# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for Tofino

---
title: "Tofino building permits: when you need one and how to apply"
question: "Do I need a building permit in Tofino, and how do I apply?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit.json"
---

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

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino you need a District building permit for most construction: new buildings, additions, renovations, secondary suites, accessory buildings over 10 m², decks over 600 mm high, retaining walls and demolition. Apply online through the District's permit portal, or by email or on paper at Municipal Hall.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** A $120 processing fee at application, plus a permit fee of $9 for each $1,000 of construction value (minimum $120). See the building-permit-fees answer.  
**How long:** The District does not state a processing time. Only complete applications are processed.  
**Where:**
- Online: District permit portal (Citywide), https://citywideportal.com/auth/signup/tofino (The District's fastest way to apply.)
- In person: Municipal Office, front counter, 121 Third Street, PO Box 9, Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Phone: Building Inspector, 250-726-6349
- Phone: Planning Services, 250-725-3229

## Key facts

- **Needed for:** Most construction: new buildings, additions, renovations, secondary suites, accessory buildings over 10 m², decks over 600 mm, retaining walls, plumbing changes, wood-burning appliances, demolition, and tenant improvements.
  - Source: [Building Permits and Inspections, Is a Building Permit Required?](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/)
  - Official wording: "A building permit is typically required for the following types of construction:" … "Sheds, garages, and other detached structures" … "New or converted secondary suites"
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Building and Development Administration](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "Accessory buildings greater than 10 m2" … "Building a new deck or raised platform over 600 mm (23-5/8 inches)" … "Installing a wood burning appliance"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Not needed for:** Not covered by the Building Bylaw: a fence (except retaining walls); an accessory building under 10 m² floor area; a trellis, arbour or wall holding soil under 1.5 m high on a parcel zoned single-family residential. (Sources differ: Retaining walls conflict across official sources. The Building Permit page lists retaining walls over 1.2 m (4 feet) as needing a permit; the Building Permit Guide says over 1.5 m or any wall supporting a building; the bylaw defines a retaining wall as over 1.2 m, s. 11.1 requires a permit for one, and s. 3.3(c) exempts walls under 1.5 m on single-family parcels. Confirm with the Building Inspector. Zoning rules and Building Code still apply to exempt work.)
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026), s. 3.3](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "This bylaw does not apply to" … "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;" … "a wall supporting soil that is less than 1.5 metres in height"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **How to apply:** Online through the District's Citywide permit portal (fastest). Applications can also be emailed or brought on paper to the front counter at Municipal Hall.
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Permit Applications](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "The fastest way to get your building permit is by applying online." … "Building permits may also be applied for by email, or in paper at the front counter."
  - Source: [Building Permits and Inspections, Apply Online](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/)
  - Official wording: "Submit your application and documents through the District's online permit portal"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **What to submit:** Signed application sheet and owner's declaration, building permit checklist, title search dated within 30 days, authorization of agent if one applies, plus (as needed) value of work, plans, surveyed site sketch and plumbing declaration.
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Permit Applications](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "Completed and signed Application sheet" … "Completed Building Permit Checklist" … "Title current to within 30 days of application date." … "A surveyed sketch of the property including the proposed building will be required for"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Processing time:** Not confirmed. The published pages do not say how long a permit takes.
- **Inspections:** Request through the Citywide portal or by email to the Building Inspector with at least 48 hours' notice, giving the inspection type and permit number. Approved plans must be on site and the work uncovered. Inspections run Monday to Friday.
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Inspections](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "Inspections are to be requested through the Citywide portal or in writing by email with at least 48 hours’ notice." … "Approved plans must be onsite at the time of inspection or no inspection will take place."
  - Source: [Building Permits and Inspections](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/)
  - Official wording: "Building inspection services are provided Monday through Friday."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Contact:** Building Inspector, 250-726-6349 (email through the District's Building Permits and Inspections page). Planning Services, 250-725-3229.
  - Source: [Building Permits and Inspections, Contacts](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/)
  - Official wording: "Request an inspection through the online portal/ Request an inspection by emailing the Building Inspector Building inspection services are provided Monday through Friday. ## Contacts Building Inspector 250-726-6349 Email --" … "Building inspection services are provided Monday through Friday. ## Contacts Building Inspector 250-726-6349 Email -- Planning Services" … "Building Inspector 250-726-6349 Email -- Planning Services 250-725-3229 Email ## Quick links - Online Application Portal" … "250-726-6349 Email -- Planning Services 250-725-3229 Email ## Quick links - Online Application Portal - Official Community Plan"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026), Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019" … "Bylaw No. 1256.04, 2026"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The District of Tofino's building inspector checks plans against the BC Building Code and the District's [Building Bylaw No. 1256](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf) before issuing a permit, then inspects the work. Some projects also need a development permit or variance first, so ask Planning Services early.

A permit is typically needed for new buildings, additions, renovations, new or converted secondary suites, sheds and garages over 10 m², decks or raised platforms over 600 mm (about 2 feet), retaining walls, plumbing changes, wood-burning appliances, demolition and tenant improvements. The guide lists more triggers, such as moving a building, adding rooms or walls, converting a garage, and new or replacement stairs.

The bylaw does not cover a fence, an accessory building under 10 m², or a trellis, arbour or wall holding soil under 1.5 m high on a single-family parcel.

## Steps

1. Check the zoning and any development permit needs with Planning Services (250-725-3229).
2. Gather the signed application sheet and owner's declaration, the building permit checklist, and a title search dated within 30 days (the District can pull one for $25). Add the value of the work, plans, a surveyed site sketch and plumbing declaration as needed.
3. Apply through the Citywide portal, or email or bring the application to Municipal Hall. Only complete applications are processed.
4. Pay the fees (see building-permit-fees) and receive the permit.
5. Request each inspection through the portal or by email to the Building Inspector, giving the inspection type and permit number, with at least 48 hours' notice. Approved plans must be on site and the work uncovered.

## Good to know

- Inspections run Monday to Friday. Times are not guaranteed, and the site must be unlocked and available at 8:30 a.m. on the day. Staff will not inspect areas needing fall protection, ladders or confined-space entry.
- New homes need a New Home Registration (BC Housing), and sealed drawings with letters of assurance may be required.
- The District's pages and bylaw give different retaining wall limits (1.2 m or 1.5 m). Confirm with the Building Inspector.
- The District does not state a processing time.

## Official forms and pages

- [Building Permits and Inspections, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/)
- [Building Permit Guide (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)

## Related questions

- [Tofino building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Tofino permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Tofino secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/secondary-suite.md)
- [Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Tofino fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fence-rules.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Building permits in British Columbia: how to apply, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/building-permit.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/building-permit.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/building-permit.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/building-permit.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/building-permit.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/building-permit.md)

## Sources

- [Building Permits and Inspections, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Permit Guide (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_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 District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit/_


---

---
title: "Tofino fence rules: permits and height limits"
question: "Do I need a permit to build a fence in Tofino, and how high can it be?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fence-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fence-rules.json"
---

# Tofino fence rules: permits and height limits

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino a fence does not need a building permit, but it must meet the Zoning Bylaw's height limits. In most zones a fence may be 1 m (3.3 feet) high in a front yard and 1.8 m (6 feet) in a side or rear yard. Retaining walls are the exception and need a permit.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** No fence permit fee. A retaining wall needs a building permit (see building-permit-fees).  
**How long:** Not applicable for a fence.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Planning Services, 250-725-3229
- Phone: Building Inspector (retaining walls), 250-726-6349

## Key facts

- **Permit:** No building permit is needed for a fence. Retaining walls are the exception and are covered by Part 11 of the Building Bylaw.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019, s. 3.3 and Part 11, s. 3.3(a)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "This bylaw does not apply to" … "except as set out in Part 11 [Retaining Walls] of this bylaw, a fence;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Height, front yard:** 1 metre (3.3 feet) in a front yard in residential, commercial, industrial, and parks and institutional zones. The limit does not apply in A (agricultural) districts, and corner lots have their own rule.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), section 7.4 Fences, s. 7.4.1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Height limitations table for fences and walls:" … "Residential 1 metre 1.8 metres 1.8 metres" … "Industrial 1 metre 2.4 metres 2.4 metres" … "The maximum height limitations in 7.4.1 do not apply in A districts and in the areas"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Height, side and rear yards:** 1.8 metres (6 feet) in side and rear yards in residential, commercial, and parks and institutional zones; 2.4 metres (8 feet) in industrial zones. Not applied in A (agricultural) districts or corner sightline areas.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), section 7.4 Fences, s. 7.4.1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Residential 1 metre 1.8 metres 1.8 metres" … "Industrial 1 metre 2.4 metres 2.4 metres" … "Parks and 1 metre 1.8 metres 1.8 metres" … "The maximum height limitations in 7.4.1 do not apply in A districts and in the areas"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Corner lots and sightlines:** On corner lots a fence must be 1.2 metres (4 feet) or less, and nothing may be built in a triangle with sides of 9 metres along the road lot lines (6 metres along a lane) measured from the corner.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), section 7.4 Fences, s. 7.4.3](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "On corner lots, fencing shall be 1.2 metres (4 feet) or less in height, and no building," … "A diagonal line connecting points along a road on the lot lines 9 metres (30" … "A diagonal line joining points along a lane on the lot lines 6 metres (20"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Other rules:** Height is measured from average finished grade within 1 metre of both sides of the fence. A retaining wall may not exceed 1.2 metres, and the part above the ground it holds is treated as a fence. Open mesh fences on parks, school and cemetery sites may reach 3.7 metres.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), section 7.4 Fences, s. 7.4](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "The height of a fence or wall is determined by measurement from the ground level" … "at the average finished grade level within 1 metre (3 feet) of both sides of such fence," … "That portion of a retaining wall that projects above the surface of the ground it" … "Retaining Walls: A retaining wall may not exceed 1.2 metres (4 feet) in height." … "may reach a maximum height of 3.7 metres (12"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997, section 7.4 (Fences)
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), section 7.4 Fences, s. 7.4](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997" … "Height limitations table for fences and walls:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

In Tofino, the [Building Bylaw](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf) does not cover fences, so a fence needs no building permit. Height limits are in section 7.4 of the District's [Zoning Bylaw No. 770](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/).

Height is measured from the average finished grade within 1 metre of both sides of the fence.

- Front yard: 1 m (3.3 feet) in residential, commercial, industrial, and parks and institutional zones.
- Side and rear yards: 1.8 m (6 feet) in residential, commercial, and parks and institutional zones; 2.4 m (8 feet) in industrial zones.
- Corner lots: a fence must be 1.2 m (4 feet) or less, and nothing may be built in a triangle with sides of 9 m along the road lot lines (6 m along a lane) measured from the corner.
- The front, side and rear limits do not apply in agricultural (A) districts.
- Open mesh fences on parks, school and cemetery sites may reach 3.7 m.

## Good to know

- A retaining wall may not exceed 1.2 m, and the part above the ground it holds is treated as a fence. A retaining wall needs a building permit (Building Bylaw s. 11.1).
- The bylaw sets no rule on barbed wire or electric fences, and no pool-fence rule was found in the Zoning Bylaw or Building Bylaw. Ask Planning Services.
- Properties in a development permit area (for example riparian, foreshore or downtown) may have extra rules. Check with Planning Services before building.

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (PDF), section 7.4](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/fence-rules.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/fence-rules.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/fence-rules.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/fence-rules.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/fence-rules.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/fence-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), section 7.4 Fences](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF), s. 3.3 and Part 11](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fence-rules/_


---

---
title: Tofino permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages
question: "Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/deck-shed-garage-permit/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/deck-shed-garage-permit.json"
---

# Tofino permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino a shed or other accessory building under 10 m² needs no building permit, but a larger one does. A deck or raised platform over 600 mm (about 2 feet) high needs a permit, as does any deck at a principal entrance. Zoning limits on size and location still apply.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Permit fee of $9 per $1,000 of construction value, $120 minimum; $1,000 security deposit for an accessory building over 10 m².  
**How long:** The District does not state a processing time.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building Inspector, 250-726-6349
- Phone: Planning Services, 250-725-3229
- Online: District permit portal (Citywide), https://citywideportal.com/auth/signup/tofino

## Key facts

- **Sheds:** An accessory building (shed) with a floor area under 10 m² is outside the Building Bylaw. A larger shed needs a building permit.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019, s. 3.3 and Schedule A, s. 3.3(b)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres;"
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Building and Development Administration](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "Accessory buildings greater than 10 m2"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Decks:** A building permit is needed for a new deck or raised platform over 600 mm (about 2 feet) high, any deck or platform at a principal entrance, and any deck for commercial or public use. Constructing, covering or enclosing a porch or deck also needs one.
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Building and Development Administration](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "Building a new deck or raised platform over 600 mm (23-5/8 inches)" … "Any deck or raised platform at the principal entrances to a building" … "Constructing, covering, or enclosing a porch or deck"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Garages and carports:** A detached garage is an accessory building: a permit is needed when over 10 m². Converting a garage to a dwelling or habitable space needs a permit.
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Building and Development Administration](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "Accessory buildings greater than 10 m2" … "Converting a garage or accessory building to a dwelling or habitable space"
  - Source: [Building Permits and Inspections, Is a Building Permit Required?](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/)
  - Official wording: "Sheds, garages, and other detached structures"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Zoning limits:** Accessory buildings: not built before the main building; at least 1.8 m from it; may sit 1 m from a rear or side lot line if in the rear yard; total floor area at most 5% of lot area or 62 m², whichever is greater; no dwelling use; height 5.5 m or 8 m depending on zone.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.1.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "No accessory building or structure shall be independently erected on any lot" … "accessory buildings may be located 1 metre" … "Accessory buildings shall not be closer than 1.8 metres (6 feet) from the" … "The total combined gross floor area of accessory buildings shall not exceed" … "5% of the lot area or 62 square metres (665 square feet), whichever is the" … "An accessory building or structure shall not be used as a dwelling." … "exceed 5.5 metres (18 feet) in height."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (permits) and Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (size, height and location)
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019, s. 3.3 and Schedule A, Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.1.2, Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

In Tofino, the [Building Bylaw No. 1256](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf) leaves out an accessory building under 10 m² of floor area. The District's guide says accessory buildings over 10 m² need a permit. Exactly 10 m² is not addressed, so confirm with the Building Inspector.

- **Shed:** under 10 m², no building permit; larger needs one.
- **Deck:** a permit is needed for a new deck or raised platform over 600 mm high, any deck or platform at a principal entrance, and any deck for commercial or public use. Building, covering or enclosing a porch or deck also needs one.
- **Garage:** a detached garage is an accessory building, so a permit is needed when it is over 10 m². Converting a garage to a dwelling or other living space needs a permit.
- **Carport:** not addressed in the permit lists. Confirm with the Building Inspector.

## Good to know

- Exempt buildings must still meet the [Zoning Bylaw](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/): not built before the main building; at least 1.8 m from it; 1 m from a rear or side lot line if in the rear yard; total floor area at most 5% of lot area or 62 m², whichever is greater; no dwelling use; height of 5.5 m or 8 m depending on the zone. Check the bylaw's table for your zone.
- Permit fees are $9 per $1,000 of construction value ($120 minimum), and an accessory building over 10 m² needs a $1,000 security deposit at application.

