# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for Smithers

---
title: "Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply"
question: "Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit.json"
---

# Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply

**Question:** Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply?

**Short answer:** In Smithers you need a Town building permit to build a structure over 10 m², alter or add to a building, install a wood stove or HVAC unit, build a retaining wall over 1.2 m, or demolish or move a building. Most permits are issued within 20 working days. Call Development Services at 250-847-1600.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** $80 application fee, then $6.25 per $1,000 of construction value (Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E). See the building-permit-fees answer.  
**How long:** The Town says most permits can be issued within 20 working days, depending on project complexity, how complete the documents are and how many applications are in. An application expires 180 days after it is complete if no permit has been issued, unless the delay is the Town's.  
**Where:**
- In person: Development Services, Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (except holidays). Hard copies of the application are available here.)
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Also the number to book an inspection.)

## Key facts

- **Needed for:** A permit is needed to build a structure over 10 m² (107 sq. ft.); alter, renovate or add to a building (including interior plumbing); excavate or build a foundation; install an HVAC unit or wood stove; change a building's use or occupancy; build a retaining wall over 1.2 m high; or demolish or move a building. (Sources differ: The Town page says a retaining wall that 'retains more than 1.5 metres of fill' needs a permit; Building Bylaw s. 7.1 and s. 11.1 say a retaining wall more than 1.2 m (height) needs a permit, so the bylaw figure is used. The page says 'larger than 10 square metres'; s. 3.3(b) exempts accessory buildings 'less than 10 square metres', so exactly 10 m² is not addressed. Building Bylaw s. 7.1 also requires a permit before occupying a new building or installing a masonry fireplace or wood-burning appliance. A Development Permit may be needed first if the property is in a development permit area (s. 10.1(a)).)
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "Build any kind of structure larger than 10 square metres (107 sq. ft.)." … "Alter, renovate, or adding onto existing buildings/structures, including interior plumbing." … "Install a heating, ventilation, air conditioning unit or wood stove." … "Demolish or move a building."
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 7.1, s. 11.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "constructing, repamnq, or altering a building or structure, including a pool or" … "No person may construct, or structurally repair, a retaining wall more than 1.2m in"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Not needed for:** The Building Bylaw does not apply to fences (but see retaining walls), accessory buildings under 10 m², trellises, arbours and soil walls under 1.2 m on single-family lots, decks under 600 mm above grade that are detached with no walls or roof, polyethylene greenhouses, roofing, and door or window replacement with no structural change.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "except as set out in Part 11 [Retaining Walls] of this bylaw, a fence;" … "an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres:" … "Decks that are less than 600mm above average grade and not attached to the" … "Polyethylene covered greenhouses;" … "The replacement of doors and windows as long as there is no change to the"
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "Building permits are not required for non-structural minor modifications such as:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to apply:** Fill out the Building Permit application (a downloadable form on the Town's Building Permits page, or a hard copy from the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street) and pay the application fee. Bring or submit it with the required plans and documents.
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "Building Permit application (hard copies available at the Town Office) and application fee." … "Downloadable Permit Application"
  - Source: [Contact Us, Town Hall address](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us)
  - Official wording: "# Contact Us | ## Town Hall 1027 Aldous Street PO Box 879 Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 Phone: 250-847-1600"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What to submit:** Application and fee; site plan (2 copies); Site Disclosure Statement; Notice to All Builders and Developers - Building Setbacks; building plans (2 copies) with elevations, floor plans and cross sections; layouts and certificates for engineered components. Plans sealed by a Registered Architect are needed for buildings covered by Bulletin 31.
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "Site Plan (2 copies) which identifies the lot shape, size, driveway location, existing buildings, setbacks and project location." … "Building plans (2 copies) illustrating elevation and floor plans and cross sections." … "Copies of layout and certificates for engineered components, such as trusses, joints, beams, etc." … "the Town of Smithers will now be requiring plans designed and sealed by a Registered Architect for any of the buildings outlined in Bulletin 31 from the Architects Act."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Processing time:** Most permits can be issued within 20 working days, depending on project complexity, completeness of the documents and the number of current applications.
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "Most permits can be issued within 20 working days depending on the complexity of the project,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Inspections:** Request an inspection at each stage of work, before it is covered up, giving at least 48 hours' notice for simple buildings. The Town's page says to book by calling the Development Services Clerk at 250-847-1600; the bylaw says the Town only inspects when asked online or in writing. (Sources differ: Possible conflict: the page says to phone, while s. 10.35 of the bylaw says an inspection is only carried out if requested 'online or in writing'. The page also asks owners to post the permit in a visible location and keep approved plans on site. Complex buildings: 48 hours' notice also applies for pre-construction meetings (s. 10.38).)
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "To schedule an appointment call the Development Services Clerk at (250) 847-1600."
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 10.34, s. 10.35](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "For all work in respect of simple buildings the owner must give at least 48 hours'" … "will only carry out an inspection under section 10.34 if the owner"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Contact:** Town of Smithers Development Services Department, 1027 Aldous Street; phone 250-847-1600; fax 250-847-1601; office hours Monday to Friday (except holidays), 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  - Source: [Application, Permit and Licence Fees guide, Contact block, p. 3](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/GUIDE%20-%20Development%20Services%20Fees.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Town of Smithers Development Services Department" … "Telephone: (250) 847-1600 Fax: (250) 847-1601" … "Monday to Friday (except Holidays)" … "8:30 am to 4:30 pm"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw No. 1924
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, Title page](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "BYLAW No. 1924 Building Bylaw"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The Town's Development Services Department checks your plans against the BC Building Code and the Town's [Building Bylaw No. 1924](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/), then issues a permit and inspects the work.

A permit is needed to:

- Build a structure larger than 10 m² (107 sq. ft.).
- Alter, renovate or add to a building, including interior plumbing.
- Excavate or build a foundation.
- Install an HVAC unit or a wood stove.
- Change a building's use or occupancy.
- Build a retaining wall over 1.2 m high.
- Demolish or move a building.

Not covered by the bylaw: fences (zoning rules still apply), accessory buildings under 10 m², trellises, arbours, and soil walls under 1.2 m on single-family lots, detached decks under 600 mm above grade with no walls or roof, polyethylene greenhouses, roofing, and door or window replacement with no structural change. Painting, carpet and landscaping on private property also need no permit.

## Steps

1. Check your zoning first (see the zoning-lookup answer). A development permit may be needed first if you are in a development permit area.
2. Fill out the Building Permit application (download it from the Town's page, or get a hard copy at Town Hall) and pay the application fee.
3. Submit it with: a site plan (2 copies), a Site Disclosure Statement, the Notice to All Builders and Developers on building setbacks, building plans (2 copies) with elevations, floor plans and cross sections, and layouts and certificates for engineered parts such as trusses and beams. The Town may require a security deposit.
4. Pay the permit fee before the permit is issued.
5. Book an inspection at each stage, before the work is covered up, giving at least 48 hours' notice for simple buildings. The Town's page says to call the Development Services Clerk at 250-847-1600.

## Good to know

- The Town now requires plans sealed by a Registered Architect for buildings covered by Bulletin 31 under the Architects Act.
- The Town's page says a retaining wall needs a permit if it retains more than 1.5 m of fill. The bylaw says any retaining wall over 1.2 m high. Confirm with the Town, and plan for the lower figure.
- The page says to book inspections by phone; the bylaw says the Town inspects only when asked online or in writing. Phone first.
- The pages we read do not describe an online portal or an email address for applications. Call 250-847-1600 to confirm how to submit.

## Official forms and pages

- [Building Permits, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1924](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Smithers permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Smithers fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/fence-rules.md)
- [Smithers secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/secondary-suite.md)
- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/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)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/building-permit.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/building-permit.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/building-permit.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/building-permit.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/building-permit.md)
- [Burns Lake](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burns-lake/building-permit.md)

## Sources

- [Building Permits, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1924, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Application, Permit and Licence Fees guide (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/GUIDE%20-%20Development%20Services%20Fees.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Contact Us, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit/_


---

---
title: "Smithers fence rules: permits and height limits"
question: "Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/fence-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/fence-rules.json"
---

# Smithers fence rules: permits and height limits

**Question:** Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be?

**Short answer:** In Smithers a fence needs no building permit, but it must meet the Zoning Bylaw: 1.2 m maximum in the front yard setback in residential zones, 1.8 m at the sides and rear. A retaining wall over 1.2 m high does need a permit, and pools must be fenced.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** No permit fee for a fence. A retaining wall permit is a building permit (see the building-permit-fees answer).  
**How long:** No approval is needed for a fence that meets the zoning rules.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC

## Key facts

- **Permit:** No building permit is needed for a fence; it only has to meet the Zoning Bylaw height and setback rules. A retaining wall over 1.2 m high does need a permit, and a swimming pool needs a permit and a fence.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "except as set out in Part 11 [Retaining Walls] of this bylaw, a fence;" … "No person may construct, or structurally repair, a retaining wall more than 1.2m in"
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "Fencing (Zoning Bylaw contains permitted height and setbacks)."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Height, front yard:** 1.2 m maximum for a fence, wall or hedge within the front yard setback in all residential zones (also applies to principal residential uses in commercial zones).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.7 and 2.9, s. 2.9.2(b), (d)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "In all Residential zones, fences, walls, or hedges within the front yard setback" … "may not exceed 1.2 m in height;" … "Sections 2.9.2 (a) and (b) apply to principal residential uses located in commercial"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Height, side and rear yards:** 1.8 m maximum in all residential zones; 2.5 m in commercial, public use and industrial zones. A fence abutting a residentially zoned property may not exceed 2 m.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.7 and 2.9, s. 2.9.2(a), (c), (e)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "In all Residential zones, fences, walls, or hedges may not exceed 1.8 m in height;" … "In all Commercial, Public Use and Industrial zones, fences, walls, or hedges" … "Where abutting a Residential zoned property, a fence may not exceed 2 m in"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Corner lots and sightlines:** Nothing may block the line of vision between 1 m and 3 m above street grade inside a triangle formed by points 6 m along each parcel line from the corner. Vegetation in the 6 m by 6 m sight triangle may not exceed 0.6 m high at maturity.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.7 and 2.9, s. 2.7.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "There shall be no obstruction to the line of vision by landscaping, buildings," … "Points along each parcel line 6 metres from their intersection; and" … "a 6 metre by 6 metre sight triangle is to be maintained with"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other rules:** Height is measured from average grade within 1.0 m of both sides of the fence. No barbed wire or chain link fencing is permitted within public view in the downtown. A pool, spa or hot tub must be fenced at least 1.2 m high with openings no larger than 100 mm and a self-closing, self-latching gate.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.7 and 2.9, s. 2.9.1, s. 2.9.4](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "The height of a fence, wall or hedge shall be determined by measurement from the" … "No barbed wire or chain link fencing is permitted within view of the public in the"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 14.2, s. 14.3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "fence constructed without footholds or grips that children may use to climb into the" … "having a minimum height of 1.2 metres and no openings greater" … "through a self-closing and self-latching gate designed and constructed or installed"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.9 (Fences) and s. 2.7 (Visibility at Intersections); Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3(a), Part 11 and Part 14.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.7 and 2.9, Section 2.9](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Section 2.9 Fences 2.9.1 The height of a fence, wall or hedge shall be determined by measurement from the"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "except as set out in Part 11 [Retaining Walls] of this bylaw, a fence;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Building Bylaw No. 1924](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/) does not apply to fences, so no building permit is needed. The fence must meet section 2.9 of the [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/). Height is measured from the average grade within 1.0 m of both sides of the fence.

| Where | Maximum height |
|---|---|
| Front yard setback, residential zones | 1.2 m |
| Side and rear, residential zones | 1.8 m |
| Side and rear, commercial, public use and industrial zones | 2.5 m |
| A fence abutting a residentially zoned property | 2 m |

Open mesh or chain link fences at cemeteries, playgrounds, parks, playfields, schools, childcare centres and in industrial zones may be up to 3.5 m. No barbed wire or chain link fencing is allowed within public view in the downtown.

## Steps

1. Check your zoning and setbacks (see the zoning-lookup answer).
2. On a corner lot, keep clear the sight triangle: nothing may block the line of vision between 1 m and 3 m above street grade within 6 m of the corner along each parcel line, and vegetation there may not exceed 0.6 m at maturity.
3. Build to the heights above. Call Development Services at 250-847-1600 if unsure.

## Good to know

- A retaining wall over 1.2 m high needs a building permit. The Town's web page says a permit is needed when a wall retains more than 1.5 m of fill. The bylaw figure is stricter, so check with the Town.
- A swimming pool, spa or hot tub must be fenced at least 1.2 m high with openings no larger than 100 mm and a self-closing, self-latching gate. The bylaw lets a hot tub use a locking cover instead.
- A fence that breaks the zoning rules can get a bylaw notice. The Penalty amount in Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 is $300. Check the amount on your notice.

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1924](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit.md)
- [Smithers permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/fence-rules.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/fence-rules.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/fence-rules.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/fence-rules.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/fence-rules.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/fence-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.7 and 2.9, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1924, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Building Permits, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/fence-rules/_


---

---
title: Smithers permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages
question: "Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/deck-shed-garage-permit/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/deck-shed-garage-permit.json"
---

# Smithers permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages

**Question:** Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage?

**Short answer:** In Smithers a shed or other accessory building under 10 m² needs no building permit; larger ones do. A deck is exempt only if it is under 600 mm above grade, detached, and has no walls or roof. Garages and carports generally need a permit. Zoning rules apply either way.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** A building permit costs $80 to apply plus $6.25 per $1,000 of construction value. See the building-permit-fees answer.  
**How long:** The Town says most building permits can be issued within 20 working days.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC

## Key facts

- **Sheds:** An accessory building with a floor area under 10 m² is exempt from the Building Bylaw; a structure larger than 10 m² (107 sq. ft.) needs a building permit.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3 and 10.4, s. 3.3(b)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres:"
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "Build any kind of structure larger than 10 square metres (107 sq. ft.)."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Decks:** A deck is exempt from the Building Bylaw only if it is less than 600 mm above average grade, not attached to the main structure, and has no walls or roof.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3 and 10.4, s. 3.3(i)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "Decks that are less than 600mm above average grade and not attached to the" … "main structure and have no walls or roofs;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Garages and carports:** A garage or carport is not exempt unless it is an accessory building under 10 m²; the Building Bylaw's application rules treat garages and carports as permit work (s. 10.4(k)). Temporary fabric parking or storage structures for 2 or fewer vehicles are exempt (s. 3.3(n)).
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3 and 10.4, s. 3.3(b), 3.3(n), 10.4(k)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "k) except for garages, carports and garden structures located on land, at the request" … "an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres:" … "Temporary fabric parking or storage structures designed to store 2 or less vehicles;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Zoning limits:** Auxiliary buildings must be at least 1.2 m from any lane or parcel line, not in the front yard setback, and not taller than 6.0 m or the principal building. Total floor area is capped by parcel size (60 m² up to 580.4 m²; 80 m² for 580.5 to 1,348.8 m²). Parcel coverage is set by zone (50% in LDR-1) and counts attached garages, carports and covered decks.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.15, s. 2.15.1, 2.15.2, 2.15.6](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "An auxiliary building shall not be located less than 1.2 m from any lane or" … "An auxiliary building’s height may not exceed 6.0 m or that of the principal" … "be located between a principal building and the front parcel line." … "The total combined floor area of all auxiliary buildings on a parcel, excluding greenhouses and" … "ii. Lots from 580.5 m2 to 1,348.8 m2 80.0 m2" … "such as living space, covered deck, attached garages and carports, but excluding open decks" … "50% maximum for all buildings and"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw No. 1924 (s. 3.3 exemptions); Zoning Bylaw No. 1987 (s. 2.15 Auxiliary Uses, Buildings & Structures).
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3 and 10.4](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "This bylaw does not apply to"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.15, Section 2.15](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Section 2.15 Auxiliary Uses, Buildings & Structures"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under [Building Bylaw No. 1924](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/) (s. 3.3):

- **Shed or other accessory building:** exempt if the floor area is under 10 m². The Town's page says a structure larger than 10 m² (107 sq. ft.) needs a permit.
- **Deck:** exempt only if it is less than 600 mm above average grade, not attached to the main structure, and has no walls or roof. Any other deck falls under the general permit rule for building or altering a structure.
- **Garage or carport:** not exempt unless it is an accessory building under 10 m². The bylaw treats garages and carports as permit work. Temporary fabric parking or storage structures for 2 or fewer vehicles are exempt.

