard-chickens.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/backyard-chickens.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/backyard-chickens.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/backyard-chickens.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/backyard-chickens.md) ## Sources - [Backyard Chickens, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/backyard-chickens.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Chicken FAQs, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/agriculture-food-security/saanich-agricultural-regulations/chicken-faqs.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Animals Bylaw, 2004, No. 8556 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/animals-bylaw-2004-no-8556.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _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 District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-chickens/_ --- --- title: Saanich RV, boat and trailer parking rules question: "Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Parking, tickets and driving owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/rv-boat-trailer-parking/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json" --- # Saanich RV, boat and trailer parking rules **Question:** Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard in Saanich? **Short answer:** In Saanich, no vehicle may stay parked on a street more than 72 hours, and a detached trailer may not be parked on any street or boulevard. Vehicles over 4,000 kg or 7.0 m long may not park on a street from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. The zoning sections we read set no limit for a licensed RV or boat on your own lot. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Parking over 72 hours, overnight truck or trailer, detached trailer, or sleeping in a vehicle on a street: bylaw notice $50 ($75 after 28 days); municipal ticket $50, $75 after 30 days. Abandoning a vehicle, trailer or boat on a street: bylaw notice $150; municipal ticket $150, $200 after 30 days. **How long:** Street parking limit: 72 hours. **Where:** - Phone: Saanich Parking Enforcement, 250-475-5431 (Officers scheduled 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily) - Online: Parking Enforcement email, parking@saanich.ca - Phone: Saanich Planning (rules on your own lot), 250-475-5471 ## Key facts - **On the street:** No vehicle may stay parked on a street more than 72 hours. No vehicle over 4,000 kg or longer than 7.0 m may be parked on any street between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. A trailer detached from a motor vehicle may not be parked on any street or boulevard. Abandoning a vehicle, trailer or boat on a street is banned. - Source: [Streets and Traffic Regulation Bylaw, 2002, No. 8382, ss. 7.06(e), 7.08(a), 7.08(c), 8.07(h)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/streets-and-traffic-regulation-bylaw-2002-no-8382.pdf) - Official wording: "park such vehicle upon" … "any street for a period of time greater than 72 hours" … "A vehicle having a gross vehicle weight of more than 4,000 kilograms" … "A vehicle having an overall length of more than 7.0 metres" … "no person shall park a trailer that is" … "detached from a motor vehicle on any street or boulevard" … "Shall abandon, deposit or leave any vehicle, trailer or boat upon or in any street" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **On your property:** No size, number or placement limit for a licensed RV, boat or trailer was found in the Zoning Bylaw (ss. 5 to 7, RS and RD zones). Section 5.2 bars: more than one unlicensed vehicle outside a garage; an unlicensed vehicle in a front yard; boat building in a street-facing yard; commercial vehicles or trailers over 4,200 kg. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, Sections 5 and 6, s. 5.2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "Prohibited Uses of Land, Buildings and Structures" … "The siting of a vehicle not displaying a current motor vehicle license" … "The construction or reconstruction of any boat within any yard abutting a street" … "which exceeds a gross vehicle weight of" … "4,200 kg (9, 259 lbs) on any lot in any RS, RD, RC, RT, RM, RA, RP, MFC-CH or MFI-" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 5, s. 5.2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Keeping unlicensed vehicle" … "in a front yard" … "Construction of a boat in any" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Living in an RV:** No. No one may use a vehicle or trailer parked on a street to sleep, lodge or live. On any lot, a tent, trailer, motor vehicle or recreational vehicle may not be used for lodging, sleeping accommodation or a residence unless the zone expressly allows it. - Source: [Streets and Traffic Regulation Bylaw, 2002, No. 8382, s. 7.17](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/streets-and-traffic-regulation-bylaw-2002-no-8382.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall use any vehicle or trailer parked on a street for the purpose of lodging," - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, Sections 5 and 6, s. 5.2(f)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "The use of a tent, trailer, motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, or accessory or agricultural" … "building for lodging, sleeping, accommodation, or a residence." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Parking over 72 hours, overnight truck or trailer, detached trailer, sleeping in a vehicle: bylaw notice $50 ($75 after 28 days); municipal ticket $50, $75 after 30 days. Abandoning a vehicle, trailer or boat on a street: notice $150 ($100 within 14 days); ticket $150, $200 after 30 days. Zoning 5.2 offences: $150/$200. - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 7 and 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Parking greater than 72 hours 7.06(e) $50.00 $75.00" … "Abandon vehicle, trailer or boat on a street 8.07(h) $150.00 $200.00" … "Using a tent or vehicle for lodging, sleeping 5.2 (f) $150.00 $200.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 7](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Parking greater than 72" … "7.06(e)" … "$50.00" … "$25.00" … "Sleeping in vehicle" … "7.17" - Source: [Parking Tickets, Parking Tickets page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/getting-around/roads-traffic/parking-tickets.html) - Official wording: "$50 when you pay within 28 calendar days" … "$75 when you pay after 28 calendar days" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Streets and Traffic Regulation Bylaw, 2002, No. 8382; Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 - Source: [Streets and Traffic Regulation Bylaw, 2002, No. 8382, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/streets-and-traffic-regulation-bylaw-2002-no-8382.pdf) - Official wording: "STREETS AND TRAFFIC REGULATION BYLAW, 2002, NO. 8382" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, Sections 5 and 6, s. 5.2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "Saanich Zoning Bylaw 8200" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works **On the street.** Under the [Streets and Traffic Regulation Bylaw, 2002, No. 8382](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/streets-and-traffic-regulation-bylaw-2002-no-8382.pdf): - No vehicle may stay parked on a street more than 72 hours. - No vehicle over 4,000 kg or longer than 7.0 m may be parked on any street between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. - A trailer detached from a motor vehicle may not be parked on any street or boulevard. - Abandoning a vehicle, trailer or boat on a street is banned. - No one may use a vehicle or trailer parked on a street to sleep, lodge or live. **On your property.** The [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) (Sections 5 and 6, RS and RD zones) has no size, number or placement limit for a licensed RV, boat or trailer that we could find. Section 5.2 bars more than one unlicensed vehicle outside a garage, an unlicensed vehicle in a front yard, boat building in a street-facing yard, and commercial vehicles or trailers over 4,200 kg. On any lot, a tent, trailer, motor vehicle or RV may not be used for lodging, sleeping accommodation or a residence unless the zone expressly allows it. ## Steps 1. Before parking on your lot, call Saanich Planning at 250-475-5471 to check your zone, since individual zone rules were not all searched. 2. For street parking questions or complaints, call Parking Enforcement at 250-475-5431 or email parking@saanich.ca. ## Good to know - Parking offences: a bylaw notice is $50 ($75 after 28 days); a municipal ticket is $50, or $75 after 30 days. Parking tickets are $50 if paid within 28 calendar days and $75 after. - Abandoning a vehicle, trailer or boat on a street: a bylaw notice is $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days); a municipal ticket is $150, or $200 after 30 days. Zoning section 5.2 offences are $150/$200. ## Official forms and pages - [Streets and Traffic Regulation Bylaw, 2002, No. 8382 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/streets-and-traffic-regulation-bylaw-2002-no-8382.pdf) - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, Sections 5 and 6 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - [Parking Tickets, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/getting-around/roads-traffic/parking-tickets.html) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [RV, boat and trailer parking rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) ## Sources - [Home-Based Business | District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/home-based-business-licence.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Streets and Traffic Regulation Bylaw, 2002, No. 8382 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/streets-and-traffic-regulation-bylaw-2002-no-8382.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, Sections 5 and 6 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Parking Tickets, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/getting-around/roads-traffic/parking-tickets.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_ --- --- title: "Saanich noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines" question: "What are the noise rules and quiet hours in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/noise-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/noise-rules.json" --- # Saanich noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines **Question:** What are the noise rules and quiet hours in Saanich? **Short answer:** Saanich's Noise Suppression Bylaw bans noise that disturbs the neighbourhood at any hour; it sets no fixed quiet hours for ordinary noise. Permitted building work is exempt from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. except Sundays. A bylaw notice is $300. Call Bylaw Enforcement at 250-475-5456. