# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for Vernon --- title: "Vernon building permits: when you need one and how to apply" question: "Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit.json" --- # Vernon building permits: when you need one and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply? **Short answer:** Yes, in the City of Vernon you need a building permit to construct, alter, repair, add to, demolish or relocate a building or structure, including renovations and secondary suites. Apply online through the City's portal or on paper at 3001 32 Avenue. Digital PDF plans are required. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Non-refundable application fee $150 (simple building) or $250 (complex), plus a permit fee based on project value and a refundable security deposit. See the building-permit-fees answer. **How long:** The City's page and Building Bylaw 5900 do not state a review time. **Where:** - Online: Apply online, https://ecommerce2.vernon.ca/TempestApps/eapply/prospero/dashboard/Template/Welcome.aspx?TemplateName=BUILDING%20PERMIT - In person: Community Services Building (building counter), 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Phone: Building Permits, 250-550-3634 - Email: Building counter, buildingcounter@vernon.ca - Phone: Book an inspection, 250-550-3592 ## Key facts - **Needed for:** A building permit is needed to construct, alter, repair, add to, demolish, remove or relocate a building or structure, or change its use or occupancy. This includes new buildings, renovations, secondary suites and structural changes. Swimming pools and retaining walls (except low ones on single-family lots) also need permits. - Source: [Building Permit Application, Building Permit Application page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "A Building Permit is required for the construction, alteration, repair, or addition to a building or structure." … "This includes new buildings, renovations, secondary suites, and structural changes." - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 4.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "A person must not commence or continue any construction, alteration, excavation, reconstruction, demolition, removal, relocation or change the use or" - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 11.1 and 14.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "No person may construct, or structurally repair, a retaining wall without a" … "structurally repair, a swimming pool without a valid building permit." - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 3.3(c)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "a retaining wall supporting soil that is less than 1.2" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not needed for:** No permit for: an accessory building under 10 m² that creates no hazard (adding plumbing needs a permit); a fence; like-for-like replacement of roofing, siding, fixtures, cabinetry, flooring, windows or doors in the same opening; a deck within 600 mm of grade all round; trellises and arbours on single-family lots. - Source: [Building Permit Application, Do I Need a Permit?](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "Accessory buildings with an area less than 10 m² and that does not create a hazard." … "Adding plumbing to an accessory building will require a building permit." … "Decks that are within 600mm of grade around the entire deck." … "Replacing windows or doors in the same rough opening." … "Fencing and other landscaping." - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 3.3(a)-(c)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres;" … "a trellis, an arbour, a retaining wall supporting soil that is less than 1.2" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** Online through the City's web portal (MyCity account), or on paper in person at the Community Services Building, 3001 32nd Avenue. Digital copies of all documents and drawings, in PDF, must be provided before an application is accepted. - Source: [Building Permit Application, How to Apply](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "Submit your application through our secure web portal:" … "Community Services Building 3001 32nd Avenue" … "All plans and drawings must be submitted in PDF format." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What to submit:** Per the City checklist: MyCity login, owner details, construction value and floor area, description of work, Damage to Public Works form, title search dated within 30 days, Owner's Undertaking, new home registration (new construction), and design drawings with a site plan. Complex buildings also need drawings sealed by a professional engineer or architect. - Source: [Building Permit checklist, Building Permit Checklist](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/building-planning/permits-applications/Building%20Permit_Checklist_WEB.pdf) - Official wording: "Title Search dated within 30 days of application (required)." … "Owner’s Undertaking completed form (required)" … "Design Drawings including Site Plan (required)" … "Complete sets of drawings signed, sealed and dated by Professional Engineer or Architect (as required)" - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 10.4(c)-(d)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "include a copy of a title search for the relevant property made within 30" … "include a copy of a survey plan prepared by a British Columbia land" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Processing time:** Not confirmed. The published pages do not say how long a permit takes. - **Inspections:** Book by calling 250-550-3592 or using the online Building Inspection form. For simple buildings the owner must give at least 48 hours' notice when requesting an inspection; for complex buildings, at least 24 hours' online or written notice for the pre-construction and pre-occupancy meetings. - Source: [Building Permit Application, Application Status & Next Steps](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "Inspections can be scheduled by calling 250-550-3592 or submitting a request using the online Building Inspection form" - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 10.32 and 10.36](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "the owner must give at least 48 hours’ notice to the City when requesting an inspection" … "give at least 24 hours’ online or written notice to the City when requesting" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** Building Permits (Planning & Community Services), 3001 32 Ave., Vernon BC V1T 2L8; phone 250-550-3634; Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Email buildingcounter@vernon.ca. - Source: [Contact Us, Contact Us page](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) - Official wording: "Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm" … "3001 32 Ave. Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 250-550-3634" - Source: [Building Permit checklist, Building Permit Checklist header](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/building-planning/permits-applications/Building%20Permit_Checklist_WEB.pdf) - Official wording: "3001 32 Avenue, Vernon BC V1T 2L8 Phone:(250) 550-3634 Email: buildingcounter@vernon.ca www.vernon.ca  MyCity Account Login Credentials (required). If you don't already have an account: register here" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** City of Vernon Building Bylaw No. 5900, 2021 - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Vernon Building Bylaw No. 5900, 2021" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under [Building Bylaw 5900](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf), you need a building permit to construct, alter, repair, add to, demolish, remove or relocate a building or structure, or to change its use or occupancy. That covers new buildings, renovations, secondary suites and structural changes. Swimming pools also need permits, as do retaining walls except low ones on single-family lots. ## Steps 1. Check the list below, or call 250-550-3634 if you are unsure. 2. Gather the City's checklist items: MyCity login, owner details, construction value and floor area, a description of the work, the Damage to Public Works form, a title search dated within 30 days, the Owner's Undertaking, new home registration (new construction), and design drawings with a site plan. Complex buildings also need drawings sealed by a professional engineer or architect. 3. Apply online through MyCity, or on paper at the Community Services Building, 3001 32 Avenue. Digital PDF copies of all documents and drawings must be provided before an application is accepted. 4. Once approved, the City emails the fee and payment instructions. The permit is issued after payment. 5. Book inspections on 250-550-3592 or with the online Building Inspection form. For a simple building, give at least 48 hours' notice. For a complex building, give at least 24 hours' online or written notice for the pre-construction and pre-occupancy meetings. After the approved inspections, the Occupancy Permit is emailed to you. ## Good to know - No permit is needed for: an accessory building under 10 m² that creates no hazard (adding plumbing needs a permit); a fence; like-for-like replacement of roofing, siding, fixtures, cabinetry, flooring, windows or doors in the same opening; a deck within 600 mm of grade all round; or trellises and arbours on single-family lots. - Replacing a whole deck, changing its size, or fitting a window or door of a different size does need a permit. - Retaining walls: the City's page says a permit is required for walls 1.2 m or higher, where there is substantial surcharge, or in a sensitive land area. - An application expires 180 days after a complete application is received if no permit has issued, unless the delay is the City's. - Re-inspections and after-hours inspections carry extra fees. ## What you'll need - Building Permit checklist (City PDF) - Site plan and design drawings as digital PDF files - Title search dated within 30 days ## Official forms and pages - [Building Permit Application page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - [Building Permit checklist (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/building-planning/permits-applications/Building%20Permit_Checklist_WEB.pdf) - [Building Bylaw 5900 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit-fees.md) - [Vernon permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Vernon fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fence-rules.md) - [Vernon secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/secondary-suite.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permits in British Columbia: how to apply, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/building-permit.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/building-permit.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/building-permit.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/building-permit.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/building-permit.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/building-permit.md) ## Sources - [Building Permit Application, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 5900 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Permit checklist (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/building-planning/permits-applications/Building%20Permit_Checklist_WEB.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Contact Us, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit/_ --- --- title: "Vernon fence rules: permits and height limits" question: "Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fence-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fence-rules.json" --- # Vernon fence rules: permits and height limits **Question:** Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon a fence does not need a building permit, but Zoning Bylaw 6000 limits its height. In housing zones a fence can be 1.2 m high at the street setback and up to 2.0 m behind it or along side and rear lot lines. Retaining walls and pool enclosures have their own rules. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** No building permit fee for a fence. A Retaining Wall Permit application fee is $150 where one is required. **How long:** Not applicable for a fence. **Where:** - Phone: Planning and Community Services, 250-550-3634 - Email: Planning, planning@vernon.ca - In person: Community Services Building, 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 ## Key facts - **Permit:** No building permit is needed for a fence. Retaining walls are different (see other rules). - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 3.3(a)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "except as set out in Part 11 [Retaining Walls] of this bylaw, a fence;" - Source: [Building Permit Application, Do I Need a Permit?](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "Fencing and other landscaping." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, front yard:** 1.2 m maximum, measured from natural grade, in housing, resort, community and commercial mixed-use zones. One pedestrian gate up to 2.0 m high and 1.0 m wide is allowed within the setback abutting a street. All subject to traffic sight lines. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 6 Landscape and Screening, s. 6.5.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) - Official wording: "Subject to traffic sight lines, Fence height measured from Natural Grade shall not exceed:" … "1.2 m in housing, resort, community, and commercial mixed-use zones." … "One gate for pedestrian access may be 2.0 m in height with a maximum width of 1.0" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Height, side and rear yards:** Up to 2.0 m if behind the setback abutting a street, or along a lot line not abutting a street (housing, resort, community and commercial mixed-use zones). Up to 2.4 m where abutting an agricultural or industrial zone. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 6 Landscape and Screening, s. 6.5.1.3-.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) - Official wording: "The maximum Fence height may increase to 2.0 m if situated behind the Setback" … "abutting a Street, or along a Lot Line not abutting a Street;" … "The maximum Fence height may increase to 2.4 m where abutting an agricultural or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Corner lots and sightlines:** Zoning fence limits are 'subject to traffic sight lines'. On a corner parcel, no fence, structure, retaining wall or vegetation is allowed between 0.9 m and 2.75 m above grade inside the sight triangle, which extends 9.0 m from the corner (5.0 m between laneways). A reduction needs an engineer's opinion and the City Engineer's approval. - Source: [Traffic Bylaw 5600, Schedule B, B.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) - Official wording: "No owner or occupier of a corner parcel at any intersection shall be permitted to" … "erect or grow any structure, fence, retaining wall or vegetation where it is within the" … "vertical area contained within 0.9 and 2.75 metres above the finished grade of the" … "measured 9.0 m from their" - Source: [Traffic Bylaw 5600, Schedule B, B.2](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) - Official wording: "A Sight Triangle reduction may be considered for new or existing development," - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 6 Landscape and Screening, s. 6.5.