Even without a permit, the [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) applies (s. 2.15, auxiliary buildings):

- At least 1.2 m from any lane or parcel line, and not in the front yard setback.
- No taller than 6.0 m or the principal building.
- Total floor area is capped by parcel size: 60 m² up to 580.4 m², and 80 m² for 580.5 to 1,348.8 m² (larger caps for bigger parcels).
- Parcel coverage is set by zone (50% in LDR-1) and counts attached garages, carports and covered decks.
- Not permitted in the C-1 and C-1A zones, and not to be used as a dwelling or short-term rental except as the bylaw provides.

## Steps

1. Check your zoning and setbacks (see the zoning-lookup answer).
2. If a permit is needed, follow the building-permit answer.
3. Call Development Services at 250-847-1600 if your size is close to 10 m².

## Good to know

- Neither the bylaw nor the Town's page says what happens at exactly 10 m².
- An auxiliary building that breaks the zoning rules can get a bylaw notice. The Penalty amount is $300; check the amount on your notice.

## Official forms and pages

- [Building Permits, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1924](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit.md)
- [Smithers building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Smithers fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/fence-rules.md)
- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/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)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Burns Lake](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burns-lake/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)

## Sources

- [Building Bylaw No. 1924, s. 3.3 and 10.4, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.15, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Building Permits, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/deck-shed-garage-permit/_


---

---
title: Smithers building permit fees
question: "How much does a building permit cost?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit-fees/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit-fees.json"
---

# Smithers building permit fees

**Question:** How much does a building permit cost?

**Short answer:** In Smithers a building permit costs $6.25 per $1,000 of construction value (up to $1,000,000; $5.50 per $1,000 above that), with an $80 minimum and an $80 application fee. Fees are in Schedule E of Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** $80 application fee; $6.25 per $1,000 of construction value up to $1,000,000, then $5.50 per $1,000 (minimum $80). Re-inspection $80. Moving permit $300 plus a deposit.  
**How long:** The application fee is paid with the application. The permit fee and any other Town charges must be paid before the permit is issued.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ask which payment methods are accepted.)
- In person: Development Services, Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC

## Key facts

- **Lowest fee:** $80 minimum permit fee for residential, commercial/industrial/institutional or demolition permits.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E, Schedule E, Building Inspection Fees](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Minimum permit fee for: Residential $80.00" … "Demolition Permit $80.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How the fee is worked out:** $6.25 per $1,000 of construction value for values from $1 to $1,000,000; $5.50 per $1,000 for value over $1,000,000. Value is the contract price plus a reasonable allowance for extras, or the Building Inspector's estimate from the plans if there is no contract price.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E, Schedule E, Building Inspection Fees](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "$1.00 to $1,000,000 $6.25 per $1,000 of total" … "Over $1,000,000 $5.50 per $1,000 of total" … "The value of construction shall be the contract price together with a reasonable allowance for extras or where there"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Application or plan review fee:** $80 application fee (residential, commercial/industrial/institutional, and demolition). The Town's secondary suite guide says the final permit fee is the per-$1,000 amount minus the application fee already paid.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E, Schedule E, Building Inspection Fees](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "APPLICATION FEE: Residential $80.00 Commercial/Industrial/Institutional $80.00"
  - Source: [4 Steps to a Secondary Suite, Step 4, Get the Permits](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/4%20Steps%20to%20a%20Secondary%20Suite_0.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Final Building Permit fee is $6.25 per $1,000 of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other fees:** Re-inspection $80; preliminary examination of plans $80; renewal of a lapsed permit $55 (no plan work) or $80 (plan work due to code changes). Moving permit: the schedule lists $300 plus a security deposit of 10% of the building's assessed value. The Town may also require a $2,000 (single-family or simple building) or $5,000 (complex building) security deposit.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E, Schedule E, Building Inspection Fees](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "RE-INSPECTION - when required due to the fault of owner or holder of permit, or" … "PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION OF PLANS" … "If no work on plans is required $55.00" … "Plus a security deposit of 10% of the assessed value of the building." … "Moving Permit Plus a security deposit of 10% of the assessed value of the building. $300.00"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, Part 10, s. 10.11](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "for a new single-family dwelling or simple building: $2,000 and" … "for a complex building: $5,000."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to pay:** The $80 application fee is submitted with the application. The building permit fee, and any other fees, charges, levies or taxes the Town has imposed, must be paid before the permit is issued. The pages searched do not say which payment methods are accepted; call 250-847-1600.
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)
  - Official wording: "The application fee is $80.00 (see Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003)."
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, Part 10, s. 10.8](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "Before receiving a building permit for a building or structure, the owner must first" … "any fees, charges, levies, or taxes imposed by the Town and payable under an"
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E, Schedule E (preceding schedule page)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Any fee imposed pursuant to the Bylaw, remaining unpaid as of December 31 of that year shall be added"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E (Building Inspection Fees); Building Bylaw No. 1924, Part 10 (s. 10.8 to 10.17).
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "TOWN OF SMITHERS BUILDING INSPECTION FEES SCHEDULE E"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1924, Part 10, s. 10.8](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "the building permit fee prescribed in Schedule E of the Fees and Charges Bylaw;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Building permit fees are set in Schedule E of the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/). The permit fee is based on the value of the construction:

- $6.25 per $1,000 of value for values from $1 to $1,000,000.
- $5.50 per $1,000 for value over $1,000,000.
- Minimum permit fee: $80 for residential, commercial, industrial, institutional or demolition permits.

Value is the contract price plus a reasonable allowance for extras. If there is no contract price, the Building Inspector estimates it from the plans. Under the [Building Bylaw No. 1924](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/), value includes site preparation, design, labour, the contractor's profit, taxes, insurance and the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, drainage and gas work.

## Steps

1. Pay the $80 application fee when you submit your application.
2. Pay the permit fee, and any other fees, charges or levies the Town has set, before the permit is issued. The Town's secondary suite guide says the final permit fee is the per-$1,000 amount minus the application fee already paid.
3. Ask Development Services at 250-847-1600 which payment methods are accepted. The pages we read do not say.

## Good to know

- Other Schedule E fees: re-inspection $80; preliminary examination of plans $80; renewal of a lapsed permit $55 (no plan work) or $80 (plan work needed because of code changes); moving permit $300 plus a security deposit of 10% of the building's assessed value.
- The Town may also require a security deposit of $2,000 (new single-family dwelling or simple building) or $5,000 (complex building).
- For a complex building the fee is reduced by 5%, up to $500.
- Fees are not refundable except as Part 10 of the Building Bylaw allows.
- Water meters, service connections and development permits are separate charges, not building permit fees.

## Official forms and pages

- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003 (Schedule E)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
- [Building Permits, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits)

## Related questions

- [Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit.md)
- [Smithers permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Smithers secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/secondary-suite.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/building-permit-fees.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/building-permit-fees.md)

## Sources

- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule E, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1924, Part 10, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Building Permits, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/building-permits) (read 2026-11-06)
- [4 Steps to a Secondary Suite (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/4%20Steps%20to%20a%20Secondary%20Suite_0.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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit-fees/_


---

---
title: "Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows"
question: "How do I find out how my property is zoned and what I can build on it?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.json"
---

# Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows

**Question:** How do I find out how my property is zoned and what I can build on it?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, find your zoning on the Zoning Map (Schedule A to Zoning Bylaw No. 1987) on the Town's OCP and Zoning page, or on the shared web map by address or PID. You can also call Development Services at 250-847-1600.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Looking up zoning is free. A Land Use Information (Comfort) Letter costs $55 for single-family residential or $80 for other property.  
**How long:** The Town does not state a time for answering zoning questions.  
**Where:**
- Online: OCP and Zoning, Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/ocp-zoning
- Online: Engineering and Mapping (web map), https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/engineering-mapping
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Email: Development Services (mapping questions), devserv@smithers.ca

## Key facts

- **How to find your zone:** Use the Zoning Map (Schedule A to Bylaw 1987) on the Town's OCP & Zoning page, or the shared web map, which lets you search by address or PID and view zoning boundaries. You can also ask Development Services.
  - Source: [OCP and Zoning, OCP & Zoning page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/ocp-zoning)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Map (Schedule "A" to Bylaw No. 1987)"
  - Source: [Engineering and Mapping](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/engineering-mapping)
  - Official wording: "Search properties by address or PID" … "View zoning and other boundaries"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Zoning bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, adopted June 17, 2025, plus four amendments: No. 25-01 (Bylaw 1991, adopted Aug. 12, 2025), 25-02 (Bylaw 2001, Jan. 13, 2026), 26-01 (Bylaw 2006, June 9, 2026) and 26-02 (Bylaw 2015, Oct. 13, 2026).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, Citation page](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "ADOPTED THIS 17TH DAY OF JUNE 2025."
  - Source: [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/268986/, s. 1.1, adoption](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/268986/)
  - Official wording: "ADOPTED ON THIS 12TH DAY OF AUGUST 2025."
  - Source: [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/277192/, adoption](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/277192/)
  - Official wording: "ADOPTED THIS 13rH DAY OF JANUARY 2026."
  - Source: [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/287201/, adoption](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/287201/)
  - Official wording: "ADOPTED THIS 9TH DAY OF JUNE, 2026."
  - Source: [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/297266/, adoption](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/297266/)
  - Official wording: "ADOPTED THIS 13TH DAY OF OCTOBER 2026."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What the zone controls:** Each zone lists permitted uses and regulations such as parcel size and coverage, setbacks, building height and density. Anything not specifically permitted is prohibited. Example: LDR-1 has a 460 m² minimum parcel, 50% maximum coverage and 9 m building height.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 1.5.3; Table 4.1 (LDR-1)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "All uses, buildings and structures not specifically permitted are prohibited." … "460 m2 minimum" … "50% maximum for all buildings and" … "Building Height 9 metres"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Contact:** Town of Smithers Development Services Department: 250-847-1600, 1027 Aldous Street, Monday to Friday (except holidays) 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mapping questions: devserv@smithers.ca.
  - Source: [Application, Permit and Licence Fees guide, Contact block, p. 3](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/GUIDE%20-%20Development%20Services%20Fees.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Town of Smithers Development Services Department" … "Telephone: (250) 847-1600 Fax: (250) 847-1601" … "8:30 am to 4:30 pm"
  - Source: [Engineering and Mapping](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/engineering-mapping)
  - Official wording: "please contact the Development Services Department at devserv@smithers.ca."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Town of Smithers Zoning Bylaw No. 1987
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, Title](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "TOWN OF SMITHERS ZONING BYLAW NO. 1987"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) was adopted June 17, 2025. It has been amended four times: by Bylaw 1991 (August 12, 2025), Bylaw 2001 (January 13, 2026), Bylaw 2006 (June 9, 2026) and Bylaw 2015 (October 13, 2026). The Town lists these as separate documents, and we found no combined copy.

Each zone lists permitted uses and rules such as parcel size, coverage, setbacks, building height and density. Anything not specifically permitted is prohibited. For example, LDR-1 has a 460 m² minimum parcel, 50% maximum coverage and 9 m building height. General rules in Division 2 (home occupations, short-term rentals, suites, fences, parking, accessory buildings) apply across zones.

Your property may also lie in an Environmental or Form and Character development permit area under the Official Community Plan.

## Steps

1. Open the Zoning Map (Schedule A to Bylaw 1987) on the Town's OCP and Zoning page, or use the web map linked from the Engineering and Mapping page, which searches by address or PID.
2. Find your zone in the Zoning Bylaw and read its permitted uses and rules.
3. Call Development Services at 250-847-1600 (1027 Aldous Street) to confirm, or email devserv@smithers.ca with mapping questions.
4. For written confirmation, ask for a Land Use Information (Comfort) Letter: $55 for single-family residential, $80 for other property.

## Good to know

- The web map is shared with the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George, and is hosted off the Town's own domain.
- Older Town guides may still cite Zoning Bylaw No. 1936 or 1403, which are out of date.

## Zones

25 zones are listed from [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987 (adopted June 17, 2025)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-06/Town%20of%20Smithers%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20No.%201987_Deepa%20Chandran.pdf). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning/index.json

Look up the zone of an address: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning/lookup?address=123+Main+St

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit.md)
- [Smithers fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/fence-rules.md)
- [Smithers permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Smithers secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/secondary-suite.md)
- [Smithers home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/home-based-business.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/zoning-lookup.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/zoning-lookup.md)

## Sources

- [OCP and Zoning, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/ocp-zoning) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Engineering and Mapping, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/building-development/engineering-mapping) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Application, Permit and Licence Fees guide (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/GUIDE%20-%20Development%20Services%20Fees.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/268986/](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/268986/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/277192/](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/277192/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/287201/](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/287201/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/297266/](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/297266/) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup/_


---

---
title: Smithers secondary suite and carriage house rules
question: "Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/secondary-suite/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/secondary-suite.json"
---

# Smithers secondary suite and carriage house rules

**Question:** Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house?

**Short answer:** Yes. Smithers allows a secondary suite in single-detached, semi-detached and townhouse dwellings in the A-1, LDR-1, R-6 and R-7 zones, and a carriage house on a lot with a single-detached house. Both need a building permit, and one extra parking space each.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Building permit: $80 application fee, then $6.25 per $1,000 of estimated construction value minus the application fee (Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003). The Town's guides also say a suite or carriage house is billed an additional 100% of the full water and sewer rate.  
**How long:** The Town says most building permits can be issued within 20 working days.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC

## Key facts

- **Secondary suite allowed:** Yes. Secondary suites are an auxiliary use in the A-1, LDR-1, R-6 and R-7 zones and the C-1A Residential Overlay, in single-detached, semi-detached and townhouse dwellings (in the R-3 zone, only in a townhouse dwelling). The Town's guide says semi-detached duplexes are eligible only in LDR-1 with lane access, outside Environmental DP areas.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.4 and 2.10, s. 2.4.2(a); s. 4.2.1; s. 4.5.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Secondary suites are permitted in single detached, semi-detached and townhouse dwellings;" … "(c) secondary suite in a townhouse dwelling" … "(d) bed & breakfast (e) secondary suite (f) carriage house (g) short-term rental"
  - Source: [4 Steps to a Secondary Suite, Step 1, Know your Zoning](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/4%20Steps%20to%20a%20Secondary%20Suite_0.pdf)
  - Official wording: "all residentially zoned properties (LDR-1, R-6, R-7, A-1 and C-1A Overlay)" … "Semi-detached duplexes in the LDR-1 zone with laneway access, outside Environmental"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** Yes, a carriage house (a separate self-contained dwelling) is allowed as an auxiliary use in the A-1, LDR-1, R-6 and R-7 zones and the C-1A Residential Overlay, but only on a parcel with an existing single-detached dwelling. (Sources differ: Bylaw s. 3.1.1 lists carriage house in the A-1 zone, but the Town's '6 Steps to a Carriage House' guide (Sept. 2026) lists only LDR-1, R-6, C-1A Residential Overlay and R-7; the bylaw is followed. The Town's secondary suites page says carriage houses are permitted 'in most residential zoned properties'.)
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.4 and 2.10, s. 2.4.3(a); s. 3.1.1; s. 4.5.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "A carriage house is only permitted on a parcel where there is an existing single" … "(g) bed & breakfast (h) carriage house" … "(e) secondary suite (f) carriage house"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits:** Carriage house: max 90 m²; not subdivided or stratified; 1.2 m setbacks and 6.0 m height apply; 1.2 m lit pathway from the street. Secondary suite: one per single-detached dwelling; entrance at rear or side; not subdivided or stratified. A house may have both. No owner-occupancy rule found.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.4 and 2.10, s. 2.4.2, 2.4.3, 2.4.4](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "The maximum floor area of a carriage house is 90 sq. m.;" … "Secondary suite entrances shall be located on the rear or the side of the building." … "A secondary suite shall not be subdivided or stratified." … "A single-family dwelling may concurrently have a carriage house and a secondary suite," … "one additional dwelling unit in the form of a secondary suite for residential use." … "A carriage house must provide a minimum 1.2 metre wide illuminated pathway"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Parking:** One extra parking space per suite or carriage house, on top of the 2 spaces for a single-detached dwelling. Carriage house parking goes in the rear yard with access from the lane (a driveway from the street is allowed only where there is no lane or it is not regularly maintained).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.4 and 2.10, s. 2.10 Table 2.10.2; s. 2.4.3(e)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Secondary suite 1 per suite" … "Carriage house 1 per suite" … "Single detached dwelling 2 per dwelling unit" … "Parking for a carriage house shall be located in the rear yard with access from the"
  - Source: [4 Steps to a Secondary Suite, Step 2](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/4%20Steps%20to%20a%20Secondary%20Suite_0.pdf)
  - Official wording: "I have room for 1 extra parking space on my property (added to the 2 parking spaces"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permits:** Secondary suite: a building permit (application with site plan, floor plans, estimated value and fee); an occupancy permit is issued at the end. Carriage house: a building permit, with a Development Variance Permit first if a variance is required; an occupancy permit at the end. A development permit may also be needed in a development permit area.
  - Source: [4 Steps to a Secondary Suite, Step 4, Get the Permits](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/4%20Steps%20to%20a%20Secondary%20Suite_0.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Now is the time to submit a Building Permit Application." … "At the end of your project, you will be issued an Occupancy Permit - your secondary suite is ready!"
  - Source: [6 Steps to a Carriage House, Step 6, Get the Permits](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/6%20Steps%20to%20a%20Carriage%20House.pdf)
  - Official wording: "If a variance is required, you must" … "obtain a Development Variance Permit (DVP) before applying for a Building Permit." … "you will be issued an Occupancy Permit - your carriage house is now ready to be occupied."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.4 (Secondary Suites & Carriage Houses), s. 2.10 (Parking) and s. 2.15; Building Bylaw No. 1924.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.4 and 2.10, Section 2.4](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Section 2.4 Secondary Suites & Carriage Houses 2.4.1 Secondary suites and carriage houses shall comply with off-street parking requirements"
  - Source: [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/, Title page](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/)
  - Official wording: "BYLAW No. 1924 Building Bylaw"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (s. 2.4) sets the rules.

**Secondary suite:** an auxiliary use in the A-1, LDR-1, R-6 and R-7 zones and the C-1A Residential Overlay, in single-detached, semi-detached and townhouse dwellings (in R-3, only in a townhouse dwelling). The Town's guide says semi-detached duplexes qualify only in LDR-1 with lane access, outside Environmental development permit areas. One suite per single-detached dwelling, with an entrance at the rear or side; it cannot be subdivided or stratified.

**Carriage house** (a separate self-contained dwelling): allowed in the A-1, LDR-1, R-6 and R-7 zones and the C-1A Residential Overlay, only on a parcel with an existing single-detached dwelling. Maximum 90 m², 1.2 m setbacks, 6.0 m height, a 1.2 m lit pathway from the street, and not subdivided or stratified.

A house may have both. The bylaw sets no owner-occupancy rule that we found.

## Steps

1. Confirm your zoning (see the zoning-lookup answer).
2. Plan one extra parking space for each suite or carriage house, on top of the 2 for the house. Carriage house parking goes in the rear yard with lane access; a street driveway is allowed only where there is no lane or it is not regularly maintained.
3. Apply for a building permit with a site plan, floor plans, estimated value and the fee. A carriage house needs a Development Variance Permit first if a variance is required.
4. Meet the BC Building Code requirements listed in the Town's guide (fire separations, sound, exits, alarms, ventilation).
5. An occupancy permit is issued at the end.

## Good to know

- A development permit may also be needed in a development permit area.
- The Town's guides say the suite or carriage house is billed an additional 100% of the full water and sewer rate, whether occupied or vacant.
- A bed and breakfast cannot operate in a building with a secondary suite. Short-term rental use is allowed only as the short-term-rental answer describes.
- The Town's carriage house guide lists fewer zones than the bylaw (it omits A-1). Confirm with Development Services at 250-847-1600.

## Official forms and pages

- [4 Steps to a Secondary Suite (PDF)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/4%20Steps%20to%20a%20Secondary%20Suite_0.pdf)
- [6 Steps to a Carriage House (PDF)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/6%20Steps%20to%20a%20Carriage%20House.pdf)

## Related questions

- [Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit.md)
- [Smithers building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Smithers short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/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)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/secondary-suite.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/secondary-suite.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/secondary-suite.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/secondary-suite.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/secondary-suite.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/secondary-suite.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.4 and 2.10, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [4 Steps to a Secondary Suite (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/4%20Steps%20to%20a%20Secondary%20Suite_0.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [6 Steps to a Carriage House (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-09/6%20Steps%20to%20a%20Carriage%20House.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/196969/) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/secondary-suite/_


---

---
title: Smithers tree removal rules and permits
question: "Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/tree-removal/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/tree-removal.json"
---

# Smithers tree removal rules and permits

**Question:** Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, no tree may be cut in a development permit area until a development permit is issued. In the Natural Environment and Hazardous Lands area a permit is needed to cut more than 2 trees a calendar year. The permit application fee is $30 for the first 3 trees.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** $30 for the first 3 trees and $5 for each additional tree (non-refundable). No fee for a permit to cut or prune a dead, dying, damaged or hazardous tree.  
**How long:** The Town does not state a processing time. Call Development Services at 250-847-1600.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC

## Key facts

- **When a permit is needed:** Land in a development permit area: no tree may be cut before a development permit is issued. Natural Environment and Hazardous Lands: a permit is needed to cut more than 2 trees a calendar year. No cutting within 15 m of a watercourse (limited exceptions). Protected trees (over 6 cm) on urban land: only as directed by the Town, except on urban lots under 2,000 m².
  - Source: [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 1(i), 1(m), s. 3(a), 3(c), s. 4, s. 5(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)
  - Official wording: "Any tree having a diameter greater than 6 (2.4 inches)" … "No person shall cut down a protected tree growing on urban land" … "No person shall cut down a tree growing on any land designated as" … "No person shall cut down a tree growing within 15 (49.21 feet) metres of" … "No person shall without first obtaining a permit cut down more than 2" … "Growing on an urban lot less than 2,000 (21,528 sq feet) sq"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Exemptions:** Not covered by the Town-direction rule (s. 3(a)): protected trees on urban lots under 2,000 m²; on larger lots, trees removed for a building, driveway, required parking, septic or utilities; trees allowed by a development permit. These do not override the development permit area, 15 m watercourse or steep-slope rules. Dead, dying or unstable trees: no-charge permit (s. 11). Emergency removal of a storm-damaged tree about to fall: no permit (s. 12).
  - Source: [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 3(b), s. 12](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)
  - Official wording: "Growing on an urban lot less than 2,000 (21,528 sq feet) sq" … "Required for the construction or installation of a driveway, required off-street" … "Permitted by an approved Development Permit issued by the" … "The tree or limb of the tree has been severely damaged by a natural cause," … "The tree or limb of the tree is in imminent danger of falling and" … "The tree is dead, dying, severely damaged, unstable or severely leaning and in danger of falling, or" … "There shall be no charge for a permit issued under this section."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** $30 for the first 3 trees and $5 for each additional tree (non-refundable application fee). No fee for a permit to cut or prune a dead, dying, damaged or hazardous tree.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Section 7, Section 7, Tree Removal Permits](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Application Fee for the First 3 Trees $30.00" … "Application for Each Additional Tree $5.00"
  - Source: [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 11(c)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)
  - Official wording: "There shall be no charge for a permit issued under this section."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Replacement trees:** Anyone who cuts or damages a tree against the bylaw or a permit must plant a replacement of the same species in about the same place (size and timing set by the Town), maintain it, and give security of 120% of the cost of replacing and maintaining it for 3 years.
  - Source: [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 13](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)
  - Official wording: "Plant a replacement tree of the same species in approximately the" … "Provide to the municipality security in the amount of 120% of the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **City trees:** Protected trees on Town land (parks, the Perimeter Trail, highways) cannot be cut unless directed by the Town's Director of Operational Services. In parks, no one may cut down, top, deface or remove any trees, or plant a tree without the Director's authorization.
  - Source: [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 1(m), s. 3(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)
  - Official wording: "all public lands owned by the Town of Smithers including" … "No person shall cut down a protected tree growing on urban land"
  - Source: [Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007, s. 3.3(b), (c)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/284671/)
  - Official wording: "Destroy, damage, cut down, top, deface or remove any trees." … "Plant any tree, sapling, shrub, flower, or other vegetation unless authorized to"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $400 ($200 if paid within 14 days; $500 after 28 days) for unauthorized removal of a protected tree, failing to obtain a permit, and similar offences. Court: a fine of not less than $500 for each tree cut or damaged (first offence), not less than $1,000 for each later offence.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Unauthorized removal of protected tree 3(a) 400.00 200.00 500.00 NO" … "Fail to obtain permit 5(a) 400.00 200.00 500.00 YES"
  - Source: [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 16(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)
  - Official wording: "fine of not less than $500.00 for each tree unlawfully cut down or" … "fine of not less than $1,000.00 for each tree unlawfully cut down or damaged."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020)
  - Source: [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Title and s. 17](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)
  - Official wording: "TREE PRESERVATION BYLAW NO. 1365, 2001"
  - Source: [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Cover](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)
  - Official wording: "Consolidated to January 23, 2020"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/) is from 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020) and still refers to older zoning and OCP bylaws, so confirm current details with the Town.

- **Development permit area:** no tree may be cut before a development permit is issued.
- **Natural Environment and Hazardous Lands area:** a permit is needed to cut more than 2 trees in a calendar year.
- **Watercourses:** no cutting within 15 m of a watercourse, with limited exceptions.
- **Protected trees** (over 6 cm) on urban land: removal only as the Town directs, except on urban lots under 2,000 m². "Urban land" includes that area plus all Town land (parks, the Perimeter Trail, highways).

On larger lots the Town-direction rule does not cover trees removed for a building, driveway, required parking, septic or utilities, or trees allowed by a development permit. Those exemptions do not override the development permit area, 15 m watercourse or steep-slope rules.

## Steps

1. Call 250-847-1600 to find out whether your property is in a development permit area.
2. Apply for a permit with a plan showing the location, species and diameter of the trees. Flag or paint the trees.
3. Pay the application fee ($30 for the first 3 trees, $5 for each additional tree).
4. For a dead, dying, unstable or hazardous tree, ask for the no-charge permit. If a storm-damaged tree is about to fall, it can be removed without a permit.

## Good to know

- Anyone who cuts or damages a tree against the bylaw or a permit must plant a replacement of the same species in about the same place, maintain it, and give security of 120% of the cost of replacing and maintaining it for 3 years.
- Town trees: protected trees on Town land cannot be cut unless the Director of Operational Services directs it. In parks, no one may cut, top, deface or remove trees without the Director's authorization (Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007).
- The Town can order owners to trim or remove hazardous trees within 5 days of notice, or do it at the owner's cost.
- Penalties: the bylaw notice Penalty amount is $400 (check the amount on your notice). In court, the fine is not less than $500 for each tree cut or damaged, and not less than $1,000 for each later offence.

## Official forms and pages

- [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/tree-removal.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/tree-removal.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/tree-removal.md)
- [Fraser Lake](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fraser-lake/tree-removal.md)
- [Fort St James](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-james/tree-removal.md)
- [Port Edward](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-edward/tree-removal.md)

## Sources

- [Tree Preservation Bylaw No. 1365, 2001 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160507/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Section 7, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/284671/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Contact Us, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/tree-removal/_


---

---
title: "Smithers garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits"
question: "When is garbage collected in Smithers, and what are the rules for carts and limits?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Garbage, recycling and waste
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/garbage-collection/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/garbage-collection.json"
---

# Smithers garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits

**Question:** When is garbage collected in Smithers, and what are the rules for carts and limits?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, the Town collects garbage biweekly, alternating with biweekly recycling. Use the Collection Schedule calendar and route map on the Town website to find your day. Put your green cart out before 8:00 a.m. on collection day. A cart over 45 kg (100 lbs) will not be emptied.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Single-family dwelling: $184 a year in 2026 ($190 in 2027, $196 in 2028), billed on the property tax notice. Secondary suite: $156 in 2026.  
**How long:** Collection is biweekly.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **How often:** Garbage is collected biweekly, alternating with recycling, which is also biweekly. No curbside organics collection is described; the bylaw's basic service is garbage and recycling only. No collection on statutory holidays; the missed pickup is collected as shown on the annual calendar.
  - Source: [Garbage, Collection Schedule](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/garbage)
  - Official wording: "Garbage is collected biweekly alternating with recycle collection."
  - Source: [Recycling, Collection Schedule](https://www.smithers.ca/town-services/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/recycling)
  - Official wording: "Recycling is collected biweekly alternating with garbage."
  - Source: [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Frequency of Collection](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/)
  - Official wording: "There will be no collection of Solid Waste on a statutory holiday as observed by" … "The basic service offered by the Municipality for Residential Dwellings is the bi-" … "The basic service offered by the Municipality for Residential Curbside Recycling"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Finding your day:** Use the 2026 Collection Schedule calendar and the Curbside Collection Route Map on the Town's Collection Schedules page. Residents are responsible for finding their street's collection day.
  - Source: [Collection Schedule, Collection Schedules](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/collection-schedule)
  - Official wording: "Please view the collection map and schedule for details." … "2026 Collection Schedule Curbside Collection Route Map"
  - Source: [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Dwelling Type Cart Location](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/)
  - Official wording: "The occupant or owner of each Dwelling shall be responsible for ascertaining the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Carts:** Residential garbage uses a green dwelling cart (up to 0.24 m³) bought from the Town at manufacturer's cost plus shipping and taxes. A blue recycling cart is given once to eligible owners; replacements are bought through the Town.
  - Source: [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Definitions](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/)
  - Official wording: "means a rigid plastic container having a capacity of no more than 0.24m3 (0.32yd3)"
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule K, Purchase of Carts](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Green Garbage Carts must be purchased outright from the Town." … "Blue Recycling Carts will be given to eligible property owners one time only." … "Replacement Green or Blue Recycling carts are to be paid by the property owner and purchased through the Town"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Setting carts out:** Put carts at the curb before 8:00 a.m. on collection day, lid or handle facing the street, away from trees and vehicles, not blocking the sidewalk. The bylaw allows setting out no more than 12 hours before collection and requires removal within 12 hours after emptying.
  - Source: [Garbage, Collection Schedule](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/garbage)
  - Official wording: "Place your garbage cart at the curb prior to 8:00 a.m. on your day of collection." … "Please do not block the sidewalk with your cart."
  - Source: [Recycling, Collection Schedule](https://www.smithers.ca/town-services/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/recycling)
  - Official wording: "Recycling carts are required to be at the curb prior to 8:00am on your day of collection or the night before."
  - Source: [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Containers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/)
  - Official wording: "no more than" … "12 hours prior to collection and removed within 12 hours of being emptied"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits and extra garbage:** One dwelling cart per home is collected biweekly. A cart and contents over 45 kg (100 lbs) will not be emptied. Carts with restricted materials (e.g. grass clippings, dirt, liquids, construction waste) may not be collected.
  - Source: [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Container Sizes and Quantity](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/)
  - Official wording: "The Municipality shall not collect more than one (1) Dwelling Type Cart, per premise" … "No Dwelling type Cart with a combined weight of Cart and Garbage in excess of 45"
  - Source: [Garbage, Materials Not Accepted](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/garbage)
  - Official wording: "Your garbage may not be collected if any of the following items are found in your cart:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** Single-family dwelling: $184 a year in 2026 ($190 in 2027, $196 in 2028), billed on the property tax notice. Secondary suite: $156 in 2026 (85%).
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule K, Solid Waste Collection Fees](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Single Family Dwelling" … "$184 $190 $196" … "All Annual solid waste collection rates specified shall be billed on the annual property tax notice."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Bylaw No. 1859 - Solid Waste Collection (consolidated to January 23, 2020); fees in Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule K
  - Source: [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Citation](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/)
  - Official wording: "Bylaw No.1859 – Solid Waste" … "Consolidated to January 23, 2020"
  - Source: [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), General Regulations](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/)
  - Official wording: "Every owner or occupier of a Premise shall pay for the collection of Garbage as set"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The Town of Smithers collects residential garbage and recycling under the [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/>). Garbage is collected biweekly, alternating with recycling, which is also biweekly. No curbside organics collection is described. There is no collection on statutory holidays; the missed pickup is collected as shown on the annual calendar.