## Official forms and pages

- [Building Permit Guide (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit.md)
- [Tofino building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Tofino fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fence-rules.md)
- [Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/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)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)

## Sources

- [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF), s. 3.3 and Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Permit Guide (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.1.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Permits and Inspections, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/deck-shed-garage-permit/_


---

---
title: Tofino building permit fees
question: "How much does a building permit cost in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit-fees/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit-fees.json"
---

# Tofino building permit fees

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino a building permit costs $9 for each $1,000 (or part of $1,000) of construction value, with a $120 minimum. A $120 processing fee is due when you apply and is credited to the permit fee if approved. Fees are in Schedule A of the Building Bylaw.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** $9 per $1,000 of construction value, $120 minimum; $120 processing fee at application.  
**How long:** Not stated. The processing fee is paid when you apply and the permit fee just before the permit is issued.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building Inspector, 250-726-6349
- In person: Municipal Office, front counter, 121 Third Street, PO Box 9, Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **Lowest fee:** $120 minimum building permit fee.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026), Schedule A, Schedule A, Part A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Minimum Building Building permit fees shall not be" … "$120.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **How the fee is worked out:** $9 for each $1,000, or portion of $1,000, of construction value. Value for houses and suites is set by Marshall & Swift at 'average' quality; for other buildings it comes from the owner's, contractor's or architect's declaration.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026), Schedule A, Schedule A, Part B](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "$9.00 for each $1,000.00, or portion thereof, of construction value based on estimated value of" … "Accessory Buildings (garage, greenhouse, shed), Temporary Buildings, Pools and Other Structures" … "(retaining walls, carports, decks)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Application or plan review fee:** $120 processing fee, due when applying. It is credited toward the building permit fee if the application is approved and is not refunded if the application is cancelled.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026), Schedule A, Schedule A, Part A (s. 10.7)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Processing Fee Non-refundable for cancelled" … "$120.00" … "Credited towards building permit"
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Building Permit Fees and Processing Fees](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "A Processing fee is due at the time of application."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Other fees:** Demolition $120 (under 50 m²) or $150 (50 m² or more); moving permit $120; wood stove permit $120; re-inspection $75; permit extension $100; title search $25. Security deposit at application: $1,000 (accessory building over 10 m², pool, house addition or renovation), $2,500 (new house), $10,000 (complex building). Fee doubles (maximum $10,000) if work starts before the permit.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Demolition Permit Demolishing a building or structure. $120.00 if less than" … "$150.00 if 50 square" … "Moving Permit Moving a building or structure into $120.00" … "Permit extension Extension of building permit. $100.00" … "For providing property title search $25.00" … "Part E - Construction before Permit Issued (10.17)" … "to a maximum of $10,000.00." … "for a new single family dwelling or simple building: $2,500; and" … "for a complex building: $10,000"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **How to pay:** Processing fee at application (online applicants get an emailed payment request); permit fees just before issuance. Pay at the front counter by cash, cheque or debit, or online (2.5% fee for credit card).
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Building Permit Fees and Processing Fees](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "Building permit fees are determined during processing and" … "are due just prior to permit issuance." … "cheque, or debit card." … "There is a 2.5% fee to pay with credit card."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019, Schedule A (Fees), as amended by Bylaw No. 1256.04, 2026
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019" … "Part A - Fees"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The District of Tofino sets building permit fees in Schedule A of its [Building Bylaw No. 1256](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf). The permit fee is $9 for each $1,000, or portion of $1,000, of construction value, with a minimum of $120. For houses and suites the value is set by Marshall & Swift at "average" quality; for other buildings it comes from the owner's, contractor's or architect's declaration.

The $120 processing fee is due when you apply. It is credited toward the permit fee if the application is approved and is not refunded if the application is cancelled.

## Steps

1. Pay the processing fee when you apply. Online applicants get an emailed payment request.
2. Pay the permit fee just before the permit is issued.
3. Pay at the front counter by cash, cheque or debit, or online (a 2.5% fee applies to credit cards).

## Good to know

- Other fees: demolition $120 (under 50 m²) or $150 (50 m² or more); moving permit $120; wood stove permit $120; re-inspection $75; permit extension $100; title search $25.
- Security deposit at application: $1,000 for an accessory building over 10 m², a pool, or a house addition or renovation; $2,500 for a new house; $10,000 for a complex building.
- The fee doubles (maximum $10,000) if work starts before the permit.
- A $500 Step Code rebate comes off the permit fee for buildings built to Part 10A when you commit to a mid-construction blower door test, only until the allotted funds run out.
- After-hours inspections cost $75 minimum plus actual time at twice the hourly rate. Plan review and special inspections are charged hourly.

## Official forms and pages

- [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
- [Building Permit Guide (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/building-permit-fees.md)

## Sources

- [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1256.04, 2026), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Permit Guide (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit-fees/_


---

---
title: "Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows"
question: "How do I find out how my property is zoned in Tofino and what I can build on it?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup.json"
---

# Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, use the District's interactive GIS Portal, the printable Zoning Map, or the Civic Address Map, all linked from its Maps & Zoning page. Then read your zone in Zoning Bylaw No. 770 for permitted uses and building rules.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** No charge is stated for the maps.  
**How long:** Not applicable.  
**Where:**
- Online: Maps & Zoning page, https://tofino.ca/business-development/maps-zoning/
- Phone: Planning Services, 250-725-3229

## Key facts

- **How to find your zone:** Use the District's interactive GIS Portal, the printable Zoning Map, or the Civic Address Map, all linked from the Maps & Zoning page.
  - Source: [Maps & Zoning](https://tofino.ca/business-development/maps-zoning/)
  - Official wording: "Explore the interactive GIS Portal, review the" … "or view printable zoning and civic address maps below." … "View the official zoning map to identify zoning boundaries and designations throughout Tofino."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Zoning bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997. The consolidated copy on the Bylaws page says 'Updated: April 4, 2024'.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Cover page](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997" … "Updated: April 4, 2024" … "Consolidated for Convenience Only"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **What the zone controls:** Each zone sets permitted uses and secondary uses, minimum lot area and width, lot coverage, building height, yard setbacks and off-street parking. General rules (accessory buildings, home occupations, fences, parking) are in Parts 4 to 7.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Part 8 (R1 zone)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "8. Accessory buildings and uses. 16.3 Minimum Lot Area Each lot shall have a minimum area of 4 hectares (9.9 acres)." … "41B.6 Minimum Yard Requirements ............................................................................................. 103 41B.7 Maximum Lot Coverage ...................................................................................................... 103 41B.8 General Provisions .............................................................................................................. 103" … "35A.5 Maximum Lot Coverage ........................................................................................................ 89 35A.6 Maximum Building Height .................................................................................................... 89 35A.7 Minimum Yard Requirements ............................................................................................... 89" … "41A.5 Maximum Building Height .................................................................................................... 99 41A.6 Minimum Yard Requirements ............................................................................................... 99 41A.7 Maximum Lot Coverage ........................................................................................................ 99"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Contact:** Planning Services, 250-725-3229 (email through the Maps & Zoning page).
  - Source: [Maps & Zoning, Contact](https://tofino.ca/business-development/maps-zoning/)
  - Official wording: "Review the regulations governing how land, buildings, and structures may be used throughout the District of Tofino. ## Contact Planning Services 250-725-3229 Email ## Quick links - Building Permits & Inspections"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The District of Tofino's [Maps & Zoning page](https://tofino.ca/business-development/maps-zoning/) links to an interactive GIS Portal, a printable Zoning Map and a Civic Address Map. The [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) is the rulebook; the consolidated copy on the District's Bylaws page says "Updated: April 4, 2024".

Each zone sets permitted and secondary uses, minimum lot area and width, lot coverage, building height, yard setbacks and off-street parking. General rules on accessory buildings, home occupations, fences and parking are in Parts 4 to 7. Development permit area rules are in Part 70.

## Steps

1. Open the Maps & Zoning page and find your property on the GIS Portal or the Zoning Map.
2. Note the zone name.
3. Find that zone in the Zoning Bylaw and read its uses and limits.
4. Email or call Planning Services to confirm.

## Good to know

- For example, the R1 single-family zone sets lot area 668 m², lot coverage 25%, principal building height 10.4 m and front yard 7.5 m.
- The consolidated bylaw is for convenience only. Confirm with Planning Services at 250-725-3229.

## Zones

56 zones are listed from [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated for convenience only, updated April 4, 2024)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning/index.json

## Official forms and pages

- [Maps & Zoning, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/maps-zoning/)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit.md)
- [Tofino fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fence-rules.md)
- [Tofino secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/secondary-suite.md)
- [Tofino home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/home-based-business.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/zoning-lookup.md)

## Sources

- [Maps & Zoning, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/maps-zoning/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup/_


---

---
title: Tofino secondary suite and carriage house rules
question: "Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/secondary-suite/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/secondary-suite.json"
---

# Tofino secondary suite and carriage house rules

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino a secondary suite inside a house is a permitted use in the R1 and R2 residential zones and several others, and needs a building permit. The Zoning Bylaw does not name carriage houses or garden suites. Check your zone first.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Building permit fee of $9 per $1,000 of construction value, $120 minimum. See building-permit-fees.  
**How long:** The District does not state a processing time.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Planning Services, 250-725-3229
- Phone: Building Inspector, 250-726-6349
- Online: Zoning map and GIS portal, https://tofino.ca/business-development/maps-zoning/

## Key facts

- **Secondary suite allowed:** A secondary suite inside a house is a permitted use in the R1 and R2 residential zones, the R4, RM2 and RM3 zones, and the A1 to A4 and RA1 to RA3 zones, and in several comprehensive development zones.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Parts 8 to 20](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Secondary Suite." … "One Secondary Suite in a single family dwelling or Secondary Suites in a two family" … "One Caretakers Cottage or One Secondary Suite; and," … "Secondary Suites."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** The bylaw does not name coach houses or garden suites. A secondary suite must be inside a building. A separate 'caretaker cottage' of up to 70 m² footprint is allowed in RA1 to RA3, R4 and A1 to A4 zones, but not where a suite exists in the main dwelling.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Part 2 and s. 4.1.6](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "SECONDARY SUITE means a self-contained dwelling unit located within a building or portion of a" … "A maximum of one caretaker cottage is permitted per lot in RA1, RA2, RA3," … "The maximum building footprint of a caretaker cottage is 70 m2 (753 ft2)" … "A caretaker cottage not permitted where a Secondary Suite is permitted and" … "An accessory building or structure shall not be used as a dwelling."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Limits:** A suite is a self-contained unit within a building, behind a 1-hour fire separation, in a building with only one other dwelling unit, and both units must be one real estate entity. One suite per single-family dwelling.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Part 2 (definition) and s. 9.1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "SECONDARY SUITE means a self-contained dwelling unit located within a building or portion of a" … "of only residential occupancy that contains only one other dwelling unit and common" … "where both dwelling units constitute a single real estate entity." … "One Secondary Suite in a single family dwelling or Secondary Suites in a two family"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Parking:** Not confirmed. Not found in the official sources that were read.
- **Permits:** A building permit is required for a new or converted secondary suite. The zone must allow the suite, and a development permit may also be needed in a development permit area.
  - Source: [Building Permits and Inspections, Is a Building Permit Required?](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/)
  - Official wording: "Secondary Suites" … "New or converted secondary suites"
  - Source: [Building Permit Guide, Building and Development Administration](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)
  - Official wording: "Legitimizing or installing a secondary suite in an existing building"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (as amended by Bylaw No. 1286) and Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019, Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The District of Tofino's [Zoning Bylaw No. 770](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) allows a secondary suite inside a house in the R1 and R2 residential zones, the R4, RM2 and RM3 zones, the A1 to A4 and RA1 to RA3 zones, and several comprehensive development zones. Zones not listed, such as commercial zones, were not fully checked. Find your zone on the District's zoning map.

A suite is a self-contained unit within a building, behind a 1-hour fire separation, in a building with only one other dwelling unit, and both units must be one real estate entity. One suite is allowed per single-family dwelling.

The bylaw does not name coach houses or garden suites, and a suite must be inside a building. A separate caretaker cottage of up to 70 m² footprint is allowed in RA1 to RA3, R4 and A1 to A4 zones, but not where a suite exists in the main dwelling, and it is for caretaker accommodation.

## Steps

1. Look up your zone and confirm it allows a suite (see zoning-lookup). Ask Planning Services whether a development permit area applies.
2. Apply for a building permit through the District's permit portal.
3. Build to the permit, and book inspections.

## Good to know

- The Zoning Bylaw states no suite parking rate, no owner-occupancy rule and no suite floor-area limit that we found. Ask Planning Services.
- For a suite built without permits, the guide says the District will not issue an Occupancy Permit but may allow conversion to a long-term suite if upgraded, with a Notice on Title. Such a unit should not be used for a short-term rental licence.
- Separate rules limit short-term rental use of suites (see short-term-rental).

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
- [Building Permit Guide (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/building-permit.md)
- [Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Tofino short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/short-term-rental.md)
- [Tofino permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Secondary suite and carriage house rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/secondary-suite.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/secondary-suite.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/secondary-suite.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/secondary-suite.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/secondary-suite.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/secondary-suite.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/secondary-suite.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Bylaw No. 1256, 2019 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/94955/Building%20Bylaw%20No.%201256,%202019.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Permit Guide (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/180182/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Building Permits and Inspections, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/building-development/building-permits-inspections/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 6 facts was matched to the official text; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/secondary-suite/_


---

---
title: Tofino tree removal rules and permits
question: "Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/tree-removal/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/tree-removal.json"
---

# Tofino tree removal rules and permits

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, no general permit for cutting trees on private land was found. The Significant Tree Bylaw protects only three Council-designated trees, and a development permit is needed to remove vegetation or soil in certain development permit areas such as riparian (within 30 m of a stream or wetland) and foreshore.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** No tree-cutting permit fee found. Development permit fees in the Fees and Charges Bylaw: $1,040 (Riparian, Foreshore, Mud Flats), $260 (Wildlife Habitat, Steep Slopes), $2,081 (Downtown, Tourism Focus, Cox Bay), column for 2023; table may be out of date.  
**How long:** Not stated.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Planning Services, 250-725-3229
- Online: Maps & Zoning (GIS portal), https://tofino.ca/business-development/maps-zoning/

## Key facts

- **When a permit is needed:** No general permit for cutting trees on private land was found. Bylaw 856 protects only the Council-designated Significant Trees (three entries). A development permit is required before removing vegetation or soil in the Foreshore, Mudflats, Riparian (within 30 m of a stream or wetland), Tourism Focus, Wildlife Habitat and Cox Bay development permit areas.
  - Source: [Significant Tree Bylaw No. 856, 2001 (Consolidated, PDF), s. 4 and Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/126940/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall cut, damage, or remove a significant tree and without limiting" … "Council designates the trees identified in “Schedule “A” – Significant" … "“Eik Road Tree”"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Part 70 development permit areas, Part 70.6 (Riparian DPA)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "prior to the alteration of land (removal of vegetation or soil) within the Riparian DPA as illustrated on" … "This applies to all areas that are partly" … "or entirely located within thirty (30) metres from the top of bank of a stream or the high water mark of a wetland."
  - Source: [Official Community Plan, s. 8, Policy 24](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/46027/)
  - Official wording: "Consider the development of tree protection regulations."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Exemptions:** In those development permit areas no permit is needed to remove a tree in imminent danger of falling or already failed from a natural cause, or for yard or garden work within an existing landscaped area. Planting native species is also exempt.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Part 70 development permit areas, Part 70.6 (Riparian DPA) exemptions](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Removal of a tree when there is an imminent danger of the tree falling and" … "Yard or garden work within an existing landscaped area." … "The planting of native species trees, shrubs or ground covers for the purpose of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fee:** No tree-cutting permit fee found. Development permit fees (Fees and Charges Bylaw, 2023 column): Riparian, Foreshore, Mud Flats $1,040; Wildlife Habitat and Steep Slopes $260; Downtown, Tourism Focus, Cox Bay $2,081. Riparian, Foreshore, Mud Flats and Cox Bay fees are halved for residentially zoned property. Table may be out of date.
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1271 (Consolidated, PDF), Appendix, Table 4. Development Permits](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/173153/)
  - Official wording: "Wildlife Habitat DPA $250 $255 $260" … "Riparian DPA $1000 $1,020 $1,040" … "Fee reduced by 50% for" … "Tourism Focus DPA $2000 $2,040 $2,081" … "Cox Bay DPA $2000 $2,040 $2,081" … "Steep Slopes DPA $250 $255 $260"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Replacement trees:** Not for private tree cutting in general. Where a development permit is needed (for example Riparian DPA), conditions can require native-species replanting kept up by the owner for at least 3 years, and security (cash, letter of credit or cheque) held against permit conditions.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Part 70 development permit areas, Part 70.6 Riparian DPA, guidelines 13 and 14](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "property owner for at least three (3) years from the date of completion of the" … "Security in the form of cash, a letter of credit from a Canadian chartered bank or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **City trees:** No one may cut, remove or damage any tree, shrub or plant in a park, beach or public place. Owners may not remove trees or landscaping from a boulevard without Council's express written permission.
  - Source: [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098 (Consolidated, PDF), s. 4.1 and s. 6.5](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall cut, break, burn, injure, foul, move, disrupt, remove," … "trees, shrubs, or other landscaping are removed from the boulevard, except with the" … "express written permission of Council."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** Cutting, damaging or removing a significant tree: municipal ticket $1,000; bylaw notice $500. Court penalty up to $10,000 per offence. Failing to get a development permit: municipal ticket $2,000; bylaw notice $500.
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (Consolidated, PDF), Schedule 19 and Zoning schedule](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Cutting, damaging, or removing a significant tree 1(a) $1000.00" … "Failure to obtain a Development Permit 70.1 to 70.9 $2,000.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (Consolidated, PDF), Schedule A, Significant Tree Bylaw](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Cutting damaging, or removing a" … "Significant Tree" … "$500"
  - Source: [Significant Tree Bylaw No. 856, 2001 (Consolidated, PDF), s. 6(d)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/126940/)
  - Official wording: "a penalty of up to $10,000 for each offence"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Significant Tree Bylaw No. 856, 2001
  - Source: [Significant Tree Bylaw No. 856, 2001 (Consolidated, PDF), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/126940/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Significant Tree Bylaw No. 856, 2001"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

In Tofino, the [Significant Tree Bylaw No. 856](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/126940/) protects only the Council-designated Significant Trees (three entries). We found no general permit for cutting trees on private land. The OCP lists tree protection regulations only as a future policy.