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) - Official wording: "Subject to traffic sight lines, Fence height measured from Natural Grade shall not exceed:" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other rules:** Barbed wire and electric fences are not allowed (exceptions: livestock enclosures in agricultural zones; detention facilities); razor wire is banned everywhere. Retaining walls: 1.2 m maximum (except where required for subdivision approval). Pool or hot tub enclosure: at least 1.22 m high, openings no more than 100 mm, self-closing and self-latching gate. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 6 Landscape and Screening, s. 6.5.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) - Official wording: "No barbed wire or electrified Fencing shall be allowed, except:" … "Razor wire Fences shall not be permitted in any zone." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 6 Landscape and Screening, s. 6.6.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) - Official wording: "Retaining Wall height, measured from Natural Grade on the lower side of the wall, shall" … "not exceed 1.2 m, except for Retaining Walls required as a condition of subdivision" - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 14.2-14.3](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "having a minimum height of 1.22 metres and no openings" … "Access through a fence enclosing a swimming pool, spa or hot tub must be" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 6000, s. 6.5 (Fencing) and 6.6 (Retaining Walls); Traffic Bylaw No. 5600, Schedule B (Sight Triangle Requirements); Building Bylaw No. 5900, Part 14 (Pools) - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 6 Landscape and Screening, s. 6.5-6.6](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) - Official wording: "Fence height measured from Natural Grade shall not exceed:" - Source: [Traffic Bylaw 5600, Schedule B](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) - Official wording: "SCHEDULE B SIGHT TRIANGLE REQUIREMENTS B.1. No owner or occupier of a corner parcel at any intersection shall be permitted to" … "CONSOLIDATED FOR CONVENIENCE" … "AMENDMENTS TO BYLAW 5600 BYLAW ADOPTION AMENDMENTS" - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, Part 14](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "A swimming pool, including a spa or hot tub must be enclosed within a fence" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works A fence does not need a building permit ([Building Bylaw 5900](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) s. 3.3). Height and materials are set by [Zoning Bylaw 6000](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) sections 6.5 (fencing) and 6.6 (retaining walls). Heights are measured from natural grade and are subject to traffic sight lines. ## Good to know - Housing, resort, community and commercial mixed-use zones: 1.2 m maximum. One pedestrian gate up to 2.0 m high and 1.0 m wide is allowed within the setback abutting a street. - In those zones a fence can be up to 2.0 m if it is behind the setback abutting a street, or along a lot line that does not abut a street. It can be up to 2.4 m where it abuts an agricultural or industrial zone. Industrial and servicing zones allow 2.4 m. - Corner lots: no fence, structure, retaining wall or vegetation is allowed between 0.9 m and 2.75 m above grade inside the sight triangle, which extends 9.0 m from the corner (5.0 m between laneways). A reduction needs an engineer's opinion and the City Engineer's approval ([Traffic Bylaw 5600](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf), Schedule B). - Barbed wire and electric fences are not allowed (exceptions: livestock enclosures in agricultural zones, and detention facilities). Razor wire is banned everywhere. - Retaining walls: 1.2 m maximum, except where required for subdivision approval. Where a fence and retaining wall are combined, the total at the lot line may not exceed 2.0 m. The City's page says a retaining wall permit is needed for walls 1.2 m or higher. - Pool or hot tub enclosure: at least 1.22 m high, openings no more than 100 mm, and a self-closing, self-latching gate. A pool enclosure needs a pool building permit. - An over-height fence in a housing zone can bring a bylaw notice of $250 ($225 if paid within 14 days) or a municipal ticket of $500 ($450 early). - Not sure of your lot line or zone? Ask Planning on 250-550-3634 before you build. ## Official forms and pages - [Section 6 - Landscape and Screening, Zoning Bylaw 6000 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) - [Traffic Bylaw 5600 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) - [Retaining Wall Permit Application](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/retaining-wall-permit-application) ## Related questions - [Vernon building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit.md) - [Vernon permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/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) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/fence-rules.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/fence-rules.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/fence-rules.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/fence-rules.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/fence-rules.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/fence-rules.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 6 Landscape and Screening (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-6-landscape-and-screening.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 5900 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Traffic Bylaw 5600 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Permit Application, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Contact Us, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fence-rules/_ --- --- title: Vernon permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages question: "Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/deck-shed-garage-permit/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/deck-shed-garage-permit.json" --- # Vernon permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages **Question:** Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, a shed under 10 m² and a deck within 600 mm of the ground all round need no building permit. A shed of 10 m² or more needs one, and so does a garage or carport. Zoning rules on size and placement apply either way. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Application fee $150 (simple building) or $250 (complex), plus permit fee and security deposit. See building-permit-fees. **How long:** The City's page does not state a review time. **Where:** - Online: Apply online, https://ecommerce2.vernon.ca/TempestApps/eapply/prospero/dashboard/Template/Welcome.aspx?TemplateName=BUILDING%20PERMIT - Phone: Building Permits, 250-550-3634 - In person: Community Services Building, 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 ## Key facts - **Sheds:** A shed or other accessory building under 10 m² and creating no hazard needs no building permit (adding plumbing does). One of 10 m² or more needs a building permit. - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 3.3(b)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres;" - Source: [Building Permit Application, Do I Need a Permit?](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "Accessory buildings with an area less than 10 m² and that does not create a hazard." … "Adding plumbing to an accessory building will require a building permit." - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 4.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "unless a building official has issued a valid and subsisting permit for the" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Decks:** No permit for a deck within 600 mm of grade around its entire perimeter, or for replacing a rotten deck structure with a similar product. Replacing a whole deck or changing its size needs a permit. - Source: [Building Permit Application, Do I Need a Permit?](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "Decks that are within 600mm of grade around the entire deck." … "Replacing roofing, siding, or rotten deck structure for a similar product." … "Replacing a whole deck or changing its size will require a building permit." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Garages and carports:** No separate rule is stated. Only accessory buildings under 10 m² are exempt, so a garage or carport of 10 m² or more needs a building permit. - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 3.3(b) and 10.4(k)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "an accessory building with a floor area of less than 10 square metres;" … "except for garages, carports and garden structures located on land," - Source: [Building Permit Application, Apply for](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "- Institutional Buildings - Mixed-Use Buildings - Accessory Structures ## Before you Start Please review the Building Permit checklist to ensure you have all required information and documents." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning limits:** In housing zones: no accessory building in a front yard (fences excepted, and unless it holds a permitted accessory dwelling or the lot is double-fronting); total accessory coverage no more than 14% of lot area or 100 m², whichever is less. In the MUS zone, accessory buildings are limited to 4.5 m high; setbacks depend on lot class. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 4 Development Regulations, s. 4.3.2 and 4.3.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-4-development-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "No Accessory Buildings or Structures, except for fences, are allowed in a Front Yard" … "The total Lot coverage of Accessory Buildings or Structures shall not exceed 14% of" … "the Lot Area, or have a total footprint greater than 100 m2, whichever is less." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 9.1 MUS, s. 9.1.5-9.1.6](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-9_1-mus.pdf) - Official wording: "Accessory Building(s) 4.5 m" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw No. 5900 (s. 3.3 exemptions) and Zoning Bylaw No. 6000 (s. 4.3 Accessory Development) - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 3.3](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "This bylaw does not apply to" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 4 Development Regulations, s. 4.3](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-4-development-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "Landscaping. 4.3 Accessory Development 4.3.1 No person shall erect or permit to be erected an antenna, satellite dish/receiver, radio or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Building Bylaw 5900](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) exempts a few small structures from a building permit. [Zoning Bylaw 6000](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-4-development-regulations.pdf) section 4.3 still controls where accessory buildings may go and how big they can be, even when no permit is needed. ## Good to know - Shed or other accessory building: under 10 m² and creating no hazard, no permit (adding plumbing does need one). At 10 m² or more, a building permit is needed. - Deck: no permit if it is within 600 mm of grade around its entire perimeter, or for replacing a rotten deck structure with a similar product. Replacing a whole deck or changing its size needs a permit. The 600 mm rule is stated on the City's page, not in the bylaw text. - Garage or carport: no separate rule is stated. Only accessory buildings under 10 m² are exempt, so a garage or carport of 10 m² or more needs a building permit. Confirm with the Building counter. - Housing zones: no accessory building in a front yard (fences excepted, unless it holds a permitted accessory dwelling or the lot is double-fronting). Total accessory building coverage is limited to 14% of the lot area or 100 m², whichever is less. - In the MUS zone, accessory buildings are limited to 4.5 m high, and setbacks depend on lot class. Other zones have their own limits. - Decks may project into setbacks by up to 0.6 m (1.0 m in a front or flanking side setback). - Call 250-550-3634 before you start if you are unsure. ## Official forms and pages - [Building Permit Application page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - [Section 4 - Development Regulations, Zoning Bylaw 6000 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-4-development-regulations.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit.md) - [Vernon building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit-fees.md) - [Vernon fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fence-rules.md) - [Vernon secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/secondary-suite.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Deck and shed permit thresholds in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) ## Sources - [Building Permit Application, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 4 Development Regulations (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-4-development-regulations.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 5900 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 9.1 MUS (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-9_1-mus.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Contact Us, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/deck-shed-garage-permit/_ --- --- title: Vernon building permit fees question: "How much does a building permit cost?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit-fees/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit-fees.json" --- # Vernon building permit fees **Question:** How much does a building permit cost? **Short answer:** A City of Vernon building permit has a non-refundable application fee of $150 (simple building) or $250 (complex), plus a permit fee of $11.50 per $1,000 of permit value up to $500,000, and a refundable security deposit. Fees are set in Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Application $150 or $250. Permit fee per $1,000 of value (or part): $11.50 up to $500,000; $10.50 from $500,001 to $1,000,000; $9.50 above $1,000,000. Security deposit $1,500 simple, $2,500 complex. **How long:** The permit is issued after the fee is paid, once the application is approved. **Where:** - Phone: Building Permits, 250-550-3634 - In person: Community Services Building, 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 ## Key facts - **Lowest fee:** $11.50 per $1,000 of permit value (or part of $1,000) up to $500,000, plus the non-refundable application fee ($150 simple building, $250 complex). - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2 E(ii)(a)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "for each $1000 of permit value or part thereof up to" … "$ 11.50 (Bylaw 5946)" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2 E(i)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Simple buildings $150.00 (Bylaw 5891)" … "Complex buildings $250.