## Steps

1. Find your day on the 2026 Collection Schedule calendar and the Curbside Collection Route Map on the Town's [Collection Schedule page](<https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/collection-schedule>). Residents are responsible for finding their street's day.
2. Put your cart at the curb before 8:00 a.m. on collection day, lid or handle facing the street, away from trees and vehicles, and not blocking the sidewalk.
3. Bring it back within 12 hours after it is emptied. The bylaw allows setting out no more than 12 hours before collection.

## Good to know

- Carts: a green dwelling cart (up to 0.24 m³) is bought from the Town at manufacturer's cost plus shipping and taxes. A blue recycling cart is given once to eligible owners; replacements are bought through the Town.
- One dwelling cart per home is collected. A cart and contents over 45 kg (100 lbs) will not be emptied.
- Carts with restricted materials (for example grass clippings, dirt, liquids, construction waste) may not be collected.
- Fee: $184 a year in 2026 ($190 in 2027, $196 in 2028) for a single-family dwelling; $156 in 2026 for a secondary suite. Set in the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/>) and billed on the property tax notice.

## Official forms and pages

- [Collection Schedule](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/collection-schedule)
- [Garbage](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/garbage)

## Related questions

- [Smithers unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/unsightly-property.md)
- [Smithers backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/backyard-fire.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/garbage-collection.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/garbage-collection.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/garbage-collection.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/garbage-collection.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/garbage-collection.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/garbage-collection.md)

## Sources

- [Garbage, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/garbage) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Collection Schedule, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/collection-schedule) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Recycling, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/town-services/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/recycling) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Solid Waste Collection Bylaw No. 1859 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160516/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/garbage-collection/_


---

---
title: Smithers watering restrictions
question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Water, sewer, roads and snow
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/water-restrictions/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/water-restrictions.json"
---

# Smithers watering restrictions

**Question:** Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions in Smithers?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, Stage 1 water restrictions start automatically on April 15 each year if no stage is in force. Under Stage 1, water lawns only on even-numbered days at even street addresses and odd-numbered days at odd addresses. Stage 2 bans lawn watering. Check with the Town for the current stage.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Bylaw notice for contravening the water restrictions: $400.  
**How long:** Stage 1 starts April 15; no stage stays in force after October 31 unless the Town declares one.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Phone: After-hours water and sewer emergency, 250-877-1562

## Key facts

- **When restrictions apply:** Stage 1 restrictions start automatically on April 15 each year if no stage is in force. The Town can declare Stage 1 or Stage 2 by public announcement. No stage stays in force after October 31 unless the Town declares one.
  - Source: [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811, s. 4.3, 4.6](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/)
  - Official wording: "on April 15th of any year, Stage 1" … "No Restriction Stage remains in force after October 31st of any year"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Sprinkling schedule:** Stage 1: lawns may be watered only on even-numbered days at even civic addresses and odd-numbered days at odd addresses (residential premises). No hours are set. Stage 2: no lawn watering.
  - Source: [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811, Schedule A, ss. 1.1, 3.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/)
  - Official wording: "Water Lawns, except:" … "For Residential premises with even numbered civic addresses, on even" … "when Stage 2 Restrictions are in force, it is"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Allowed at any time:** Stage 1: flower and vegetable gardens, shrubs and trees may be watered; drip irrigation is not 'watering'. Stage 2: gardens, planters, shrubs and trees only by hand with a shut-off hose, not sprinklers or soaker hoses.
  - Source: [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811, Schedule A, ss. 2.2(f), 3.1(c); s. 3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/)
  - Official wording: "Flower gardens, vegetable gardens, shrubs or trees." … "unless such watering is carried out by hand with a hose equipped with an Automatic" … "to lands or plants but does not include the method known as"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **New lawns:** New lawns (newly placed sod, turf or grass seed) are exempt from both Stage 1 and Stage 2 restrictions.
  - Source: [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811, s. 3 definitions; Sched. A s. 2.2(g)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/)
  - Official wording: "means the following are exempt from Stage" … "New lawn installations." … ""New Lawn" means an installed Lawn either by newly placed sod, turf or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: contravening the water restrictions (s. 5.2) $400, with $200 early and $500 late shown; s. 8.1 describes the columns differently, so confirm with the Town. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Water Restriction table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Contravene water provision 5.2 400.00 200.00 500.00 NO" … "amount set out in Column 3 of "Schedule A"; or"
  - Source: [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811, s. 5.6](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/)
  - Official wording: "Each offence, under summary" … "$5000.00 and not less than $100.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Bylaw No. 1811 - Water Restriction Bylaw
  - Source: [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811, s. 1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/)
  - Official wording: "Bylaw No. 1811 - Water" … "Restriction Bylaw"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/>) sets two stages. Stage 1 starts automatically on April 15 each year if no stage is in force. The Town can declare Stage 1 or Stage 2 by public announcement. No stage stays in force after October 31 unless the Town declares one. To find the current stage, call the Town at 250-847-1600.

## Good to know

- Stage 1: lawns may be watered only on even-numbered days at even civic addresses and odd-numbered days at odd addresses (residential premises). No hours are set. Flower and vegetable gardens, shrubs and trees may be watered; drip irrigation is not "watering".
- Stage 2: no lawn watering. Gardens, planters, shrubs and trees only by hand with a shut-off hose, not sprinklers or soaker hoses.
- New lawns (newly placed sod, turf or grass seed) are exempt from both stages.
- Fine: contravening the restrictions is a $400 bylaw notice. The early and late amounts and their timing should be confirmed with the Town.

## Official forms and pages

- [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Smithers garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/garbage-collection.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/water-restrictions.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/water-restrictions.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/water-restrictions.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/water-restrictions.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/water-restrictions.md)
- [Burns Lake](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burns-lake/water-restrictions.md)

## Sources

- [Water Restriction Bylaw No. 1811, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/115429/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Contact Us, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/water-restrictions/_


---

---
title: "Smithers dog licences: fees and how to get one"
question: "How do I get a dog licence in Smithers, and what does it cost?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-licence/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-licence.json"
---

# Smithers dog licences: fees and how to get one

**Question:** How do I get a dog licence in Smithers, and what does it cost?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, every dog over four months old needs a licence from the Town. It costs $15 a year for a spayed or neutered dog and $50 for one that is not. Buy it in person at the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street. Licences expire December 31.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** $15 a year spayed or neutered (vet certificate needed); $50 a year not spayed or neutered. Replacement or transfer $5. Fees include taxes. Fine for an unlicensed dog: $100.  
**How long:** Every licence and tag expires December 31 of the year it was issued.  
**Where:**
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **Licence required:** Yes. No one may keep a dog over 4 months old unless a valid licence has been issued for that dog.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 3.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall keep any dog over the age of four (4) months unless a valid licence has been issued in respect of that dog under this bylaw."
  - Source: [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
  - Official wording: "All dogs over 4 months of age in the Town of Smithers are required to be licensed."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Issued by:** The Town of Smithers, at the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street.
  - Source: [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
  - Official wording: "Dog licenses can be purchased at the Town of Smithers Office (1027 Aldous Street)"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 3.3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "the Town shall issue a licence and corresponding licence tag for the dog."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $15 a year for a spayed or neutered dog; a veterinarian's signed certificate is required. Fees include applicable taxes.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule O, Animal Licensing Fees](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Neutered male dog, in respect of which the applicant produces a certificate of" … "(All fees INCLUDE applicable taxes)"
  - Source: [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
  - Official wording: "$15 for a spayed or neutered dog (certificate signed by a veterinarian required)."
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Schedule A](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "Animal Licence fees will be charges in accordance with the Town"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $50 a year for a dog that is not spayed or neutered. Fees include applicable taxes.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule O, Animal Licensing Fees](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Male dog, not neutered" … "Female dog, not spayed"
  - Source: [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
  - Official wording: "$50 for a dog that is NOT spayed or neutered."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other fees and discounts:** Replacement licence or licence tag: $5 (includes taxes). The same fee is paid when a tag is lost or ownership of a licensed dog is transferred.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule O](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Replacement license or license tag"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 3.6](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "Where a licence tag is lost or destroyed, or where ownership of a validly licensed"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Renewal:** Every licence and tag expires on December 31 of the year it was issued.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 3.4(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "expires on the 31st day of December of the year in which it was issued"
  - Source: [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
  - Official wording: "expire on December 31st of each year"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to get one:** In person at the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), by paying the fee and filling in an application signed by the owner. A vet's certificate is needed for the spayed or neutered rate.
  - Source: [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
  - Official wording: "Dog licenses can be purchased at the Town of Smithers Office (1027 Aldous Street)"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 3.2-3.3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "Upon receipt of the prescribed fee and a completed application form signed by the"
  - Source: [Contact Us, Town Hall hours](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us)
  - Official wording: "Monday to Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine, unlicensed dog:** Bylaw notice: $100 for an unlicensed dog (s. 3.1) or a dog without its tag (s. 3.5). The schedule also shows $50 early and $200 late, but s. 8.1 of the notice bylaw describes the columns differently, so the timing is unconfirmed. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library. Bylaw 1780 s. 9.1 also allows a court fine of $100 to $5,000.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Bylaw 1780 table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Penalty Early Late Compliance" … "Unlicensed dog 3.1 100.00 50.00 200.00 NO" … "No license on dog 3.5 100.00 50.00 200.00 NO" … "amount set out in Column 3 of "Schedule A"; or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Bylaw No. 1780 - Animal Control and Licensing (consolidated to January 23, 2020). Fees are set in Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule O.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Title and s. 1.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "Consolidated to January 23, 2020" … "This bylaw may be cited as" … "Animal Control and Licensing"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Schedule A](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "Animal Licence fees will be charges in accordance with the Town"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The Town of Smithers issues dog licences under its [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/>). No one may keep a dog over four months old without a valid licence for that dog. Fees are set in the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/>) and include taxes.

## Steps

1. Go to the Town Office at 1027 Aldous Street, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
2. Fill in the application, signed by the owner, and pay the fee.
3. For the $15 spayed or neutered rate, bring a veterinarian's signed certificate.
4. Put the tag on your dog.

## Good to know

- Replacement licence or tag, a lost tag, or a transfer of a licensed dog to a new owner: $5.
- An unlicensed dog (or a dog without its tag) can bring a $100 bylaw notice. The early and late amounts and their timing should be confirmed with the Town.

## Official forms and pages

- [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Smithers dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/dog-licence.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/dog-licence.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/dog-licence.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/dog-licence.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/dog-licence.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/dog-licence.md)

## Sources

- [Dog Licensing & Control, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Contact Us, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-licence/_


---

---
title: Smithers dog leash rules and off-leash areas
question: "Where can dogs be off leash in Smithers, and what are the leash rules?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-leash-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-leash-rules.json"
---

# Smithers dog leash rules and off-leash areas

**Question:** Where can dogs be off leash in Smithers, and what are the leash rules?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, a dog in a public place, including a park or school ground, must be on a leash held by a responsible person, and the leash may not be longer than 183 cm (6 feet). Dogs may run free only in designated off-leash areas, such as the small dog areas at Dogwood Park.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Bylaw notice for a dog at large: $150. Unleashed dog not confined: $100. Off-leash dog in a park: $150.  
**How long:** Rules apply at all times.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **Leash rule:** A dog on a highway or other public place, including a school ground or park, must be secured on a leash held by a responsible person. Off its owner's property it must be under that person's immediate control. Owners must not let a dog run at large.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 2.1 "At Large"](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "a dog located upon a highway or other public place, including a school ground" … "or park, that is not secured on a leash to a responsible and competent person"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 5.1(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "to run at large or to trespass in or upon any private lands or premises"
  - Source: [Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007, s. 3.8(d)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/284671/)
  - Official wording: "Allow any dog or other animal to run at large with the exception of areas"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Maximum leash length:** A leash may not be longer than 183 cm (6 feet). A dangerous dog's leash may not exceed 1.2 m.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 2.1 "Leash"](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "which does not exceed 183 centimetres (6 feet) in length"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 4.6(b)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "ensure the dog is on a leash which does not exceed one point two (1.2)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Off-leash areas:** Dogs may run free only in areas the Director designates as off-leash areas. The Town's parks page says Dogwood Park (Dan Hamhuis Way, off Toronto St.) has two small dog park areas.
  - Source: [Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007, s. 3.8(d)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/284671/)
  - Official wording: "Allow any dog or other animal to run at large with the exception of areas" … "designated as an off-leash area by the Director."
  - Source: [Parks, Fields & Trails, Dogwood Park](https://www.smithers.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-fields-trails)
  - Official wording: "two small dog park areas"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Places dogs are not allowed:** Not confirmed. Not found in the official sources that were read.
- **Cleaning up:** Anyone whose dog leaves excrement anywhere other than on the owner's property must immediately remove it and dispose of it in a sanitary manner. The same duty applies in parks.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 5.9](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall suffer or permit any dog to leave or deposit excrement any place" … "remove such excrement and to dispose of same in a sanitary manner."
  - Source: [Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007, s. 3.8(c)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/284671/)
  - Official wording: "Leave any animal waste deposited by any animal belonging to them or under"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** Bylaw notice: dog at large (s. 5.1(a)) $150; unleashed dog not confined (s. 5.10) $100; off-leash dog in a park (Parks bylaw s. 3.8(d)) $150. The schedule also shows lower early amounts ($75, $50) and higher late ones ($250, $200), but s. 8.1 describes the columns differently; confirm with the Town. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library. Older fees for dogs at large (first offence $25 licensed, $50 unlicensed, up to $200) are in Schedule B of Bylaw 1780 (consolidated 2020); the 2026 notice schedule is later.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Bylaw 1780 table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Dog at large 5.1 (a) 150.00 75.00 250.00 NO" … "Fail to confine unleashed dog 5.10 100.00 50.00 200.00 NO" … "Off leash animal or dog 3.8.d 150.00 75.00 250.00 NO" … "amount set out in Column 3 of "Schedule A"; or"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Bylaw 2007 table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Off leash animal or dog 3.8.d 150.00 75.00 250.00 NO"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Bylaw No. 1780 - Animal Control and Licensing; Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007 (parks).
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 1.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "This bylaw may be cited as" … "Animal Control and Licensing"
  - Source: [Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007, Title](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/284671/)
  - Official wording: "PARKS AND OPEN SPACES BYLAW"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/>), owners must not let a dog run at large. On a highway or any other public place, including a school ground or park, a dog must be secured on a leash held by a responsible person. Off its owner's property it must be under that person's immediate control. The [Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/284671/>) also applies in parks.