A development permit is required before removing vegetation or soil in the Foreshore, Mudflats, Riparian (within 30 m of a stream or wetland), Tourism Focus, Wildlife Habitat and Cox Bay development permit areas, set out in Part 70 of the [Zoning Bylaw](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/). Check your property on the District's map.

In those areas no permit is needed to remove a tree in imminent danger of falling or already failed from a natural cause, or for yard or garden work within an existing landscaped area. Planting native species, emergency works and renovations that do not expand the footprint are also exempt.

## Good to know

- Conditions on a development permit can require native-species replanting kept up by the owner for at least 3 years, and security held against the conditions. They are set case by case; no standard replacement ratio is stated.
- Development permit fees are halved for residentially zoned property in the Riparian, Foreshore, Mud Flats and Cox Bay areas.
- Public land: no one may cut, remove or damage any tree, shrub or plant in a park, beach or public place, and owners may not remove trees or landscaping from a boulevard without Council's express written permission.
- Fines: for a significant tree, a municipal ticket is $1,000 and a bylaw notice is $500; the court penalty is up to $10,000 per offence. For failing to get a development permit, a municipal ticket is $2,000 and a bylaw notice is $500.

## Official forms and pages

- [Significant Tree Bylaw No. 856 (Consolidated, PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/126940/)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (PDF), Part 70](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/tree-removal.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/tree-removal.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/tree-removal.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/tree-removal.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/tree-removal.md)
- [Tahsis](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tahsis/tree-removal.md)

## Sources

- [Significant Tree Bylaw No. 856, 2001 (Consolidated, PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/126940/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), Part 70 development permit areas](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Official Community Plan (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/46027/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1271 (Consolidated, PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/173153/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098 (Consolidated, PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (Consolidated, PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (Consolidated, PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/tree-removal/_


---

---
title: "Tofino garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits"
question: "When is garbage collected in Tofino, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Garbage, recycling and waste
owner: regional
owner_body: Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/garbage-collection/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/garbage-collection.json"
---

# Tofino garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District (ACRD) runs the Sort'nGo curbside service for homes of four or fewer units: organics every week, and garbage and recycling every two weeks. Use the collection schedule tool on the District's garbage page to find your dates.

**Who handles it:** Regional district (Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot, https://www.acrd.bc.ca)  
**Cost:** Collection fees are set and charged by the ACRD; the fee amount was not stated in a readable official text. Extra tags: cost not stated.  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Online: Garbage and Recycling collection schedule (District of Tofino), https://tofino.ca/public-services/garbage-recycling/
- Online: Sort'nGo desktop schedule, https://api.recollect.net/r/area/ACRD
- Phone: Missed service (Ozzard Environmental), 250-266-6166
- Phone: ACRD Sort'nGo hotline, 250-736-7678

## Key facts

- **How often:** ACRD Sort'nGo curbside service for homes of four or fewer units: organics every week; garbage and recycling every two weeks. (Sources differ: District Bylaw No. 1070 (consolidated 2010, pre-dates the 2022 Sort'nGo carts) says garbage weekly and recycling every two weeks; the ACRD page says garbage and recycling every two weeks. The ACRD runs the service. Commercial and multi-family buildings are not part of the service.)
  - Source: [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, ACRD Organics page](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics)
  - Official wording: "Organics are collected every week. Garbage and recycling pick up is every two weeks."
  - Source: [Sort'nGo West Coast, Let's Connect ACRD, Sort'nGo - West Coast page](https://www.letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast)
  - Official wording: "Residential dwellings with four or fewer units* are now receiving roadside organics, recucling and garbage pick up in Tofino"
  - Source: [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070, 2008 (consolidated), s. 4.2, 6.1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/)
  - Official wording: "The residential garbage collection service shall be provided once every week." … "Recycling collection services shall be provided once every two weeks"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Finding your day:** Use the collection schedule tool on the District's garbage page or the Sort'nGo ACRD app (Waste Wizard), which shows your pick-up dates; a desktop version is at api.recollect.net/r/area/ACRD. Missed service: Ozzard Environmental 250-266-6166.
  - Source: [Garbage and Recycling, District Garbage & Recycling page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/garbage-recycling/)
  - Official wording: "Are you unsure about the schedule for putting out your garbage, organics, and recycling?" … "Ozzard Environmental" … "250-266-6166"
  - Source: [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, ACRD Organics page](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics)
  - Official wording: "Keep track of collection schedules"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Carts:** Three carts: green (organics), blue (recycling) and black (garbage). If a cart is damaged or defective, contact the Collection Contractor to arrange repair.
  - Source: [Sort'nGo West Coast, Let's Connect ACRD, Sort'nGo - West Coast page](https://www.letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast)
  - Official wording: "keep hooks clasped to the lid locks on the green and black carts when not in use" … "Blue Carts" … "Black Carts"
  - Source: [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022, s. 3(6)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/)
  - Official wording: "must immediately, upon noticing any damage or defects, contact the Collection Contractor to arrange for a repair."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Setting carts out:** Put carts out on the collection day only, between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM, and take them in by 10:00 PM that day. Carts are kept locked and secured the rest of the time. Face the cart to the street with wheels to the curb, with 1 metre of clearance on all sides.
  - Source: [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022, s. 3(4)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/)
  - Official wording: "set out for collection only on the designated day of collection between 6:00 AM and 08:00 AM;" … "removed from the collection location by 10:00 PM on the designated day of collection;"
  - Source: [Sort'nGo West Coast, Let's Connect ACRD, Sort'nGo - West Coast page, How to Place Carts](https://www.letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast)
  - Official wording: "Leave 1 metre of clearance space on all sides of the cart" … "Face your cart to the street with wheels to the curb"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Limits and extra garbage:** Bylaw No. 1070: one garbage container per dwelling; each extra container needs a garbage tag, up to two extra; a container with its garbage may not weigh more than 20 kilograms.
  - Source: [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070, 2008 (consolidated), s. 4.3-4.5, 4.6(i)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/)
  - Official wording: "The maximum number of garbage containers to be included in the residential" … "garbage collection service is one (1) receptacle per dwelling." … "The maximum number of additional garbage containers affixed with a tag shall" … "weighs more than twenty kilograms."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fee:** Not confirmed. The collection fees are in a regional district bylaw that is a scanned PDF.
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070, 2008; ACRD Bylaw No. R1021 (collection, rates)
  - Source: [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070, 2008 (consolidated), s. 1.1, 2.1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070," … "Bylaw No. R1021, A Bylaw to Provide for the Collection of Garbage and Recyclable Materials within the Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The ACRD runs the Sort'nGo curbside service in Tofino for homes of four or fewer units, with three carts: green (organics), blue (recycling) and black (garbage). Organics are collected every week; garbage and recycling every two weeks. Commercial and multi-family buildings are not part of the service. The District's [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/>) sets rules for residents.

## Steps

1. Find your pick-up dates with the collection schedule tool on the District's garbage page or the Sort'nGo ACRD app (Waste Wizard).
2. Put carts out on the collection day only, between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., and take them in by 10:00 p.m. that day. Keep them locked and secured the rest of the time.
3. Face the cart to the street with wheels to the curb, with 1 metre of clearance on all sides.
4. If service is missed, call Ozzard Environmental at 250-266-6166.

## Good to know

- The District's bylaw says garbage is collected weekly, but the ACRD page says every two weeks. Confirm with the ACRD.
- Bylaw 1070 allows one garbage container per dwelling. Each extra container needs a garbage tag, up to two extra, and a container with its garbage may not weigh more than 20 kilograms. This bylaw pre-dates the Sort'nGo carts, and the cost of a tag is not stated.
- If a cart is damaged or defective, contact the collection contractor to arrange repair. Cart sizes and upgrade options are not stated in any readable official text.
- The ACRD sets and charges the collection fees; the District does not collect payment. Unpaid fees are transferred to property taxes if not paid to the ACRD by December 31.
- Landfill drop-off for residential loads under 83 kg is $5 per bag or can (ACRD West Coast Landfill).

## Official forms and pages

- [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/yard-waste.md)
- [Tofino backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-fire.md)
- [Tofino backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-chickens.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/garbage-collection.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/garbage-collection.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/garbage-collection.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/garbage-collection.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/garbage-collection.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/garbage-collection.md)

## Sources

- [Garbage and Recycling, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/garbage-recycling/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Sort'nGo West Coast, Let's Connect ACRD](https://www.letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070, 2008 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [West Coast Landfill, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/west-coast-landfill) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/) (read 2026-11-08)

_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 Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/garbage-collection/_


---

---
title: Tofino yard waste collection and drop-off
question: "Where does yard waste and brush go in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Garbage, recycling and waste
owner: regional
owner_body: Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/yard-waste/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/yard-waste.json"
---

# Tofino yard waste collection and drop-off

**Question:** Where does yard waste and brush go in Tofino?

**Short answer:** In Tofino, yard waste goes in the green organics cart, collected every week by the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District (ACRD) for homes of four or fewer units. Branches may be up to 24 inches long and 2 inches thick. Other yard waste can go to the West Coast Landfill.

**Who handles it:** Regional district (Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot, https://www.acrd.bc.ca)  
**Cost:** Curbside: included in the ACRD collection service (fee not stated in readable text). Landfill: residential branches $10 per load; organics $115 per tonne, $5 minimum or $5 per 20 L bucket.  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- In person: West Coast Landfill, 1500 Alaska Pine Road, Tofino (Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Sunday and statutory holidays)
- Phone: West Coast Landfill, 250-726-2727

## Key facts

- **Curbside collection:** Yes. Grass clippings, tree trimmings and garden waste go in the green organics cart, collected every week by the ACRD (homes of four or fewer units). (Sources differ: District Bylaw No. 1070 s. 3.9(a) says owners arrange their own disposal of garden refuse (older text); the ACRD page says yard waste is collected at the roadside. Following the current ACRD page.)
  - Source: [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, ACRD Organics page](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics)
  - Official wording: "you can dispose of grass clippings, tree trimmings and garden waste at the roadside" … "Organics are collected every week."
  - Source: [Sort'nGo West Coast, Let's Connect ACRD, Sort'nGo - West Coast page](https://www.letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast)
  - Official wording: "Commercial/multi-family buildings are not part of the service at this time."
  - Source: [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070, 2008 (consolidated), s. 3.9(a)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/)
  - Official wording: "all bulky waste and garden refuse;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **How to set it out:** Branches in the cart: maximum 24 inches (two feet) long and two inches in diameter. No plastic bags, even if labelled compostable.
  - Source: [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, ACRD Organics page](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics)
  - Official wording: "the maximum length for branches in the cart is 24 inches, or two feet, with a two-inch diameter"
  - Source: [Sort'nGo West Coast, Let's Connect ACRD, Sort'nGo - West Coast page, Commonly Misunderstood Waste Items](https://www.letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast)
  - Official wording: "No plastic bags - even if labelled compostable, plastics don't belong in the green cart including plastic Keurig coffee filters, produce stickers, fasteners/bands and plastic bags of food leftovers. Please discard the food remains in the green bin - just not the plastic bag!)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Drop-off:** West Coast Landfill, 1500 Alaska Pine Road: Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Sunday and statutory holidays. Organics and residential branches are accepted.
  - Source: [West Coast Landfill, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, West Coast Landfill page](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/west-coast-landfill)
  - Official wording: "West Coast Landfill is located at 1500 Alaska Pine Road" … "Monday to Friday - 10 am to 4 pm" … "Saturday - 10 am to 4 pm" … "Closed Sunday" … "Residential Branches | $10.00 per load"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Cost:** Curbside: included in the ACRD collection service (fee not stated in readable text). Landfill: residential branches $10 per load; organics $115 per tonne, $5 minimum or $5 per 20 L bucket.
  - Source: [West Coast Landfill, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, West Coast Landfill fees](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/west-coast-landfill)
  - Official wording: "Residential Branches | $10.00 per load" … "Organics | $115.00 per tonne | $5.00 minimum / $5.00 per 20 L Bucket"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Not accepted:** Invasive species such as knotweed and blackberry (put these in the garbage), plastic bags (even compostable), pet feces, and branches longer than 24 inches or thicker than 2 inches.
  - Source: [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, ACRD Organics page](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics)
  - Official wording: "Invasive species, such as Knotweeds or blackberry bushes, can not be included in the green cart and should be disposed of in the garbage."
  - Source: [Sort'nGo West Coast, Let's Connect ACRD, Sort'nGo - West Coast page, Commonly Misunderstood Waste Items](https://www.letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast)
  - Official wording: "Pet feces is not permitted and should go in the garbage"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** No bylaw found for the green-cart yard waste rules; they come from the ACRD Sort'nGo program. District of Tofino Bylaw No. 1070, 2008 s. 3.9(a) leaves garden refuse to the owner.
  - Source: [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070, 2008 (consolidated), s. 3.9(a)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/)
  - Official wording: "Every owner or occupier of property shall be responsible to make their own" … "all bulky waste and garden refuse;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

Grass clippings, tree trimmings and garden waste go in the green organics cart in Tofino. The ACRD collects it every week from homes of four or fewer units. Apartments and businesses haul organics to the landfill.

## Steps

1. Put yard waste in the green cart. Line it with newspaper or paper bags only.
2. Cut branches to no more than 24 inches (two feet) long and two inches in diameter.
3. For larger loads, take them to the West Coast Landfill, 1500 Alaska Pine Road. It is open Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Sunday and statutory holidays. Phone 250-726-2727.

## Good to know

- No plastic bags, even if labelled compostable.
- Not accepted in the green cart: invasive species such as knotweed and blackberry (put these in the garbage), pet feces, and branches longer than 24 inches or thicker than 2 inches.
- No weight limit for yard waste in the cart was found.
- At the landfill, residential branches are $10 per load. Organics are $115 per tonne, with a $5 minimum or $5 per 20 L bucket. Loads of garbage containing organics are charged double the standard tipping fee.
- The District's [Bylaw No. 1070](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/>) says owners arrange their own disposal of garden refuse. This is older text; the ACRD page says yard waste is collected at the roadside, so confirm with the ACRD.
- Burning yard waste is banned by the Outdoor Burning Bylaw. See the backyard fire answer.