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How the fee is worked out:** Per $1,000 of permit value, or part: $11.50 up to $500,000; $10.50 from $500,001 to $1,000,000; $9.50 above $1,000,000. For a complex building the total permit fee is reduced by 10%. The fee is doubled (to a maximum of $10,000) if construction starts before the permit is issued. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2 E(ii)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "for each $1000 of permit value or part thereof from $ 10.50" … "for each $1000 of permit value or part thereof $ 9.50" … "$ 11.50 (Bylaw 5946)" … "Buildings shall be reduced by 20% 10% of the total" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2 E(iii)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Complex Buildings shall be reduced by" - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 9.8](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "the permit fee is reduced as prescribed in the current City of Vernon Fees and" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Application or plan review fee:** Non-refundable application fee: $150 for a simple (non-complex) building, $250 for a complex building. The schedule does not say it is credited toward the permit fee. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2 E(i)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Non-refundable application fees:" … "Simple buildings $150.00 (Bylaw 5891)" … "Complex buildings $250.00" - Source: [Building Permit Application, Application Fees](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "- Application Fees - $150 (for Non-Complex) - $250 (for Complex) Complexity determined by BC Building Code Div A, Section 1.3.3" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees:** Plumbing permit: $10 per fixture, minimum $150 (includes first 5 fixtures). Demolition permit: $150 (heritage building $250). Security deposit (refunded after final inspection): $1,500 simple building, $2,500 complex, $1,500 demolition, $5,000 building move. Re-inspection $150; after-hours inspection $175. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2 F](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Per fixture fee $ 10.00" … "Minimum fee (includes the first 5 fixtures) $150.00 (Bylaw 5891)" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2 I](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Non-Heritage Buildings $150.00 (Bylaw 5626)" … "Heritage Buildings (Bylaw 5415) $250.00 (Bylaw 5626)" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2 E(viii)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "(a) for a simple building permit $1,500.00 (Bylaw 5882)" … "$2,500.00 (Bylaw 5882)" - Source: [Building Permit Application, Application Fees](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "A security deposit is required in addition to the permit fee; the amount will be provided after review and refunded following final inspection." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to pay:** Once the application is approved, the City emails the fee and payment instructions; the permit is issued after payment. Online payment is by credit card only (2.4% surcharge); security deposits cannot be paid online. - Source: [Building Permit Application, Application Fees / Application Status & Next Steps](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "Once your application is approved, the fee amount and payment instructions will be sent to you by email" … "After payment is received, your permit will be issued and accessible through MyCity" … "A 2.4% surcharge applies to all credit card payments." … "Security deposits cannot be paid online." - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 10.7-10.8](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "the owner must first pay to the City" … "must pay to the City, at the time of the application, a security deposit as prescribed" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3909, Schedule 'A' (Fee Schedule), section 2 (Planning and Community Services), items E (building permits), F (plumbing) and I (demolition); permit fees required by Building Bylaw No. 5900, s. 10.7 - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 2](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "E. Building Permit Fees:" … "F. Plumbing Permit Fees:" - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 10.7](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "the building permit fee prescribed in the current City of Vernon Fees and" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The City of Vernon sets building permit fees in Schedule A of [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf). You pay a non-refundable application fee when you apply, then a permit fee based on the permit value. Once the application is approved, the City emails the fee and payment instructions, and the permit is issued after payment. ## Good to know - Application fee: $150 for a simple (non-complex) building, $250 for a complex one. The schedule does not say it is credited toward the permit fee. "Complex" is set by BC Building Code Division A, section 1.3.3. - Permit fee, per $1,000 of permit value (or part of $1,000): $11.50 up to $500,000; $10.50 from $500,001 to $1,000,000; $9.50 above $1,000,000. The schedule states no minimum permit fee. - For a complex building, the total permit fee is reduced by 10%. (The consolidated schedule also prints a struck-out 20%; confirm the percentage with the City.) - The permit fee is doubled, to a maximum of $10,000, if construction starts before the permit is issued. - Security deposit, refunded after the final inspection: $1,500 for a simple building, $2,500 for a complex one, $1,500 for demolition and $5,000 for a building move. The City's page says the amount is given after review, so confirm yours. - Other fees: plumbing permit $10 per fixture, minimum $150 (includes the first 5 fixtures); demolition permit $150 ($250 for a heritage building); re-inspection $150; after-hours inspection $175. - Online payment is by credit card only, with a 2.4% surcharge. Security deposits cannot be paid online. ## Official forms and pages - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - [Building Permit Application page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) ## Related questions - [Vernon building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit.md) - [Vernon permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/deck-shed-garage-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/building-permit-fees.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/building-permit-fees.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/building-permit-fees.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/building-permit-fees.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/building-permit-fees.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/building-permit-fees.md) ## Sources - [Building Permit Application, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 5900 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit-fees/_ --- --- title: "Vernon zoning: find your zone and what it allows" question: "How do I find out how my property is zoned and what I can build on it?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/zoning-lookup/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/zoning-lookup.json" --- # Vernon zoning: find your zone and what it allows **Question:** How do I find out how my property is zoned and what I can build on it? **Short answer:** Look up your lot on the City of Vernon's online interactive map, then read your zone's section in Zoning Bylaw 6000. The bylaw sets what can be built where and how big. For help, email planning@vernon.ca or call 250-550-3634. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **How long:** The online map is available at any time. **Where:** - Online: City of Vernon interactive map (zoning), https://gis.vernon.ca/vertigisstudio/web/?app=e297735049ac43aa93fb632ea628f5a1 - Email: Planning, planning@vernon.ca - Phone: Planning and Community Services, 250-550-3634 - In person: Community Services Building, 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) ## Key facts - **How to find your zone:** Use the City's online Interactive Map of Vernon (zoning map). The bylaw also includes Schedule A: Zoning Map as a PDF. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Zoning Bylaw 6000 page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000) - Official wording: "View the new Interactive Map of Vernon" - Source: [Bylaw 6000 sections, Bylaw 6000 page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000/bylaw-6000) - Official wording: "Schedule A: Zoning Map" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Zoning bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw 6000, adopted June 24, 2024 (replaced Zoning Bylaw 5000). The consolidated copy lists text amendments up to Bylaw 6083 (September 8, 2026) and map amendments up to Bylaw 6075 (September 28, 2026). - Source: [Bylaw 6000 sections, Bylaw 6000 page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000/bylaw-6000) - Official wording: "On June 24, 2024, Vernon City Council adopted Zoning Bylaw 6000." … "Zoning Bylaw 6000 replaces Zoning Bylaw 5000." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, Amendment tables](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "General text refinement updates to improve clarity and" … "6092 Okanagan Landing Road CMTY – Community" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What the zone controls:** The zoning bylaw determines what can be built where and to what scale: the permitted uses, number of homes (density), height, setbacks, and landscaping and parking, zone by zone. It does not govern how a building is constructed (the BC Building Code) or business licensing. - Source: [Zoning & Land Use, Zoning & Land Use page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use) - Official wording: "It determines what can be built where and to what scale." … "what types of buildings they can be and what types of businesses and activities can happen on a property." … "It also does not determine the rules for business licensing" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 9.1 MUS Multi-Unit Small Scale, s. 9.1.2-9.1.6](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-9_1-mus.pdf) - Official wording: "9.1.2 Permitted Uses" … "9.1.5 Siting of Buildings" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Contact:** Planning and Community Services, 3001 32 Ave., Vernon BC V1T 2L8; 250-550-3634; Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Email planning@vernon.ca for zoning and development enquiries. - Source: [Construction and Renovating, Construction & Renovating page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/construction-renovating) - Official wording: "For Zoning & Development general enquires you can email planning@vernon.ca or use the link below." - Source: [Contact Us, Contact Us page](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) - Official wording: "3001 32 Ave. Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 250-550-3634" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** City of Vernon Zoning Bylaw 6000 - Source: [Bylaw 6000 sections, Bylaw 6000 page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000/bylaw-6000) - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw 6000 replaces Zoning Bylaw 5000." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Zoning Bylaw 6000](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000/bylaw-6000) was adopted June 24, 2024 and replaced Zoning Bylaw 5000. It determines what can be built where and to what scale: permitted uses, number of homes (density), height, setbacks, landscaping and parking, zone by zone. It does not govern how a building is constructed (the BC Building Code) or business licensing. The consolidated copy lists text amendments up to Bylaw 6083 (September 8, 2026) and map amendments up to Bylaw 6075 (September 28, 2026). It is marked "Consolidated for Convenience", so check for newer amendments. ## Steps 1. Open the City's online Interactive Map of Vernon (zoning map) to find your lot's zone. The bylaw also includes Schedule A: Zoning Map as a PDF. 2. Open Zoning Bylaw 6000 and read the section for your zone. For example, the MUS zone (Section 9.1) sets permitted uses, density by lot class, setbacks, maximum heights and landscaping. 3. If you are unsure what the rules mean for your plan, contact Planning and Community Services at planning@vernon.ca or 250-550-3634 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). ## Good to know - The building permit checklist also directs you to the Zoning Map for zoning information. - Zoning rules apply even when no building permit is needed. ## Zones 19 zones are listed from [Zoning Bylaw No. 6000 (2024), consolidated for convenience (amendments through Bylaw 6083)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/zoning/index.json Look up the zone of an address: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/zoning/lookup?address=123+Main+St ## Official forms and pages - [Zoning and Land Use page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000 (sections and combined PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000/bylaw-6000) ## Related questions - [Vernon secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/secondary-suite.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/zoning-lookup.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/zoning-lookup.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/zoning-lookup.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/zoning-lookup.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/zoning-lookup.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/zoning-lookup.md) ## Sources - [Zoning & Land Use, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw 6000 sections, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000/bylaw-6000) (read 2026-11-05) - [Contact Us, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 9.1 MUS Multi-Unit Small Scale](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-9_1-mus.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Construction and Renovating, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/construction-renovating) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/zoning-lookup/_ --- --- title: Vernon secondary suite and carriage house rules question: "Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/secondary-suite/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/secondary-suite.json" --- # Vernon secondary suite and carriage house rules **Question:** Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house? **Short answer:** Often, depending on your zone and lot. In the City of Vernon, Zoning Bylaw 6000 allows a secondary suite (inside a house) in several zones, and a detached accessory dwelling unit (coach house, garden suite) in some. You need a building permit. Confirm your lot with Planning. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Building permit fees apply (see building-permit-fees). Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 also lists a $60 a year secondary suite business licence fee and a $30 annual declaration processing fee; ask the City whether they apply to you. **Where:** - Phone: Planning and Community Services, 250-550-3634 - Email: Planning, planning@vernon.ca - In person: Community Services Building, 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 ## Key facts - **Secondary suite allowed:** Yes. A secondary suite is a dwelling unit inside a detached, semi-detached or townhouse building. Allowed in AGRL, AGRS, and in MUS, MUA and RTH lots without full services (1 home plus 1 suite); on serviced MUS lots a suite counts toward the 3 to 6 unit cap. ALR: only lots under 1 ha without sewer. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, Definitions](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "Secondary Suite means a Dwelling Unit that is subordinate to, and located within, a Building" … "Dwelling Units may include Secondary Suites and/or Accessory" … "Maximum Density: 1 Dwelling Unit, plus 1 Secondary Suite, plus 1 Accessory Dwelling Unit" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, s. 8.2.3](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "Maximum Density: 1 Dwelling Unit, plus 1 Secondary Suite, plus 1 Accessory Dwelling Unit" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** Yes, in some zones. An accessory dwelling unit (coach house, garden suite) is allowed in AGRL; AGRS (over 1 ha without sewer, or any lot on community sewer); MUS class 2; MUA classes 2 and 3; and RTH class 2 (community sewer). Not allowed everywhere. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, Definitions](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) means an Accessory Building used in whole or part as a" … "Maximum Density: 1 Dwelling Unit, plus 1 Secondary Suite, plus 1 Accessory Dwelling Unit" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, s. 8.2.3](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "Maximum Density: 1 Dwelling Unit, plus 1 Secondary Suite, plus 1 Accessory Dwelling Unit" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, s. 9.1.3 (Class 2)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "plus 1 Accessory Dwelling Unit" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** Secondary suite: gross floor area no more than 49% of the dwelling it serves; separate exterior entrance (or shared hall); private amenity area; lit, barrier-free 1.5 m path from the street. Accessory dwelling unit: net floor area no more than 100 m², building height 8.0 m, no rooftop deck. Minimum dwelling unit size 30 m². - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations, s. 5.4.1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "The Gross Floor Area of a Secondary Suite shall not exceed 49% of the Gross Floor" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations, s. 5.4.1.3-5.4.1.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "Secondary Suites must have a separate entrance with exterior access, except where" … "A 1.5 m wide Barrier-free, lit, and clearly marked pathway from the Street to the main" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations, s. 5.4.2.1-5.4.2.5](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "The Net Floor Area of an Accessory Dwelling Unit must not exceed 100 m²." … "The maximum Height of an Accessory Building with an Accessory Dwelling Unit is" … "Rooftop Decks or patios are not permitted on Accessory Dwelling Units." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations, s. 5.2.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "The minimum size of a Dwelling Unit is 30 m² (323 ft²) Net Floor Area" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Parking:** Zoning Table 7.7 sets 1.0 vehicle space per dwelling unit minimum (4.0 maximum) for small scale multi-unit housing. A suite is a dwelling unit. No parking is required within 400 m of a Frequent Transit Route or in a Transit Oriented Development Area. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 7 Parking, Loading and Bike Parking, s. 7.3.5; Table 7.7](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-7-parking-loading-and-bike-parking.pdf) - Official wording: "Mobile Home 1.0 per 4.0 per" … "Buildings and Uses located in a TOD Area or within 400 m from the centerline of road" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permits:** A building permit is required to add a secondary suite. A development permit is also needed first if the property is in a development permit area set by the Official Community Plan. - Source: [Building Permit Application](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) - Official wording: "This includes new buildings, renovations, secondary suites, and structural changes." - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 10.1(a)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "the owner must apply for and obtain a development permit if the building" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 6000, s. 5.4 (Secondary Suites & Accessory Dwellings) and zone density tables; Building Bylaw No. 5900 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations, s. 5.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "5.4 Secondary Suites & Accessory Dwellings" - Source: [Building Bylaw 5900, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Vernon Building Bylaw No. 5900, 2021" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works In [Zoning Bylaw 6000](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf), a secondary suite is a dwelling unit inside a detached, semi-detached or townhouse building. A detached coach house or garden suite is an "accessory dwelling unit". Which you can have depends on your zone, lot size and servicing, so confirm your lot class with Planning before you plan. ## Steps 1. Confirm your zone and lot class with Planning (planning@vernon.ca or 250-550-3634). 2. If your property is in a development permit area set by the Official Community Plan, a development permit is needed first. 3. Apply for a building permit. The checklist asks for a secondary suite assessment file number, if applicable. ## Good to know - Secondary suites are allowed in AGRL and AGRS, and in MUS, MUA and RTH lots without full services (one home plus one suite). On serviced MUS lots, a suite counts toward the cap of 3 to 6 units. In the ALR, only lots under 1 ha without sewer qualify. - Accessory dwelling units are allowed in AGRL; AGRS (over 1 ha without sewer, or any lot on community sewer); MUS class 2; MUA classes 2 and 3; and RTH class 2 (community sewer). They are not allowed everywhere. - Secondary suite: gross floor area no more than 49% of the dwelling it serves; a separate exterior entrance (or shared hall); a private amenity area; and a lit, barrier-free 1.5 m path from the street. - Accessory dwelling unit: net floor area no more than 100 m², building height 8.0 m, no rooftop deck. Where it sits in a larger accessory building, the total footprint may not exceed 150 m². Minimum dwelling unit size is 30 m². - Parking: Table 7.7 is reported to set a minimum of 1.0 vehicle space per dwelling unit (maximum 4.0) for small scale multi-unit housing, and a suite is a dwelling unit. Confirm with Planning. No parking is required within 400 m of a Frequent Transit Route or in a Transit Oriented Development Area. - An unlawful secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit can bring a bylaw notice of $250 ($225 if paid within 14 days) or a municipal ticket of $500 ($450 early). ## Official forms and pages - [Section 5 - Specific Use Regulations, Zoning Bylaw 6000 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - [Section 9.1 - MUS Multi-Unit Small Scale zone (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-9_1-mus.pdf) - [Building Permit Application page](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) ## Related questions - [Vernon building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit.md) - [Vernon permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/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) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/secondary-suite.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/secondary-suite.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/secondary-suite.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/secondary-suite.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/secondary-suite.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/secondary-suite.md) ## Sources - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 9.1 MUS Multi-Unit Small Scale (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-9_1-mus.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 7 Parking, Loading and Bike Parking (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-7-parking-loading-and-bike-parking.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Bylaw 5900 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5900_building_bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Building Permit Application, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/permits-applications/building-permit-application/building-permit-application) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Contact Us, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/secondary-suite/_ --- --- title: Vernon tree removal rules and permits question: "Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Building, renovating and your property owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/tree-removal/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/tree-removal.json" --- # Vernon tree removal rules and permits **Question:** Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property? **Short answer:** Often yes. Under the City of Vernon's Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, you need a permit to damage, destroy or remove a tree with a stem over 8 cm across at 1 m above the ground, unless an exemption applies. The small-lot exemption uses old zone names, so ask the City first. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** No permit fee is stated in the bylaw, on the City's tree page or in Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909. Ask Planning. **How long:** Not stated in the sources read. **Where:** - Phone: Planning and Community Services, 250-550-3634 - Email: Planning, planning@vernon.ca ## Key facts - **When a permit is needed:** A permit is needed to damage, destroy or remove any tree whose stem is over 8 cm across at 1 m above the ground. Damage includes pruning a limb thicker than 5% of the trunk diameter (conifers) or 15% (broadleaf), and never a limb over 8 cm. No permit is issued for a tree within 15 m of a watercourse unless it blocks drainage. - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, consolidated, s. 5(a)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall damage, destroy or remove (hereinafter collectively referred to" … "tree, the stem of which exceeds eight (8) centimetres at one (1)" - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, consolidated, s. 5(b)-(d)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "5% of the diameter of the trunk of the tree if the tree is a coniferous species;" … "15% of the diameter of the trunk of the tree where the tree is of the broadleaf" … "No person shall be issued a permit to destroy a tree growing within fifteen (15)" - Source: [Tree Maintenance, Trees on Private Property](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/boulevards-trees/tree-maintenance) - Official wording: "This applies to all trees within the City of Vernon that have a diameter greater than 8cm" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exemptions:** Per the 1995 bylaw, no permit is needed for trees on private lots 'zoned R1, R2, R3 and R4' under 1,114 m²; those zones are not in Zoning Bylaw 6000 and the bylaw does not say which current zones apply. Also exempt: commercial fruit orchard trees; utility work on designated Hazardous Trees; emergency removal of severely damaged trees about to fall. - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, consolidated, s. 5(a)(i)-(iii)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "trees on privately-owned land that are contained on any lot zoned R1, R2," … "those trees that are part of a commercial fruit orchard" … "those trees that are Hazardous Trees and the damage is done by a utility company" … "those trees that are Hazardous Trees and the damage is done by a utility" - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, consolidated, s. 11](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "a person may destroy a tree or a limb of a tree without a permit if:" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** Not confirmed. Vernon's bylaw, page and fee bylaw state no permit fee for tree removal. - **Replacement trees:** Anyone who destroys a tree in breach of the bylaw must replace it with a tree of like species and size, except a broadleaf of 6 m or more may be replaced by one 6 m high and a conifer of 5 m or more by one 5 m high. The Director may require a cash deposit or letter of credit for the full cost of replacement trees, and a planting plan. - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, consolidated, s. 6(a)-(b)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "replace the tree with a tree of like species and size, notwithstanding (b) and (c);" … "need only be replaced by a tree that is six (6) metres in height;" … "need only be replaced by a tree that is five (5) metres in height;" - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, consolidated, s. 7](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "a security in the form of a cash deposit or letter of credit to secure the full amount" - Source: [Tree Maintenance, Trees on Private Property](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/boulevards-trees/tree-maintenance) - Official wording: "In general, each tree removed will need to be replaced by a new tree." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **City trees:** Boulevard trees are the City's. The City inspects them yearly and lists pruning, removal and planting. Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057 s. 5 bars cutting, removing or damaging any tree in a public place (including highways and parks) without the Park Manager's authorization. - Source: [Tree Maintenance, Trees on Public Property](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/boulevards-trees/tree-maintenance) - Official wording: "Trees on city boulevards fall under the jurisdiction of the City." … "The City conducts an annual formal inspection of all boulevard trees, resulting in a list for pruning, removal, and planting." - Source: [Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057, s. 5 and s. 3(q)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/parks_and_public_places_bylaw_5057.pdf) - Official wording: "Unless expressly authorized by the Park Manager, a person must not deface," … "cut, remove, destroy or damage a tree, shrub, structure, building or other thing or" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Not confirmed. Vernon's Tree Protection Bylaw is not in the bylaw notice or ticket schedules. - **Bylaw:** City of Vernon Tree Protection Bylaw Number 4152, 1995 - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, consolidated, s. 1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Vernon Tree Protection Bylaw Number 4152, 1995" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The City of Vernon's [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) requires a permit to damage, destroy or remove any tree whose stem is over 8 cm across at 1 m above the ground. Damage includes pruning a limb thicker than 5% of the trunk diameter (conifers) or 15% (broadleaf trees), and never a limb over 8 cm. The Director of Community Development grants permits. ## Good to know - Exemptions: the 1995 bylaw exempts trees on private lots "zoned R1, R2, R3 and R4" under 1,114 m². Those zones are not in Zoning Bylaw 6000 and the bylaw does not say which current zones apply, so ask the City before you assume you are exempt. - Other exemptions: commercial fruit orchard trees; utility work on designated Hazardous Trees; and emergency removal of a severely damaged tree about to fall. - No permit is issued for a tree within 15 m of a watercourse unless it blocks drainage. Trees within 30 m of a watercourse may also fall under the provincial Riparian Area Protection Regulation. - If you destroy a tree in breach of the bylaw, you must replace it with a tree of like species and size. A broadleaf of 6 m or more may be replaced by one 6 m high, and a conifer of 5 m or more by one 5 m high. The Director may require a cash deposit or letter of credit for the full cost of replacement trees, and a planting plan. - If you refuse to replace a tree within 30 days' notice, the City may do it at your cost. - Fee and fine: the bylaw, the City's page and the fee bylaw state no permit fee, and Bylaw 4152 is not in the bylaw notice or municipal ticket schedules. Ask the City. - Boulevard trees are the City's. Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057 bars cutting, removing or damaging any tree in a public place without the Park Manager's authorization. Damaging a tree there can bring a bylaw notice of $100 ($90 early) or a municipal ticket of $200 ($190 early). ## Official forms and pages - [Tree Maintenance page, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/boulevards-trees/tree-maintenance) - [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/building-permit.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/tree-removal.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/tree-removal.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/tree-removal.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/tree-removal.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/tree-removal.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/tree-removal.md) ## Sources - [Tree Maintenance, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/boulevards-trees/tree-maintenance) (read 2026-11-05) - [Tree Protection Bylaw 4152, consolidated (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/4152_tree_protection_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/parks_and_public_places_bylaw_5057.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 7 facts was matched to the official text; 2 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/tree-removal/_ --- --- title: "Vernon garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits" question: "When is garbage collected in Vernon, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/garbage-collection/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/garbage-collection.json" --- # Vernon garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits **Question:** When is garbage collected in Vernon, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags? **Short answer:** The City of Vernon collects garbage every second week and organics every week, on the same weekday. Find your day by searching your address on the City's collection map. Carts go out between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. Extra bags need a $2.50 Tag-a-Bag sticker. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Garbage $27.59 per cart per quarter; organics and yard waste $25.62 per cart per quarter, both on the quarterly utility bill. A 120 L cart costs the same as a 240 L cart. Tag-a-Bag $2.50. Size change $38 one time. Damaged, lost or stolen cart: an $80 fee may apply. **How long:** Garbage every second week; organics weekly, on the same day of the week. **Where:** - Online: Collection map and schedule, https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/collection-schedule - Phone: Emterra (collection questions), 250-545-4245 - Online: Residential Solid Waste Cart Application, https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-solid-waste-cart-application ## Key facts - **How often:** Garbage every second week; organics (kitchen and yard waste) every week. Recycling is not a City service: it is Recycle BC's program, collected by Emterra from single family homes and some multi-family complexes (no schedule on the City page). - Source: [Residential Garbage](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-garbage) - Official wording: "Garbage is collected every second week and organics (kitchen and yard waste) are collected weekly." - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, Schedule E](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Residential Garbage Once every two weeks as advertised by the City" - Source: [Residential Recycling (yard recycling fee)](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-recycling) - Official wording: "The City of Vernon does not provide curbside recycling collection. The Residential Recycling Program is maintained by Recycle BC." … "collects printed paper and packaging (PPP) from single family residences and select multi-family complexes." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Finding your day:** Search your address on the City's collection map on the Waste Collection Schedule page. Garbage and organics are collected on the same weekday; the weekly calendar (2026 Printable Waste Collection Guide) shows which weeks garbage is picked up. Questions: Emterra 250-545-4245. - Source: [Waste Collection Schedule](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/collection-schedule) - Official wording: "Use the map below to search your address and determine your collection day. Organics and garbage are collected on the same day of the week." … "Use the weekly collection calendar found at the bottom of this page to see which week your garbage will be picked up." … "2026 Printable Waste Collection Guide" - Source: [Residential Garbage](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-garbage) - Official wording: "Questions about the curbside residential waste collection program can be directed to Emterra Environmental at: Phone: 250-545-4245" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Carts:** Standard carts are 240 L for garbage and 120 L for organics; either size is offered for each. Add, remove, resize or report a damaged, lost or stolen cart with the City's Residential Solid Waste Cart Application. Size change: $38 one-time fee. Damaged, lost or stolen cart: an $80 fee may apply. - Source: [Automated Waste Collection FAQ, Automated waste collection](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/automated-waste-collection-faq) - Official wording: "Standard garbage collection carts are 240L. Standard organics carts are 120L." - Source: [Residential Garbage](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-garbage) - Official wording: "you can use the Residential Solid Waste Cart Application to add, remove, or change the size of your waste collection carts." - Source: [Residential Solid Waste Cart Application, Residential solid waste cart application](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-solid-waste-cart-application) - Official wording: "A one-time administration and delivery cart exchange fee of $38 will be added to your utility account." … "If your garbage and/or organics cart(s) has been damaged, please note that an $80 cart fee may apply." - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, s. 3.27](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Each residential property will be allocated a minimum number and size of garbage carts" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Setting carts out:** Put carts out between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. on collection day, as close to the curb as possible with the front facing the roadway, 1 m from other objects. With a sidewalk, the bylaw says street side of the sidewalk; the City page says on the property beside it. Bring carts in by the end of collection day. (Sources differ: City pages say set out 'by 7:00 a.m.'; the bylaw adds the 4:00 a.m. earliest time. Carts must face the roadway and 3 m clear overhead (bylaw s. 3.14(d)). A missed cart must be reported within 24 hours (s. 3.11). In winter a cart may go on the road side of snow piles (s. 3.12).) - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, s. 3.10, 3.13, 3.14](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "no earlier than 4:00 A.M. and no later than 7:00 A.M. on the scheduled collection date." … "shall return a cart to their own property no later than the end of the scheduled collection date." … "in a location free from any obstructions, including other containers, that are at least one metre horizontally away on all sides including the back, and three metres away above the container including tree branches" … "place a cart and any extra garbage on the street side of the sidewalk and/or Active Transportation Corridor with the cart fronts facing towards the roadway" - Source: [Residential Garbage, How to place your automated garbage collection cart](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-garbage) - Official wording: "Carts are to be placed on the street, with the wheels against the curb, if there is one." … "If there is a sidewalk (with or without a bike lane), the cart should be placed on the property immediately adjacent to the sidewalk." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits and extra garbage:** Bylaw 5911: cart gross weight at most 50 kg (120 L) or 75 kg (240 L), lid must close; the City garbage page says 46 kg (100 lb). Extra bags beside the cart need a $2.50 Tag-a-Bag sticker, each at most 25 kg and 0.914 m. Nothing may be left beside an organics cart. (Sources differ: The City garbage page says the garbage cart maximum is 46 kg (100 lbs); Bylaw 5911 s. 3.8(d) says 75 kg for a 240 L cart. The bylaw is followed. Tag-a-Bag stickers are also sold at the Recreation Complex (Tag-a-bag program, same page). Bylaw s. 3.28 sets the sticker as 'Appendix A'.) - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, s. 3.8(d), 3.28](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "120 litres 50 kg" … "240 litres 75 kg" … "when full, not exceed a weight of 25 kgs (50 lbs)" … "when full, not exceed 0.914 metres (3 feet) in any dimension." - Source: [Residential Garbage, FAQs](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-garbage) - Official wording: "All bags placed beside the cart must be tagged with a 'Tag-a-Bag' sticker, which can be purchased at the City Hall finance counter for $2.50 per sticker." … "Each customer is entitled to put out 1 supplied 240L garbage cart of refuse, with a maximum weight of 46 kilogram (100 lbs)." - Source: [Automated Waste Collection FAQ, Residential organics collection](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/automated-waste-collection-faq) - Official wording: "Nothing can be left beside the cart. Anything that is left beside the cart will not be picked up." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** Garbage collection $27.59 per cart per quarter; organics and yard waste collection $25.62 per cart per quarter. Both are added to the quarterly utility bill, and a 120 L cart costs the same as a 240 L cart. Collection is mandatory. - Source: [Residential Solid Waste Cart Application, Cart fees](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-solid-waste-cart-application) - Official wording: "For each garbage cart, a recurring fee of $27.59 per cart will be added to your quarterly utility bill." … "For each organics cart, a recurring fee of $25.62 per cart will be added to your quarterly utility bill." - Source: [Automated Waste Collection FAQ, Automated waste collection](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/automated-waste-collection-faq) - Official wording: "The cost of using a 120L cart or 240L cart is the same on your quarterly utility bill." - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, s. 3.2](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "The owner or occupier of a residential property must use the municipal solid waste collection service provided by the City" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, 2023 (amended by Bylaw 5983, 2024); fees in City of Vernon Fees & Charges Bylaw Number 3909, 1993 - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited for all purposes as "Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, 2023"" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated), s. 1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Vernon Fees & Charges Bylaw Number 3909, 1993" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911]() governs curbside collection in the City of Vernon. Standard carts are 240 L for garbage and 120 L for organics, and either size is offered for each. Collection is mandatory. Recycling is not a City service: it is Recycle BC's program, collected by Emterra from single family homes and some multi-family complexes. ## Steps 1. Search your address on the City's collection map. Use the printable collection guide to see which weeks garbage is picked up. 2. Put the cart out between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. on collection day, as close to the curb as possible with the front facing the roadway, 1 m from other objects. 3. Bring the cart in by the end of collection day. 4. For extra garbage, put it in a bag with a Tag-a-Bag sticker ($2.50), beside the cart. Each bag is at most 25 kg and 0.914 m. 5. To add, remove, resize or replace a cart, use the Residential Solid Waste Cart Application. ## Good to know - Weight limit: Bylaw 5911 sets a gross cart weight of at most 50 kg (120 L) or 75 kg (240 L), and the lid must close. The City garbage page says 46 kg (100 lb). Confirm with the City. - Set-out: the City pages say "by 7:00 a.m." The bylaw adds the 4:00 a.m. earliest time. With a sidewalk, the bylaw says the street side; the City page says on the property beside it. - Nothing may be left beside an organics cart. - Report a missed cart within 24 hours. - Tag-a-Bag stickers are also sold at the Recreation Complex. ## What you'll need - Your address, to look up your collection day on the map ## Official forms and pages - [Residential Garbage (City of Vernon)](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-garbage) - [Automated Waste Collection FAQ](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/automated-waste-collection-faq) - [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) ## The same question elsewhere - [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/garbage-collection.