## Good to know

- Leash length: no longer than 183 cm (6 feet). A dangerous dog's leash may not exceed 1.2 m.
- Off-leash areas: dogs may run free only in areas the Director designates. The Town's parks page says Dogwood Park (Dan Hamhuis Way, off Toronto Street) has two small dog park areas.
- Clean-up: if your dog leaves excrement anywhere other than your own property, remove it immediately and dispose of it in a sanitary manner. The same duty applies in parks.
- Fines (bylaw notices): dog at large $150; unleashed dog not confined $100; off-leash dog in a park $150. The early and late amounts and their timing should be confirmed with the Town.
- To report a problem, call the Bylaw Enforcement Officer at 250-847-1600.

## Official forms and pages

- [Parks, Fields & Trails](https://www.smithers.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-fields-trails)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-licence.md)
- [Smithers rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Kitimat](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kitimat/dog-leash-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Parks and Open Spaces Bylaw No. 2007, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/284671/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Parks, Fields & Trails, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks-fields-trails) (read 2026-11-06)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 7 facts was matched to the official text; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-leash-rules/_


---

---
title: Smithers rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs
question: "What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dangerous-dogs/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dangerous-dogs.json"
---

# Smithers rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs

**Question:** What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs in Smithers?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, a dog an officer declares dangerous (it killed or seriously injured a person or animal, or is likely to) needs a $300 yearly licence, $1,000,000 liability insurance, a muzzle and a leash off property. An aggressive dog is $150 a year and must be confined at home.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Dangerous dog licence: $300 a year. Aggressive dog licence: $150 a year. Bylaw notices: most offences $400; a dog bite of a person $300.  
**How long:** Not stated.  
**Where:**
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** Dangerous: killed or seriously injured a person, or another animal off the owner's property, or an Animal Control Officer has reasonable grounds to believe it is likely to kill or seriously injure a person. Aggressive: unprovoked pursuit, harassment or non-serious bite, or an officer believes it is likely to injure.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 2.1 definitions](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "has killed or seriously injured a person," … "an Animal Control Officer has reasonable grounds to believe is likely to kill or" … "has, without provocation, bitten or caused non-serious injury to a person or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Rules for owners:** Dangerous dog: owner at least 19; $1,000,000 liability insurance; at home, indoors or in a locked enclosure; off property, muzzled, on a leash up to 1.2 m, handler 19 or older. Aggressive dog: confined at home; muzzled and leashed off property, handler 19 or older.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 4.1-4.2](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "The owner of a dangerous dog must be at least nineteen (19) years of age." … "proof of public liability insurance in"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 4.6](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "ensure the dog is securely muzzled;" … "(c) ensure the dog is under the control of a person who is at least nineteen"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 4.11](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "Every owner of an aggressive dog shall ensure that at any time that the dog is"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Licence fee:** Dangerous dog: $300 a year. Aggressive dog: $150 a year.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule O](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "Dangerous dog" … "For an Aggressive dog"
  - Source: [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
  - Official wording: "$150 for an aggressive dog." … "$300 for a dangerous dog."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to report:** Complaints go to the Bylaw Enforcement Officer online (request for service), by phone at 250-847-1600 or in person at the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street. The complainant must give name, address, phone and a description of the issue.
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Control, How to Report a Violation](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control)
  - Official wording: "Online (request for service)" … "By phone (250-847-1600) or fax (250-847-1601)" … "Name, address and phone number of the complainant;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: most dangerous or aggressive dog offences are $400 (for example dangerous dog at large, s. 4.7(c)); dog bite of a person (s. 5.2(a)) is $300. The schedule also shows $200 or $150 early and $500 or $400 late, but s. 8.1 describes the columns differently; confirm with the Town. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Bylaw 1780 table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Dangerous dog at large 4.7 (c) 400.00 200.00 500.00 NO" … "Unlicensed aggressive dog 4.8 400.00 200.00 500.00 NO" … "Dog bite person 5.2 (a) 300.00 150.00 400.00 NO" … "amount set out in Column 3 of "Schedule A"; or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Bylaw No. 1780 - Animal Control and Licensing
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 1.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "This bylaw may be cited as" … "Animal Control and Licensing"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/>) lets an Animal Control Officer declare a dog dangerous or aggressive. Dangerous: it has killed or seriously injured a person, or another animal off the owner's property, or an officer has reasonable grounds to believe it is likely to. Aggressive: it has pursued or harassed someone unprovoked, or made a non-serious bite, or an officer believes it is likely to injure.

## Owner rules

- Dangerous dog: owner at least 19; $1,000,000 liability insurance; kept at home indoors or in a locked enclosure; off the property it must be muzzled and on a leash up to 1.2 m, with a handler 19 or older.
- Aggressive dog: confined at home; muzzled and leashed off property, with a handler 19 or older.
- Licence fees are in the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/>): $300 a year (dangerous), $150 a year (aggressive).

## Steps to report

1. Call the Bylaw Enforcement Officer at 250-847-1600, use the online request for service, or go to the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street.
2. Give your name, address, phone number and a description of the issue.

## Good to know

- Bylaw notices are $400 for most offences (for example a dangerous dog at large) and $300 for a dog bite of a person. The early and late amounts and their timing should be confirmed with the Town.

## Official forms and pages

- [Dog Licensing & Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-licence.md)
- [Smithers dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Kitimat](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kitimat/dangerous-dogs.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Control, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Dog Licensing & Control, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/dog-licensing-control) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dangerous-dogs/_


---

---
title: Smithers backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules
question: "Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/backyard-chickens/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/backyard-chickens.json"
---

# Smithers backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules

**Question:** Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock in Smithers?

**Short answer:** In Smithers you can keep up to 6 hens on a single-family lot over 550 m², in LDR-1 and R-6 zones (and A-1 or R-7 where accessory to agriculture). Flocks must be registered with the Town for $15. Roosters are not allowed. The sources read do not state a bee rule.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** $15 to register a flock with the Town.  
**How long:** Registration form (Schedule C) goes to the Town; processing time is not stated.  
**Where:**
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **Hens allowed:** Yes, as an auxiliary use to a single detached dwelling on a lot over 550 m², in the LDR-1 and R-6 zones, and in A-1 or R-7 where accessory to a permitted agricultural use or dwelling (Town's 2026 guide). Bylaw 1780 still names the old R-1, R-2 and P-1 zones. The owner must live there or give written permission. (Sources differ: Bylaw 1780 (consolidated Jan. 2020) names zones R-1, R-2, R-6 and P-1 (with R-7 and A-1 'existing'); the Town's web page lists R-1, R-2, R-6, R-7, A-1 and P-1; the 2026 Hen Keeping Guide lists LDR-1, R-6, R-7 and A-1. Zoning Bylaw 1987 (base text) defines 'backyard hen keeping' by reference to Bylaw 1780. Confirm the zone with the Town.)
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 6-3(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "The keeping of hens for domestic purpose is permitted as an auxiliary use to a" … "550m2 (5,920" … "The owner of the property resides on the property where the hens are kept, or"
  - Source: [Backyard Hens, Backyard Hen Keeping](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/backyard-hens)
  - Official wording: "on any lot greater than 550m2 (5,920 ft2) and zoned R-1, R-2, R-6, R-7, A-1 and P-1 Zones"
  - Source: [Your Guide to Backyard Hen Keeping, Checklist](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Your%20Guide%20to%20Backyard%20Hen%20Keeping_0.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Backyard hen keeping is permitted in the LDR-1 and R-6 zones" … "Lot size must be greater than 550m2 (5,920 ft2) and zoned LDR-1, R-6, R-7, or A-1 zones"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Most hens:** 6 hens on a single-family lot. 12 hens on a P-1 property with a Community Garden. 12 poultry per 0.4 ha of parcel in A-1 or R-7 zones (Agricultural Land Reserve rules apply on ALR land).
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 6-3(c)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "six (6) hens as an auxiliary use to a detached, single-family dwelling;" … "twelve (12) hens on a P-1 property in conjunction with a Community Garden;" … "twelve (12) poultry for each 0.4 ha of parcel area in zones A-1 or R-7."
  - Source: [Your Guide to Backyard Hen Keeping, Checklist](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Your%20Guide%20to%20Backyard%20Hen%20Keeping_0.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Agricultural Land Commission (ALC)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Roosters:** No. Roosters are prohibited.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 6-3(b)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "obtains written permission from the property owner; b) Roosters are prohibited; c) The keeping of hens is limited to a maximum of:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Coop rules:** Run and coop each at least 3.0 m from the house and 1.5 m from the side or rear lot line, at the side or rear. Run fenced and roofed, 1.0 m² per hen. Coop floor 0.5 m² per hen, a 15 cm perch per hen and a nest box per 4 hens.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 6-3(d), (e)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "sited at least 3.0 m (9.84 ft) from the principal building and 1.5 m from the" … "of sufficient size to provide at least 1.0 m2 (10.76 ft2) of roofed outdoor" … "allows at least 0.5 m2 (5.3 ft2) of coop floor area per hen; and"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permit or registration:** Yes. Flocks must be registered with the Town (Schedule C form) for a $15 fee.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 6-3(m)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "Backyard hen flocks must be registered for a fee of $15 with the Town of"
  - Source: [Backyard Hens, Backyard Hen Keeping](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/backyard-hens)
  - Official wording: "registration of your Backyard Hen Flock for a $15 fee"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bees:** Not confirmed. Not found in the official sources that were read.
- **Other livestock:** Cattle and other farm animals (horses, swine, sheep, goats, mules, donkeys, oxen) may not be kept in the Town except in R-7, A-1 and the Fall Fair Grounds. Poultry, pigeons or doves may not be kept inside a dwelling or business unless the business is licensed for it.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 6-4](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall cause or permit any cattle or farm animals to be kept or harbored"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 2.1 "Farm Animal"](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "includes: cattle, horses, swine, sheep, goats, mules, donkeys, asses and oxen;"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 6-1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "No poultry, pigeons, or doves shall be kept in any part of a"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Bylaw No. 1780 - Animal Control and Licensing (Section 6, Schedule C); Zoning Bylaw No. 1987
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 1.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "This bylaw may be cited as" … "Animal Control and Licensing"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, Definitions](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "“backyard hen keeping” means the keeping of hens, as they are defined in Bylaw No. 1780"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Hens are allowed as an auxiliary use to a single detached dwelling on a lot over 550 m², in the LDR-1 and R-6 zones, and in A-1 or R-7 where accessory to a permitted agricultural use or dwelling (per the Town's October 2026 [hen keeping guide](<https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Your%20Guide%20to%20Backyard%20Hen%20Keeping_0.pdf>)). The owner must live there or give written permission. The rules are in the [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/>) (section 6, Schedule C) and the [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/>).

## Steps

1. Check your zone with the Town.
2. Build a coop and run that meets the rules below.
3. Register your flock with the Town using the Schedule C form and pay $15.

## Good to know

- Number: up to 6 hens on a single-family lot; 12 on a P-1 lot with a Community Garden; 12 poultry per 0.4 ha in A-1 or R-7 (Agricultural Land Reserve rules apply on ALR land). No roosters.
- Coop and run: each at least 3.0 m from the house and 1.5 m from the side or rear lot line, at the side or rear. Run fenced and roofed, 1.0 m² per hen. Coop floor 0.5 m² per hen, a 15 cm perch per hen, and a nest box per 4 hens.
- Bylaw 1780 still names the old R-1, R-2 and P-1 zones, so the sources differ; confirm your zone with the Town.
- Cattle and other farm animals (horses, swine, sheep, goats, mules, donkeys, oxen) may not be kept except in R-7, A-1 and the Fall Fair Grounds. Poultry, pigeons or doves may not be kept inside a dwelling or business unless the business is licensed for it.
- Bees: the sources we read do not state a rule. Ask the Town at 250-847-1600.

## Official forms and pages

- [Backyard Hens](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/backyard-hens)
- [Your Guide to Backyard Hen Keeping (PDF)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Your%20Guide%20to%20Backyard%20Hen%20Keeping_0.pdf)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/backyard-chickens.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Burns Lake](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burns-lake/backyard-chickens.md)

## Sources

- [Backyard Hens, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control/backyard-hens) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Your Guide to Backyard Hen Keeping (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Your%20Guide%20to%20Backyard%20Hen%20Keeping_0.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (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 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/backyard-chickens/_


---

---
title: Smithers RV, boat and trailer parking rules
question: "Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Parking, tickets and driving
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json"
---

# Smithers RV, boat and trailer parking rules

**Question:** Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard in Smithers?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, no vehicle may be parked on a street for more than 24 continuous hours, and overnight street camping is prohibited. In residential zones, RVs, campers, trailers and boats may be stored long term only when completely on your parcel. You may not live in an RV outside a campground.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Bylaw notices: RV not on the property $300; overtime parking over 24 hours $60; overnight camping on a street $60.  
**How long:** Not applicable.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **On the street:** No vehicle may be parked on any highway for more than 24 continuous hours, or moved within the same block to avoid time limits. Camping overnight on a street is prohibited. In angle-parking zones, a vehicle with trailer over 6 m may not park.
  - Source: [Traffic Bylaw No. 2013, s. 3.2(17)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290949/)
  - Official wording: "on any highway, for a continuous period exceeding twenty-four (24) hours;"
  - Source: [Traffic Bylaw No. 2013, s. 3.2(16)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290949/)
  - Official wording: "any trailer attached thereto exceeds six (6) metres;"
  - Source: [Traffic Bylaw No. 2013, s. 3.1(11)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290949/)
  - Official wording: "amps overnight on any street or in any park or in any parking area, other than"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **On your property:** In residential zones, long-term parking or storage of recreational vehicles, campers, trailers or boats is prohibited except when completely located on a parcel. Commercial vehicles over 12 m or 22,000 kg must be fully enclosed.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.12.2(b)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "the long-term parking or storage of recreation vehicles, campers, trailers or boats" … "is prohibited except when completely located on a parcel."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, Definitions](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "“recreational vehicle” means a vehicle designed to be used for temporary living and travel,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Living in an RV:** No. RVs parked or stored in residential zones may not be used for short-term rental or residential use, and using an RV or tent for any accommodation outside a campground is prohibited. Overnight camping on streets is also prohibited.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.12.2](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "shall not be used either for short-term rental or residential use."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.19.2](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Use of Recreational Vehicles and/or tents for any type of accommodation is prohibited"
  - Source: [Traffic Bylaw No. 2013, s. 3.1(11)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290949/)
  - Official wording: "amps overnight on any street or in any park or in any parking area, other than"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: failing to park an RV on the property (Zoning s. 2.12.2.b) $300 (schedule also shows $150 early, $400 late; s. 8.1 reads the columns differently). Overtime parking over 24 hours (Traffic s. 3.2.17) $60, no 24-hour discount, $100 late. Overnight camping on a street (s. 3.1.11) $60, or $40 within 24 hours, $100 late. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library. Traffic table columns: Final Demand, Within 24 HR, Within 7 Days, Late Payment; the figures are listed in that order.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Zoning table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Failure to park RV on property 2.12.2.b 300.00 150.00 400.00 YES" … "Overtime parking 24 hours 3.2.17 60.00 60.00 60.00 100.00 NO" … "Unauthorized overnight camping 3.1.11 60.00 40.00 60.00 100.00 NO"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Traffic table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Overtime parking 24 hours 3.2.17 60.00 60.00 60.00 100.00 NO" … "Unauthorized overnight camping 3.1.11 60.00 40.00 60.00 100.00 NO" … "Final Within 24 HR Within 7 Late Compliance"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Town of Smithers Traffic Bylaw No. 2013; Zoning Bylaw No. 1987 (s. 2.12, 2.19)
  - Source: [Traffic Bylaw No. 2013, Title](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290949/)
  - Official wording: "TOWN OF SMITHERS BYLAW NO. 2013 Page 7 3.2 PARKING OFFENCES Except when necessary to avoid conflicts with traffic, or to comply with the Law, or" … "Sifiithcr BYLAW NO. 2013 TRAFFIC BYLAW A Bylaw to provide for the regulation of traffic in the Town of Smithers"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, Title](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "TOWN OF SMITHERS ZONING BYLAW NO. 1987"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

On streets, the [Traffic Bylaw No. 2013](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290949/>) says no vehicle may be parked on any highway for more than 24 continuous hours, or moved within the same block to avoid time limits. Camping overnight on a street is prohibited. In angle-parking zones, a vehicle with a trailer over 6 m may not park.