## Official forms and pages

- [Organics, ACRD](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics)

## Related questions

- [Tofino garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/garbage-collection.md)
- [Tofino backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-fire.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/yard-waste.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/yard-waste.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/yard-waste.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/yard-waste.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/yard-waste.md)
- [Campbell River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/campbell-river/yard-waste.md)

## Sources

- [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Sort'nGo West Coast, Let's Connect ACRD](https://www.letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast) (read 2026-11-08)
- [West Coast Landfill, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/west-coast-landfill) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Garbage and Recyclable Materials Collection and Regulation Bylaw No. 1070, 2008 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/911/) (read 2026-11-08)

_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 Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/yard-waste/_


---

---
title: Tofino watering restrictions
question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Water, sewer, roads and snow
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/water-restrictions/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/water-restrictions.json"
---

# Tofino watering restrictions

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, the Water Use and Conservation Bylaw sets three watering stages that start when the District gives notice. Wasting water is banned at all times. Check tofino.ca for the current stage before you water.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Fine: bylaw notice $500 in each stage (amended January 20, 2026); municipal ticket Stage 1 $500, Stage 2 $1,000, Stage 3 $2,000.  
**How long:** Stages 1, 2 and 3 take effect when the District gives notice.  
**Where:**
- Online: Water Restrictions (District of Tofino), https://tofino.ca/general/public-services/water-restrictions/
- Phone: Infrastructure and Public Works emergency line, 250-726-7837
- Phone: Municipal Office, 250-725-3229

## Key facts

- **When restrictions apply:** Stages 1, 2 and 3 take effect when the Director of Infrastructure and Public Works and the CAO give notice (on the District website or in a newspaper at least 48 hours before; Stage 3 is effective immediately on posting). Wasting water is banned at all times of year. (Sources differ: The 2023 web post says Stage 1 runs May 1 to October 1 every year, which was the original s. 6.1; Amendment Bylaw 1224.01 (May 1, 2024) deleted that section, so stages now start by notice (the District's May 9, 2024 notice put Stage 1 in effect 'until further notice'). Following the amended bylaw. The current stage is not stated here: check tofino.ca.)
  - Source: [Water Use and Conservation Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01, 2024, Amendment 1224.01, s. 2(c), (f)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154001/)
  - Official wording: "Chief Administrative Officer are authorized to implement Stages 1, 2 or 3 as prescribed in Schedule" … "The implementation of Stage 3 restrictions is effective immediately upon the notice" … "By deleting section 6.1 Staged Conservation Restrictions"
  - Source: [Water Use and Conservation Bylaw No. 1224, 2016, s. 5(1)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1430/)
  - Official wording: "The prohibitions in subsections 5(2) and 5(3) are in force at all times of the year."
  - Source: [Water Restrictions, District Water Restrictions page (2023 post)](https://tofino.ca/general/public-services/water-restrictions/)
  - Official wording: "Stage 1 Water Conservation is implemented between May 1 and October 1 every year unless other stages take effect in the interim."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Sprinkling schedule:** Stage 1: no fixed days or hours; lawns, gardens, trees and landscaped areas by hand-held hose with automatic shut-off, canister, sprinkler or drip system. Stage 2: food plants only, by hand-held canister; odd addresses Mon, Wed, Fri, even addresses Tue, Thu, Sun; 6 to 9 a.m. and 7 to 10 p.m. Stage 3: same hours, odd addresses Mon and Thu, even Tue and Fri.
  - Source: [Water Use and Conservation Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01, 2024, Amendment 1224.01, Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154001/)
  - Official wording: "Watering of lawns, gardens, trees, and landscaped areas is restricted to use of a hand-held hose" … "Odd numbered civic addresses may water on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between" … "Even numbered civic addresses may water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday between" … "Odd numbered civic addresses may water on Monday and Thursday between the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Allowed at any time:** Stage 1: hand-held hose with automatic shut-off, hand-held canister, sprinkler or drip irrigation. Stages 2 and 3: food plants by hand-held canister at the allowed times; washing wetsuits by hand, foot washes, rinsing boat motors and outdoor showers with a timed automatic shut-off are permitted.
  - Source: [Water Use and Conservation Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01, 2024, Amendment 1224.01, Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154001/)
  - Official wording: "Washing of wetsuits by hand, foot washes and rinsing of boat motors is permitted." … "Outdoor showers are permitted provided they are equipped with timed automatic shut-off" … "watering of food plants by a hand-held canister as follows:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **New lawns:** Lawns, gardens, trees and landscaped areas planted in the 90 days before Stage 1 starts may be watered as though Stage 1 is in effect. There are no exemptions during Stage 2 or 3.
  - Source: [Water Use and Conservation Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01, 2024, Amendment 1224.01, s. 2(d), (e)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154001/)
  - Official wording: "that have been planted in the 90 days prior" … "to the implementation of Stage 1 are not subject to Stage 1 restrictions and may be" … "For clarity, there are no exemptions to restrictions during Stage 2 or 3."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice (amended January 20, 2026): $500 in each stage (Stage 1: $400 within 14 days, $500 after 60 days; Stage 2: $500 early and late; Stage 3: $500). Municipal ticket (2024): Stage 1 $500, Stage 2 $1,000, Stage 3 $2,000, halved if paid within 7 business days.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 1107.21, Amendment 1107.21, s. 2(1)(b)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/178167/)
  - Official wording: "Use of Water 5.4 No $500 $400 $500 n/a" … "Use of Water 5.4 No $500 $500 $500 n/a" … "Use of Water 5.4 No $500 $500 n/a n/a"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Amendment Bylaw No. 1088.09, Amendment 1088.09, Schedule 14](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154798/)
  - Official wording: "Provisions of Bylaw –Stage 1 5.4 $500.00" … "Provisions of Bylaw –Stage 2 5.4 $1000.00" … "Provisions of Bylaw –Stage 3 5.4 $2000.00"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), MTI Bylaw 1088 s. 6(b); Schedule 14 (amended 1088.09)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Water Use and Conservation Bylaw No. 1224, 2016, as amended by Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01, 2024
  - Source: [Water Use and Conservation Bylaw No. 1224, 2016, s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1430/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Water Use and Conservation Bylaw No. 1224, 2016."
  - Source: [Water Use and Conservation Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01, 2024, title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154001/)
  - Official wording: "Water Use and Conservation Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01, 2024"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

Tofino's [Water Use and Conservation Bylaw No. 1224](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1430/>), as changed by [Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154001/>), applies to District water utility customers. Stages 1, 2 and 3 take effect when the Director of Infrastructure and Public Works and the CAO give notice, on the District website or in a newspaper at least 48 hours before. Stage 3 is effective immediately on posting. Wasting water is banned at all times of year. The current stage is not stated here, so check tofino.ca.

## Good to know

- Stage 1: no fixed days or hours. Lawns, gardens, trees and landscaped areas may be watered by hand-held hose with automatic shut-off, canister, sprinkler or drip system.
- Stage 2: food plants only, by hand-held canister. Odd addresses Monday, Wednesday and Friday; even addresses Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday; 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Filling hot tubs and power washing are prohibited.
- Stage 3: same hours, odd addresses Monday and Thursday, even addresses Tuesday and Friday. Indoor use is restricted to drinking and sanitation.
- Stages 2 and 3 also allow washing wetsuits by hand, foot washes, rinsing boat motors and outdoor showers with a timed automatic shut-off.
- Lawns, gardens, trees and landscaped areas planted in the 90 days before Stage 1 starts may be watered as though Stage 1 is in effect. There are no exemptions during Stage 2 or 3.
- An older web post says Stage 1 runs May 1 to October 1 every year. The amended bylaw replaced that, so confirm the current stage with the District.
- A bylaw notice (amended January 20, 2026) is $500 in each stage (Stage 1: $400 within 14 days, $500 after 60 days; Stage 2: $500 early and late; Stage 3: $500). A municipal ticket is $500 in Stage 1, $1,000 in Stage 2 and $2,000 in Stage 3, halved if paid within 7 business days. Running a tap or hose, or over-watering, is $500.

## Official forms and pages

- [Water Use and Conservation Bylaw No. 1224 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1430/)
- [Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154001/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Tofino yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/yard-waste.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/water-restrictions.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/water-restrictions.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/water-restrictions.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/water-restrictions.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/water-restrictions.md)
- [Tahsis](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tahsis/water-restrictions.md)

## Sources

- [Water Use and Conservation Bylaw No. 1224, 2016 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1430/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Water Use and Conservation Amendment Bylaw No. 1224.01, 2024 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154001/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Water Restrictions, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/general/public-services/water-restrictions/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 1107.21 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/178167/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Amendment Bylaw No. 1088.09 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154798/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/water-restrictions/_


---

---
title: "Tofino dog licences: fees and how to get one"
question: "How do I get a dog licence in Tofino, and what does it cost?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-licence/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-licence.json"
---

# Tofino dog licences: fees and how to get one

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, every dog over four months old needs a District of Tofino licence and tag. The fee is $15 a year for a spayed or neutered dog and $40 for one that is not. Pay at the District Administration Office.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** $15 spayed or neutered; $40 not spayed or neutered (half price if bought after August 31). Seniors' dogs $5. Replacement tag $5. Transfer to another dog $5. Kennel licence $100.  
**How long:** A licence runs January 1 to December 31 of the year it is issued.  
**Where:**
- In person: District Administration Office (Municipal Office), 121 Third Street, Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., closed statutory holidays)
- Phone: Municipal Office, 250-725-3229

## Key facts

- **Licence required:** Yes. Every dog over four months old must have a valid licence and tag.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 7(a)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall own, possess or harbour any dog over the age of four (4) months within the boundaries of the District unless a valid and subsisting dog license and dog tag has been issued for such dog."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Issued by:** The District of Tofino. Fees are paid at the District Administration Office.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 2 (definition of License); s. 7(i)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "means a license for a dog or kennel issued by the District of Tofino" … "shall be payable at the District Administration Office"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $15 a year for a spayed female or neutered male dog ($7.50 if bought after August 31).
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "Spayed female or Neutered male dogs $15.00" … "Spayed female or Neutered male dogs $7.50"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $40 a year for a dog that is not spayed or neutered ($20 if bought after August 31).
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "Non-Spayed or Non-Neutered $40.00" … "Non-Spayed or Non-Neutered $20.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Other fees and discounts:** Dogs belonging to seniors: $5 ($2.50 after August 31). Replacement tag: $5 ($2.50 after August 31). Transfer of licence to another dog: $5 ($2.50 after August 31). Kennel licence: $100 ($50 after August 31).
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "Dogs belonging to Seniors $5.00" … "Replacement Tags $5.00" … "Transfer of License $5.00" … "Kennel License $100.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Renewal:** Licences run from January 1 to December 31 of the year issued (or the rest of that year, at the reduced fee after August 31).
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 7 (Period of License)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "All Dog Licenses shall be for the period from January1st to December 31st of the year issued"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **How to get one:** Pay the fee at the District Administration Office. Proof that the dog is spayed or neutered is needed for the lower fee.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 7(b), 7(i)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "shall be payable at the District Administration Office" … "Prior to issuance of a license for a spayed female dog or a neutered male dog, the Animal Control Officer shall require the owner to furnish proof that the dog has been spayed or neutered."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine, unlicensed dog:** Bylaw notice: $50 ($40 if paid within 14 days; $60 if paid 61 days or more after delivery). Municipal ticket: $50 ($25 if paid within 7 business days of issue).
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Animal Control Bylaw 7(a))](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Unlicensed Dog 7(a) Yes $50 $40 $60 50%"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 6](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Unlicensed Dog 7(a) $50.00" … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The District of Tofino issues dog licences under its [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/>). No one may own or keep a dog over four months old in the District without a valid licence and tag. Licences are issued to a person 19 or older, or to a younger person with a parent's or guardian's written consent.

## Steps

1. Take proof that the dog is spayed or neutered (a veterinarian's certificate, or the declaration form in the bylaw) if you want the lower fee.
2. Pay the fee at the District Administration Office. The District's pages do not mention online or mail options.
3. Keep the tag on the dog.

## Good to know

- The bylaw sets no late fee and no early-payment discount.
- No fee is payable for a dog trained to assist law enforcement or a person with a disability, but it must still be registered and wear a tag.
- Tell the District within 7 days if the dog is sold or otherwise gone.
- More than two dogs needs a kennel licence. See the pet limits answer.
- An unlicensed dog: a bylaw notice is $50 ($40 if paid within 14 days; $60 if paid 61 days or more after delivery). A municipal ticket is $50 ($25 if paid within 7 business days of issue). Not displaying the licence is also $50.

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Tofino](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/how-many-pets.md)
- [Tofino rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/dog-licence.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/dog-licence.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/dog-licence.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/dog-licence.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/dog-licence.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/dog-licence.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 9 of 9 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-licence/_


---

---
title: Tofino dog leash rules and off-leash areas
question: "Where can dogs be off leash in Tofino, and what are the leash rules?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-leash-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-leash-rules.json"
---

# Tofino dog leash rules and off-leash areas

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, a dog must be leashed, tethered or inside a vehicle, and under its owner's control, anywhere in the District. No official page names an off-leash area. Owners must pick up their dog's feces right away.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Fine for a dog at large: bylaw notice $50; municipal ticket $50. Impound fee: $50 for the first impounding plus $15 per day.  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Services (office, ext. 706), 250-725-3229
- Phone: Bylaw Services (on-duty officer), 250-266-1674 (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily)

## Key facts

- **Leash rule:** Every dog in the District must be under the owner's control and leashed, tethered, or inside a vehicle. A dog may not run at large (off its owner's property and not held on a leash by a competent person).
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 8(a); s. 14(a); s. 2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "All Dogs entering and within the Corporation of the District of Tofino shall be under the control of the owner or harbourer and be leashed, tethered or contained within a vehicle." … "No owner or harbourer of a dog or animal shall allow the dog or animal to run at large." … "attached directly to a person who is competent and of sufficient strength to ensure that the animal cannot break free from the leash"
  - Source: [Beaches, Beaches page, Keep Dogs On Leash](https://tofino.ca/our-community/parks-natural-spaces/beaches/)
  - Official wording: "on-leash dogs are welcome at all beaches"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Maximum leash length:** The Animal Control Bylaw sets no maximum leash length. In the cemetery only, a dog must be on a leash no longer than 3 metres.
  - Source: [Cemetery Bylaw No. 1086, Cemetery Bylaw No. 1086, s. 53](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1169/)
  - Official wording: "No person owning or having custody, care or control of a dog shall allow the dog to be within the cemetery unless the dog is kept on a leash of a maximum length of three (3) metres."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Off-leash areas:** Not confirmed. No official text read names an off-leash area in Tofino.
- **Places dogs are not allowed:** None set. Tofino's bylaw names no places where dogs are banned.
- **Cleaning up:** The owner must immediately remove any feces the dog leaves in a public or private area, whenever the animal is off the owner's premises, and dispose of them sanitarily.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 8(b)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "The owner of every animal, at all times when such animal is off the premises of the owner," … "immediately remove or cause to be removed any feces deposited by such animal in a public or private area and dispose of the feces in a sanitary manner."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** Bylaw notice: $50 ($40 if paid within 14 days; $60 if paid 61 days or more after delivery). Municipal ticket: $50 ($25 if paid within 7 business days of issue).
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Animal Control Bylaw 14(a))](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Animal Running at Large 14(a) No $50 $40 $60 n/a"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 6](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Animal Running at Large 14(a) $50.00" … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

Under the [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/>), every dog in the District of Tofino must be under the owner's control and leashed, tethered or inside a vehicle. "Under control" means in the direct and continuous charge of a competent person who keeps the dog leashed or harnessed at all times. A dog may not run at large, meaning off its owner's property and not held on a leash by a competent person.

## Good to know

- No official text read names an off-leash area. The District's beaches page says dogs on a leash are welcome at all beaches.
- The animal bylaw sets no maximum leash length. In the cemetery only, the leash may be no longer than 3 metres.
- The bylaw names no places where dogs are banned.
- Owners must immediately remove any feces their dog leaves in a public or private area when off the owner's premises, and dispose of them sanitarily. The ticket is a bylaw notice of $50 ($40 if paid early; $60 if paid late) or a municipal ticket of $50.
- Dog at large: a bylaw notice is $50 ($40 if paid within 14 days; $60 if paid 61 days or more after delivery). A municipal ticket is $50 ($25 if paid within 7 business days of issue).
- An impounded dog also costs $50 for the first impounding plus $15 per day.