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice $300 for disturbing the neighbourhood ($250 if paid within 14 days); $200 for a noisy animal or dog. Municipal ticket $300 within 30 days, $350 after ($200/$250 for animals). A court conviction carries a fine of at least $150. **How long:** The general ban applies at any hour. **Where:** - Phone: Saanich Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456 (Monday to Friday, normal working hours) - Phone: Saanich Police non-emergency (evenings and weekends), 250-475-4321 - Phone: Saanich Public Works (late-night crews or contractors), 250-475-5599 - Phone: CRD Bylaw and Animal Care Services (barking dogs), 250-478-0624 - Phone: Saanich Business Licence (home business noise), 250-475-5401 ## Key facts - **General rule:** No one may make a noise or sound, on a street or anywhere in Saanich, that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the neighbourhood or people nearby. Owners and occupiers must not let others do so on their property. Keeping an animal or bird that makes frequent or loud noise is also banned; a dog barking or howling for more than ten minutes is an objectionable noise. - Source: [Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059, ss. 2(a), 3, 4, 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/noisesuppresionbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall make or cause to be made any noise or sound in or on a highway or" … "disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or" … "in excess of ten minutes is, in the opinion of Council, an objectionable noise" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Quiet hours:** None set. Saanich's Noise Suppression Bylaw sets no fixed quiet hours for ordinary noise. - **Construction hours:** Building work (erection, demolition, construction, alteration, repair or excavation) with a valid building permit, and street or lane excavation, is exempt from the bylaw between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. every day except Sunday. At other times only urgent work essential to public health, safety or protection is exempt. - Source: [Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059, s. 11(e)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/noisesuppresionbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "provided a valid building permit has been obtained, or the excavating of any street, highway or lane" … "between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on each day except Sunday" … "if such work is essential to" … "the health, safety or protection of the public" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other limits:** Heat pumps and pool/hot-tub pumps in a quiet zone: max 50 decibels 7 a.m.-10 p.m., 45 decibels 10 p.m.-7 a.m. Shopping centres: 58 decibels 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Also banned: motor boats without a muffler, personal watercraft on Prospect Lake, engine brakes (except emergencies). Exempt: lawnmowers 8 a.m.-9 p.m., deliveries 6 or 7 a.m.-9 p.m. (not Sundays or statutory holidays), reasonable farm noise 7 a.m.-9 p.m. - Source: [Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059, ss. 6, 6.1, 7, 7.1, 8, 11](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/noisesuppresionbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "in excess of 50 decibels between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on any day" … "or in excess of 45 decibels between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. of the following day" … "No person shall make noise by operating a personal water craft on Prospect Lake" … "exceeds 58 decibels measured at a point of reception in a Quiet Zone" … "The use of a lawnmower between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on any day" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, business hours:** Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456, Monday to Friday during normal working hours (bylaw@saanich.ca). Barking dogs and other animal noise: CRD Bylaw and Animal Care Services, 250-478-0624. Home business noise: Saanich Business Licence, 250-475-5401. - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement FAQ, Bylaw enforcement FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/bylaw-enforcement-faq.html) - Official wording: "if the noise is occurring Monday-Friday during normal working hours please contact Bylaw Enforcement at 250-475-5456" … "Please contact CRD Bylaw and Animal Care Services at 250-478-0624" … "Please contact Saanich Business License at 250-475-5401" - Source: [Complaint Process, Complaint process](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html) - Official wording: "- To register a general bylaw complaint, please: - call 250-475-5456, - email bylaw@saanich.ca or - complete the Report a Problem form. - To register a parking complaint, please:" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, after hours:** Saanich Police non-emergency line, 250-475-4321, for noise in the evening or on weekends. Noise from a boat on Beaver, Elk or Prospect Lake: same number. Late-night work by Public Works crews or contractors: Saanich Public Works, 250-475-5599. - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement FAQ, Bylaw enforcement FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/bylaw-enforcement-faq.html) - Official wording: "If the noise is occurring during evening or weekend hours please contact the Saanich Police non-emergency number at 250-475-4321" … "Please contact Saanich Public Works at 250-475-5599" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $300 for disturbing the neighbourhood or letting a property cause disturbances ($250 if paid within 14 days); $200 for a noisy animal or dog. Municipal ticket: $300 within 30 days, $350 after; $200/$250 for animals. A court conviction carries a fine of at least $150. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 12](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Surcharge Discount Disturbing the neighbourhood 2 (a), 2 (b) $300.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a Owning/Occupying property 3 $300.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a" … "Keeping noisy animal 4 $200.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a Keeping noisy dog 5 $200.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a Operating boat without a muffler 6 (b) $300.00 $50.00 $50.00 n/a" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 12](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Disturbing the neighbourhood 2 (a), 2 (b) $300.00 $350.00" … "Keeping noisy dog 5 $200.00 $250.00" - Source: [Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059, s. 15](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/noisesuppresionbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "to a fine of not less than $150" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059 - Source: [Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/noisesuppresionbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "NOISE SUPPRESSION BYLAW, 1993, NO. 7059" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/noisesuppresionbylaw.pdf), no one may make a noise or sound, on a street or anywhere in Saanich, that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the neighbourhood or people nearby. Owners and occupiers must not let others do so on their property. Keeping an animal or bird that makes frequent or loud noise is also banned; a dog barking or howling for more than ten minutes is an objectionable noise. The bylaw sets no fixed quiet hours for ordinary noise. The general ban applies at any hour. **Construction.** Building work (erection, demolition, construction, alteration, repair or excavation) with a valid building permit, and street or lane excavation, is exempt from the bylaw between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. every day except Sunday. At other times only urgent work essential to public health, safety or protection is exempt. Statutory holidays are not mentioned. **Other limits.** Heat pumps and pool or hot-tub pumps in a quiet zone: 50 decibels from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., 45 decibels from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Also banned: motor boats without a muffler, personal watercraft on Prospect Lake, and engine brakes (except in emergencies). Exempt: lawnmowers from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; reasonable farm noise from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. ## Steps 1. Daytime: call Bylaw Enforcement at 250-475-5456 (Monday to Friday) or email bylaw@saanich.ca. 2. Evenings and weekends: call the Saanich Police non-emergency line, 250-475-4321. This includes boat noise on Beaver, Elk or Prospect Lake. 3. Barking dogs and other animal noise: CRD Bylaw and Animal Care Services, 250-478-0624. ## Good to know - Disturbing the neighbourhood is a bylaw notice of $300 ($250 if paid within 14 days) or a municipal ticket of $300 within 30 days and $350 after. A noisy animal or dog is $200 as a bylaw notice, or $200/$250 as a ticket. - A court conviction carries a fine of at least $150. ## Official forms and pages - [Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/noisesuppresionbylaw.pdf) - [Bylaw Enforcement FAQ, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/bylaw-enforcement-faq.html) - [Complaint Process, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/how-many-pets.md) - [Saanich building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit.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) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/noise-rules.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/noise-rules.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/noise-rules.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/noise-rules.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/noise-rules.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/noise-rules.md) ## Sources - [Noise Suppression Bylaw, 1993, No. 7059 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/noisesuppresionbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Enforcement FAQ, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/bylaw-enforcement-faq.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Complaint Process, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/noise-rules/_ --- --- title: Saanich unsightly property rules and how to report question: "How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/unsightly-property/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/unsightly-property.json" --- # Saanich unsightly property rules and how to report **Question:** How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property in Saanich? **Short answer:** In Saanich, owners and occupiers must not let property become unsightly, including overgrown grass, junk and unlicensed vehicles. Report it to Bylaw Enforcement at 250-475-5456 or bylaw@saanich.ca. An officer can order the owner to fix it within ten business days. A bylaw notice is $350. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice $350 ($300 if paid within 14 days, $400 after 28 days). Municipal ticket $350 within 30 days, $400 after. A court conviction carries a fine of at least $150. If Saanich does the work, the cost is charged to the owner. **How long:** The owner has ten business days to fix the problem after a notice is served. **Where:** - Phone: Saanich Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456 (Monday to Friday, normal working hours) - Online: Report by email, bylaw@saanich.ca - Online: Complaint Process page (Report a Problem form), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html ## Key facts - **What counts:** Owners and occupiers must not let property become or remain unsightly. Examples: broken or rotten fences, inoperable or unlicensed vehicles, idle construction materials, old wood or paper piles, indoor furniture, bedding or appliances stored outside, dirty or dilapidated exteriors, refuse, graffiti, unmowed grass or broad-leaf weeds over 20 cm (inside the Urban Containment Boundary, except Naturescape properties), dead plants, uncontained compost. Graffiti and dumping in public places are also banned. - Source: [Unsightly Premises Bylaw, 2021, No. 9600, ss. 2.1 to 2.4](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/UNSIGHTLY%20PREMISES%20BYLAW.pdf) - Official wording: "No owner or occupier of real property shall allow that property to become or remain" … "unmowed grass or broad-leaf" … "weeds in excess of 20 cm in height growing on real property inside the Urban Containment Boundary" … "No person shall cause or permit the placement of graffiti" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** Call Bylaw Enforcement at 250-475-5456, email bylaw@saanich.ca, or use the Report a Problem form. - Source: [Complaint Process, Complaint process](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html) - Official wording: "call 250-475-5456," … "email bylaw@saanich.ca or" … "complete the Report a Problem form." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What happens next:** A bylaw officer can serve a notice requiring the owner or occupier to fix the problem within ten business days. If they do not, Saanich may do the work at the owner's expense; costs unpaid by December 31 are added to the property taxes. Tickets can also be issued. - Source: [Unsightly Premises Bylaw, 2021, No. 9600, ss. 4.1, 4.3, 4.7](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/UNSIGHTLY%20PREMISES%20BYLAW.pdf) - Official wording: "within ten (10) business days of the notice" … "Saanich will be entitled" … "to take the required action at the expense of the person given the notice" … "shall be added to and form part of the taxes payable on the real property as taxes in arrears" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $350 ($300 if paid within 14 days, $400 after 28 days). Municipal ticket: $350 within 30 days, $400 after. Both schedules still cite the repealed 2003 bylaw No. 8417. A court conviction carries a fine of at least $150. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 19](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Allowing property to become" … "2.1" … "$350.00" … "50%" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 19](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Allowing property to become or remain 2.1 $350.00 $400.00" … "UNSIGHTLY PREMISES BYLAW, 2003, NO. 8417" … "Allowing property to become or remain" - Source: [Unsightly Premises Bylaw, 2021, No. 9600, s. 5.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/UNSIGHTLY%20PREMISES%20BYLAW.pdf) - Official wording: "a fine of not less than $150.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Unsightly Premises Bylaw, 2021, No. 9600 - Source: [Unsightly Premises Bylaw, 2021, No. 9600, s. 9.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/UNSIGHTLY%20PREMISES%20BYLAW.pdf) - Official wording: "UNSIGHTLY PREMISES BYLAW, 2021," - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Unsightly Premises Bylaw, 2021, No. 9600](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/UNSIGHTLY%20PREMISES%20BYLAW.pdf) says owners and occupiers must not let property become or remain unsightly. Examples: - broken or rotten fences - inoperable or unlicensed vehicles - idle construction materials, old wood or paper piles - indoor furniture, bedding or appliances stored outside - dirty or dilapidated exteriors, refuse, graffiti, dead plants, uncontained compost - unmowed grass or broad-leaf weeds over 20 cm (inside the Urban Containment Boundary, except Naturescape properties) Graffiti and dumping in public places are also banned. ## Steps 1. Call Bylaw Enforcement at 250-475-5456, email bylaw@saanich.ca, or use the Report a Problem form on the [Complaint Process page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html). 2. A bylaw officer can serve a notice requiring the owner or occupier to fix the problem within ten business days. 3. If they do not, Saanich may do the work at the owner's expense. Costs unpaid by December 31 are added to the property taxes. Tickets can also be issued. ## Good to know - Saanich's complaint process is primarily complaint-based, so reporting is how most cases start. - Bylaw notice: $350 ($300 if paid within 14 days, $400 after 28 days). Municipal ticket: $350 within 30 days, $400 after. A court conviction carries a fine of at least $150. - Both ticket schedules still name the repealed 2003 bylaw, No. 8417, though the section numbers match the current one. ## Official forms and pages - [Unsightly Premises Bylaw, 2021, No. 9600 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/UNSIGHTLY%20PREMISES%20BYLAW.pdf) - [Complaint Process, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) - [Saanich noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/noise-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/unsightly-property.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/unsightly-property.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/unsightly-property.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/unsightly-property.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/unsightly-property.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/unsightly-property.md) ## Sources - [Unsightly Premises Bylaw, 2021, No. 9600 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/UNSIGHTLY%20PREMISES%20BYLAW.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Complaint Process, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/complaint-process.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/unsightly-property/_ --- --- title: Saanich backyard fire and burning rules question: "Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-fire/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-fire.json" --- # Saanich backyard fire and burning rules **Question:** Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Saanich? **Short answer:** No. In Saanich, open-air burning is banned unless the Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw allows it, including wood in a fire pit or outdoor fireplace. Propane, natural gas and charcoal cooking appliances are allowed. Garden refuse may be burned only outside the Urban Containment Boundary, October 16 to April 30. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** No permit for one pile under 1 m across on the allowed days. A $10 open-air burning permit allows a pile up to 2 m, valid up to 7 days. Halloween bonfire permit $10. Fine without a permit: municipal ticket $150 within 30 days, $200 after; bylaw notice $150. **How long:** Open burning is banned every year from May 1 to October 15, and the Fire Chief can ban it at other times. **Where:** - Phone: Saanich Fire Department non-emergency (open-air burning questions), 250-475-6111 - In person: Yard and Garden Waste Drop-off (burning alternative), 1040 McKenzie Ave (Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) - Phone: Saanich Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456 (Monday to Friday, normal working hours) ## Key facts - **Backyard campfires:** No. Open-air burning is banned unless the bylaw allows it, including wood in a fire pit, chiminea or outdoor fireplace, and beach fires. Allowed: propane or natural gas appliances, and charcoal cooking appliances. Exception: a Halloween bonfire on October 31 only, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., with a $10 permit. - Source: [Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712, ss. 13, 15](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/firepreventionandlifesafetybylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Open-Air burning is prohibited unless expressly permitted by this bylaw" … "all Beach Fires are prohibited" … "a fire fuelled solely by propane, natural gas, charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal" - Source: [Outdoor Burning, Outdoor Burning page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/outdoor-burning.html) - Official wording: "Burning wood in an outdoor fire pit, fireplace, pizza oven or chiminea." - Source: [Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/halloween-bonfires-and-fireworks.html) - Official wording: "You may have a Halloween bonfire on October 31 only, between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m." … "A special $10 bonfire permit is required." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Burning yard waste:** Not allowed inside the Urban Containment Boundary. Outside it, on private land, garden refuse from that property may be burned October 16 to April 30, Fridays sunrise to sunset and Saturdays sunrise to noon; one fire at a time, under 1 m across, 7.6 m from buildings, fences and property lines, supervised by someone 19 or older. No burning May 1 to October 15. - Source: [Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712, ss. 18, 19](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/firepreventionandlifesafetybylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Open-Air burning is not permitted within the Urban Containment Boundary" … "may only take place from and including 16 October of one calendar" … "Fridays from sunrise to sunset, and" … "be supervised at all times by a responsible person 19 years of age or older" … "be located 7.6 metres (25 feet) from any Building or structure, wooden fence" - Source: [Outdoor Burning, Outdoor Burning page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/outdoor-burning.html) - Official wording: "all open burning is Saanich is not permitted from May 1 until October 15 inclusive" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** No permit for one pile under 1 m across burned on the allowed days. A $10 open-air burning permit allows a pile up to 2 m, valid up to 7 days, any day sunrise to sunset. Available at the fire stations. The Fire Chief may refuse a permit. - Source: [Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712, ss. 19(b), 21, Appendix A](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/firepreventionandlifesafetybylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "No Permit is required for such Open-Air" … "burning unless the fire exceeds 1 metre (3 feet) in diameter" … "shall be valid for a maximum of seven days from the date of issue" … "The cost of any Permit issued pursuant to section 21 shall be $10" … "may, in its discretion, refuse to issue" - Source: [Outdoor Burning, Outdoor Burning page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/outdoor-burning.html) - Official wording: "Fire Station No. 1, 760 Vernon Avenue, (250) 475-5500" … "Permit fee is $10." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fire bans:** The Fire Chief can order any or all open-air burning prohibited, for the whole municipality or an area, for set dates. Notice goes on the District website, to local media and at municipal offices. Burning is already banned every year May 1 to October 15. - Source: [Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712, s. 22](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/firepreventionandlifesafetybylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "the Fire Chief may order that any or all burning in the Open-Air" … "Notice of any" … "such ban shall be posted on the Corporation’s website" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Instead of burning:** Yard trimmings (leaves, grass, prunings, plants, branches) go in the green organics cart collected every two weeks, or to the Yard and Garden Waste Drop-off, 1040 McKenzie Ave (Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). A fall leaf collection also runs. (Sources differ: The Outdoor Burning page gives the drop-off address as 1010 McKenzie Avenue; every other Saanich page and the bylaw say 1040 McKenzie Ave, so 1040 is used.) - Source: [Organics: Kitchen Scraps and Yard Trimmings, Organics page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/organics-kitchen-scraps-yard-trimmings.html) - Official wording: "We accept items such as leaves, grass clippings, prunings, plants, and branches." - Source: [Garden Recycling Drop-off, Drop-off page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/garden-recycling-drop-off-webcam.html) - Official wording: "Location: 1040 McKenzie Ave" … "Monday to Saturday: Open (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)" - Source: [Greener Garbage Collection, Greener Garbage page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection.html) - Official wording: "One for organics to include kitchen scraps and your yard and garden waste." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Municipal ticket: $150 within 30 days, $200 after, for burning without a permit or unauthorized garden-refuse burning; $200/$250 for burning prohibited materials. Bylaw notice: $150 (or $200 for prohibited materials), less $50 if paid within 14 days. (Sources differ: The Halloween Bonfires page says a ticket for a fire without a permit is $100; the Ticket Bylaw (consolidated through Amendment 10278) says $150, so the bylaw is followed. Bylaw offence fine on conviction: up to $50,000 (s. 63).) - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 26](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Open Air burning without a permit 13 $150.00 $200.00" … "Burning Prohibited Materials 14 $200.00 $250.00" … "Unauthorized Open Air Burning of 19 $150.00 $200.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 26](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Open Air burning without a" … "13" … "$150.00" … "Burning Prohibited Materials" … "$200.00" - Source: [Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks, Halloween Bonfires page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/halloween-bonfires-and-fireworks.html) - Official wording: "A municipal ticket for $100 will be issued for any fires without permits." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712 - Source: [Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/firepreventionandlifesafetybylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "FIRE PREVENTION AND LIFE SAFETY BYLAW, 2021, NO. 9712" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/firepreventionandlifesafetybylaw.pdf), open-air burning is banned unless the bylaw allows it. That includes wood in a fire pit, chiminea or outdoor fireplace, and beach fires. Propane or natural gas appliances and charcoal cooking appliances are allowed. **Garden refuse.** Burning is not allowed inside the Urban Containment Boundary. Outside it, on private land, garden refuse from that property may be burned from October 16 to April 30, on Fridays from sunrise to sunset and Saturdays from sunrise to noon. One fire at a time, under 1 m across, 7.6 m from buildings, fences and property lines, supervised by someone 19 or older. No burning from May 1 to October 15. **Permits.** No permit is needed for one pile under 1 m across burned on the allowed days. A $10 open-air burning permit allows a pile up to 2 m, valid up to 7 days, any day from sunrise to sunset, from the fire stations. The Fire Chief may refuse a permit. **Halloween.** A bonfire is allowed on October 31 only, from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., with a $10 permit. **Fire bans.** The Fire Chief can prohibit any or all open-air burning, for the whole municipality or an area, for set dates. Notice goes on the District website, to local media and at municipal offices. ## Steps 1. Instead of burning, put yard trimmings in the green organics cart (collected every two weeks) or take them to the Yard and Garden Waste Drop-off, 1040 McKenzie Ave. 2. For burning questions, call the Saanich Fire Department non-emergency line, 250-475-6111. ## Good to know - Burning without a permit or unauthorized garden-refuse burning: a municipal ticket is $150 within 30 days and $200 after; a bylaw notice is $150 (less $50 if paid within 14 days). Burning prohibited materials is $200/$250 as a ticket, or $200 as a bylaw notice. - The [Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/halloween-bonfires-and-fireworks.html) says a no-permit ticket is $100. The bylaw is followed here. - The [Outdoor Burning page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/outdoor-burning.html) gives the drop-off address as 1010 McKenzie Avenue; every other page and the bylaw say 1040. - The Outdoor Burning page asks people to skip burning on poor-venting days posted daily by the Ministry of Environment. ## Official forms and pages - [Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/firepreventionandlifesafetybylaw.pdf) - [Outdoor Burning, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/outdoor-burning.html) - [Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/halloween-bonfires-and-fireworks.html) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fireworks.md) - [Saanich yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/yard-waste.md) - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Backyard fire and burning rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-fire.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/backyard-fire.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/backyard-fire.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/backyard-fire.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/backyard-fire.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/backyard-fire.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/backyard-fire.md) ## Sources - [Bylaw enforcement FAQ | District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/bylaw-enforcement-faq.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fire Prevention and Life Safety Bylaw, 2021, No. 9712 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/firepreventionandlifesafetybylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Outdoor Burning, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/outdoor-burning.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/halloween-bonfires-and-fireworks.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Garden Recycling Drop-off, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/garden-recycling-drop-off-webcam.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Greener Garbage Collection, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/greener-garbage-collection.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Organics: Kitchen Scraps and Yard Trimmings, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/utilities-garbage/garbage-organics-recycling/organics-kitchen-scraps-yard-trimmings.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-fire/_ --- --- title: Saanich fireworks rules question: "Are fireworks allowed in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fireworks/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fireworks.json" --- # Saanich fireworks rules **Question:** Are fireworks allowed in Saanich? **Short answer:** Only in limited cases. In Saanich, people 18 or older with a permit may set off consumer fireworks on October 31, between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. They are banned in parks, on beaches, on highways and on school property, and nobody may sell fireworks in Saanich. Using them without a permit is a $300 ticket. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Permit: consumer fireworks $10; display $75. Pyrotechnic special-effects: $150 safety-plan review plus $480 an hour for fire protection (minimum four hours). Fines: using or possessing without a permit is $300 (bylaw notice, or municipal ticket within 30 days; $350 after). **How long:** Apply by noon on October 31 per the bylaw; the Halloween page says October 30. **Where:** - Online: Fireworks Bylaw page (permit information), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/regulations-bylaws/fireworks-bylaw.html - Online: Apply to the Saanich Fire Department, fireprevention@saanich.ca - Phone: Saanich Fire Department non-emergency, 250-475-6111 ## Key facts - **Setting off fireworks:** Only people 18 or older with a permit. Consumer fireworks may be set off only on October 31, between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. (or other times named in a permit). Never on a highway, in a park, on school property, on a beach, or on commercial or industrial land. No fireworks pointed at people, animals, buildings, vehicles, trees or bushes. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865, s. 2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/fireworks-regulation-bylaw-2007-no-8865.pdf) - Official wording: "No person may discharge consumer fireworks except on October 31st of each year" … "No person under the age of eighteen (18) years may hold, possess" … "a highway;" … "a park;" … "a property on which a school is located;" - Source: [Fireworks Bylaw, Fireworks Bylaw page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/regulations-bylaws/fireworks-bylaw.html) - Official wording: "You can set off fireworks on October 31 only, between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m." … "You need a fireworks permit to possess or discharge fireworks in Saanich." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Selling fireworks:** No. Nobody may sell fireworks in Saanich, and the District says you may not buy or sell them here. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865, s. 2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/fireworks-regulation-bylaw-2007-no-8865.pdf) - Official wording: "No person may sell fireworks." - Source: [Fireworks Bylaw, Fireworks Bylaw page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/regulations-bylaws/fireworks-bylaw.html) - Official wording: "You may not buy or sell fireworks in Saanich." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What counts as fireworks:** Fireworks means consumer fireworks (fountains, Roman candles, wheels, volcanoes), display fireworks and pyrotechnic special-effects fireworks. Sparklers, Christmas crackers and caps for toy guns are not counted as consumer fireworks. Firecrackers and listed prohibited fireworks (cherry bombs, M-80s, smoke bombs and similar) are banned outright. - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865, ss. 1, 2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/fireworks-regulation-bylaw-2007-no-8865.pdf) - Official wording: "but does not include Christmas crackers, sparklers, and caps for toy guns" … "No person may buy, sell, hold, possess, store, discharge, or otherwise use" … "firecrackers." … "Prohibited Firework" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** Anyone 18 or older may apply to the Saanich Fire Department (fireprevention@saanich.ca). Bylaw: proof of training and a Certification Card; Saanich page: Saanich safety course and exam within three years. Consumer fireworks permit $10; display $75. Deadline: bylaw says noon October 31; Saanich page says noon October 30. (Sources differ: Deadline: the bylaw says applications for Halloween fireworks must be in by 12:00 p.m. on October 31 (or the last business day before). The Fireworks Bylaw page repeats that, but the Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks page says 12 p.m. on October 30; the bylaw is followed. Pyrotechnic special-effects permits: $150 safety-plan review plus $480/hour fire protection (min. four hours).) - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865, ss. 3.1, Schedule F](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/fireworks-regulation-bylaw-2007-no-8865.pdf) - Official wording: "Any person eighteen (18) years of age or older before discharging consumer" … "Consumer Fireworks Permit $10.00" … "Display Fireworks Permit $75.00" … "evidence that the applicant is a Certification Card holder" … "no later than 12:00 p.m. on October 31st" - Source: [Fireworks Bylaw, Fireworks Bylaw page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/regulations-bylaws/fireworks-bylaw.html) - Official wording: "We issue permits to those 18 years and older who successfully complete a Saanich Fire Department fireworks safety course within the last three years." … "fireprevention@saanich.ca" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Municipal ticket (30 days / after): selling $500/$550; possessing or using without a permit $300/$350; unsafe discharge $300/$350; discharging outside October 31 hours, on a highway or park, or pointing fireworks $150/$200. Bylaw notice: same base amounts, less $50 if paid within 14 days. - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 11](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Sale of Fireworks 2.1 $500.00 $550.00" … "Possess fireworks without a permit 2.4 $300.00 $350.00" … "Discharging fireworks outside permitted period 2.5 $150.00 $200.