On your property, the [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/>) prohibits long-term parking or storage of recreational vehicles, campers, trailers or boats in residential zones except when completely located on a parcel. Commercial vehicles over 12 m or 22,000 kg must be fully enclosed.

## Good to know

- Living in an RV: RVs parked or stored in residential zones may not be used for short-term rental or residential use, and using an RV or tent for any accommodation outside a campground is prohibited.
- Bylaw notices: failing to park an RV on the property $300; overtime parking over 24 hours $60; overnight camping on a street $60. The early and late amounts and their timing should be confirmed with the Town.
- Questions: Bylaw Enforcement at 250-847-1600.

## Official forms and pages

- [Traffic Bylaw No. 2013](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290949/)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Smithers short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/short-term-rental.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)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)

## Sources

- [Traffic Bylaw No. 2013, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290949/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Contact Us, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_


---

---
title: "Smithers noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines"
question: "What are the noise rules and quiet hours in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/noise-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/noise-rules.json"
---

# Smithers noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines

**Question:** What are the noise rules and quiet hours in Smithers?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, no one may make or allow noise that disturbs the peace or comfort of people nearby. The Good Neighbour Bylaw sets no fixed quiet hours. Construction and landscaping work may not unreasonably disturb neighbours before 7 a.m. or after 10 p.m. Report noise to Bylaw Enforcement at 250-847-1600.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Bylaw notices: construction hours $300; vehicle idling $75; vehicle exhaust noise $300; allowing a nuisance $350; causing a nuisance $400.  
**How long:** Rules apply at all times; the Town does not state a response time.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **General rule:** No one may make, cause or permit noise in a public or private place that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people nearby.
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 4.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall make or cause, or permit to be made or caused, any noise in" … "peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of any person or persons in"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Quiet hours:** None set. Smithers' Good Neighbour Bylaw does not set fixed quiet hours.
- **Construction hours:** No building, repair, demolition, landscaping, excavation or filling work before 7 a.m. or after 10 p.m. on any day in a way that unreasonably disturbs people nearby. The Director of Development Services may issue a Temporary Exemption Permit; emergency work is exempt.
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 5.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "shall on any day before" … "7:00 am (07:00 Hrs.) or after 10:00 pm (22:00 Hrs.)" … "unreasonably disturbs the quiet,"
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 5.2-5.3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "the Director of Development Services may issue a Temporary Exemption Permit" … "Emergency Work is exempt from the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other limits:** Music in licensed dance halls only between 1 p.m. and 2 a.m. Vehicles may not idle more than 15 consecutive minutes. Exhaust noise limits: 83 dBA light duty, 88 gasoline heavy duty, 91 motorcycles, 93 diesel heavy duty. Barking dogs are covered by Bylaw 1780 s. 5.8.
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 4.2](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "1 :00 pm (13:00 Hrs.) and 2:00 am (02:00 Hrs.) the following day"
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 4.3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "No Person shall permit a Vehicle to idle for more than 15 consecutive minutes,"
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 4.4-4.5 table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "CLASS OF VEHICLE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL (OBA) LIGHT DUTY 83 GASOLINE-DRIVEN HEAVY DUTY 88 MOTORCYCLES 91" … "PRESSURE LEVEL (OBA) LIGHT DUTY 83 GASOLINE-DRIVEN HEAVY DUTY 88 MOTORCYCLES 91 DIESEL-DRIVEN HEAVY DUTY 93"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), s. 5.8](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/)
  - Official wording: "to make any noise anywhere in the municipality, which disturbs the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Who to call, business hours:** Bylaw Enforcement Officer, by phone at 250-847-1600, online (request for service) or in person at the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Written complaints are investigated.
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Control, How to Report a Violation](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control)
  - Official wording: "By phone (250-847-1600) or fax (250-847-1601)" … "The Bylaw Enforcement Officer investigates written complaints received from the public" … "Online (request for service)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Who to call, after hours:** Not confirmed. The pages read do not state an after-hours noise line.
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: construction-hours offence $300; vehicle idling $75; vehicle exhaust noise $300; allowing a nuisance $350; causing a nuisance $400 (nuisance includes loud noise). The schedule has no clear line for general noise and its section numbers differ from the bylaw; early and late amounts also differ, and s. 8.1 describes the columns differently. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library. The section numbers in the notice schedule for Bylaw 2005 do not match the numbering in the bylaw itself (the bylaw's noise section is 4.1 and construction is 5.1), and the schedule has no separate line for general noise; the 'nuisance' lines are the closest.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Good Neighbor Bylaw 2005 table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Allow Nuisance 4.1 a 350.00 250.00 500.00 NO" … "Cause Nuisance 4.1 b 400.00 300.00 500.00 NO" … "Fail to comply construction 5.2 300.00 250.00 400.00 NO" … "Vehicle Idle more than 5.3 75.00 50.00 100.00 NO" … "Fail to comply vehicle noise 5.4 300.00 200.00 350.00 NO"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Bylaw 1780 table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Barking dog 5.8 150.00 75.00 250.00 NO"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Town of Smithers Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 1.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "Town of Smithers Good" … "Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/>) says no one may make, cause or permit noise in a public or private place that disturbs, or tends to disturb, the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people nearby. The bylaw does not set fixed quiet hours.

## Steps

1. Report to the Bylaw Enforcement Officer: call 250-847-1600, use the Town's online request for service, or go to the Town Office at 1027 Aldous Street (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
2. Give your name, address, phone number and a description. Written complaints are investigated.

## Good to know

- Construction: no building, repair, demolition, landscaping, excavation or filling work before 7 a.m. or after 10 p.m. on any day in a way that unreasonably disturbs people nearby. The Director of Development Services may issue a Temporary Exemption Permit; emergency work is exempt.
- Music in licensed dance halls only between 1 p.m. and 2 a.m. Vehicles may not idle more than 15 consecutive minutes.
- Exhaust noise limits: 83 dBA light duty, 88 gasoline heavy duty, 91 motorcycles, 93 diesel heavy duty.
- Barking dogs fall under the [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/>), section 5.8.
- Fines are bylaw notices (see the amounts above). The notice schedule has no clear line for general noise, so confirm with the Town which applies. The early and late amounts and their timing should also be confirmed.
- No after-hours noise line is stated on the pages we read.

## Official forms and pages

- [Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control)
- [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/unsightly-property.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Smithers dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-leash-rules.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)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/noise-rules.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/noise-rules.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/noise-rules.md)
- [Kitimat](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kitimat/noise-rules.md)
- [Fort St James](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fort-st-james/noise-rules.md)
- [Port Edward](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-edward/noise-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Control, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/) (read 2026-11-06)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/noise-rules/_


---

---
title: Smithers unsightly property rules and how to report
question: "How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/unsightly-property/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/unsightly-property.json"
---

# Smithers unsightly property rules and how to report

**Question:** How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property in Smithers?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, owners and occupiers must not let rubbish, overflowing garbage, dead landscaping, weeds or a derelict fence pile up. Report it online (request for service), by phone at 250-847-1600 or in person at the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street. Bylaw officers can order the owner to fix it.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Bylaw notices: unsightly property $300; derelict vehicle $300; derelict fence $150; boulevard or lane weeds $100; accumulation of vegetation $95.  
**How long:** The compliance order sets a time to fix the problem; the length is not stated in the sources we read.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **What counts:** Owners and occupiers must not allow rubbish or offensive matter to collect, overflowing garbage containers, an unsightly property, dead landscaping or weed overgrowth, a derelict fence, or construction waste to pile up on a permitted site. Weeds must be kept down on boulevards and lanes.
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 6.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "c) allow the Property to become Unsightly or remain Unsightly;" … "d) allow the accumulation of dead landscaping, vegetation, noxious" … "e) permit a fence located on Real Property owned or occupied by that"
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 7.2](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "is kept free and clear of weeds, debris, or chattels;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to report:** Online request for service, by phone at 250-847-1600, or in person at the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street. Give your name, address, phone, relationship to the property, and the location and a description of the issue.
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Control, How to Report a Violation](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control)
  - Official wording: "Online (request for service)" … "By phone (250-847-1600) or fax (250-847-1601)" … "Location of the property and description of the issue."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What happens next:** A Bylaw Enforcement Officer may issue a compliance order giving a set time to fix the problem. If the owner does not, the Town may, with approval of the Chief Administrative Officer, do the work and add the cost to the property taxes. The owner may also be prosecuted.
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 9.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "may issue an Order requiring the owner or other responsible Person to bring the"
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 9.3(e)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "upon approval from the Chief" … "such work to be added to the taxes of the real property"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: 'unsightly property' $300; derelict vehicle $300; derelict fence $150; boulevard or lane weeds $100; accumulation of vegetation $95. The schedule's section letters for unsightly property and vegetation are the reverse of the bylaw's, and s. 8.1 describes the early and late columns differently; confirm with the Town. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library. Section numbers in the schedule differ from the bylaw's own numbering (unsightly property is s. 6.1(c) in the bylaw). A compliance agreement is marked available for the unsightly property line.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Good Neighbor Bylaw 2005 table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Unsightly property 6.1.d 300.00 150.00 400.00 YES" … "Accumulation of veqetation 6.1.c 95.00 55.00 150.00 NO" … "Derelict vehicle on property 6.3 300.00 150.00 400.00 YES" … "Allow fence to be derelict 6.1.e 150.00 75.00 250.00 YES" … "Boulevard/laneway weeds 6.2 b 100.00 50.00 200.00 YES"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Town of Smithers Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, s. 1.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)
  - Official wording: "Town of Smithers Good" … "Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/>) says owners and occupiers must not allow rubbish or offensive matter to collect, garbage containers to overflow, an unsightly property, dead landscaping or weed overgrowth, a derelict fence, or construction waste on a permitted site. Weeds must be kept down on boulevards and lanes.

## Steps

1. Report it: online request for service, by phone at 250-847-1600, or in person at the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street.
2. Give your name, address, phone, your relationship to the property, and the location and a description of the problem.
3. A Bylaw Enforcement Officer may issue a compliance order giving a set time to fix it.

## Good to know

- If the owner does not comply, the Town may, with approval of the Chief Administrative Officer, do the work and add the cost to the property taxes. The owner may also be prosecuted.
- Bylaw notices: unsightly property $300; derelict vehicle $300; derelict fence $150; boulevard or lane weeds $100; accumulation of vegetation $95. The early and late amounts and their timing should be confirmed with the Town.

## Official forms and pages

- [Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Control](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control)
- [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/noise-rules.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Smithers garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/garbage-collection.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/unsightly-property.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/unsightly-property.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/unsightly-property.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/unsightly-property.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/unsightly-property.md)
- [Kitimat](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kitimat/unsightly-property.md)

## Sources

- [Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2005, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290947/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Enforcement & Animal Control, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/bylaw-enforcement-animal-control) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/unsightly-property/_


---

---
title: Smithers backyard fire and burning rules
question: "Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/backyard-fire/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/backyard-fire.json"
---

# Smithers backyard fire and burning rules

**Question:** Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Smithers?

**Short answer:** In Smithers, only small campfires used solely for cooking food, in a proper fire pit with cured wood, no larger than 0.5 m high by 0.5 m wide, are allowed. Recreational campfires, bonfires and burning yard waste are not permitted. Email fire@smithers.ca about land clearing burn permits.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** No permit fee stated. Bylaw notice: burning prohibited materials $300; burning without a permit $300; unauthorized open fire in a park $300.  
**How long:** Permits are issued only where no practical alternative exists; processing time not stated.  
**Where:**
- Email: Smithers Fire Rescue (burn permits), fire@smithers.ca
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **Backyard campfires:** Only campfires used solely for cooking food, using cured wood in a proper fire pit, are permitted, no larger than 0.5 m high by 0.5 m wide. Recreational campfires and bonfires are not permitted.
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning, Open Burning in your Backyard](https://www.smithers.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue-services/outdoor-burning)
  - Official wording: "Campfires solely used for the cooking of food using cured wood in proper fire pits are permitted" … "All other Backyard Open Burning, including recreational campfires and bonfires, are not permitted" … "no larger than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Burning yard waste:** Generally not allowed: the Open Burning Bylaw prohibits burning domestic waste, garden refuse, garbage, land clearing or noxious materials within the Town. The Town may issue Land Clearing Open Burning Permits where no practical alternatives exist.
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning](https://www.smithers.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue-services/outdoor-burning)
  - Official wording: "prohibits the burning of domestic waste, garden refuse, garbage, land clearing or noxious materials" … "The Town may issue Land Clearing Open Burning Permits where no practical alternatives exist"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permit:** The Town may issue Land Clearing Open Burning Permits only where no practical alternatives exist and burning will not cause nuisance or endanger the public. Email fire@smithers.ca.
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning, Open Burning Permits](https://www.smithers.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue-services/outdoor-burning)
  - Official wording: "The Town may issue Land Clearing Open Burning Permits where no practical alternatives exist" … "Email fire@smithers.ca for more information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fire bans:** The Town adopts fire prohibition orders put in place by the Province and may add or extend its own. Check with Smithers Fire Rescue or the BC Wildfire Service fire bans and restrictions page.
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning, Fire Prohibitions](https://www.smithers.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue-services/outdoor-burning)
  - Official wording: "the Town of Smithers adopts all fire prohibition orders" … "please contact Smithers Fire Rescue and/or visit BC Wildfire Service"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Instead of burning:** The Town's yard-waste drop-off site at 2888 19th Avenue takes garden waste, leaves and grass clippings, open to residents seven days a week. Branches go to the Regional District transfer station.
  - Source: [Yard Waste Drop-off](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/yard-waste-drop)
  - Official wording: "located at the Operations Department at 2888 19th Avenue" … "The drop-off is available to residents seven days a week." … "Branches are not compostable material and should be brought to the Regional District Transfer Station."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: burning prohibited materials (Open Burning Bylaw s. 2.1) $300; burning without a permit (s. 2.2) $300; unauthorized open fire in a park $300. The schedule also shows $150 early and $400 late, but s. 8.1 describes the columns differently; confirm with the Town. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Open Burning table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Burn prohibited materials 2.1 300.00 150.00 400.00 NO" … "Burn without permit 2.2 300.00 150.00 400.00 NO" … "Unauthorized open fire 3.2.b 300.00 150.00 400.00 NO" … "amount set out in Column 3 of "Schedule A"; or"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Parks bylaw table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Unauthorized open fire 3.2.b 300.00 150.00 400.00 NO"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Town of Smithers Open Burning Bylaw No. 1155
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning](https://www.smithers.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue-services/outdoor-burning)
  - Official wording: "Town of Smithers Open Burning Bylaw No. 1155"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The Town's Open Burning Bylaw No. 1155 (described on the Town's [Outdoor Burning page](<https://www.smithers.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue-services/outdoor-burning>)) prohibits burning domestic waste, garden refuse, garbage, land clearing or noxious materials. Only campfires used solely for cooking food, using cured wood in a proper fire pit, are permitted, no larger than 0.5 m high by 0.5 m wide. Recreational campfires and bonfires are not permitted.