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-licence.md)
- [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Tofino](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/how-many-pets.md)
- [Tofino rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/dog-leash-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Beaches, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/our-community/parks-natural-spaces/beaches/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Cemetery Bylaw No. 1086 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1169/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 7 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 District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-leash-rules/_


---

---
title: Tofino rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs
question: "What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dangerous-dogs/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dangerous-dogs.json"
---

# Tofino rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, the animal bylaw defines "dangerous" and "vicious" dogs. A vicious dog must be muzzled in public or kept indoors or in a locked enclosure. To report a dog, contact Bylaw Services at 250-725-3229 ext. 706. For immediate danger call 911.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** No separate licence fee for a dangerous or vicious dog. Fine for a vicious dog not confined or muzzled: bylaw notice $100; municipal ticket $100.  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Online: Report a Bylaw Violation (online complaint form; anonymous complaints are not accepted), https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-complaint/
- Phone: Bylaw Services (office, ext. 706), 250-725-3229
- Phone: Bylaw Services (on-duty officer), 250-266-1674 (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, extended in summer and holidays)
- Phone: RCMP non-emergency, 250-725-3242

## Key facts

- **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** The bylaw defines a 'dangerous dog' as one that has killed or seriously injured, or is likely to kill or seriously injure, a person (or has killed or seriously injured a domestic or companion animal off the owner's property). A 'vicious dog' has a known tendency to attack without provocation, or has bitten a person or animal without provocation.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 2 definitions](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "includes a dog that has, or is likely to kill or seriously injure a person" … "any dog with a known propensity, tendency or disposition to attack, without provocation, other domestic animals or humans" … "any dog which has bitten another domestic animal or a human without provocation"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Rules for owners:** A vicious dog must be effectively muzzled in any public place or on a highway. Otherwise it must be kept indoors or in a securely closed and locked enclosure. A dog that bites a person or companion animal and is not immunized against rabies is impounded under quarantine for 10 days.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 10(a), (c)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "The owner of a vicious dog shall ensure that such dog is not on a highway or any public place unless effectively muzzled" … "such dog shall be kept indoors or within a securely closed and locked enclosure." … "the dog shall be impounded under quarantine for ten (10) days for observation by the Animal Control Officer."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Licence fee:** None set. Tofino has no separate licence fee for a dangerous or vicious dog.
- **How to report:** Report to Bylaw Services: online complaint form (anonymous complaints are not accepted), phone 250-725-3229 ext. 706 (office) or 250-266-1674 (on-duty officer). For immediate danger call 911 or the RCMP non-emergency line, 250-725-3242.
  - Source: [Bylaw Services, Bylaw Services page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/)
  - Official wording: "250-725-3229 ext. 706 (Office)" … "250-266-1674 (On-Duty Officer)"
  - Source: [Bylaw Complaints, Bylaw Complaints page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-complaint/)
  - Official wording: "Anonymous complaints are not accepted" … "Please contact Emergency Services by calling 911 or the RCMP non-emergency line at 250-725-3242"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** Vicious dog not confined or muzzled (s. 10(a)): bylaw notice $100 ($80 within 14 days; $120 after 60 days); municipal ticket $100 ($50 if paid within 7 business days).
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Animal Control Bylaw 10(a))](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Vicious Dog Not Confined or Muzzled 10(a) Yes $100 $80 $120 50%"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 6](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Vicious Dog Not Confined or Muzzled 10(a) $100.00" … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/>) defines two kinds of dog. A "dangerous dog" has killed or seriously injured, or is likely to kill or seriously injure, a person, or has killed or seriously injured a domestic or companion animal off the owner's property. A "vicious dog" has a known tendency to attack without provocation, or has bitten a person or animal without provocation. The bylaw does not set out a formal declaration process or say who decides.

## Good to know

- A vicious dog must be effectively muzzled in any public place or on a highway. Otherwise it must be kept indoors or in a securely closed and locked enclosure.
- A dog that bites a person or companion animal and is not immunized against rabies is impounded under quarantine for 10 days.
- An Animal Control Officer may apply to Provincial Court for a destruction order for a dangerous dog.
- There is no separate licence fee for a dangerous or vicious dog.
- To report a dog, use the online complaint form (anonymous complaints are not accepted) or call Bylaw Services at 250-725-3229 ext. 706 or the on-duty officer at 250-266-1674. For immediate danger call 911 or the RCMP non-emergency line, 250-725-3242.
- A vicious dog not confined or muzzled: a bylaw notice is $100 ($80 within 14 days; $120 after 60 days). A municipal ticket is $100 ($50 if paid within 7 business days).

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-licence.md)
- [Tofino dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Tofino](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/how-many-pets.md)
- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Campbell River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/campbell-river/dangerous-dogs.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Services, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Complaints, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-complaint/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 6 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dangerous-dogs/_


---

---
title: How many dogs or cats you can keep in Tofino
question: "How many dogs or cats can I keep in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/how-many-pets/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/how-many-pets.json"
---

# How many dogs or cats you can keep in Tofino

**Question:** How many dogs or cats can I keep in Tofino?

**Short answer:** In Tofino, the animal bylaw sets no flat cap on dogs: an owner of more than two dogs needs a kennel licence ($100 a year). It sets no limit on cats. Other animals are allowed only where the Zoning Bylaw permits.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Kennel licence $100 a year (half price if bought after August 31).  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Phone: Municipal Office, 250-725-3229 (Ask about kennel licences and zoning)

## Key facts

- **Dogs allowed:** The Animal Control Bylaw sets no flat cap: an owner of more than two dogs needs a kennel licence ($100 a year; an extra one for each dog over five), with 24 square feet per dog. Zoning defines a KENNEL as five or more dogs and/or cats; no zone lists it as a permitted use.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 12(a), (b), (d); Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "Every owner of more than two dogs shall possess a valid and subsisting kennel license." … "Every owner of more than five (5) dogs shall possess an additional valid and subsisting kennel license for each dog over and above the first five (5) dogs." … "24 square feet of floor space is provided for each dog" … "Kennel License $100.00"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, Zoning Bylaw No. 770, s. 2 Definitions (KENNEL)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "KENNEL means any use, building or structure where five or more dogs and/or cats which are more"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Cats allowed:** None set. Tofino's Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw sets no limit on cats.
- **Other animal limits:** No animals other than domesticated dogs and cats or other small domesticated animals may be housed inside a dwelling unit. All other animals are permitted only as the Zoning Bylaw allows.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 6(a), (b)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "No animals other than domesticated dogs and cats or other small-domesticated animals may be housed within their owner's or harbourer's dwelling unit." … "All other animals will be permitted in accordance with the District of Tofino Zoning bylaw."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Exceptions:** A kennel licence allows more than two dogs. Unweaned offspring are counted together with the mother as one animal.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 11(c); s. 12](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "All unweanded offspring of an animal together with the female parent shall be deemed to constitute a single animal for the purpose of this bylaw." … "A kennel license shall be obtained by applying to the District and paying the prescribed kennel license fee set out in Schedule"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** No ticket amount is listed for keeping more than two dogs without a kennel licence (s. 12). Housing a prohibited animal in a dwelling unit (s. 6(a)): bylaw notice $100 ($80 within 14 days; $120 after 60 days); municipal ticket $100 ($50 if paid within 7 business days).
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Animal Control Bylaw 6(a))](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Prohibited Animals in Dwelling Unit 6(a) Yes $100 $80 $120 50%"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 6](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Prohibited Animals in Dwelling Unit 6(a) $100.00" … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/>) sets no flat limit on dogs in Tofino. An owner of more than two dogs (over four months old) needs a kennel licence, with 24 square feet per dog. The kennel licence is $100 a year, plus an extra licence for each dog over five. The bylaw sets no limit on cats.

## Good to know

- The District's [Zoning Bylaw No. 770](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/>) defines a kennel as five or more dogs and/or cats. No zone lists a kennel as a permitted use, so whether a licensed kennel is allowed on your lot depends on zoning. Ask the District before you rely on a kennel licence.
- Unweaned offspring count together with the mother as one animal.
- The Animal Control Officer may suspend or revoke a kennel licence if the bylaw is broken.
- Only domesticated dogs and cats or other small domesticated animals may be housed inside a dwelling unit. All other animals are permitted only as the Zoning Bylaw allows.
- Housing a prohibited animal in a dwelling: a bylaw notice is $100 ($80 within 14 days; $120 after 60 days). A municipal ticket is $100 ($50 if paid within 7 business days).
- No ticket amount is listed for keeping more than two dogs without a kennel licence.

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-licence.md)
- [Tofino dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Tofino backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog and cat limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/how-many-pets.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/how-many-pets.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/how-many-pets.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/how-many-pets.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/how-many-pets.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/how-many-pets.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/how-many-pets.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 6 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/how-many-pets/_


---

---
title: Tofino backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules
question: "Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-chickens/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-chickens.json"
---

# Tofino backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, no bylaw we read says whether backyard hens or bees are allowed, or sets a limit. If you keep chickens or bees, the Wildlife Attractant Bylaw requires them to be enclosed by electric fencing built to WildSafeBC guidelines. Ask the District about zoning first.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** not stated in the bylaws we read  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Phone: Planning Services (Municipal Office), 250-725-3229 (Ask what your zone allows)

## Key facts

- **Hens allowed:** Not confirmed. Not found in the official sources that were read.
- **Most hens:** None set. No Tofino bylaw read sets a hen limit, rooster rule, or permit or registration.
- **Roosters:** None set. No Tofino bylaw read sets a hen limit, rooster rule, or permit or registration.
- **Coop rules:** Chickens, coops and pens must be kept reasonably inaccessible to dangerous wildlife, and coops and pens must be enclosed by electric fencing built to WildSafeBC guidelines.
  - Source: [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022, s. 4(2)(k), (l)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/)
  - Official wording: "chickens, chicken coops, and Pens are kept in such a manner so that they are reasonably inaccessible to Dangerous Wildlife;" … "chicken coops and Pens are enclosed by electric fencing designed and maintained in accordance with the electric fencing guidelines of the WildSafeBC program"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Permit or registration:** None set. No Tofino bylaw read sets a hen limit, rooster rule, or permit or registration.
- **Bees:** The bylaws do not say whether beekeeping is allowed. Where bees and beehives are kept, they must not attract dangerous wildlife, must be reasonably inaccessible to it, and must be enclosed by electric fencing built to WildSafeBC guidelines.
  - Source: [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022, s. 4(2)(h), (i), (j)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/)
  - Official wording: "bees and beehives are kept in such a manner so that they are reasonably inaccessible to Dangerous Wildlife;" … "bees and beehives are enclosed by electric fencing designed and maintained in accordance with the electric fencing guidelines of the WildSafeBC program"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Other livestock:** Other animals are permitted only as the Zoning Bylaw allows. Small-scale agriculture is a secondary use in the rural A1 and A2 zones (lots of at least 2 acres and 2 hectares), among others. Large livestock are banned from parks, school yards and sidewalks.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 6(b); s. 8(c)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "All other animals will be permitted in accordance with the District of Tofino Zoning bylaw." … "Large livestock are not allowed in or on any portion of the following areas:"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, Part 14 (A1 Small Holdings District), s. 14.2; s. 14.3](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Small scale agricultural uses, but excluding intensive livestock feeding operations;" … "Each lot shall have a minimum area of 8094 square metres (2 acres)." … "Small scale agricultural operation, but excluding intensive agricultural operations;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022; Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001; Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997
  - Source: [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022, title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

No bylaw we read says whether hens are allowed or banned on a residential lot in Tofino, and none sets a hen limit, a rooster rule, or a permit or registration. The [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/>) says animals other than dogs and cats are permitted only as the [Zoning Bylaw No. 770](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/>) allows, and the Zoning Bylaw does not mention hens, chickens or poultry in its residential zones.

## Good to know

- Under the [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/>), chickens, coops and pens must be kept reasonably inaccessible to dangerous wildlife, and coops and pens must be enclosed by electric fencing built to WildSafeBC guidelines.
- Bees and beehives must not attract dangerous wildlife, must be reasonably inaccessible to it, and must be enclosed by electric fencing built to WildSafeBC guidelines. The bylaws do not say whether beekeeping is allowed, and no hive limit or licence was found.
- Small-scale agriculture is a secondary use in the rural A1 and A2 zones (lots of at least 2 acres in A1 and 2 hectares in A2), among others. Rules for goats, horses or ducks in residential zones were not found.
- Roosters are listed as small livestock, and the animal bylaw bans animal noise that disturbs neighbours.
- Large livestock are banned from parks, school yards and sidewalks.
- Farm operations that meet the Right to Farm Act tests are exempt from most of the Wildlife Attractant Bylaw.
- The bylaw's offence fine is up to $50,000. No ticket amount was found.

## Official forms and pages

- [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)

## Related questions

- [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Tofino](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/how-many-pets.md)
- [Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Tofino noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/noise-rules.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Tahsis](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tahsis/backyard-chickens.md)

## Sources

- [Wildlife Attractant Bylaw No. 1317, 2022 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/154668/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Regulation Bylaw No. 866, 2001 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/15/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 4 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 3 are recorded as not set; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-chickens/_


---

---
title: Tofino RV, boat and trailer parking rules
question: "Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Parking, tickets and driving
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json"
---

# Tofino RV, boat and trailer parking rules

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, a trailer may not be parked on a street, boulevard or parking lot unless it is attached to a motor vehicle, and no vehicle may be used for camping or sleeping on a street. The bylaws we read set no other rule for keeping an RV, boat or trailer on your own lot.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Fine: trailer where prohibited, bylaw notice $50, municipal ticket $50. Accommodation in a trailer or motor home, bylaw notice $240.  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Services (office, ext. 706), 250-725-3229
- Online: Parking, District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca/public-services/parking/

## Key facts

- **On the street:** A trailer may not be parked on a highway, boulevard or parking lot unless attached to a motor vehicle, and no vehicle may be parked on a street for camping or sleeping. Boat trailers may use designated Downtown Pay Parking areas; vehicles over 20 feet and trailers are banned from Municipal Office lots.
  - Source: [Traffic and Parking Regulation Bylaw No. 1091, 2009, s. 3.2(s), (t)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163621/)
  - Official wording: "Any trailer on any portion of a highway, boulevard, or parking lot when not attached to a" … "motor vehicle; or" … "Any vehicle, trailer or motor home on any portion of any highway, boulevard, or District" … "4,500 kilograms, on any highway in a residential area, between the hours of 11 pm of one day and"
  - Source: [Parking, Parking page FAQ](https://tofino.ca/public-services/parking/)
  - Official wording: "Trailers must be attached to a vehicle while parked." … "Boat trailer parking is permitted in designated Downtown Pay Parking areas." … "Vehicles over 20 feet and trailers are not permitted in these parking lots at any time."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **On your property:** One travel trailer or recreational vehicle may be used for accommodation on a lot while the principal building is being built under a valid building permit. No other rule on keeping an RV, boat or trailer on a residential lot was found.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, s. 4.1(2)(h) (Accessory Buildings)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "One travel trailer or recreational vehicle may be utilized for accommodation while the principal building is being constructed during the time that work is being carried out in accordance with a valid building permit."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Living in an RV:** Not allowed on streets, boulevards or District property. In a vehicle elsewhere, overnight camping or sleeping is banned except in a designated campground, on private property with the owner's written permission on hand, or with Council's written permission. Camping on private property outside a campground is limited to 15 days a calendar year. (Sources differ: The District parking page says overnight camping in any vehicle is prohibited at all times; the Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw s. 11.3 allows it in a designated campground, on private property with the owner's written permission, or with Council permission. Following the bylaw.)
  - Source: [Traffic and Parking Regulation Bylaw No. 1091, 2009, s. 3.2(s)(ii)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163621/)
  - Official wording: "Any vehicle, trailer or motor home on any portion of any highway, boulevard, or District"
  - Source: [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated), s. 11.3, 11.5](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
  - Official wording: "for the purpose of overnight camping or sleeping except:" … "(b) On private property with the express written permission from the owner or" … "for a period of greater than 15 days in a calendar year, except"
  - Source: [Parking, Parking page FAQ](https://tofino.ca/public-services/parking/)
  - Official wording: "Overnight camping in any vehicle is prohibited throughout the District of Tofino at all times."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** Trailer where prohibited (s. 3.2(s)(i)): bylaw notice $50 ($25 within 14 days; $60 after 60 days). Trailer or motor home used for accommodation (s. 3.2(s)(ii)): bylaw notice $240 ($200 early, $280 late). Camping in a vehicle (s. 11.3): bylaw notice $240. Municipal ticket: $50 for both parking offences ($10 if paid within 7 business days).
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Traffic and Parking Bylaw 1091; Public Property Use Bylaw 1098)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Trailer Where Prohibited 3.2(s)(i) No $50 $25 $60 n/a" … "3.2(s)(ii) No $240 $200 $280 n/a" … "Vehicle Use For Camping 11.3 No $240 $200 $280 n/a"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 7](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Trailer Where Prohibited 3.2(s)(i) $50.00" … "Trailer/Motor Home used for Accommodation 3.2(s)(ii) $50.00" … "Fines as set out in Schedule 7 are reduced to $10 per offense if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Traffic and Parking Regulation Bylaw No. 1091, 2009; Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009; Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997
  - Source: [Traffic and Parking Regulation Bylaw No. 1091, 2009, title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163621/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Traffic and Parking Regulation"
  - Source: [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated), title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
  - Official wording: "DISTRICT OF TOFINO PUBLIC PROPERTY USE REGULATION BYLAW NO. 1098, 2009 Consolidated for Convenience Only This is a consolidated version of the parent bylaw that incorporates changes made pursuant to"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

Under the [Traffic and Parking Regulation Bylaw No. 1091](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163621/>), a trailer may not be parked on a highway, boulevard or parking lot in the District of Tofino unless it is attached to a motor vehicle. No vehicle may be parked on a street for camping or sleeping. Boat trailers may use the designated Downtown Pay Parking areas. Vehicles over 20 feet and trailers are banned from the Municipal Office lots. No general time limit for street parking of RVs or boats was found.