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedule 11](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Sale of Fireworks" … "Possess fireworks without a" … "$300.00" … "Discharging fireworks outside" … "$150.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865 - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/fireworks-regulation-bylaw-2007-no-8865.pdf) - Official wording: "THE CORPORATION OF THE DISTRICT OF SAANICH BYLAW NO. 8865 TO REGULATE THE POSSESSION OF FIREWORKS" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/fireworks-regulation-bylaw-2007-no-8865.pdf) allows only people 18 or older with a permit to use fireworks. Consumer fireworks may be set off only on October 31, between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. (or other times named in a permit). Never on a highway, in a park, on school property, on a beach, or on commercial or industrial land, and never pointed at people, animals, buildings, vehicles, trees or bushes. Nobody may sell fireworks in Saanich, and the District says you may not buy or sell them here. "Fireworks" means consumer fireworks (fountains, Roman candles, wheels, volcanoes), display fireworks and pyrotechnic special-effects fireworks. Sparklers, Christmas crackers and caps for toy guns do not count as consumer fireworks. Firecrackers and prohibited fireworks (cherry bombs, M-80s, smoke bombs and similar) are banned outright. ## Steps 1. Apply to the Saanich Fire Department at fireprevention@saanich.ca. You must be 18 or older. 2. Show training. The bylaw asks for proof of training and a Certification Card; the Saanich page says a Saanich safety course and exam within three years. 3. Pay the permit fee: $10 for consumer fireworks, $75 for display. 4. Apply by noon on October 31 (or the last business day before), per the bylaw. ## Good to know - The [Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/halloween-bonfires-and-fireworks.html) gives the deadline as noon on October 30. The bylaw is followed here; apply early. - Fines, as a municipal ticket within 30 days / after: selling $500/$550; possessing or using without a permit, or unsafe discharge $300/$350; discharging outside October 31 hours, on a highway or in a park, or pointing fireworks $150/$200. A bylaw notice carries the same base amounts, less $50 if paid within 14 days. - Court minimum fines are $500 for selling or breaching a pyrotechnics permit, $200 for permit or unsafe-discharge offences, and $100 for most others. ## Official forms and pages - [Fireworks Bylaw, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/regulations-bylaws/fireworks-bylaw.html) - [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/fireworks-regulation-bylaw-2007-no-8865.pdf) - [Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/halloween-bonfires-and-fireworks.html) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-fire.md) - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) - [Saanich noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/noise-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/fireworks.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/fireworks.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fireworks.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/fireworks.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/fireworks.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/fireworks.md) ## Sources - [Fireworks Bylaw, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/regulations-bylaws/fireworks-bylaw.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw, 2007, No. 8865 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/fireworks-regulation-bylaw-2007-no-8865.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Halloween Bonfires and Fireworks, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety/halloween-bonfires-and-fireworks.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fireworks/_ --- --- title: Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work question: "What are the common bylaw fines in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.json" --- # Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work **Question:** What are the common bylaw fines in Saanich? **Short answer:** Saanich uses two ticket systems side by side. A bylaw notice has an early-payment discount (usually $50) and a late surcharge; a municipal ticket is one fine within 30 days and a higher one after. Examples: parking over 72 hours $50, noise $300, unsightly property $350. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice penalties: parking over 72 hours $50; dog running at large or no dog licence $150; open-air burning without a permit $150; disturbing the neighbourhood $300; unsightly property $350; dangerous dog in public place $500; fireworks without a permit $300; garbage cart overfilled $200. Municipal tickets have the same base amounts, rising after 30 days. **How long:** Bylaw notice: pay or dispute within 14 days of receiving it. Municipal ticket: 14 days to pay or tell Saanich you dispute. **Where:** - In person: Municipal Hall (pay or dispute), 770 Vernon Ave., Victoria BC V8X 2W7 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Online: Pay or Dispute a Bylaw Ticket or Notice, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/pay-or-dispute-a-bylaw-ticket-or-notice.html - Phone: Saanich Bylaw Enforcement, 250-475-5456 - Phone: Saanich Parking Enforcement, 250-475-5431 ## Key facts - **How tickets work:** Saanich uses two systems. Bylaw notices (Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw): penalty with early-payment discount and late surcharge, disputes go to a screening officer and adjudication. Municipal tickets (Ticket Bylaw, under the Community Charter): one fine within 30 days, a higher fine after. Bylaw enforcement officers, including municipal constables and fire officers, issue them. Parking tickets are bylaw notices from Parking Enforcement. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, ss. 2.1, 3.1, 8.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "The bylaw contraventions designated in Schedule “1” may be dealt with by bylaw notice" … "Municipal constables" … "Municipal fire officers" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, ss. 1, 4, 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "may be enforced by means of a ticket in the form prescribed by the Regulations under the Community Charter" … "on or before the 30th day from the date on which the ticket is served" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Common fines:** Bylaw notice penalties: parking over 72 hours $50; dog running at large or no dog licence $150; open-air burning without a permit $150; disturbing the neighbourhood $300; unsightly property $350; dangerous dog in public place $500; fireworks without a permit $300; garbage cart overfilled $200. Municipal tickets are the same base amounts, rising after 30 days. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, Schedules 7, 8, 12, 15, 19, 26](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Parking greater than 72" … "Dog running at large" … "Disturbing the neighbourhood" … "Overfilling container" … "Allowing property to become" … "Open Air burning without a" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedules 7, 8, 12, 19](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Parking greater than 72 hours 7.06(e) $50.00 $75.00" … "No dog licence 16 $150.00 $200.00" … "Disturbing the neighbourhood 2 (a), 2 (b) $300.00 $350.00" … "Allowing property to become or remain 2.1 $350.00 $400.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying early:** Bylaw notice: pay within 14 days of receiving it for the early-payment discount, usually $50 (none on $50 parking offences, $25 on $100 offences). Municipal ticket: the lower fine applies if paid within 30 days of service. Parking tickets: $50 if paid within 28 calendar days. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, s. 3.1(b)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "received by the District within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to" … "reduced by the" … "amount of the early payment discount set out in Column 4" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, s. 4](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "on or before the 30th day from the date on which the ticket is served" - Source: [Parking Tickets, Parking Tickets page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/getting-around/roads-traffic/parking-tickets.html) - Official wording: "$50 when you pay within 28 calendar days" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying late:** Bylaw notice: more than 28 days after receiving it adds a late surcharge, usually $50 ($25 for parking offences, none on a few large penalties). Municipal ticket: the higher fine applies after 30 days (for example $150 becomes $200). Parking tickets: $75 after 28 days; after 60 days further action is taken. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, s. 3.1(c)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "more than 28 days after the person received or is" … "increased by the amount of the late payment surcharge set out in Column 5" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, s. 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "are the fines that apply to the corresponding offence designated under Column 1 if the fine is paid after the" - Source: [Parking Enforcement, Parking Enforcement page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/parking-enforcement.html) - Official wording: "$75 when you pay after 28 calendar days" … "If you take longer than 60 calendar days to pay, we must take further action" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Disputing a ticket:** Bylaw notice: within 14 days of receiving it, pay or request adjudication (no dispute later); screening officer reviews first; $25 extra if you lose. Dispute at Municipal Hall (770 Vernon Ave.), the after-hours mailbox or the online form. Municipal ticket: 14 days to pay or tell Saanich you dispute; disputes go to Provincial Court. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, ss. 4.1, 4.2, 5.3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "must, within 14 days of the date on which the person" … "no person may dispute the bylaw notice" … "more than 14 days after receiving the bylaw notice" … "must pay the District an additional fee of $25" - Source: [Pay or Dispute a Bylaw Ticket or Notice, Pay or dispute page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/pay-or-dispute-a-bylaw-ticket-or-notice.html) - Official wording: "To dispute a ticket, complete the submission request below or attend in person at the Saanich Municipal Hall (770 Vernon Avenue, 3rd floor, Bylaw and Licensing Services)." - Source: [Municipal ticketing, Province of BC, Responding to a ticket](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/local-governments/governance-powers/bylaws/bylaw-enforcement/municipal-ticketing) - Official wording: "a person has 14 calendar days in which to pay the fine amount specified on the ticket" … "Disputed municipal tickets are referred by the local government to the provincial court for hearing." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, and Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "BYLAW NOTICE ENFORCEMENT BYLAW, 2018, NO. 9525" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "TICKET BYLAW, 2010, NO. 9029" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Saanich uses two systems. - **Bylaw notices** ([Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf)): a penalty with an early-payment discount and a late surcharge. Disputes go to a screening officer and then adjudication. - **Municipal tickets** ([Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf), under the Community Charter): one fine if paid within 30 days and a higher fine after. Bylaw enforcement officers, including municipal constables and fire officers, issue them. Parking tickets are bylaw notices from Parking Enforcement. Many offences appear in both schedules, and the bylaws do not say which system an officer uses. Bylaw notice penalties for common offences: parking over 72 hours $50; dog running at large or no dog licence $150; open-air burning without a permit $150; disturbing the neighbourhood $300; unsightly property $350; dangerous dog in a public place $500; fireworks without a permit $300; garbage cart overfilled $200. Municipal tickets have the same base amounts, rising after 30 days (for example $150 becomes $200). ## Steps 1. **Pay early.** Bylaw notice: pay within 14 days of receiving it for the discount, usually $50 (none on $50 parking offences, $25 on $100 offences). Municipal ticket: the lower fine applies within 30 days of service. Parking tickets are $50 if paid within 28 calendar days. 2. **Dispute a bylaw notice.** Within 14 days of receiving it, pay or request adjudication; you cannot dispute later. A screening officer reviews first, and it is $25 extra if you lose. Dispute at Municipal Hall (770 Vernon Ave.), the after-hours mailbox or the online form on the [Pay or Dispute page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/pay-or-dispute-a-bylaw-ticket-or-notice.html). 3. **Dispute a municipal ticket.** You have 14 days to pay or tell Saanich you dispute; disputes go to Provincial Court. The Ticket Bylaw sets no dispute steps. ## Good to know - Late bylaw notice: more than 28 days after receiving it adds a surcharge, usually $50 ($25 for parking offences). Parking tickets are $75 after 28 days, and after 60 days further action is taken. - Credit card payments carry a 2.4% convenience fee as of May 1, 2026. - Some Saanich web pages show lower fines than these bylaws. The bylaws are followed here; see each topic page. ## Official forms and pages - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - [Parking Tickets, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/getting-around/roads-traffic/parking-tickets.html) - [Parking Enforcement, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/parking-enforcement.html) - [Pay or Dispute a Bylaw Ticket or Notice, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/pay-or-dispute-a-bylaw-ticket-or-notice.html) - [Municipal ticketing, Province of BC](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/local-governments/governance-powers/bylaws/bylaw-enforcement/municipal-ticketing) ## Related questions - [Saanich noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/noise-rules.md) - [Saanich backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-fire.md) - [Saanich fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fireworks.md) - [Saanich unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/unsightly-property.md) - [Saanich dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-leash-rules.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) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/bylaw-fines.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/bylaw-fines.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/bylaw-fines.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/bylaw-fines.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/bylaw-fines.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/bylaw-fines.md) ## Sources - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2018, No. 9525 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Parking Tickets, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/getting-around/roads-traffic/parking-tickets.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Parking Enforcement, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/parking-enforcement.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Pay or Dispute a Bylaw Ticket or Notice, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/local-government/bylaw-services/pay-or-dispute-a-bylaw-ticket-or-notice.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Municipal ticketing, Province of BC](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/local-governments/governance-powers/bylaws/bylaw-enforcement/municipal-ticketing) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines/_ --- --- title: "Saanich business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply" question: "Do I need a business licence in Saanich, and how do I get one?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/business-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/business-licence.json" --- # Saanich business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a business licence in Saanich, and how do I get one? **Short answer:** Yes. All businesses operating in Saanich need a valid Saanich or Intermunicipal business licence. It runs January 1 to December 31. Apply online through a MySaanich account; there is no application fee. Most annual licences are $100. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Annual: home-based $100; home crafts $50; commercial under 5,000 sq ft $100, over 5,000 sq ft $200; non-resident $100; daily $25 per day (max $100 per event); mobile food vendors $100. Half fee for new businesses after July 31. Non-refundable. **How long:** The licence is issued, and the fee charged, only after all approvals. **Where:** - Online: Business licence application (MySaanich), https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/application-process.html - Phone: Business Licences, 250-475-5401 - In person: Saanich Municipal Hall, 770 Vernon Ave., Victoria BC V8X 2W7 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) ## Key facts - **Who needs one:** All businesses operating in Saanich need a valid Saanich or Intermunicipal business licence. A business is any commercial or industrial undertaking or professional, personal or other service for profit or gain. Government and charitable, philanthropic or religious activity run only for those purposes is excluded. - Source: [Who Needs a Business Licence, Who Needs a Business Licence?](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/who-needs-a-business-licence.html) - Official wording: "All businesses operating in Saanich must have a valid Business Licence or a valid Intermunicipal Licence." … "Any professional, personal or other services for the purpose of profit or gain." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213, s. 2, 3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) - Official wording: "but does not include any activity carried on by the government, its agencies or" … "No person shall carry on within Saanich, any business unless he or she is the holder of a valid" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** Annual: home-based $100; home crafts $50; commercial under 5,000 sq ft $100, over 5,000 sq ft $200; non-resident $100; daily $25 per day (max $100 per event); mobile food vendors $100. Half fee for new businesses after July 31. Non-refundable. - Source: [Business licence fees, Fees page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/fees.html) - Official wording: "Home-based: $100" … "Commercial – small (<5,000 sq. ft.): $100" … "Commercial – large (>5,000 sq. ft.): $200" … "Non-resident: $100" … "Daily – per day (trade shows): $25" … "Licence fees are non-refundable" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213, Schedule A](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) - Official wording: "10. Daily – per day (to a maximum of $100 per event) $25.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** Apply online through a MySaanich account; there is no application fee. Planning checks zoning; Inspections, Fire and Island Health may need to approve. The licence is issued, and the fee charged, only after all approvals. - Source: [Business licence application process, Application Process](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/application-process.html) - Official wording: "Create a MySaanich account to start and complete an application." … "There is no fee to apply for a business licence." … "The Planning Department will assess if the zoning bylaw allows your business activity at commercial or residential properties." … "We can only issue a business licence once we get final approvals from all departments." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Licences run January 1 to December 31 and are paid annually; the holder must renew before each licence period starts. Licences cannot be transferred. - Source: [Business licence fees, Fees page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/fees.html) - Official wording: "Business licence duration: January 1 – December 31" … "Licences are paid annually" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213, s. 3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) - Official wording: "it shall be incumbent upon each person to renew such licence prior to the beginning" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Inter-community licence:** Yes. A Saanich resident with an eligible mobile business can get an Intermunicipal licence covering Saanich, Victoria, Oak Bay, Central Saanich, North Saanich, Sidney, View Royal, Esquimalt, Colwood, Langford, The Highlands, Metchosin and Sooke. Fee: $100 home-based; $200 or $300 with a commercial location (under or over 5,000 sq ft). - Source: [Home-Based Business licence, Home-Based Business page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/home-based-business-licence.html) - Official wording: "An intermunicipal business licence allows a Saanich resident, with an eligible mobile business, to operate across these municipalities:" … "- Colwood - Langford - The Highlands - Metchosin - Sooke" - Source: [Business licence fees, Fees page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/fees.html) - Official wording: "Home-based with intermunicipal: $100" … "Intermunicipal with commercial location (<5,000 sq. ft.): $200" … "Intermunicipal with commercial location (>5,000 sq. ft.): $300" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days; $200 after 28 days). Municipal ticket: $150 within 30 days, $200 after. Saanich's page says you could be fined up to $200 per day. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, Schedule 3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Carrying on a business 3 $150.00 $50.00 $50.00" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Carrying on a business without a licence 3 $150.00 $200.00" - Source: [Who Needs a Business Licence, Who Needs a Business Licence?](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/who-needs-a-business-licence.html) - Official wording: "You could be fined up to $200 per day." - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, s. 3.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "if received by the District within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to" … "if received by the District more than 28 days after the person received or is" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213 - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) - Official wording: "BUSINESS LICENCE BYLAW, 2002, No. 8213" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf), every business in Saanich needs a valid Saanich or Intermunicipal business licence. A business is any commercial or industrial undertaking, or professional, personal or other service, for profit or gain. Government activity, and charitable, philanthropic or religious activity run only for those purposes, is excluded. Licences run January 1 to December 31 and are paid annually. You must renew before each licence period starts. Licences cannot be transferred. An Intermunicipal licence is available to a Saanich resident with an eligible mobile business. It covers Saanich, Victoria, Oak Bay, Central Saanich, North Saanich, Sidney, View Royal, Esquimalt, Colwood, Langford, The Highlands, Metchosin and Sooke. It costs $100 home-based, or $200 or $300 with a commercial location (under or over 5,000 sq ft). Eligible business types are in Schedule B of the bylaw. ## Steps 1. Apply online through a MySaanich account. There is no application fee. 2. Planning checks zoning; Inspections, Fire and Island Health may need to approve. 3. Once all approvals are in, the licence is issued and the fee is charged. 4. Renew before January 1 each year. ## Good to know - Fees are non-refundable. New businesses applying after July 31 pay half. - Fines: a bylaw notice is $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days; $200 after 28 days); a municipal ticket is $150 within 30 days and $200 after. Saanich's page says you could be fined up to $200 per day. The bylaw itself says a fine on conviction of not less than $150. - Questions: Business Licences, 250-475-5401. ## Official forms and pages - [Who Needs a Business Licence, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/who-needs-a-business-licence.html) - [Business licence fees, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/fees.html) - [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) ## Related questions - [Saanich home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/home-based-business.md) - [Saanich short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/short-term-rental.md) - [Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup.md) - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/business-licence.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/business-licence.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/business-licence.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/business-licence.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/business-licence.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/business-licence.md) ## Sources - [Business Licence Types | District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Who Needs a Business Licence, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/who-needs-a-business-licence.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business licence fees, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/fees.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business licence application process, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/application-process.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Home-Based Business licence, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/home-based-business-licence.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/business-licence/_ --- --- title: Saanich home-based business rules question: "Can I run a business from my home in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/home-based-business/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/home-based-business.json" --- # Saanich home-based business rules **Question:** Can I run a business from my home in Saanich? **Short answer:** Usually yes. Saanich allows a home occupation in most zones if you meet the conditions in Zoning Bylaw s. 5.5, and you need a home-based business licence ($100 a year; $50 for home crafts). In apartment, townhouse and similar zones only office use and child daycare are allowed. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** Home-based business licence $100 a year; home crafts $50. The fee is halved for new businesses applying after July 31. **How long:** The licence is issued after all approvals. Planning checks zoning; Inspections, Fire and Island Health may need to approve. **Where:** - Online: Home-Based Business licence, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/home-based-business-licence.html - Phone: Business Licences, 250-475-5401 - In person: Saanich Municipal Hall, 770 Vernon Ave., Victoria BC V8X 2W7 ## Key facts - **Allowed:** Yes. Any use permitted in any zone may be carried on as an accessory home occupation if it meets the conditions in Zoning s. 5.5. In apartments, townhouses and similar zones (RC, RT, RM, RA, RP and others) only office use and child daycare are allowed. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, ss. 5.5, 5.6](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "Any use permitted in any zoned contained in this bylaw may be carried out as an accessory home" … "The only Home Occupation uses permitted in any RC, RT, RM, Ra, RP, MFC-CH, or MFI-Ch" … "Zones are Office Use, and Daycare, Child." - Source: [Home-Based Business licence, Home-Based Business page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/home-based-business-licence.html) - Official wording: "Yes, you can run certain types of businesses from your home." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** Yes. Home-based business licence $100 a year; home crafts $50. Licences run January 1 to December 31; the fee is halved for new businesses applying after July 31. - Source: [Business licence fees, Fees page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/fees.html) - Official wording: "Home-based: $100" … "Home crafts*: $50" … "We will reduce the license fee by 50% for new businesses that apply after July 31st." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213, s. 3](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall carry on within Saanich, any business unless he or she is the holder of a valid" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** Residents only; indoors, no outside storage; at most 20% of floor area or 50 m²; no noise, vibration or odour detectable outside; nothing sold or displayed; two clients at a time (not child daycare, up to 12 children, or B&B); one work vehicle parked outdoors, under 4,200 kg. Multi-unit homes: office use only, 15 m², no clients or staff, no sign. (Sources differ: Child daycare, bed and breakfast and other special cases have exceptions (daycare up to 12 children). The Home-Based Business Regulations PDF on the licence pages quotes an older version of s. 5.5 (lettering and some limits differ); the Zoning Bylaw text was followed.) - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, ss. 5.5, 5.6](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "Only residents of the dwelling unit shall engage in the Home Occupation Use." … "whichever is lesser." … "There shall be no outside storage of materials, commodities, or finished products." … "No commodity shall be sold or displayed on the premises." … "There shall be no more than two clients or patrons of the home occupation use on the" … "In no case shall the gross vehicle weight of this vehicle" … "Shall not occupy more than 15 m2 (161 ft2) of the Gross Floor Area of the" … "premises at any one time, except for Daycare, Child operations and Bed and Breakfast" … "(i) shall not accommodate more than twelve (12) children in a Home Occupation setting;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Businesses not allowed:** Repair of internal combustion engines or automotive repairs is prohibited, and no commodity may be sold or displayed on the premises. In apartment, townhouse and condo zones only office use and child daycare are allowed. B&B licences are not issued for secondary suites or garden suites. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.5(i), (k); 5.6](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "A home occupation use involving the repair of any internal combustion engine or" … "automotive repairs shall be prohibited." … "No commodity shall be sold or displayed on the premises." - Source: [Bed and Breakfast licence, Bed and Breakfast page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/bed-and-breakfast-licence.html) - Official wording: "Bed & Breakfast Licences will not be issued to secondary suites and garden suites." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (ss. 5.5 and 5.6); Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213 - Source: [https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf, Schedule 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "ZONING BYLAW, 2003, NO. 8200" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213, title](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) - Official wording: "BUSINESS LICENCE BYLAW, 2002, No. 8213" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Any use permitted in any zone may be carried on as an accessory home occupation if it meets the conditions in s. 5.5 of the [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf). In apartments, townhouses and similar zones (RC, RT, RM, RA, RP and others), only office use and child daycare are allowed. Conditions in s. 5.5 include: - Residents only; carried on indoors, with no outside storage. - At most 20% of the floor area or 50 m². - No noise, vibration or odour detectable outside. - Nothing sold or displayed on the premises. - Two clients at a time (child daycare, up to 12 children, and B&B have their own rules). - One work vehicle parked outdoors, under 4,200 kg. In multi-unit homes: office use only, 15 m², no clients or staff, and no sign. ## Steps 1. Check your zone (see the zoning-lookup answer). 2. Apply for a home-based business licence through your MySaanich account. 3. Planning checks zoning; Inspections, Fire and Island Health may need to approve. The licence is issued, and the fee charged, after all approvals. ## Good to know - Repair of internal combustion engines and automotive repairs are prohibited. - Licences run January 1 to December 31. - A B&B licence is not issued for a secondary suite or garden suite. - Saanich's Home-Based Business Regulations PDF quotes an older version of s. 5.5. If the two differ, the Zoning Bylaw wins; confirm with Planning. ## Official forms and pages - [Home-Based Business licence, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/home-based-business-licence.html) - [Business licence fees, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/fees.html) ## Related questions - [Saanich business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/business-licence.md) - [Saanich zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup.md) - [Saanich short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/short-term-rental.md) - [Saanich secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Home-based business rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/home-based-business.md) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/home-based-business.