## Steps

1. For garden waste, use the Town's yard-waste drop-off at 2888 19th Avenue instead (see the yard waste answer).
2. If you need to burn for land clearing, email fire@smithers.ca. The Town may issue a Land Clearing Open Burning Permit only where no practical alternative exists and burning will not cause a nuisance or endanger the public.
3. Before any fire, check for a fire ban.

## Good to know

- Fire bans: the Town adopts fire prohibition orders put in place by the Province and may add or extend its own. Check with Smithers Fire Rescue or the BC Wildfire Service fire bans and restrictions page for the current status.
- Bylaw notices: burning prohibited materials $300; burning without a permit $300; unauthorized open fire in a park $300. The early and late amounts and their timing should be confirmed with the Town.
- Branches go to the Regional District transfer station, not the Town drop-off.

## Official forms and pages

- [Outdoor Burning](https://www.smithers.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue-services/outdoor-burning)
- [Yard Waste Drop-off](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/yard-waste-drop)

## Related questions

- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/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)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/backyard-fire.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/backyard-fire.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/backyard-fire.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/backyard-fire.md)
- [Burns Lake](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burns-lake/backyard-fire.md)
- [Kitimat](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kitimat/backyard-fire.md)

## Sources

- [Outdoor Burning, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/public-safety/fire-rescue-services/outdoor-burning) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Yard Waste Drop-off, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/recycling-garbage-yard-waste/yard-waste-drop) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/backyard-fire/_


---

---
title: Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work
question: "What are the common bylaw fines in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines.json"
---

# Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work

**Question:** What are the common bylaw fines in Smithers?

**Short answer:** Smithers uses bylaw notices under its Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011. Examples: dog at large $150, unlicensed dog $100, barking dog $150, burning without a permit $300, water restriction offence $400, overtime parking $60. Confirm the early and late payment timing with the Town.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Examples (Penalty column): dog at large $150; unlicensed dog $100; barking dog $150; burn without permit $300; water restriction offence $400; overtime parking (24 hours) $60. Unsuccessful dispute: $25 fee.  
**How long:** Pay or dispute within 14 days of receiving the notice.  
**Where:**
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Phone: Town Hall (bylaw enforcement), 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **How tickets work:** Smithers uses bylaw notices under the Local Government Bylaw Notice Enforcement Act. Bylaw officers, RCMP members, and certain Town staff (such as the Fire Chief and Building Inspector) may issue them. Disputes go to the Town's screening officers and adjudication.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Preamble, s. 4, s. 6](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "enforce municipal bylaws by means of a Bylaw Notice" … "Bylaw Enforcement Officer(s), Corporate Officer, Deputy Director" … "The Town of Smithers is established as a bylaw notice dispute adjudication"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Common fines:** Bylaw notice amounts in Schedule A, 'Penalty' column: dog at large $150; unlicensed dog $100; barking dog $150; burn without permit $300; water restriction offence $400; overtime parking (24 hours) $60. Unsightly property is listed at $300 and nuisance at $350 to $400, but section references differ from the bylaws. Early and late amounts differ. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Dog at large 5.1 (a) 150.00 75.00 250.00 NO" … "Unsightly property 6.1.d 300.00 150.00 400.00 YES" … "Burn without permit 2.2 300.00 150.00 400.00 NO" … "Overtime parking 24 hours 3.2.17 60.00 60.00 60.00 100.00 NO" … "Contravene water provision 5.2 400.00 200.00 500.00 NO" … "Barking dog 5.8 150.00 75.00 250.00 NO"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Paying early:** Schedule A gives three amounts per offence: Penalty, Early Payment (headed 'within 14 days') and Late Payment (after 28 days); early is often half the penalty ($75 against $150 for a dog at large) but not always. Section 8.1 describes the columns differently, so confirm with the Town. Traffic offences use other columns. (Sources differ: Section 8.1 says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, which conflicts with the table headings; see note on amounts.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, s. 8.1(a)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "If payment of the penalty is received within 14 days of the person" … "Penalty Early Late Compliance" … "Dog at large 5.1 (a) 150.00 75.00 250.00 NO" … "Allow Nuisance 4.1 a 350.00 250.00 500.00 NO" … "amount set out in Column 3 of "Schedule A"; or"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Traffic table](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Final Within 24 HR Within 7 Late Compliance"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Paying late:** Schedule A's last amount is headed 'Late Payment, after 28 days' (for example $250 for a dog at large, against $150). Section 8.1 says payment more than 28 days after receipt uses the Column 5 amount, but its column numbering does not match the table, so confirm with the Town. (Sources differ: Amounts are from the Schedule A table of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011 (adopted Aug. 25, 2026). The table headings read Penalty / Early Payment (within 14 days) / Late Payment (after 28 days), but s. 8.1 of the same bylaw says the Column 3 amount is payable within 14 days, Column 4 between 14 and 28 days and Column 5 after 28 days, so which figure is the 'full' amount is unclear; confirm with the Town. No Municipal Ticket Information bylaw was found in the bylaw library.)
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, s. 8.1(b)-(c)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "If payment of the penalty is received after 14 days, and less than 28 days" … "If Payment of the penalty is received more than 28 days after the person" … "Dog at large 5.1 (a) 150.00 75.00 250.00 NO"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Disputing a ticket:** Within 14 days of receiving the notice, pay it or request dispute adjudication using the form on the back of the notice, delivered in person or by mail to the registry (1027 Aldous Street; PO Box 879, Smithers V0J 2N0). Disputes are not accepted after 14 days. An unsuccessful dispute adds a $25 fee.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, s. 9.1, 10.1, 15.2](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Request dispute adjudication of the bylaw notice by completing the form" … "no person may request dispute adjudication of a bylaw more than fourteen (14) days" … "an additional fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00)"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, s. 6.2-6.3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "The civic address of the registry is 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers," … "Post Office Box 879, Smithers,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Bylaw No. 2011 - Bylaw Notice Enforcement
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, s. 1.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Bylaw No. 2011 - Bylaw Notice" … "Enforcement"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Smithers enforces its bylaws with bylaw notices under the Local Government Bylaw Notice Enforcement Act and the [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011](<https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/>). Bylaw officers, RCMP members and certain Town staff (such as the Fire Chief and Building Inspector) may issue them. Disputes go to the Town's screening officers and adjudication.

## Steps

1. Within 14 days of receiving a notice, pay it or request dispute adjudication using the form on the back of the notice.
2. Deliver the form in person or by mail to the registry at 1027 Aldous Street, or PO Box 879, Smithers V0J 2N0.

## Good to know

- Disputes are not accepted after 14 days. An unsuccessful dispute adds a $25 fee.
- Examples of amounts (the "Penalty" column of Schedule A): dog at large $150; unlicensed dog $100; barking dog $150; burn without a permit $300; water restriction offence $400; overtime parking (24 hours) $60. Unsightly property is listed at $300 and nuisance at $350 to $400, but the section references differ from the bylaws.
- Schedule A also lists lower early-payment amounts (within 14 days) and higher late amounts (after 28 days), but section 8.1 of the bylaw describes the columns differently. Ask the Town which amount you owe and when. Do not assume a discount for paying early.
- Traffic offences use other columns.
- Questions: Town Hall, 250-847-1600.

## Official forms and pages

- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/dog-licence.md)
- [Smithers noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/noise-rules.md)
- [Smithers backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/backyard-fire.md)
- [Smithers watering restrictions](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/water-restrictions.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)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/bylaw-fines.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Kitimat](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kitimat/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Fraser Lake](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fraser-lake/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Prince Rupert](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/prince-rupert/bylaw-fines.md)

## Sources

- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw No. 1780 (consolidated to January 23, 2020), Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/160511/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Contact Us, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/bylaw-fines/_


---

---
title: "Smithers business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply"
question: "Do I need a business licence in Smithers, and how do I get one?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Starting and running a business
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/business-licence/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/business-licence.json"
---

# Smithers business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply

**Question:** Do I need a business licence in Smithers, and how do I get one?

**Short answer:** Yes. In Smithers anyone doing business within the Town, including out-of-town, seasonal and home-based businesses, needs a Town business licence. Most classes cost $165 a year. Apply with Development Services; approval typically takes 1 to 2 weeks if the application is complete.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Annual fees (Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J): $165 for most classes; $365 for larger retail, vehicle dealers, wood processing and other manufacturing, and fuel sales; $680 for banks; up to $1,030 for an escort agency. Older Town pages show $160 to $1,000. Non-profits pay no fee.  
**How long:** Approval typically takes 1 to 2 weeks if the information is complete.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC

## Key facts

- **Who needs one:** Anyone conducting business within the Town boundaries, including out-of-town businesses that operate in Town, seasonal businesses and home-based businesses. Non-profits need a licence but pay no fee; religious organizations, registered charities and local service clubs raising funds for local projects, and distributors registered under the Consumer Protection Act, do not need one.
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Business License Application Guide page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/licences-permits-signage/business-licensing)
  - Official wording: "A Business License is required for anyone conducting business within the Town boundaries."
  - Source: [5 Steps to a Business License, p. 1](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-01/5%20Steps%20to%20a%20Business%20License%20Dec%202025-DC%20Jan%209%2C%202026.pdf)
  - Official wording: "businesses that are located out-of-town, but operate in Town, seasonal businesses and home-based businesses."
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 3.1(b), (c)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Business licenses are not required for religious" … "Distributors registered under the Consumer Protection Act are not"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** Annual fees are in Schedule J of Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003: $165 for most classes (e.g. restaurant, retail up to 930 m², professional office, contractor, home occupation); $365 for larger retail, vehicle dealers, wood processing and other manufacturing, and fuel sales; $680 for banks; up to $1,030 for an escort agency. Late-year starts are prorated monthly (minimum 3 months or 25% of the fee).
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "1000 Home Occupation $165.00 / year" … "1701 Retail up to 930 m (10,011ft ) floor area $165.00 / year" … "1702 Retail over 930m (10,011ft ) floor area $365.00 / year" … "2701 Escort Agency $1,030.00 / year" … "1303 Electronics, precision instruments, small goods $165.00 / year" … "1304 All other classifications $365.00 / year" … "100 Banks, financial institutions $680.00 / year"
  - Source: [Application, Permit and Licence Fees guide, Business License row](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/GUIDE%20-%20Development%20Services%20Fees.pdf)
  - Official wording: "$165 - $1,030 Annual Fee (see Schedule ‘J’ of Fees & Charges Bylaw 2003)"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 3.6(b)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "The license fees for new businesses starting after the month of January"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to apply:** Check zoning first, then submit a completed Business License Application with any supporting documents. The Town may arrange a licence inspection; a licence is issued when the premises meet building, zoning, health and safety, sanitation and business bylaws. Pay once approved. Approval typically takes 1 to 2 weeks if the information is complete.
  - Source: [5 Steps to a Business License, Steps 3 and 4](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-01/5%20Steps%20to%20a%20Business%20License%20Dec%202025-DC%20Jan%209%2C%202026.pdf)
  - Official wording: "You are now ready to submit a Business License Application." … "There is typically a 1-2 week approval timeline, provided complete information is submitted."
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 4.1(a)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "upon inspection of the business premises, is satisfied that the applicant has complied with"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Renewal:** A licence runs January 1 to December 31. The Town sends a renewal invoice each year unless the business cancels in writing. Late fees: 10% after 60 days of the invoice, a further 20% at 90 days, and at 120 days the matter goes to Provincial Court with a further 30% added.
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 3.4(a), 3.6(d)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "commence on the first day of January and terminate on the" … "(i) 60 days of receiving the renewal invoice, a 10% penalty shall be" … "added to the license fee; and"
  - Source: [https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/GUIDE%20-%20Business%20Licenses.pdf, Application Guide p. 1](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/GUIDE%20-%20Business%20Licenses.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Unless cancelled in writing, you will receive a" … "renewal invoice from the Town on an annual basis."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Inter-community licence:** None set. Smithers has no inter-community licence.
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $300 for carrying on business without a licence ($150 if paid within 14 days; $400 after 28 days); $100 for failing to display the licence. Court: fine up to $5,000 plus costs, and each day is a separate offence.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Business License Bylaw No. 1850](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Carryon business without license 5.2.a.i 300.00 150.00 400.00 NO" … "Fail to display license 5.2.a.ii 100.00 50.00 200.00 NO"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 5.2(b), (c)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Each day’s continuation of an offense under Section 5.2 (a) constitutes" … "summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000.00 and the costs of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Business License Bylaw No. 1850, as amended. The Town's consolidated copy was revised January 3, 2025; Amendment No. 24-01 (Bylaw 1970, adopted February 11, 2025) removes the mobile vendor rules and is not in it. Fees: Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J.
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), Cover](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Consolidated for Convenience Only (Revised on January 03, 2025)"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 1.1](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Bylaw No. 1850– Business License" and takes effect as of the date of adoption."
  - Source: [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/256595/, s. 3.1, 3.2 and adoption](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/256595/)
  - Official wording: "Remove Section 6.2 Mobile Vendor & Mobile Restaurant from Section 6" … "ADOPTED THIS 11th DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2025."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The Town of Smithers requires a business licence for anyone conducting business within the Town boundaries, under [Business License Bylaw No. 1850](<https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf>). That includes out-of-town businesses operating in Town, seasonal businesses and home-based businesses. Non-profits need a licence but pay no fee. Religious organizations, registered charities and local service clubs raising funds for local projects, and distributors registered under the Consumer Protection Act, do not need one.

Fees are in Schedule J of the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/). Late-year starts are prorated monthly (minimum 3 months or 25% of the fee). A transfer to new premises or a new owner is $50, and an extra licence for an auxiliary business is $55. A new application is also needed for a change in ownership, location or address, or for a business with several locations. No licence fee is refunded.

## Steps

1. Check your zoning first (see the zoning-lookup answer).
2. Submit a completed Business License Application with any supporting documents. The Town may arrange a licence inspection. The licence is issued when the premises meet building, zoning, health and safety, sanitation and business bylaws.
3. Pay once approved.
4. Renew each year. A licence runs January 1 to December 31, and the Town sends a renewal invoice unless you cancel in writing.