## Good to know

- Living in a vehicle is not allowed on streets, boulevards or District property. Elsewhere, overnight camping or sleeping in a vehicle is banned except in a designated campground, on private property with the owner's written permission on hand, or with Council's written permission. Camping on private property outside a campground is limited to 15 days a calendar year under the [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/>).
- The District's parking page says overnight camping in any vehicle is prohibited at all times. The bylaw says otherwise, so confirm with Bylaw Services before you camp.
- On your own lot, the Zoning Bylaw allows one travel trailer or recreational vehicle for accommodation while the principal building is being built under a valid building permit. No other rule on keeping an RV, boat or trailer on a residential lot was found.
- A trailer where prohibited: a bylaw notice is $50 ($25 within 14 days; $60 after 60 days). A trailer or motor home used for accommodation is $240 ($200 early, $280 late). Camping in a vehicle is $240. A municipal ticket for either parking offence is $50 ($10 if paid within 7 business days).
- Pay-parking tickets are issued by Robbins Parking, not the District.

## Official forms and pages

- [Traffic and Parking Regulation Bylaw No. 1091 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163621/)
- [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Tofino unsightly property rules and how to report](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/unsightly-property.md)
- [Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Tofino short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/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)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)

## Sources

- [Traffic and Parking Regulation Bylaw No. 1091, 2009 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163621/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Parking, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/parking/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_


---

---
title: "Tofino noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines"
question: "What are the noise rules and quiet hours in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/noise-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/noise-rules.json"
---

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

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, loud, objectionable or unnecessary noise that disturbs the neighbourhood is banned between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Continuous sound that disturbs others is banned at any hour, except construction-type work between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Report noise to Bylaw Services at 250-725-3229 ext. 706.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Fine: bylaw notice $200; municipal ticket $500 first offence, $1,000 second and later.  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Services (office, ext. 706), 250-725-3229
- Phone: Bylaw Services (on-duty officer), 250-266-1674 (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, with extended coverage in summer and holidays)
- Phone: RCMP non-emergency (outside bylaw hours), 250-725-3242

## Key facts

- **General rule:** No loud, objectionable or unnecessary noise anywhere in the District that may disturb the peace, quiet, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the neighbourhood between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Continuous sound that disturbs others is also banned at any hour, except construction-type work in the permitted hours.
  - Source: [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated), s. 7.1, 7.2(a)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall make, allow, or cause to be made any loud, objectionable, or unnecessary noise anywhere within the District which may" … "between the hours of 10 pm of one day and 7 am of the next day." … "No person shall make, allow, or cause to be made any continuous sound or continuous noise anywhere within the District"
  - Source: [Noise Regulations, Noise Regulations page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/noise/)
  - Official wording: "loud or unnecessary noise that disturbs others is not permitted between 10 PM and 7 AM"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Quiet hours:** 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. for loud, objectionable or unnecessary noise.
  - Source: [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated), s. 7.1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
  - Official wording: "between the hours of 10 pm of one day and 7 am of the next day."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Construction hours:** Continuous sound from construction, building, demolition, excavation, grading, clearing, property maintenance, repairing, loading or unloading is allowed between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., or as approved by Council.
  - Source: [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated), s. 7.2(b)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
  - Official wording: "shall be allowed between the hours of 7 am and 10 pm or as approved by Council." … "construction, building, demolition, excavation, grading, clearing, property"
  - Source: [Noise Regulations, Noise Regulations page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/noise/)
  - Official wording: "Continuous noise from construction or property maintenance is only allowed between 7 AM and 10 PM, unless otherwise approved by Council."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Other limits:** Also banned: loud noise disturbing a hospital (s. 7.3); objectionable motor vehicle or vessel noise (s. 7.4); instruments, radios, speakers or amplifiers that disturb the neighbourhood (s. 7.5; the equipment can be impounded).
  - Source: [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated), s. 7.3-7.5](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
  - Official wording: "Noise Disturbing Hospital" … "Motor Vehicle Noise" … "Musical/Percussion Instruments and Amplified Sound" … "may be removed, detained, or impounded by the Bylaw Enforcement Officer."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Who to call, business hours:** Bylaw Services: 250-725-3229 ext. 706 (office) or 250-266-1674 (on-duty officer). Bylaw hours are 8 AM to 04:30 PM daily, with extended coverage in summer and holidays.
  - Source: [Noise Regulations, Noise Regulations page, Contact](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/noise/)
  - Official wording: "250-725-3229 ext. 706 (Office)" … "250-266-1674 (On-Duty Officer)" … "8 AM to 04:30 PM (Daily)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Who to call, after hours:** RCMP non-emergency line: 250-725-3242.
  - Source: [Noise Regulations, Noise Regulations page, Contact](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/noise/)
  - Official wording: "If you require assistance outside of regular Bylaw Enforcement hours, please contact the RCMP." … "250-725-3242"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** Noise between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. (s. 7.1): bylaw notice $200 ($160 within 14 days; $240 after 60 days). Municipal ticket: $500 first offence, $1,000 second and later (half if paid within 7 business days). Amplified sound (s. 7.5): $200 on both schedules.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Public Property Use Bylaw 7.1)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Noise disturbing the peace between 7.1 No $200 $160 $240 n/a" … "Musical instrument/amplified sound 7.5 No $200 $160 $240 n/a"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 5](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Noise disturbing the peace between 10 PM and 7 AM, 1 offense 7.1 $500.00" … "7.1 $1,000.00" … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009
  - Source: [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated), title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
  - Official wording: "PUBLIC PROPERTY USE REGULATION BYLAW NO." … "1098, 2009"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/>) bans loud, objectionable or unnecessary noise anywhere in the District of Tofino that may disturb the peace, quiet, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the neighbourhood between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Continuous sound that disturbs others is banned at any hour. "Continuous sound" means sound lasting more than two minutes, or totalling more than three minutes in any fifteen-minute period.

## Good to know

- Continuous sound from construction, building, demolition, excavation, grading, clearing, property maintenance, repairing, loading or unloading is allowed between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., or as approved by Council. The bylaw gives no separate hours for weekends or holidays.
- Also banned: loud noise disturbing a hospital, objectionable motor vehicle or vessel noise, and instruments, radios, speakers or amplifiers that disturb the neighbourhood (the equipment can be impounded).
- The bylaw sets no decibel limits. Barking and other animal noise is covered by the animal control bylaw.
- Noise between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.: a bylaw notice is $200 ($160 within 14 days; $240 after 60 days). A municipal ticket is $500 for a first offence and $1,000 for a second and later (half if paid within 7 business days). Amplified sound is $200 on both. Hospital noise is $300.
- Call Bylaw Services during bylaw hours. Outside those hours, call the RCMP non-emergency line.

## Official forms and pages

- [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/)
- [Noise Regulations, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/noise/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Tofino backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-fire.md)
- [Tofino fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fireworks.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)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/noise-rules.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/noise-rules.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/noise-rules.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/noise-rules.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/noise-rules.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/noise-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw No. 1098, 2009 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/609/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Noise Regulations, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/noise/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/noise-rules/_


---

---
title: Tofino unsightly property rules and how to report
question: "How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/unsightly-property/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/unsightly-property.json"
---

# Tofino unsightly property rules and how to report

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, owners and occupiers must not let their property become unsightly or let rubbish pile up. Report a property with the online Report a Bylaw Violation form (anonymous complaints are not accepted) or call Bylaw Services at 250-725-3229 ext. 706.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Fine: bylaw notice $200; municipal ticket $200. Graffiti $100.  
**How long:** An Order to Comply usually gives 14 days (or another reasonable time) to fix the problem.  
**Where:**
- Online: Report a Bylaw Violation (online form), https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-complaint/
- Phone: Bylaw Services (office, ext. 706), 250-725-3229

## Key facts

- **What counts:** Owners and occupiers must not allow their property to become or stay unsightly, or let water, rubbish or noxious, offensive or unwholesome matter collect on or around it, and must remove unsightly accumulations of filth, discarded materials, rubbish or graffiti. Placing graffiti on or next to a public place is banned.
  - Source: [Unsightly Premises By-law No. 701, 1995 (consolidated), s. 3, 4, 5](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1241/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall place graffiti on walls, fences or elsewhere on or adjacent to a public place." … "Allow the real property to become or remain unsightly; or" … "shall remove from it unsightly accumulations of filth, discarded materials, rubbish or graffiti."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **How to report:** Use the online Report a Bylaw Violation form on the District website (anonymous complaints are not accepted), or contact Bylaw Services at 250-725-3229 ext. 706 or by email.
  - Source: [Bylaw Complaints, Bylaw Complaints page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-complaint/)
  - Official wording: "Complaints may be submitted by completing the online complaint form below." … "Anonymous complaints are not accepted"
  - Source: [Bylaw Services, Bylaw Services page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/)
  - Official wording: "250-725-3229 ext. 706 (Office)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **What happens next:** A Bylaw Enforcement Officer may serve an Order to Comply giving 14 days (or another reasonable time) to fix the problem. If not done, the District may enter and clean up at the owner's cost; unpaid costs by December 31 are added to property taxes. The owner may appeal to Council in writing at least 72 hours before the deadline.
  - Source: [Unsightly Premises By-law No. 701, 1995 (consolidated), s. 6, 7, 10, 11, 15](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1241/)
  - Official wording: "may serve on such owner or occupier an Order to Comply which requires the person to remedy the nuisance within 14 days of service of such Order to Comply" … "may enter on the property and effect the removal at the expense of the person who has failed to comply." … "the costs shall be added to and form part of the taxes payable on the property as taxes in arrear." … "at least 72 hours prior to the expiry of the time given in the Order to Comply to remedy the nuisance, appeal to the Council"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** Allowing property to be unsightly (s. 4(a)) or rubbish to accumulate (s. 4(b)): bylaw notice $200 ($160 within 14 days; $240 after 60 days); municipal ticket $200 ($100 if paid within 7 business days). Graffiti (s. 3): $100 on both.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Unsightly Premises Bylaw 701)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Allow Property to Be Unsightly 4(a) Yes $200 $160 $240 50%" … "Allow Rubbish to Accumulate 4(b) Yes $200 $160 $240 50%"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 12](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Allow Property to be Unsightly 4(a) $200.00" … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Unsightly Premises By-law No. 701, 1995
  - Source: [Unsightly Premises By-law No. 701, 1995 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1241/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Unsightly Premises By-law No. 701, 1995"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The District of Tofino's [Unsightly Premises By-law No. 701](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1241/>) says owners and occupiers must not allow their property to become or stay unsightly, or let water, rubbish or noxious, offensive or unwholesome matter collect on or around it. They must remove unsightly accumulations of filth, discarded materials, rubbish or graffiti. "Rubbish" includes derelict automobile bodies. Placing graffiti on or next to a public place is banned.

## Steps

1. Fill in the online Report a Bylaw Violation form, or contact Bylaw Services at 250-725-3229 ext. 706 or by email. Bylaws are enforced mainly on a complaint basis, and anonymous complaints are not accepted.
2. A Bylaw Enforcement Officer may serve an Order to Comply giving 14 days (or another reasonable time) to fix the problem.
3. If it is not fixed, the District may enter and clean up at the owner's cost.

## Good to know

- The owner may appeal to Council in writing at least 72 hours before the deadline.
- Unpaid cleanup costs on December 31 are added to property taxes.
- Unsightly property or accumulated rubbish: a bylaw notice is $200 ($160 within 14 days; $240 after 60 days). A municipal ticket is $200 ($100 if paid within 7 business days). Graffiti is $100 on both.

## Official forms and pages

- [Unsightly Premises By-law No. 701 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1241/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Tofino noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/noise-rules.md)
- [Tofino RV, boat and trailer parking rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/unsightly-property.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/unsightly-property.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/unsightly-property.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/unsightly-property.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/unsightly-property.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/unsightly-property.md)

## Sources

- [Unsightly Premises By-law No. 701, 1995 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/1241/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Complaints, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-complaint/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Services, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/unsightly-property/_


---

---
title: Tofino backyard fire and burning rules
question: "Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-fire/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-fire.json"
---

# Tofino backyard fire and burning rules

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, campfires and BBQ cooking fires are allowed under the Outdoor Burning Bylaw, with limits, and no burning permit is set. Burning household or yard waste in the open is prohibited. No outdoor fires are allowed during a fire ban, so check current bans first.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** No permit or fee for campfires. Fine for an illegal fire: bylaw notice $300; municipal ticket $300.  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Online: Coastal Fire Centre fire bans and restrictions (Province of BC), https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/fire-bans-and-restrictions/coastal-fire-centre-bans
- Phone: Bylaw Services (office, ext. 706), 250-725-3229

## Key facts

- **Backyard campfires:** Campfires and BBQ cooking fires are allowed under the bylaw, but a campfire may not be bigger than 0.6 m across, burn between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., burn anything but wood, or be on private property except a campground or an owner-designated campfire area with the owner's written permission. It must be supervised by someone 16 or older, with water on hand and 3 m clear of anything combustible.
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071, 2008 (consolidated), s. 4, 6, 3.4](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/912/)
  - Official wording: "d.) campfires." … "e.) any campfire larger than 0.6 meters in diameter;" … "d.) any campfire between 11:00pm and 6:00am;" … "any campfire consuming garbage, refuse, noxious material, or any other material other than wood." … "ensure that at all times the fire is supervised by a competent person of 16 years" … "at least 3 meters from any vegetation, beach material, buildings,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Burning yard waste:** Not allowed. Burning of residential waste, including household and yard materials, is strictly prohibited in the open air. Yard-waste, clearing, construction and trade-waste fires are banned unless Council approves them by resolution.
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071, 2008 (consolidated), s. 3.2, s. 8](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/912/)
  - Official wording: "Burning of residential waste, including both household and yard materials, is strictly prohibited in the open air." … "yard waste fires; trade waste fires; other than those listed in section 7 are hereby banned and illegal, unless approval in form of a resolution of Council in open meeting has been given"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Permit:** The bylaw sets no permit or fee for campfires. An incinerator may operate only with written approval from the building inspector. Other outdoor fires are illegal unless Council approves them by resolution.
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071, 2008 (consolidated), s. 5(a), s. 8](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/912/)
  - Official wording: "operating with written approval by the building inspector;" … "unless approval in form of a resolution of Council in open meeting has been given and is immediately available for inspection."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fire bans:** The Fire Chief or a Bylaw Enforcement Officer may publish a notice or post signs that no outdoor fires are allowed; having a fire then is an offence. The Fire Department page links to the Coastal Fire Centre list of current fire bans.
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071, 2008 (consolidated), s. 3.1(d)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/912/)
  - Official wording: "at the discretion of the Fire Chief or a Bylaw Enforcement Officer, written notice has been published in a newspaper circulating in the District or signage has been posted"
  - Source: [Fire Department, Fire Department page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/fire-department/)
  - Official wording: "CHECK FOR CURRENT FIRE BANS"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Instead of burning:** Yard waste goes in the green organics cart collected weekly by the ACRD (branches up to 24 inches long and 2 inches thick), or to the West Coast Landfill (organics $115 per tonne, $5 minimum; residential branches $10 per load).
  - Source: [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, ACRD Organics page](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics)
  - Official wording: "Yard waste is accepted too." … "the maximum length for branches in the cart is 24 inches, or two feet, with a two-inch diameter"
  - Source: [West Coast Landfill, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, West Coast Landfill fees](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/west-coast-landfill)
  - Official wording: "Residential Branches | $10.00 per load"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** Illegal fire (s. 3.1(c)): bylaw notice $300 ($240 within 14 days; $360 after 60 days); municipal ticket $300. Fire contrary to a ban: bylaw notice $300, municipal ticket $200. Campfire over 0.6 m: bylaw notice $200, municipal ticket $50. Municipal tickets are halved if paid within 7 business days.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Outdoor Burning Bylaw 1071)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "3.1 (c) $300 $240 $360" … "Fire contrary to ban 3.1 (d) $300 $240 $360" … "Campfire greater than 0.6 meters in 6(e) No $200 $160 $240 n/a"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Illegal fire 3.1 (c) $300.00" … "Fire contrary to ban 3.1 (c) $200.00" … "Campfire greater than 0.6 meters in diameter 6(e) $50.00" … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071, 2008
  - Source: [Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071, 2008 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/912/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071, 2008"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The [Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/912/>) allows campfires and BBQ cooking fires in the District of Tofino, with limits. A campfire may not be bigger than 0.6 m across, burn between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., or burn anything but wood. It may not be on private property except a campground or an owner-designated campfire area with the owner's written permission. It must be supervised by someone 16 or older, with water on hand and 3 m clear of anything combustible.