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/home-based-business.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/home-based-business.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/home-based-business.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/home-based-business.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/home-based-business.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Home-Based Business licence, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/home-based-business-licence.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business licence fees, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/fees.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Business Licence Bylaw, 2002, No. 8213 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/business-licence-bylaw-2002-no-8213.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bed and Breakfast licence, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/bed-and-breakfast-licence.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/home-based-business/_ --- --- title: Saanich short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) question: "Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Saanich?" place: Saanich, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/saanich category: Housing and renting owner: municipal owner_body: District of Saanich sources_read: 2026-11-06 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/short-term-rental/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/short-term-rental.json" --- # Saanich short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) **Question:** Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Saanich? **Short answer:** No. Saanich prohibits short-term rentals (under 30 consecutive days) in all zones and housing types, including a principal residence, suite or garden suite. A bed and breakfast in the owner's principal residence is allowed with a $100-a-year licence. **Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca) **Cost:** No licence is available for short-term rentals. A bed and breakfast licence is $100 a year. **How long:** Not applicable to short-term rentals. Ask Business Licences about the B&B licence process. **Where:** - Online: Short-Term Rentals, District of Saanich, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/short-term-rentals.html - Online: Bed and Breakfast licence, https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/bed-and-breakfast-licence.html - Phone: Business Licences, 250-475-5401 ## Key facts - **Allowed:** No. Short-term rentals (under 30 consecutive days) are prohibited in all zones and housing types, including a principal residence, suite or garden suite. A bed and breakfast in the owner's principal residence is allowed with a licence. Council has directed staff to draft rules allowing up to 120 nights a year; expected early 2027, not in effect. - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, Short-Term Rentals page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/short-term-rentals.html) - Official wording: "Short-term rentals are currently prohibited in all zones and housing types." … "Short-term rental of the principal dwelling unit is not permitted;" … "directed staff to develop bylaws for the regulation of STRs for up to 120 nights per property, per year" … "The new regulations will not come into effect until Council adopts the bylaws." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 5.35(e)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "Short-term rental use is prohibited in a garden suite." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** No licence is available for short-term rentals because they are prohibited. A Bed and Breakfast (principal residence only) needs a B&B licence: $100 a year. Long-term rentals (30 days or more) need no licence. - Source: [Bed and Breakfast licence, Bed and Breakfast page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/bed-and-breakfast-licence.html) - Official wording: "Bed and Breakfast Licence (Home-Based Business): $100/year" … "Only principal residences (where the applicant lives for the majority of the calendar year) are permitted for this licence type." - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, Short-Term Rentals page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/short-term-rentals.html) - Official wording: "Long-term rentals do not require the property owner to obtain a business license." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Provincial registration:** Saanich says owners renting for under 90 days must register with the Province. Saanich is on the Province's list of communities where the principal residence requirement applies (as of June 1, 2026). - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, FAQ](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/short-term-rentals.html) - Official wording: "Any property owner in BC offering a rental for less than 90 days is required to register with the Province" - Source: [Principal residence requirement, Province of BC, 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: "Richmond Saanich Salmon Arm" … "The expandable menu below lists the communities where the principal residence requirement applies (as of June 1, 2026)." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Operating rules:** No operating rules, because short-term rentals are prohibited. For the allowed Bed and Breakfast licence: principal residence only, guest sleeping area at most 40 m² or 20% of floor area, 0.5 parking space per guest bedroom, and the licence number must be shown on listings. - Source: [Bed and Breakfast licence, Bed and Breakfast page](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/bed-and-breakfast-licence.html) - Official wording: "Not more than 40 m2 (430 sq. ft.) or 20% of the combined floor area of all structures on the lot, whichever is lesser," … "A minimum of 0.5 parking spaces are required on property per bedroom used for guests." … "they are required to display a valid business licence number on their listing" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice for using property other than a permitted use (Zoning s. 3.2): $150 ($100 if paid within 14 days; $200 after 28 days). Municipal ticket: $150 within 30 days, $200 after. No schedule item names short-term rentals. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, Schedule 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Using property for other than 3.2 $150.00 $50.00 $50.00" - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "Using property for other than permitted use 3.2 $150.00 $200.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, s. 3.1](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "if received by the District within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to" … "if received by the District more than 28 days after the person received or is" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (definition of Short-Term Rental; s. 3.2; s. 5.35(e)) - Source: [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029, Schedule 5](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) - Official wording: "ZONING BYLAW, 2003, NO. 8200" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200, s. 2](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) - Official wording: "Short-Term Rental - means the renting of a dwelling unit" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) allows no short-term rentals (under 30 consecutive days) in any zone or housing type, including a principal residence, suite or garden suite. No licence is available. Because they are prohibited, there are no operating rules for them. Saanich's page says its short-term rental rules are under review; check that page for any change. A bed and breakfast in the owner's principal residence is allowed with a B&B licence ($100 a year). Long-term rentals (30 days or more) need no licence. ## Steps 1. For a rental of 30 days or more, you need no business licence. 2. For a bed and breakfast, apply for a B&B licence for your principal residence. 3. Follow the B&B rules below, and show the licence number on every listing. ## Good to know - B&B rules: principal residence only; guest sleeping area at most 40 m² or 20% of floor area; 0.5 parking space per guest bedroom; no second kitchen. B&B licences are not issued for secondary suites or garden suites. - Saanich says owners renting for under 90 days must register with the Province, and Saanich is on the Province's list of communities where the principal residence requirement applies (as of June 1, 2026). Since Saanich bans short-term rentals, this matters mainly for an allowed B&B. - Fines: no schedule item names short-term rentals. Using property for something other than a permitted use (Zoning s. 3.2) is a $150 bylaw notice ($100 if paid within 14 days; $200 after 28 days), or a $150 municipal ticket within 30 days ($200 after). ## Official forms and pages - [Short-Term Rentals, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/short-term-rentals.html) - [Bed and Breakfast licence, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/bed-and-breakfast-licence.html) ## Related questions - [Saanich business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/business-licence.md) - [Saanich home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/home-based-business.md) - [Saanich secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite.md) - [Saanich bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/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) - [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/short-term-rental.md) - [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/short-term-rental.md) - [Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/short-term-rental.md) - [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/short-term-rental.md) - [Central Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/central-saanich/short-term-rental.md) - [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/short-term-rental.md) ## Sources - [Short-Term Rentals, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/short-term-rentals.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bed and Breakfast licence, District of Saanich](https://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/business/business-licences/business-licence-types/bed-and-breakfast-licence.html) (read 2026-11-06) - [Zoning Bylaw, 2003, No. 8200 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Planning/zone8200.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Principal residence requirement, Province of BC](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) (read 2026-11-06) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/bylawnoticeenforcementbylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) - [Ticket Bylaw, 2010, No. 9029 (PDF)](https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Local~Government/Documents/Bylaws~and~Policies/ticket-bylaw-2010-no-9029.pdf) (read 2026-11-06) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Saanich. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/short-term-rental/_