## Good to know

- Late fees: 10% after 60 days of the invoice, a further 20% at 90 days, and at 120 days the matter goes to Provincial Court with a further 30% added.
- Other approvals may be needed, such as Northern Health, the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch, a sign permit or a building permit.
- The pages we read do not say whether applications are taken online, by email or only in person. Call 250-847-1600.
- Older Town pages and Bylaw 1850 show $160 to $1,000. Bylaw 2003 and the September 2026 fee guide show $165 to $1,030, which are used here.
- Smithers has no inter-community licence. The Bulkley Valley mobile food vendor program shares safety inspection decals only; each community's own licence is still required.
- Bylaw notice: the Penalty amount is $300 for carrying on business without a licence and $100 for failing to display the licence. Check the amount on your notice. In court, the fine is up to $5,000 plus costs, and each day is a separate offence.

## Official forms and pages

- [Business Licensing, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/licences-permits-signage/business-licensing)
- [5 Steps to a Business License (PDF)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-01/5%20Steps%20to%20a%20Business%20License%20Dec%202025-DC%20Jan%209%2C%202026.pdf)
- [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (PDF)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)

## Related questions

- [Smithers home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/home-based-business.md)
- [Smithers short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/short-term-rental.md)
- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Smithers building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/building-permit.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/business-licence.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/business-licence.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/business-licence.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/business-licence.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/business-licence.md)
- [Kitimat](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/kitimat/business-licence.md)

## Sources

- [Business Licensing, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/licences-permits-signage/business-licensing) (read 2026-11-06)
- [5 Steps to a Business License (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-01/5%20Steps%20to%20a%20Business%20License%20Dec%202025-DC%20Jan%209%2C%202026.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025) (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Application, Permit and Licence Fees guide (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/GUIDE%20-%20Development%20Services%20Fees.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/GUIDE%20-%20Business%20Licenses.pdf](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2024-02/GUIDE%20-%20Business%20Licenses.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/256595/](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/256595/) (read 2026-11-06)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 7 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/business-licence/_


---

---
title: Smithers home-based business rules
question: "Can I run a business from my home?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Starting and running a business
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/home-based-business/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/home-based-business.json"
---

# Smithers home-based business rules

**Question:** Can I run a business from my home?

**Short answer:** Yes. In Smithers a home occupation is allowed in a residential dwelling, inside the dwelling or a permitted auxiliary building, using no more than 40% of the dwelling's floor area. It needs a Town business licence (Home Occupation, $165 a year).

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Home Occupation licence (class 1000): $165 a year (Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J). Older Town pages show $160. An additional business is an Auxiliary Business licence at $55 a year.  
**How long:** The Town does not state a time for home occupation licences. Call Development Services at 250-847-1600.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC

## Key facts

- **Allowed:** Yes. Home occupations are permitted in all residential dwellings, on a parcel with a dwelling unit, entirely inside the dwelling or a permitted auxiliary building, using no more than 40% of the dwelling unit's total floor area (including basements and cellars).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.1, s. 2.1.1, 2.1.2](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Home occupations are permitted in all residential dwellings." … "not more than 40% of the total floor area (including basements and cellars) of the dwelling unit is occupied by the home" … "On a parcel of land containing one or more dwelling units; and"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Business licence:** Yes. A business licence is required for home-based businesses. Class 1000, Home Occupation: $165 per year. It is issued only when the Zoning Bylaw s. 2.1 requirements are met. (Sources differ: Conflict between sources: Schedule A of Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated Jan. 3, 2025) and the Town's Business License Application Guide show $160 (the guide says fees range from $160 to $1,000); Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003 Schedule J, which s. 7.1 of Bylaw 1850 makes the source of fees, and the Town's September 2026 fee guide show $165 (range $165 to $1,030). Bylaw 2003 is followed.)
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Business License Application Guide page](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/licences-permits-signage/business-licensing)
  - Official wording: "This includes businesses that are located out of town, but operate within Town boundaries and home based businesses."
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J, Schedule J, class 1000](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "1000 Home Occupation $165.00 / year"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.1, s. 2.1.5](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Home occupation Business Licenses will only be issued and approved by the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits:** Max 40% of the dwelling's floor area. No outdoor storage; no employees who do not live in the dwelling; only sell goods directly related to the home occupation; signs only as the Sign Bylaw allows; no noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odour, litter, heat, fire hazard, interference or street traffic congestion beyond what a dwelling normally has. Parking: 1 space only if clients visit.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.1, s. 2.1.3; Table 2.10.2](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Store outside of a building any materials, containers or products related to the" … "Employ a person who does not reside in the dwelling with which the home" … "Sell goods except those goods directly related to the class of the home" … "Home occupation 1 per home occupation, where clients visit the site,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Businesses not allowed:** Not allowed: a commercial stable, kennel, restaurant or convenience store; service or repair of small engines, automotive, farm, heavy or marine equipment; parking industrial or construction equipment or materials; manufacturing, welding or any other light industrial use.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.1, s. 2.1.3(b), (f)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Include a commercial stable, kennel, restaurant, convenience store, service or" … "Involve manufacturing, welding, or any other light industrial use; and"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.1 (Home Occupations); Business License Bylaw No. 1850; Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Section 2.1 Home Occupations 2.1.1 Home occupations are permitted in all residential dwellings."
  - Source: [https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf, Title](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "BYLAW NO. 1850 BUSINESS LICENSE"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under section 2.1 of the [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/), a home occupation is permitted in all residential dwellings, on a parcel with a dwelling unit, entirely inside the dwelling or a permitted auxiliary building. It may use up to 40% of the dwelling unit's total floor area, including basements and cellars. It must also meet all municipal bylaws and the BC Building Code.

Limits:

- No outdoor storage.
- No employees who do not live in the dwelling.
- Only sell goods directly related to the home occupation.
- Signs only as the Sign Bylaw allows.
- No noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odour, litter, heat, fire hazard, interference or street traffic congestion beyond what a dwelling normally has.
- Parking: 1 space, only if clients visit.

Not allowed: a commercial stable, kennel, restaurant or convenience store; service or repair of small engines, automotive, farm, heavy or marine equipment; parking industrial or construction equipment or materials; manufacturing, welding or any other light industrial use.

## Steps

1. Check that your zoning allows it (see the zoning-lookup answer).
2. Apply for a Town business licence. It is issued only when the Zoning Bylaw s. 2.1 requirements are met.
3. Pay the $165 annual fee once approved.

## Good to know

- The Town's earlier guide and Bylaw 1850 show $160. The current Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003 shows $165; confirm at 250-847-1600.
- Bed and breakfast and short-term rental operations follow Zoning s. 2.2 and 2.3 instead (see the short-term-rental answer).
- Breaking the home occupation rules can bring a bylaw notice. The Penalty amount is $300; check the amount on your notice.

## Official forms and pages

- [Business Licensing, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/licences-permits-signage/business-licensing)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)

## Related questions

- [Smithers business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/business-licence.md)
- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Smithers short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/short-term-rental.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Home-based business rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/home-based-business.md)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/home-based-business.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/home-based-business.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/home-based-business.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/home-based-business.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/home-based-business.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/home-based-business.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.1, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Business Licensing, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/business-building/licences-permits-signage/business-licensing) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/home-based-business/_


---

---
title: Smithers short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)
question: "Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Smithers?"
place: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/smithers
category: Housing and renting
owner: municipal
owner_body: Town of Smithers
sources_read: 2026-11-06
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/short-term-rental/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/short-term-rental.json"
---

# Smithers short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)

**Question:** Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Smithers?

**Short answer:** Yes, in Smithers you can run a short-term rental in your principal residence with a Town business licence and a provincial registration number. It is allowed in a suite, carriage house or part of a house (maximum 40% of a house's floor area). The yearly licence is $260 for part of a dwelling or $365 for a whole unit.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (Town of Smithers, https://www.smithers.ca)  
**Cost:** Annual Town licence (Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J): $260 for part of a dwelling or a B&B; $365 for an entire dwelling unit; $365 for the first of multiple units on a property and $105 for each additional unit. Older Town pages show $160 (and $50 for an auxiliary licence).  
**How long:** The Town does not state a processing time. Get the Town licence first, then apply to the Province for a registration number.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services, 250-847-1600 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Town Hall, 1027 Aldous Street, Smithers, BC

## Key facts

- **Allowed:** Yes, as an auxiliary use in a secondary suite, carriage house or part of a single-detached dwelling (A-1, LDR-1, R-3, R-6, R-7 and the C-1A Residential Overlay), if the operator's principal residence is on the same parcel; the residence rule does not apply in the C-1, C-1A and C-3 commercial zones. Max 40% of a house's floor area. Smithers is on the Province's principal residence requirement list.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.2 and 2.3, s. 2.3.1](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Short-Term Rentals are permitted within a secondary suite or carriage house or a portion" … "The principal residence of the short-term rental operator is located on the same" … "Requirements established under 2.3.1 (a) do not apply to Short-Term Rentals" … "not more than 40% of the total" … "floor area (including basements and cellars) is used for Short-Term Rental" … "Exemption established by section (2.3.1 (e) shall not apply to Short-term Rentals"
  - Source: [Short-term rentals, principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia, List of communities where the principal residence requirement applies (as of June 1, 2026)](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement)
  - Official wording: "Radium Hot Springs Rossland Salmo Sayward Sicamous Silverton Slocan Smithers Sparwood Spallumcheen Stewart Sun Peaks Taylor"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Business licence:** Yes. Every short-term rental and B&B needs a Town business licence plus the STR/B&B checklist. Annual fee (Schedule J, class 2900): $260 for a rental from part of a dwelling or a B&B; $365 for an entire dwelling unit; $365 for the first of multiple units on a property and $105 for each additional unit. An extra location or unit may be an Auxiliary Business licence ($55). (Sources differ: Conflict between sources: the Town's STR page (Oct. 2024 bylaw changes) says 'An annual license fee of $160 will apply to all STRs and B&Bs, with auxiliary licenses costing $50', and Schedule A of Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated Jan. 3, 2025) shows $160/year for class 2900. Section 7.1 of Bylaw 1850 says the classifications and fees are those in the Fees and Charges Bylaw, and Bylaw 2003 (the current fees bylaw) shows the higher amounts, so Bylaw 2003 is followed. Confirm with the Town at 250-847-1600.)
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 6.11(a)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "must obtain a Business License and complete an additional STR / B&B"
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J, Schedule J, class 2900 and 3000](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/)
  - Official wording: "2901 STR operating from a portion of dwelling unit or BNBs $260.00 / year" … "2902 STR operating from an entire dwelling unit $365.00 / year" … "2903.1 & $105.00 / year each" … "3000 Auxiliary Business $55.00 / year"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Provincial registration:** Yes. Hosts must register with the Province and display the provincial registration number. For new operations, the Town business licence must be obtained first, before applying to the Province for a registration number.
  - Source: [Short Term Rentals, Short Term Rental page](https://www.smithers.ca/short-term-rentals)
  - Official wording: "all new STR operations must first obtain a Town of Smithers Business License, before they apply to the provincial STR Branch for a registration number." … "STR operators must obtain and display a provincial registration number and a business license number"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Operating rules:** Put the licence number in every listing. Give two local contacts available by phone 24 hours a day during guest stays, living within 5 km. Comply with the Zoning Bylaw's parking and no-nuisance rules. Where the principal-residence rule applies: proof of permanent residency (mortgage, homeowner grant, title search under 30 days old, or owner's authorization), one STR unit per parcel, and Home Occupation rules.
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 6.11(a), (d), (f)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "include the license number as part of their STR/B&B listing on various" … "Proof of current mortgage" … "details of two" … "a day, during the duration of guest stay, and lives within 5 kilometres of" … "applicable requirements established by the Zoning Bylaw, including" … "In zones where the permanent resident requirement for STR / B&B use" … "limited to one; concurrently, the permanent resident may operate a"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.2 and 2.3, s. 2.3.1(d), (g)](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "It shall not produce a nuisance for surrounding properties, including but not limited" … "Must provide off-street parking in accordance with Section 2.10 of this bylaw;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $300 for an offence under the short-term rental section (Zoning s. 2.3) ($150 if paid within 14 days; $400 after 28 days), and $300 ($150; $400) for carrying on business without a licence. Court fine for a Business License Bylaw offence: up to $5,000 plus costs.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Short time rentals 2.3 300.00 150.00 400.00 YES"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Schedule A, Business License Bylaw No. 1850](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/)
  - Official wording: "Carryon business without license 5.2.a.i 300.00 150.00 400.00 NO"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 5.2(c)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000.00 and the costs of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.3 (and 2.2 for B&Bs); Business License Bylaw No. 1850, s. 6.11; Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.2 and 2.3, s. 2.3](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/)
  - Official wording: "Section 2.3 Short Term Rentals 2.3.1 Short-Term Rentals are permitted within a secondary suite or carriage house"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025), s. 6.11](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "6.11 Short-Term Rentals and Bed and Breakfast Operations (Bylaw 1978)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Smithers is on the Province's list of communities where the principal residence requirement applies. Under [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (s. 2.3), a short-term rental is an auxiliary use in a secondary suite, carriage house or part of a single-detached dwelling in the A-1, LDR-1, R-3, R-6 and R-7 zones and the C-1A Residential Overlay, if the operator's principal residence is on the same parcel. The residence rule does not apply in the C-1, C-1A and C-3 commercial zones. A house may use at most 40% of its floor area, and only one dwelling per parcel may be used where the residence rule applies.

Every short-term rental and bed and breakfast needs a Town business licence under [Business License Bylaw No. 1850](<https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf>) and the Town's STR/B&B checklist. B&Bs are covered separately (Zoning s. 2.2).

## Steps

1. Check your zoning (see the zoning-lookup answer).
2. Apply for the Town business licence first, with proof of permanent residency where the residence rule applies (mortgage, homeowner grant, a title search under 30 days old, or the owner's authorization). A tenant may apply with the owner's written authorization.
3. Then apply to the Province for a registration number, and display it.
4. Put the licence number in every listing.
5. Have two local contacts, living within 5 km, reachable by phone 24 hours a day during guest stays.

## Good to know

- Annual licence fees are in Schedule J of the [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/). The Town's STR page and Bylaw 1850 show an older $160 fee; Bylaw 2003 is the current fees bylaw. Confirm at 250-847-1600.
- An additional location or unit may need an Auxiliary Business licence ($55).
- Parking and no-nuisance rules in the Zoning Bylaw apply. The downtown parking exemption does not apply to short-term rentals.
- The Town's page says the Province's maximum fines rose to $3,000 a day.
- Bylaw notice: the Penalty amount is $300 for a Zoning s. 2.3 offence and $300 for carrying on business without a licence. Check the amount on your notice. In court, a Business License Bylaw offence can bring a fine of up to $5,000 plus costs, and each day is a separate offence.

## Official forms and pages

- [Short Term Rentals, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/short-term-rentals)
- [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (PDF)](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf)

## Related questions

- [Smithers business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/business-licence.md)
- [Smithers secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/secondary-suite.md)
- [Smithers home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/home-based-business.md)
- [Smithers zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Smithers bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/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)
- [Telkwa](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/telkwa/short-term-rental.md)
- [Houston](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/houston/short-term-rental.md)
- [New Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-hazelton/short-term-rental.md)
- [Hazelton](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/hazelton/short-term-rental.md)
- [Granisle](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/granisle/short-term-rental.md)
- [Terrace](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/terrace/short-term-rental.md)

## Sources

- [Short Term Rentals, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/short-term-rentals) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 1987, s. 2.2 and 2.3, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/265053/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Business License Bylaw No. 1850 (consolidated January 3, 2025) (PDF), Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/BL%201850%20BUSINESS%20LICENSE%20%28Consolidation%20January%203%202025%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2003, Schedule J, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/278063/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Short-term rentals, principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2011, Town of Smithers](https://smithers.civicweb.net/document/290948/) (read 2026-11-06)
- [Contact Us, Town of Smithers](https://www.smithers.ca/contact-us) (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 Town of Smithers. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/smithers/short-term-rental/_