## Good to know

- Burning of residential waste, including household and yard materials, is strictly prohibited in the open air. Yard-waste, clearing, construction and trade-waste fires are banned unless Council approves them by resolution.
- The bylaw sets no permit or fee for campfires. An incinerator needs written approval from the building inspector.
- Campfires are also banned on school property, parks facilities, highways, parking lots, trails, and where signs prohibit them. Any outdoor fire is banned on Cox Bay. Beach fires are limited to certain beaches; see the District's beaches page.
- The Fire Chief or a Bylaw Enforcement Officer may post a notice or signs that no outdoor fires are allowed. Check current bans with the Coastal Fire Centre, which the Fire Department page links to.
- Yard waste goes in the green organics cart (see the yard waste answer) or to the West Coast Landfill.
- Illegal fire: a bylaw notice is $300 ($240 within 14 days; $360 after 60 days). A municipal ticket is $300. For a fire contrary to a ban, the bylaw notice is $300 and the municipal ticket is $200. A campfire over 0.6 m is $200 by bylaw notice and $50 by municipal ticket. Municipal tickets are halved if paid within 7 business days.

## Official forms and pages

- [Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/912/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/yard-waste.md)
- [Tofino fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fireworks.md)
- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/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)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/backyard-fire.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/backyard-fire.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/backyard-fire.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/backyard-fire.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/backyard-fire.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/backyard-fire.md)

## Sources

- [Outdoor Burning Bylaw No. 1071, 2008 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/912/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Fire Department, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/fire-department/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Organics, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/organics) (read 2026-11-08)
- [West Coast Landfill, Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District](https://www.acrd.bc.ca/west-coast-landfill) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-fire/_


---

---
title: Tofino fireworks rules
question: "Are fireworks allowed in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fireworks/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fireworks.json"
---

# Tofino fireworks rules

**Question:** Are fireworks allowed in Tofino?

**Short answer:** In Tofino, fireworks are banned except that people 18 or older may use consumer fireworks from 5:00 p.m. to midnight on January 1, July 1, July 4, October 31 and December 31. Selling or giving away fireworks is not allowed. Fireworks are not allowed on the beaches.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** No permit or fee. Fine: bylaw notice $200; municipal ticket $200.  
**How long:** not applicable  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Services (office, ext. 706), 250-725-3229
- Phone: RCMP non-emergency (outside bylaw hours), 250-725-3242

## Key facts

- **Setting off fireworks:** Banned except that people 18 or older may use consumer fireworks between 5:00 p.m. and midnight on January 1, July 1, July 4, October 31 and December 31. Parents may not let anyone under 18 buy or use fireworks.
  - Source: [Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw No. 1219, 2016, s. 3(2), 3(3), 4(1)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/602/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall buy, fire, discharge," … "or othenivise use fireworks or firecrackers." … "a person who is eighteen (18) years or older may hold, possess, store, fire, discharge, set off, explode, and otherwise use Consumer Fireworks between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and midnight on January 1, July 1, July 4, October 31, December 31 of any year."
  - Source: [Beaches, Beaches page, No Fireworks](https://tofino.ca/our-community/parks-natural-spaces/beaches/)
  - Official wording: "Fireworks are only permitted between the hours of 5 PM and midnight on the following designated days:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Selling fireworks:** Not allowed. No one may sell, offer to sell, give away, trade or otherwise dispose of fireworks or firecrackers to another person.
  - Source: [Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw No. 1219, 2016, s. 3(1)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/602/)
  - Official wording: "No person shall sell, offer to sell, give away, trade, or otherwise dispose of fireworks or firecrackers to any other person."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **What counts as fireworks:** Consumer fireworks (Class F.1: showers, fountains, golden rain, lawn lights, pin wheels, roman candles, volcanoes) are the only kind allowed, and only on the listed dates. Christmas crackers, sparklers and caps for toy guns are excluded from the definition. Firecrackers and display fireworks are not exempted on any date.
  - Source: [Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw No. 1219, 2016, s. 2 definitions; s. 4(1)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/602/)
  - Official wording: "includes fireworks showers, fountains, golden rain, lawn lights, pin wheels, roman candles and volcanoes, but excludes Christmas crackers, sparklers and caps for toy guns;" … "Firecracker means a small pyrotechnic device, used primarily as a noisemaker,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Permit:** None set. The Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw has no permit or fee for fireworks.
- **Fine:** Unauthorized firework use or possession (s. 4): bylaw notice $200 ($150 within 14 days; $250 after 60 days); municipal ticket $200 ($100 if paid within 7 business days). Permitting a minor to use fireworks (s. 5): $200 on both.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A (Fireworks Bylaw 1219)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Unauthorized Firework Use or 4 No $200 $150 $250 n/a" … "Permit Minor to Use Firework 5 No $200 $150 $250 n/a"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), Schedule 3](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Unauthorized Firework Use or Possession 4 $200.00" … "Unauthorized Firework Dealing 3 $200.00" … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw, No. 1219, 2016
  - Source: [Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw No. 1219, 2016, s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/602/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw, No. 1219, 2016"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The [Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw No. 1219](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/602/>) bans fireworks in the District of Tofino, with one exception. People 18 or older may use consumer fireworks between 5:00 p.m. and midnight on January 1, July 1, July 4, October 31 and December 31. Consumer fireworks (Class F.1) are the only kind allowed: showers, fountains, golden rain, lawn lights, pin wheels, roman candles and volcanoes. Firecrackers and display fireworks are not exempted on any date.

## Good to know

- No one may sell, offer to sell, give away, trade or otherwise dispose of fireworks or firecrackers to another person. The bylaw has no exemption for sales on or before the permitted days.
- Parents may not let anyone under 18 buy or use fireworks.
- Christmas crackers, sparklers and caps for toy guns are excluded from the bylaw's definition.
- The bylaw has no permit or fee for fireworks.
- The District's beaches page says no fireworks. A wildfire ban may add limits, so check the current status.
- Unauthorized firework use or possession: a bylaw notice is $200 ($150 within 14 days; $250 after 60 days). A municipal ticket is $200 ($100 if paid within 7 business days). Permitting a minor to use fireworks is $200 on both. Unauthorized dealing is $200 on the municipal ticket schedule only.
- The bylaw also allows summary conviction fines of $100 to $10,000.

## Official forms and pages

- [Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw No. 1219 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/602/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-fire.md)
- [Tofino noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/noise-rules.md)
- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/fireworks.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/fireworks.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/fireworks.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/fireworks.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/fireworks.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/fireworks.md)

## Sources

- [Fireworks and Firearms Regulation Bylaw No. 1219, 2016 (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/602/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Beaches, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/our-community/parks-natural-spaces/beaches/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 6 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/fireworks/_


---

---
title: Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work
question: "What are the common bylaw fines in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines.json"
---

# Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work

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

**Short answer:** Tofino uses two ticket systems. A bylaw notice (Bylaw No. 1107) has set amounts with early and late payment amounts. A municipal ticket (Bylaw No. 1088) is issued under the Community Charter. Common examples are a $200 bylaw notice for noise between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. and $300 for an illegal fire.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Bylaw notice examples: sidewalk or boulevard parking $50; parking in front of a driveway $100; unlicensed dog $50; dog at large $50; noise $200; unsightly property $200; illegal fire $300.  
**How long:** Request a dispute within 14 days of receiving a bylaw notice.  
**Where:**
- Online: Bylaw ticket dispute (online form), https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-ticket-dispute/
- Phone: Bylaw Services (office, ext. 706), 250-725-3229

## Key facts

- **How tickets work:** Two systems. Bylaw notices (Bylaw No. 1107) carry set amounts with early and late amounts and can be disputed through screening and adjudication. Municipal tickets (Bylaw No. 1088) are issued under the Community Charter. They are issued by designated officers (bylaw officers, RCMP, the Fire Chief and others). Pay-parking tickets are issued by Robbins Parking.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), s. 4, 10](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "The bylaw contraventions designated in Schedule" … "Bylaw Enforcement Officer means any of the following:"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), s. 2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "The bylaws listed in Column 1 of Schedule 1 to this Bylaw may be enforced by means of a ticket"
  - Source: [Bylaw Ticket Dispute, Dispute page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-ticket-dispute/)
  - Official wording: "Parking tickets issued by Robbins Parking are not administered by the District"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Common fines:** Bylaw notice: parking on a sidewalk or boulevard $50; parking in front of a driveway $100; unlicensed dog $50; dog at large $50; noise 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. $200; unsightly property $200; illegal fire $300. Municipal tickets match except noise ($500, then $1,000).
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Parked on Sidewalk/Boulevard 3.2(a) No $50 $25 $60 n/a" … "Parked in Front of Driveway 3.2(b) No $100 $50 $120 n/a" … "Unlicensed Dog 7(a) Yes $50 $40 $60 50%" … "Animal Running at Large 14(a) No $50 $40 $60 n/a" … "Allow Property to Be Unsightly 4(a) Yes $200 $160 $240 50%"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), MTI Bylaw 1088 Schedules 2, 5, 6, 7, 12](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Noise disturbing the peace between 10 PM and 7 AM, 1 offense 7.1 $500.00" … "Parked on Sidewalk/Boulevard 3.2(a) $50.00" … "Parked in Front of Driveway 3.2(b) $100.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Paying early:** Bylaw notice: pay within 14 days of receiving it for the lower Early Payment amount in Schedule A (for example $40 on a $50 dog-licence notice, $25 on a $50 parking notice). Municipal ticket: half the fine if paid within 7 business days of issue ($10 for parking).
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), s. 5.1(b)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "if payment is received by the District within 14 calendar days from the date of receipt of the Notice of Bylaw Violation"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "Unlicensed Dog 7(a) Yes $50 $40 $60 50%" … "Parked on Sidewalk/Boulevard 3.2(a) No $50 $25 $60 n/a"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), MTI Bylaw 1088 s. 6(a), (b)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "Fines as set out in Schedule 7 are reduced to $10 per offense if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information." … "Fines as set out in all Schedules with the exception of Schedule 7 are reduced by 50% if the fine is paid within 7 business days of the date of issuance of the Municipal Ticketing Information."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Paying late:** A bylaw notice paid more than 60 days after delivery costs the Late Payment amount in Schedule A, about 20% more for most offences (for example $60 on a $50 notice).
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), s. 5.1(c)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "if payment is received more than 60 days from the date of delivery of the Notice" … "Late Payment Amount set out in Column A7 of Schedule"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Disputing a ticket:** Within 14 days of receiving the notice, request a dispute using the online form on the District website. A Screening Officer reviews it; if the offence is upheld you may ask for an adjudication hearing (held in Nanaimo). If the adjudicator finds the contravention occurred, you pay the fine plus a $25 adjudication fee. Pay-parking tickets are appealed to Robbins Parking.
  - Source: [Bylaw Ticket Dispute, Dispute page](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-ticket-dispute/)
  - Official wording: "Disputes must be submitted within 14 days of receiving the ticket." … "An additional $25 adjudication fee applies" … "Adjudication Hearings are held in Nanaimo, British Columbia." … "Parking tickets issued by Robbins Parking are not administered by the District and must be appealed directly through Robbins Parking."
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), s. 6.1, 6.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "a person may not request adjudication"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Bylaw Notice Enforcement and Dispute Adjudication System Bylaw No. 1107, 2010; Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088, 2009
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Bylaw Notice Enforcement and Dispute Adjudication System Bylaw No. 1107, 2010"
  - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated), s. 1](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088, 2009"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

The District of Tofino has two ticket systems. Bylaw notices under the [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/>) carry set amounts with early and late amounts, and can be disputed through screening and adjudication. Municipal tickets under the [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088](<https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version).pdf>) are issued under the Community Charter by designated officers (bylaw officers, RCMP, the Fire Chief and others). Pay-parking tickets are issued by Robbins Parking. Bylaw offences can also be prosecuted under the Offence Act.

## Steps

1. Read the notice for its amount and deadlines.
2. To pay early, pay a bylaw notice within 14 days of receiving it, or a municipal ticket within 7 business days of issue.
3. To dispute a bylaw notice, use the online form on the District website within 14 days of receiving it. A Screening Officer reviews it; if the offence is upheld you may ask for an adjudication hearing (held in Nanaimo).

## Good to know

- Municipal tickets match the bylaw notice amounts except noise, which is $500 for a first offence and $1,000 after that.
- Early payment: the amount is in Schedule A of the bylaw and varies by offence (for example $40 on a $50 dog-licence notice, $25 on a $50 parking notice). A municipal ticket is half the fine if paid within 7 business days ($10 for parking).
- Late payment: a bylaw notice paid more than 60 days after delivery costs the late amount, about 20% more for most offences (for example $60 on a $50 notice).
- A compliance agreement can reduce some penalties, for example by 50%.
- If an adjudicator finds the contravention occurred, you pay the fine plus a $25 adjudication fee. The adjudicator's decision is final. The Screening Officer decides only whether the offence occurred, not the circumstances.
- Pay-parking tickets are appealed to Robbins Parking.

## Official forms and pages

- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf)

## Related questions

- [Tofino noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/noise-rules.md)
- [Tofino dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/dog-licence.md)
- [Tofino backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/backyard-fire.md)
- [Tofino watering restrictions](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/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)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Campbell River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/campbell-river/bylaw-fines.md)

## Sources

- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 1107 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Municipal Ticket Information System Bylaw No. 1088 (consolidated) (PDF), District of Tofino](https://tofino.civicweb.net/filepro/document/1426/Municipal%20Ticket%20Information%20System%20Bylaw%20No.%201088%20(Consolidated%20Version%29.pdf) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Ticket Dispute, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/bylaw-ticket-dispute/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/bylaw-fines/_


---

---
title: "Tofino business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply"
question: "Do I need a business licence in Tofino, and how do I get one?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Starting and running a business
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/business-licence/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/business-licence.json"
---

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

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

**Short answer:** Yes. Anyone carrying on business in the District of Tofino needs a licence, with a separate one for each premises and each type of business there. Apply online through the District's business licence portal. Licences run January 1 to December 31.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Set by business class in Schedule A. 2026 examples: non-licensed full-service restaurant $155.80; professional services $233.70; commercial retail under 300 m² $233.70; non-profit $66.20. Plus a $77.90 processing fee.  
**How long:** After approval you have 30 days to finish and pay the annual fee.  
**Where:**
- Online: Business licence portal, https://citywideportal.com/auth/signup/tofino
- Email: Business licensing, business@tofino.ca
- Phone: District of Tofino, 250-725-3229
- In person: Municipal Office, 121 Third Street, PO Box 9, Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0 (Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **Who needs one:** Anyone carrying on business in the District (s. 3(1)), with a separate licence for each premises and for each type of business at the same premises. A business run entirely online or entirely mobile still needs a licence but need not give premises.
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1239.02, 2024), s. 3(1), (3), (4)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "A person must not carry on any business within the District unless that person holds a valid and" … "If a person operates a business at more than one location, that person shall apply" … "If a person operates more than one type of business at the same premises, that person shall apply" … "(i) the business is operated entirely online; or"
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Doing Business in Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/business-licensing/)
  - Official wording: "Anyone wishing to conduct business within the District of Tofino is required to hold a valid business licence."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fee:** Set by class in Schedule A of the bylaw. 2026 examples: non-licensed full-service restaurant $155.80; professional services $233.70; commercial retail under 300 m² $233.70; non-profit $66.20. Processing fee $77.90.
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1239.02, 2024), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "Non-Licensed - Full Service $151.30 $155.80 $160.50" … "Professional Services $226.90 $233.70 $240.70" … "Commercial Retail <300sq. Meters $226.90 $233.70 $240.70" … "Non-Profit $64.30 $66.20 $68.20" … "Processing Fee $75.60 $77.90 $80.20"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **How to apply:** Apply online through the District's business licence portal; pay the application fee; staff review and may schedule an inspection; once approved you have 30 days to finish and pay the annual fee. Checks can include zoning, building inspection, fire safety and health certificates.
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Apply for a New Business Licence](https://tofino.ca/business-development/business-licensing/)
  - Official wording: "Follow the steps below to apply for a new business licence. All applications are submitted online." … "You will be notified of approval and have 30 days to complete the application process."
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1239.02, 2024), s. 5(1)(e)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "a building inspection report by the Building Inspector;" … "a Fire Safety Certificate;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Renewal:** Licences run January 1 to December 31. Renew online on or before December 31; later renewals pay a late fee ($77.90 in 2026). A business operating after December 31 without renewing is treated as unlicensed.
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1239.02, 2024), s. 5(3), (7)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "commencing January 1 and ending December 31 of the year for which, the licence is issued." … "a business continuing to operate after December 31 that has not submitted a business licence" … "Late Renewal Fee $75.60 $77.90 $80.20"
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Yearly Renewal](https://tofino.ca/business-development/business-licensing/)
  - Official wording: "All business licences expire on December 31 each year."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Inter-community licence:** Not confirmed. The official text read does not offer an inter-community business licence.
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $500 for no business licence ($400 if paid within 14 days; $500 if late); $250 for advertising without a licence; $50 for failing to post the licence. Court fine up to $10,000.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 1107.21, 2026, Amendment 1107.21 (effective Jan 20, 2026)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/178167/)
  - Official wording: "No Business License 3(1) Yes $500 $400 $500 50%" … "Fail to Post License 3.5 Yes $50 $40 $60 50%" … "Advertising without a 3.8 No $250 $200 $300 n/a"
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1239.02, 2024), s. 4(4)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "a fine not exceeding $10,000."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** District of Tofino Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1239.02, 2024), Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022" … "Bylaw No. 1239.02, 2024"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

Under the District of Tofino's [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/), anyone carrying on business in the District needs a licence, with a separate licence for each premises and each type of business at the same premises. A business run entirely online or entirely mobile still needs one but need not give premises. General contractors must make sure their subcontractors are licensed.

## Steps

1. Check the zoning map and bylaws for your location first.
2. Apply online through the portal and pay the application fee. Upload documents such as tenancy agreements, floor plans, vehicle registration and letters of incorporation.
3. Staff review the application and may schedule an inspection. Checks can include zoning, building inspection, fire safety and health certificates.
4. Once approved, finish and pay the annual fee within 30 days, then display the licence.
5. Renew online on or before December 31, using the Business Licence Renewal Amendment & Declaration Form.

## Good to know

- Schedule A lists 2025, 2026 and 2027 fees, which rise 3% a year. A late renewal fee of $77.90 applies (2026), and name or alteration changes cost $39 (2026). Credit card payments carry a 2.5% surcharge.
- A business operating after December 31 without renewing is treated as unlicensed.
- A bylaw notice is $500 for no business licence ($400 if paid within 14 days), $250 for advertising without a licence and $50 for failing to post the licence. The court fine can be up to $10,000.
- The District's separate municipal ticket schedule still names the repealed Business Licence Bylaw No. 858 and lists $500 for no business licence.
- Short-term rental and bed and breakfast renewals need extra documents.
- No inter-community business licence is offered in the official text found.

## Official forms and pages

- [Business Licensing, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/business-licensing/)
- [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/home-based-business.md)
- [Tofino short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/short-term-rental.md)
- [Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/business-licence.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/business-licence.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/business-licence.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/business-licence.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/business-licence.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/business-licence.md)

## Sources

- [Business Licensing, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/business-licensing/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated through Bylaw 1239.02, 2024)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 1107.21, 2026 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/178167/) (read 2026-11-08)

_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 District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/business-licence/_


---

---
title: Tofino home-based business rules
question: "Can I run a business from my home in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Starting and running a business
owner: municipal
owner_body: District of Tofino
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/home-based-business/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/home-based-business.json"
---

# Tofino home-based business rules

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino you can run a home occupation as an accessory use if the zone allows it and a Permanent Resident lives on the lot. It still needs a business licence. It may use at most 40% of the main dwelling and have at most one non-resident employee.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (District of Tofino, https://tofino.ca)  
**Cost:** Business licence fee follows the business type (for example $233.70 for professional services in 2026) plus a $77.90 processing fee. There is no separate home-based class.  
**How long:** Not stated for this question; see business-licence.  
**Where:**
- Phone: District of Tofino (business licensing), 250-725-3229
- Email: Business licensing, business@tofino.ca
- Online: Business licence portal, https://citywideportal.com/auth/signup/tofino

## Key facts

- **Allowed:** Yes, as an accessory use to an established residence in zones that list home occupations, run by a Permanent Resident living on the lot. Up to 3 home occupations on a lot zoned for single-family only; 2 per dwelling unit on two-family or multi-family lots.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Home occupations are only permitted as an accessory use to an established" … "The maximum number of home occupations on a lot that is zoned to permit" … "only single family dwellings is 3." … "two-family dwellings or multi-family dwellings is 2 per dwelling unit." … "Shall only be permitted when operated by a Permanent Resident"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Business licence:** Yes. Every business needs a licence (s. 3(1)). The fee schedule has no separate home-based class; the fee follows the business type, for example Professional Services $233.70 (2026) or Artists and Artisans I, no employees or retail space, $116.90 (2026), plus a $77.90 processing fee.
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated), s. 3(1), Schedule A](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "A person must not carry on any business within the District unless that person holds a valid and" … "Professional Services $226.90 $233.70 $240.70" … "Artists and Artisans I - No Employees or Retail Space $113.50 $116.90 $120.40" … "Processing Fee $75.60 $77.90 $80.20"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Limits:** At most 40% of the main dwelling unit's area; at most one employee who is not a Permanent Resident; all parking off-street; only a sign allowed by the sign bylaw; no change to the dwelling's look; no noise, dust, smell or fire hazard beyond a normal dwelling.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2, s. 4.3.2(f) and (g)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Shall not exceed, except in the case of a Short Term Rental use, an" … "area of more than 40% of the principal dwelling unit on the lot;" … "employ on" … "the lot more than one non-Permanent Resident employee;" … "Shall provide all off street parking necessary for the operation of the" … "No alterations shall be made to the principal building, that" … "changes its character as a dwelling."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Businesses not allowed:** Anything selling goods not made on the premises, and cannabis retail or production. A bed and breakfast and a short-term rental cannot run on the same lot at once.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Shall not involve the sale or offering for sale, of any article which is" … "not produced on the premises." … "A Bed and Breakfast use and Short Term Rental use cannot be operated on" … "the same lot at the same time." … "which is carried on within a dwelling unit by a permanent resident of the dwelling unit, and excludes" … "Cannabis Retail and Cannabis Production."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (s. 4.3.2) and Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997"
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated), Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

Under section 4.3.2 of the District of Tofino's [Zoning Bylaw No. 770](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/), a home occupation is allowed as an accessory use to an established residence in zones that list it, and must be run by a Permanent Resident living on the lot. A single-family-only lot may have up to 3 home occupations; two-family and multi-family lots may have 2 per dwelling unit. Some downtown core comprehensive zones (CD-DC1, CD-DC3, CD-DC4) allow none. Check your zone on the zoning map.

Every business also needs a licence under the [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/).

The limits are:


- At most 40% of the main dwelling unit's area.
- At most one employee who is not a Permanent Resident.
- All parking off-street, and only a sign allowed by the sign bylaw.
- No change to the dwelling's look, and no noise, dust, smell or fire hazard beyond a normal dwelling.

## Good to know

- Not allowed: selling goods not made on the premises, and cannabis retail or production.
- A bed and breakfast and a short-term rental cannot run on the same lot at once.
- Permitted examples include professional offices, artist and craft studios, woodworker or locksmith shops, urban agriculture, residential childcare, bed and breakfast and short-term rental.
- Artists and Artisans I (no employees or retail space) is $116.90 in 2026, plus the $77.90 processing fee.

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (PDF), s. 4.3.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
- [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/business-licence.md)
- [Tofino zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Tofino short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/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)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/home-based-business.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/home-based-business.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/home-based-business.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/home-based-business.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/home-based-business.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/home-based-business.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with District of Tofino. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/home-based-business/_


---

---
title: Tofino short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)
question: "Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Tofino?"
place: Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/tofino
category: Housing and renting
owner: shared
sources_read: 2026-11-08
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/short-term-rental/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/short-term-rental.json"
---

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

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

**Short answer:** In Tofino, yes with conditions. Short-term rental is allowed only in a caretaker's cottage, single-family dwelling or suite in one, on a lot where a Permanent Resident lives in the other unit. Limit 3 bedrooms and 6 guests. You need a District business licence and the Province's host registration.

**Who handles it:** More than one level of government  
**Cost:** Business licence (Class 9-1): 2026, $535.30 for one sleeping unit plus $176.60 for each extra; 2027, $551.40 plus $181.90. A $77.90 processing fee (2026) also applies.  
**How long:** Not stated. Renewals are due by December 31.  
**Where:**
- Online: Short-term rental regulations, https://tofino.ca/business-development/short-term-rental-regulations/
- Phone: District of Tofino, 250-725-3229
- Phone: Provincial host registration (ServiceBC), 1-833-828-2240
- Email: Provincial short-term rental registry, STRregistry@gov.bc.ca

## Key facts

- **Allowed:** Yes, with conditions. Only in a caretaker's cottage, single-family dwelling or a suite within one, on a lot with two dwelling units where a Permanent Resident lives in the other unit. No more than 3 bedrooms and 6 guests.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2, s. 4.3.2(j)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Short Term Rental use is only permitted in the following structures:" … "Caretaker’s Cottage, Single-Family Dwelling, or Secondary Suite" … "located within a Single-Family Dwelling;" … "Short Term Rental use is only permitted on a lot that contains two" … "dwelling units; and,"
  - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulations, Understanding Short-Term Rentals in Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/short-term-rental-regulations/)
  - Official wording: "A Permanent Resident must live at the premises"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Business licence:** Yes. A business licence is required for each short-term rental premises. Fee (Class 9-1): 2026, $535.30 for one sleeping unit plus $176.60 for each extra sleeping unit; 2027, $551.40 plus $181.90. A $77.90 processing fee (2026) also applies.
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated), s. 3(1), Schedule A Class 9](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "A person must not carry on any business within the District unless that person holds a valid and" … "Short Term Rental based on One (1) Sleeping Unit $519.70 $535.30 $551.40" … "Each Additional Sleeping Unit $171.40 $176.60 $181.90" … "Processing Fee $75.60 $77.90 $80.20"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Provincial registration:** Yes. The District directs hosts to the Province's host registration. Provincial registration applies to rentals under 90 consecutive days, whether or not a local licence is needed. Tofino is on the Province's list of communities exempt from the principal residence requirement.
  - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulations, Province of British Columbia’s Short-Term Rental Legislation](https://tofino.ca/business-development/short-term-rental-regulations/)
  - Official wording: "Register as a host - Province of British Columbia"
  - Source: [Principal residence requirement, Province of BC, Exempt communities and land list](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement)
  - Official wording: "Tahsis Tofino Trail" … "Provincial registration requirements apply to short-term rentals offered for fewer than 90 consecutive days"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Operating rules:** Max 3 bedrooms and 6 overnight guests (including children); a Permanent Resident on site, or a licensed property manager reachable within 2 hours; one off-street parking stall per room rented; licence number on all advertising; guests get the Respectful Neighbourliness Brochure.
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated), s. 7.3](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "permit more than three (3) bedrooms to be made available for bed and breakfast or Short-Term" … "permit more than six (6) overnight guests at one time at a bed and breakfast or Short-Term" … "display the business licence number on any marketing, advertisements, or promotions for the" … "can respond to concerns raised by guests, neighbours, or the License Inspector within 2 hours."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2, s. 4.3.2(j)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "At least one off-street parking stall shall be provided for each room"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice: $500 for operating without a business licence ($400 if paid within 14 days); $500 for more than 6 guests, more than 3 sleeping units, or no onsite permanent resident (zoning). The bylaw also allows a court fine up to $10,000.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 1107.21, 2026, Amendment 1107.21 (effective Jan 20, 2026)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/178167/)
  - Official wording: "No Business License 3(1) Yes $500 $400 $500 50%"
  - Source: [https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/, Schedule A, Zoning Bylaw](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/)
  - Official wording: "More than 6 guests permitted in STR 4.3.2(j)(iii) No $500 $400 $500 n/a" … "No onsite permanent resident 4.3.2(j)(v) No $500 $400 $500 n/a"
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated), s. 4(4)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "a fine not exceeding $10,000."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (s. 4.3.2) and Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (s. 7.3)
  - Source: [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated), Title](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
  - Official wording: "District of Tofino Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)
  - Official wording: "Regulations for Short Term Rental use:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-08

## How it works

In Tofino, short-term rental is allowed only in a caretaker's cottage, a single-family dwelling or a suite within one, on a lot with two dwelling units where a Permanent Resident lives in the other unit. Only one dwelling on a lot may be a short-term rental, and the use cannot be switched between dwellings in a calendar year. A bed and breakfast and a short-term rental cannot operate on the same lot at the same time. Some zones, such as AR1, exclude it, so check your zone. The rules are in [Zoning Bylaw No. 770](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) s. 4.3.2 and [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/) s. 7.3.

The Province also requires host registration for rentals under 90 consecutive days, whether or not a local licence is needed. The Province's page lists Tofino as exempt from its principal residence requirement, but Tofino's own bylaws still require a Permanent Resident on site.

## Steps

1. Confirm your zone and lot allow it.
2. Apply for a short-term rental business licence through the District's portal, with a floor plan showing each bedroom and bed type and proof of a Permanent Resident.
3. Register with the Province (1-833-828-2240 or STRregistry@gov.bc.ca).
4. Put your licence number on all advertising.

## Good to know

- Rules: at most 3 bedrooms and 6 overnight guests (including children); a Permanent Resident on site, or a licensed property manager reachable within 2 hours; one off-street parking stall per room rented, and at least one onsite space for the Permanent Resident; guests get the Respectful Neighbourliness Brochure; water conservation information displayed in Stages 1 to 3.
- Bylaw notice fines: $500 for operating without a business licence ($400 if paid within 14 days); $500 for more than 6 guests, more than 3 sleeping units or no onsite permanent resident. The court fine can be up to $10,000.
- The District's municipal ticket schedule lists $1,000 for contravening permitted uses under the Zoning Bylaw, and still cites the old Business Licence Bylaw 858.
- Credit card payments carry a 2.5% surcharge. Fees rise 3% a year.

## Official forms and pages

- [Short-Term Rental Regulations, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/short-term-rental-regulations/)
- [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (PDF), s. 4.3.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/)

## Related questions

- [Tofino business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/business-licence.md)
- [Tofino home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/home-based-business.md)
- [Tofino secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/secondary-suite.md)
- [Tofino bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/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)
- [Ucluelet](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/ucluelet/short-term-rental.md)
- [Gold River](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/gold-river/short-term-rental.md)
- [Port Alberni](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-alberni/short-term-rental.md)
- [Cumberland](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/cumberland/short-term-rental.md)
- [Courtenay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/courtenay/short-term-rental.md)
- [Comox](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/comox/short-term-rental.md)

## Sources

- [Business Licensing, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/business-licensing/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Short-Term Rental Regulations, District of Tofino](https://tofino.ca/business-development/short-term-rental-regulations/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1239, 2022 (PDF, consolidated)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163656/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Zoning Bylaw No. 770, 1997 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4.3.2](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/157800/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 1107.21, 2026 (PDF)](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/178167/) (read 2026-11-08)
- [Principal residence requirement, Province of BC](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) (read 2026-11-08)
- [https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/](https://tofino.civicweb.net/document/163658/) (read 2026-11-08)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with any government. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tofino/short-term-rental/_