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/garbage-collection.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/garbage-collection.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/garbage-collection.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/garbage-collection.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/garbage-collection.md) ## Sources - [Residential Garbage, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-garbage) (read 2026-11-05) - [Automated Waste Collection FAQ, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/automated-waste-collection-faq) (read 2026-11-05) - [Waste Collection Schedule, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/collection-schedule) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential Solid Waste Cart Application, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-solid-waste-cart-application) (read 2026-11-05) - [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential Recycling (yard recycling fee), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-recycling) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/garbage-collection/_ --- --- title: Vernon yard waste collection and drop-off question: "Where does yard waste and brush go in Vernon?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Garbage, recycling and waste owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/yard-waste/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/yard-waste.json" --- # Vernon yard waste collection and drop-off **Question:** Where does yard waste and brush go in Vernon? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, yard waste goes in the weekly organics cart. The City also runs spring curbside chipping, a fall leaf pick-up and a Christmas tree drop-off, paid from the organics cart charge. Residents can also take yard and garden waste free to the Greater Vernon Landfill. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Organics and yard waste cart: $25.62 a quarter, which also pays for chipping. RDNO drop-off of residential yard and garden waste is free; bulk loads (dual rear axle vehicles or larger) $43 a tonne, $10 minimum. Christmas tree drop-off is free. **How long:** Chipping, leaf pick-up and Christmas tree dates change every year; check the City pages. **Where:** - Online: Residential Organics (chipping, leaves, Christmas trees), https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics - Phone: Greater Vernon Landfill, 250-550-3785 (120 Birnie Road, 4 km south of Vernon on Highway 97) ## Key facts - **Curbside collection:** Yes. Yard waste goes in the weekly organics cart (lid closed). The City also runs a spring curbside chipping program for branches and a fall leaf pick-up in clear bags on your garbage day, plus a Christmas tree drop-off. - Source: [Residential Organics](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics) - Official wording: "Household organics (kitchen and yard waste) are collected every week and garbage is collected every second week." - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, Schedule E](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Chipping Once per year (spring) as advertised by the City" … "Leaf Collection Twice per year (spring and fall) as advertised by the City" - Source: [Fall Leaf Pick Up](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-fall-leaf-pickup) - Official wording: "Emterra Environmental will provide curbside collection of leaves in clear plastic bags on your regular garbage collection day." - Source: [Spring Chipping, 2026 Spring Chipping](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-chipping) - Official wording: "crews collecting pruning material from residences between the end of March and mid-April" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to set it out:** Organics cart: lid must close; 50 kg limit (120 L) or 75 kg (240 L). Chipping: branches over 1.25 cm and under 10 cm across, butt ends to the street, not tangled or bundled, no roots or dirt, thorns piled separately, under 10 minutes to chip. Fall leaves: clear bags only, 23 kg maximum each. - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, s. 3.8(d), 5.2, 6.2, 6.4; Schedule A](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "yard trimmings and branches greater than 1.25 cm (0.5 inches) in diameter but less than 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter" … "be of a size that will take under 10 minutes to chip" … "not be tied together in bundles" … "be stacked with the butt ends facing the street or lane." … "Only transparent plastic bags may be used to set out leaves." … "Bags weighing more than 23 kg (50 lbs) will not be picked up." - Source: [Residential Organics](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics) - Official wording: "120L cart: 50 kg (110 Ibs)" … "240L cart: 75 kg (165 Ibs)" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Drop-off:** Free for residents at the RDNO Greater Vernon Landfill, 120 Birnie Road (4 km south of Vernon on Highway 97), 250-550-3785. March 1 to November 30: Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. December 1 to end of February: Monday to Friday 8:00 to 4:30, Saturday 8:30 to 4:00, closed Sunday. - Source: [Greater Vernon Landfill, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/rdno-services/solid-waste-management/diversion-disposal-facilities/greater-vernon-ddf) - Official wording: "Address: 120 Birnie Road, 4 km south of Vernon on Highway 97" … "SUMMER (March 1 - November 30)" … "Monday - Friday: 8:00am to 4:30pm" … "Saturday & Sunday: 8:30am to 4:00pm" … "WINTER (December 1 - February 28)" … "Sunday: Closed The Greater Vernon Landfill is open regular hours during all Statutory Holidays except Christmas Day and New Years Day." … "Solid Waste Office 250-550-3785" - Source: [Yard & Garden Waste Drop-off, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/yardwaste) - Official wording: "There are Free Yard & Garden Waste drop off areas at all RDNO Solid Waste Management Facilities" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cost:** RDNO drop-off of residential yard and garden waste is free; bulk loads (dual rear axle vehicles or larger) cost $43 a tonne, $10 minimum. City chipping is paid from the organics and yard waste cart charge ($25.62 a quarter). Christmas tree drop-off is free. The $4.11 fee on the City recycling page is out of date. (Sources differ: The Residential Recycling page says yard recycling is a flat $4.11 per quarter, but the Spring Chipping page says chipping is funded by the Residential Organics and Yard Waste Collection charge, and Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 lists no $4.11 yard recycling fee. The $4.11 figure may be out of date. Christmas tree drop-off is free (City page).) - Source: [Diversion and Disposal Fees, Regional District of North Okanagan, Weight Based Fees effective January 1, 2026](https://www.rdno.ca/wastefees) - Official wording: "| Yard and Garden Waste - Residential | tonne | $0.00 | $0.00" … "| Yard and Garden Waste - Bulk | tonne | $43.00 | $10.00" - Source: [Yard & Garden Waste Drop-off, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/yardwaste) - Official wording: "Bulk loads of Yard & Garden waste delivered in dual rear axle vehicles or larger are accepted at Greater Vernon and Lumby Landfills ONLY." - Source: [Residential Recycling (yard recycling fee), City of Vernon Yard Recycling](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-recycling) - Official wording: "The City of Vernon's Yard Recycling Program is based on a flat rate fee." … "spring chipping , Christmas tree disposal, and spring and fall leaf removal. The cost is $4.11 per quarter." - Source: [Residential solid waste cart application, Cart fees](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-solid-waste-cart-application) - Official wording: "For each organics cart, a recurring fee of $25.62 per cart will be added to your quarterly utility bill." - Source: [Spring Chipping, 2026 Spring Chipping](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-chipping) - Official wording: "This curbside chipping service is funded by the Residential Organics and Yard Waste Collection charge that is found on your quarterly utility bill." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Not accepted:** RDNO drop-off: animal feces, cardboard, noxious weeds (take separately contained), plastic, soil, rocks, fencing, fabric, netting and other non-plant material; plastic bags are not allowed. Trimmings under 20 cm across and 2 m long. Curbside cart: no animal feces, metal, glass, plastics, diapers, wood or toxic plants such as giant hogweed. - Source: [Yard & Garden Waste Drop-off, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/yardwaste) - Official wording: "Animal feces, cardboard, noxious weeds, plastic, soil, rocks, fencing, fabric, netting and other non-vegetated landscaping and gardening waste." … "trimmings and prunings (<20 centimetres diameter and 2 metres long)" - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, Schedule B, Table B-2](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "toxic plants including Devil's Club (Oplopanax Horridus), Giant Hogweed" … "personal hygiene products such as diapers, feminine hygiene products" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, 2023 (City curbside programs). Drop-off: Regional District of North Okanagan Municipal Solid Waste Management bylaw, fees amended by Bylaw No. 3021, 2024. - Source: [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited for all purposes as "Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911, 2023"" - Source: [Diversion and Disposal Fees, Regional District of North Okanagan, Diversion & Disposal Fees](https://www.rdno.ca/wastefees) - Official wording: "Fees for all RDNO Solid Waste Management Facilities are listed in the Municipal Solid Waste Management Amendment Bylaw No. 3021, 2024." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works In the City of Vernon, yard waste goes in the weekly organics cart (lid closed; at most 50 kg for 120 L, 75 kg for 240 L under [Bylaw 5911]()). The City's chipping is paid from the organics and yard waste cart charge. An older City recycling page still shows a $4.11 yard recycling fee, but the chipping page and the fees bylaw do not support it. ## Steps 1. Spring branches: pile them for curbside chipping, branches over 1.25 cm and under 10 cm across, butt ends to the street, not tangled or bundled, with no roots or dirt. Pile thorns separately. Each customer gets up to 10 minutes of chipping. 2. Fall leaves: put leaves in clear bags only, 23 kg at most each, on your garbage day during the leaf pick-up week. 3. Christmas trees: take them to the drop-off at the Marshall Field parking lot (6891 Okanagan Landing Road) from late December to mid-January. Free. 4. Bigger loads: take them free to the RDNO Greater Vernon Landfill, 120 Birnie Road. March 1 to November 30: Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. December 1 to end of February: Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., closed Sunday. ## Good to know - Dates change every year. Check the City's Residential Organics pages. - Landfill drop-off does not take animal feces, cardboard, soil, rocks, fencing, netting, plastic or plastic bags. Trimmings must be under 20 cm across and 2 m long. Noxious weeds must be contained separately. - The cart does not take animal feces, metal, glass, plastics, diapers, wood or toxic plants such as giant hogweed. - Remove lights, decorations and stands from Christmas trees. Artificial or flocked trees are not accepted. ## Official forms and pages - [Fall Leaf Pick Up (City of Vernon)](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-fall-leaf-pickup) - [Spring Chipping (City of Vernon)](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-chipping) - [Yard and Garden Waste Drop-off (RDNO)](https://www.rdno.ca/yardwaste) ## Related questions - [Vernon garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/garbage-collection.md) - [Vernon backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-fire.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/yard-waste.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/yard-waste.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/yard-waste.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/yard-waste.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/yard-waste.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/yard-waste.md) ## Sources - [Residential Organics, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fall Leaf Pick Up, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-fall-leaf-pickup) (read 2026-11-05) - [Spring Chipping, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-chipping) (read 2026-11-05) - [Solid Waste Management Bylaw 5911 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/5911_Solid_Waste_Management_Bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Yard & Garden Waste Drop-off, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/yardwaste) (read 2026-11-05) - [Diversion and Disposal Fees, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/wastefees) (read 2026-11-05) - [Greater Vernon Landfill, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/rdno-services/solid-waste-management/diversion-disposal-facilities/greater-vernon-ddf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential Recycling (yard recycling fee), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-recycling) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential solid waste cart application, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-solid-waste-cart-application) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/yard-waste/_ --- --- title: Vernon watering restrictions question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Water, sewer, roads and snow owner: regional owner_body: Regional District of North Okanagan sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/water-restrictions/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/water-restrictions.json" --- # Vernon watering restrictions **Question:** Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions? **Short answer:** Yes. Greater Vernon Water, run by the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO), sets watering rules for the City of Vernon at all times. A "Normal" stage applies by default, and Stages 1 to 4 are imposed when drought requires. Check rdno.ca/waterrestrictions for the current stage. **Who handles it:** Regional district (Regional District of North Okanagan, https://www.rdno.ca) **Cost:** Wasting water: municipal ticket $100, $400 for a repeat offence. Bylaw notice $100 ($80 if paid within 14 days); repeat $400 ($320 early). Court fine $200 to $2,000 per offence. **How long:** The stage can change as water supply changes. Check the RDNO page before you water. **Where:** - Online: Current Greater Vernon Water restrictions, https://www.rdno.ca/waterrestrictions ## Key facts - **When restrictions apply:** Restrictions are in place year-round: the "Normal" stage is the default at all times. Stages 1 (Dry), 2 (Very Dry), 3 (Extremely Dry) and 4 (Emergency) are imposed when drought or an emergency requires. They apply to everyone on Greater Vernon Water, including the City of Vernon. - Source: [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Part J (J.1, J.2); Part H](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/BL_2545_C.pdf) - Official wording: "is the default water restriction in place at all times," … "the General Manager may impose a different water restriction stage" - Source: [Greater Vernon Water Restrictions, Regional District of North Okanagan, Did you know?](https://www.rdno.ca/waterrestrictions) - Official wording: "which is why they are in place year-round." … "If you are a resident, business, or agricultural water user within the City of Vernon or District of Coldstream, then yes, this applies to you." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Sprinkling schedule:** Normal and Stage 1: sprinklers on hoses 6-10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to midnight, up to 3 days a week (odd addresses Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday; even addresses Wednesday, Friday, Sunday); automatic timer systems 12-6 a.m. on the same days. Stage 2: up to 2 days (Tuesday and Saturday odd; Wednesday and Sunday even). Stage 3: no lawn watering. - Source: [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A (Bylaw 3089, 2026), line A-B](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/BL_2545_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Watering allowed between 6am-10am" … "Watering allowed between 12am-6am" … "Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday" … "Wednesday, Friday, Sunday" … "Tuesday & Saturday" … "No lawn watering by any method." - Source: [Greater Vernon Water - Stage 3 Watering Restrictions, Regional District of North Okanagan, Stage 3 notice](https://www.rdno.ca/our-communities/rdno-news/greater-vernon-water-stage-3-watering-restrictions) - Official wording: "No lawn watering is permitted" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Allowed at any time:** Normal: hand watering (spring-loaded nozzle or can), micro-jet and drip any time. Stage 1: hand watering any time; drip and micro-jet any day 7 p.m.-10 a.m. Stage 3: food gardens and potted plants by drip, micro-jet or hand only, 7 p.m.-10 a.m.; fruit trees every 2 days (bylaw) or 2 days a week (RDNO page); no sprinklers. (Sources differ: Stage 3 food gardens: the RDNO page says up to 7 days a week and the June 18, 2026 notice says daily, but Schedule A of the bylaw (June 17, 2026) says fruit trees and shrubs 'maximum every 2 days' while the RDNO page says residential fruit trees and shrubs up to 2 days a week. The bylaw wording is shown. Stage 3 aesthetic gardens: established plants 1 day a week and newly planted up to 2 days, by micro-jet, drip or hand only, 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. Under Stage 3 filling pools, ponds and water features is prohibited, with pool top-ups up to 1% of volume a week.) - Source: [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A, lines C-D, F; definition of Sprinkle](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/BL_2545_C.pdf) - Official wording: "C Anytime Micro Jet or Drip 10am ." … "D nozzle on hose or Anytime Anytime" … "does not include the methods known as Drip Irrigation, Micro Jet Irrigation, or hand watering." … "Fruit trees / shrubs maximum every 2" … "No sprinklers or soaker hoses allowed." - Source: [Greater Vernon Water Restrictions, Regional District of North Okanagan, Stage 3 FAQ](https://www.rdno.ca/waterrestrictions) - Official wording: "Watering is allowed up to 7 days a week between 7:00pm and 10:00am to maintain plant health for food security. Watering can be done by micro jet, drip irrigation, or hand watering. Sprinklers and soaker hoses are not allowed" - Source: [Greater Vernon Water - Stage 3 Watering Restrictions, Regional District of North Okanagan, Stage 3 notice](https://www.rdno.ca/our-communities/rdno-news/greater-vernon-water-stage-3-watering-restrictions) - Official wording: "Food gardens and potted plants may now be watered daily, as required to maintain plant health." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **New lawns:** Normal: follow the supplier's recommended watering schedule after installation (2 weeks for sod, 6 weeks for seeded lawns), then resume regular restrictions. Stage 2: an RDNO sprinkling permit is required (2 weeks for sod; 6 weeks for seeding, which must start before April 30 or after Sept. 1). Stage 3: no new permits. - Source: [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A, line E](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/BL_2545_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Follow supplier recommended watering" … "After installation (2 weeks for" … "Sod or 6 weeks for Seeded Lawns)" … "RDNO sprinkling permit required. Sod" … "Seeding must start before April 30 or" … "No new permits issued or renewed for lawns." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Using water contrary to the restrictions (wasting water): $100 municipal ticket, $400 for a repeat offence. Bylaw notice: $100, or $80 if paid within 14 days; repeat offence $400 ($320 early). Continued non-compliance can lead to water shut-off. - Source: [Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw 2908, Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule G](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Wasting Water H.3.b and $100.00 $400.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2909, Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A, Appendix 6](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Wasting Water H.3.a, $100.00 $80.00 Yes" - Source: [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Part H.3(a); Part Q; Part N](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/BL_2545_C.pdf) - Official wording: "use water in contravention of Schedule "A" - Greater Vernon Water - Water Use Restriction Stages;" … "In the event that a Customer's Water Service is shut off pursuant Section N.5.f of this Bylaw" … "not less than $200.00 and not more than $2000.00 for each offence" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545, 2014 (Regional District of North Okanagan); Schedule A replaced by Bylaw No. 3089, 2026 - Source: [Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw 2908, Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule G](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545, 2014" - Source: [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/BL_2545_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Bylaw No. 3089, 2026" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Greater Vernon Water, run by the Regional District of North Okanagan, applies the [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545]() to everyone on the system, including the City of Vernon. "Normal" is the default stage at all times. Stages 1 (Dry), 2 (Very Dry), 3 (Extremely Dry) and 4 (Emergency) are imposed when drought or an emergency requires. The RDNO may set a stage stricter than the bylaw in places. Check rdno.ca/waterrestrictions for the current stage. ## Steps 1. Check the current stage on the RDNO page. 2. Normal and Stage 1: sprinklers on hoses 6 to 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to midnight, up to 3 days a week (odd addresses Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday; even addresses Wednesday, Friday, Sunday). Automatic timer systems run 12 to 6 a.m. on the same days. 3. Stage 2: up to 2 days a week (odd addresses Tuesday and Saturday; even addresses Wednesday and Sunday). 4. Stage 3: no lawn watering and no sprinklers. ## Good to know - Check these days and hours against Schedule A of the bylaw. The schedule table is hard to read and the stage columns need confirming. - Normal: hand watering, micro-jet and drip are allowed any time. Stage 1: hand watering any time; drip and micro-jet any day 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. - Stage 3: food gardens and potted plants by drip, micro-jet or hand only, 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. Fruit trees "maximum every 2 days" in the bylaw, but 2 days a week on the RDNO page. Filling pools, ponds and water features is prohibited, with pool top-ups up to 1% of volume a week. - New lawns: Normal, follow the supplier's schedule (2 weeks for sod, 6 weeks for seeded lawns). Stage 2 needs an RDNO sprinkling permit. Stage 3: no new permits. - Continued non-compliance can lead to water shut-off. Each day is a separate offence. ## Official forms and pages - [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545 (PDF)](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/BL_2545_C.pdf) ## The same question elsewhere - [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/water-restrictions.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/water-restrictions.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/water-restrictions.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/water-restrictions.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/water-restrictions.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/water-restrictions.md) ## Sources - [Greater Vernon Water Restrictions, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/waterrestrictions) (read 2026-11-05) - [Greater Vernon Water Use and Regulation Bylaw No. 2545 (consolidated) (PDF), Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2026-06/BL_2545_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Greater Vernon Water - Stage 3 Watering Restrictions, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/our-communities/rdno-news/greater-vernon-water-stage-3-watering-restrictions) (read 2026-11-05) - [Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw 2908 (PDF), Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2909 (PDF), Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Regional District of North Okanagan. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/water-restrictions/_ --- --- title: "Vernon dog licences: fees and how to get one" question: "How do I get a dog licence, and what does it cost?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: regional owner_body: Regional District of North Okanagan sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-licence.json" --- # Vernon dog licences: fees and how to get one **Question:** How do I get a dog licence, and what does it cost? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, dog licences are issued by the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO), not the City. Every dog three months or older needs one. The fee is $25 for one year, with no separate rate for spayed or neutered dogs. Apply or renew online at rdno.docupet.com. **Who handles it:** Regional district (Regional District of North Okanagan, https://www.rdno.ca) **Cost:** $25 for one year. Late fee $15 if unpaid after the expiry date. Replacement tag $5. Certified guide dog: no charge. Registered service dog $0 with a guide dog and service dog certificate. No discounts are listed. Fine for an unlicensed dog: bylaw notice $300 ($240 if paid within 14 days); municipal ticket $300. **How long:** A licence expires one year after the date it was issued. **Where:** - Online: Apply or renew (DocuPet), https://rdno.docupet.com - Phone: DocuPet, 1-855-249-1370 - In person: Regional District of North Okanagan office, 9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, BC (250-550-3700. The District of Coldstream and Village of Lumby offices also sell licences. Check hours and payment methods first.) - Email: RDNO Dog Control, dogbylaw@rdno.ca ## Key facts - **Licence required:** Yes. Every dog three months or older must be licensed within 30 days of becoming a resident of the service area (which includes the City of Vernon), and must wear its tag whenever off the owner's property. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 8, 9, 13](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall keep, harbour or have in their possession any Dog unless a Licence" … "within (30) days of the Dog becoming an inhabitant within the Service Area" … "as soon as his or her Dog is three (3) months of age" … "Each Dog Owner is required to ensure a Dog is wearing a Dog Tag whenever the Dog is elsewhere than on the premises of the Owner." - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Dog Licensing Information](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "All dogs three (3) months or older living in North Okanagan must have a license and wear a valid license tag." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Issued by:** The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO), through its DocuPet Dog Licensing Program. Its Greater Vernon/White Valley service area includes the City of Vernon. - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Dog Licensing Information](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "The Regional District provides Dog Control services and the DocuPet Dog Licensing Program for the Greater Vernon/White Valley service area, which includes the City of Vernon" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $25 for one year. The fee schedule lists one annual fee and does not give a separate rate for spayed or neutered dogs. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A, item 1](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Annual Licence Fee effective January 1, 2023 $25.00" - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Fee Categories](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "Annual Dog License Fee $25" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $25 for one year. The fee schedule lists one annual fee and does not give a separate rate for dogs that are not spayed or neutered. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A, item 1](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Annual Licence Fee effective January 1, 2023 $25.00" - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Fee Categories](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "Annual Dog License Fee $25" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other fees and discounts:** Late fee $15 if unpaid after the expiry date. Replacement tag $5. Certified guide dog: no charge. Registered service dog $0 with a guide dog and service dog certificate. The fee schedule lists no discounts. - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Fee Categories](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "Late Fee $15" … "Replacement Tag $5" … "Registered Service Dog $0" - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A, items 2-4](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Replacement Tag $5.00" … "Certified Guide Dog No charge" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Each licence expires one year after the date it was issued. A $15 late fee applies if the licence fee is unpaid after the expiry date. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 11, 12](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Every Licence issued under this Bylaw shall expire one (1) year from the date the Licence was issued." … "Licence fees that are unpaid after the expiry date will be charged a late fee" - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Dog Licensing Information](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "Licenses are good for a calendar year and expire on the date of purchase." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to get one:** Online at rdno.docupet.com; by phone with DocuPet at 1-855-249-1370; or in person at the RDNO office (9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream; 250-550-3700), the District of Coldstream office or the Village of Lumby office. - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "Online: Visit rdno.docupet.com to register or renew your license." … "By Phone: Call DocuPet by phone at 1-855-249-1370 to process your dog license over the phone." … "9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, BC V1B 2K9 250-550-3700" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, unlicensed dog:** Bylaw notice: $300 ($240 if paid within 14 days). Municipal ticket: $300. Repeat offences and nuisance dogs are charged double. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule G](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Keeping an Unlicensed Dog $300.00" … "Nuisance Dogs are charged double the applicable Fine" - Source: [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf, Schedule A, Appendix 4](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Keeping an Unlicensed Dog 8 $300.00 $240.00 Yes" - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Dog Licensing Information](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "Failure to license a dog, could result in a fine of $300 for Keeping an Unlicensed Dog." - Source: [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf, Bylaw 2908, Schedule E (Dog Control Bylaw 2881)](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Keeping an Unlicensed Dog 8 $300.00" … "Nuisance Dogs are charged double the applicable Fine." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (Regional District of North Okanagan) - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 1](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw shall be cited as" … "Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Dog control in Greater Vernon is a Regional District of North Okanagan service, and its [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881]() covers the City of Vernon. You must license a dog within 30 days of it becoming a resident of the service area, and the dog must wear its tag whenever it is off your property. The City's own animal bylaw (5252) does not cover dogs. ## Steps 1. Go to rdno.docupet.com, or phone DocuPet at 1-855-249-1370. 2. Or go in person to the RDNO office in Coldstream, the District of Coldstream office or the Village of Lumby office. The RDNO page lists no City of Vernon location. 3. Pay the $25 fee. 4. Put the tag on your dog's collar or harness. ## Good to know - The fee schedule lists one annual fee and no separate rate for spayed or neutered dogs. - Repeat offences and nuisance dogs are charged double. - Impound fees are separate: $50 for a first impound, then $100, $200 and $400 in a calendar year. ## Official forms and pages - [RDNO Dog License Information](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881 (PDF)](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-leash-rules.md) - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Vernon](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/how-many-pets.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/dog-licence.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/dog-licence.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/dog-licence.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/dog-licence.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/dog-licence.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/dog-licence.md) ## Sources - [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated) (PDF), Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 9 of 9 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Regional District of North Okanagan. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-licence/_ --- --- title: Vernon dog leash rules and off-leash areas question: "Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: regional owner_body: Regional District of North Okanagan sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-leash-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-leash-rules.json" --- # Vernon dog leash rules and off-leash areas **Question:** Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, a dog off its owner's property must be in a vehicle or on a leash of 2 metres or less held by a person able to restrain it. Dogs may be off leash only in signed dog parks. The rules are in the Regional District of North Okanagan's Dog Control Bylaw. **Who handles it:** Regional district (Regional District of North Okanagan, https://www.rdno.ca) **Cost:** Dog at large $150 (bylaw notice; $120 if paid within 14 days) or $150 ticket. Off leash in an on-leash area $100 ($80 early). Off leash in a dog park contrary to the rules $150 ($120 early). Repeat offences are charged double. **Where:** - Online: Dog-friendly parks, beaches and trails map (PDF), https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Dog%20Park%20Map%202026.pdf - Phone: RDNO Dog Control, 250-541-3647 - Email: RDNO Dog Control, dogbylaw@rdno.ca ## Key facts - **Leash rule:** A dog must not be at large anywhere in the service area (which includes Vernon): off the owner's property it must be in a vehicle or on a leash held by a person able to restrain it. Off leash only in signed dog parks. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 5 (At Large), 20, 26](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "No Owner shall cause or permit his or her Dog to be At Large within the Service Area." … "is not securely attached to a Leash held by a person who has the ability to restrain the Dog" … "An Owner may cause or permit a dog to be off-Leash in a designated off-Leash Dog Park" - Source: [Dog Control, Regional District of North Okanagan, What You Need to Know](https://www.rdno.ca/dogcontrol) - Official wording: "Dogs must be leashed at all times unless in a designated off-leash area." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Maximum leash length:** 2 metres at most. For an aggressive or dangerous dog in a public place the maximum is 1 metre. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 5 (Leash), 31](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "no more than 2 metres in length" … "controlled on a Leash securely held and with a maximum length of one (1) metre" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Off-leash areas:** Only in signed dog parks. The dog must wear a collar or harness and a valid tag, the owner must carry a leash and keep the dog in sight and under verbal control, and no more than four dogs per owner. The City posts a Dog Park Locations Map (PDF) on its Parks page. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 25, 26](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "No Owner shall take, or allow, more than four (4) Dogs at one time to enter upon or be in a Dog Park." … "The Dog wears a collar or harness and a valid Dog Tag;" … "The Owner has in his or her possession a Leash to control the Dog;" - Source: [Parks](https://www.vernon.ca/parks-recreation/parks-fields-beaches/parks) - Official wording: "Dog Park Locations Map" - Source: [Dog-friendly Parks, Beaches & Trails map, Tourism Vernon, 2026](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Dog%20Park%20Map%202026.pdf) - Official wording: "Keep dogs under control at all times." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Places dogs are not allowed:** Public beaches, swimming areas and parkland unless signed on-leash or a dog park (RDNO bylaw); any public place with a City sign banning dogs. Aggressive or dangerous dogs: sports fields, playgrounds, beaches, parkland, dog parks, school grounds. City parks bylaw allows dogs in parks only where a dog park sign says so. (Sources differ: Two City-area bylaws differ: RDNO Bylaw 2881 s. 23 allows dogs on parkland signed as on-leash, while City Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057 s. 6(a)(i) bars dogs from parks unless a City sign authorizes dogs at a dog park. The tourism map lists on-leash parks and trails. Guide dogs are exempt from s. 22.) - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 22, 23, 32](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Every Owner of a Dog must ensure that the Dog does not enter upon and remain within any public beaches, swimming areas, or Parkland unless the public beach, swimming area or Parkland is designated by signage as an on-Leash area or a Dog Park." … "No Owner shall allow an Aggressive Dog or a Dangerous Dog into any sports field, playground, public beach, swimming area, Parkland, off-Leash Dog Park, or school grounds at any time." - Source: [Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057, s. 6(a)(i), 6(a)(ii)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/parks_and_public_places_bylaw_5057.pdf) - Official wording: "A person must not take a dog into, or allow a dog to go into a park" … "where the park is a dog park and a City sign expressly authorizes dogs." … "A person must not take a dog into a public place if a City sign expressly prohibits dogs from entering the area." - Source: [Dog-friendly Parks, Beaches & Trails map, Tourism Vernon, 2026](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Dog%20Park%20Map%202026.pdf) - Official wording: "Dogs are NOT permitted on playing fields or beaches unless it is a designated pet area." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cleaning up:** Owners must carry a way to remove their dog's waste in any public place, and promptly remove and dispose of waste their dog leaves in any public place or on others' property. Owners must be able to show proof of compliance when an Animal Control Officer asks. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 28](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "when accompanied by a Dog on any Public Place, they have in their possession a suitable means of facilitating the removal of the Dog's excrement;" … "their Dog excrement deposited on any Public Place and property other than property owned by the Dog Owner, is promptly removed and disposed of." … "proof can be provided of compliance with section 28.a when requested by an Animal Control Officer" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** Dog at large (s. 20): $150 bylaw notice ($120 if paid within 14 days) or $150 ticket. Off leash in an on-leash area (s. 24): $100 ($80 early). Off leash in a dog park contrary to the rules (s. 26): $150 ($120 early). Repeat offences are charged double. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule G](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog At Large $150.00" - Source: [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf, Schedule A, Appendix 4](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog At Large 20 $150.00 $120.00 Yes" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A, Schedule A (Parks and Public Places Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "6(a)(iv) Dog Illegally Off Leash $50.00 $40.00 $60.00 YES" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049, 2025, Schedule B (Parks and Public Places Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "6(a)(iv) Dog Illegally Off Leash $100.00 $90.00" - Source: [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf, Bylaw 2908, Schedule E](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog At Large 20 $150.00" … "Off-Leash contrary to requirements 24 $100.00" … "Off-Leash in Dog Park contrary to requirements 26.c, 26.d $150.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (Regional District of North Okanagan). In City parks, also City of Vernon Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057, 2007. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 1](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021" - Source: [Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057, s. 1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/parks_and_public_places_bylaw_5057.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Vernon Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057, 2007" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Dog control in the City of Vernon is run by the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) under [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881](). The City publishes a "Dog-friendly Parks, Beaches & Trails" map. The bylaw sets no leash length longer than 2 metres. ## Steps 1. Check the City's dog park map for off-leash parks, on-leash parks, beaches and trails. 2. Outside a signed dog park, keep your dog in a vehicle or on a leash no longer than 2 metres. 3. In a dog park, wear a collar or harness and a valid tag on the dog, carry a leash, and keep the dog in sight and under verbal control. No more than four dogs per owner. 4. Carry a way to remove your dog's waste in any public place and promptly pick up what it leaves in a public place or on others' property. You must show proof you comply if an Animal Control Officer asks. ## Good to know - Dogs must be healthy with up-to-date vaccinations in a dog park, and owners must follow posted rules. - The two bylaws differ on parks. The RDNO bylaw allows dogs on parkland signed as on-leash, but the City's [Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057]() bars dogs from parks unless a City sign allows dogs. Look for the sign, or ask the City. - Dogs are not allowed on public beaches or swimming areas unless signed on-leash or a dog park, or in any public place with a City sign banning dogs. Guide dogs are exempt. - Aggressive or dangerous dogs may not enter sports fields, playgrounds, beaches, parkland, dog parks or school grounds. For these dogs in a public place the leash maximum is 1 metre. ## Official forms and pages - [Parks, City of Vernon (Dog Park Locations Map)](https://www.vernon.ca/parks-recreation/parks-fields-beaches/parks) - [Dog Control, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/dogcontrol) ## Related questions - [Vernon dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-licence.md) - [Vernon rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dangerous-dogs.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/dog-leash-rules.md) ## Sources - [Dog Control, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/dogcontrol) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated) (PDF), Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/parks_and_public_places_bylaw_5057.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Parks, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/parks-recreation/parks-fields-beaches/parks) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dog-friendly Parks, Beaches & Trails map (PDF), Tourism Vernon, 2026](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/2026-10/Dog%20Park%20Map%202026.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049, 2025](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with Regional District of North Okanagan. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-leash-rules/_ --- --- title: Vernon rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs question: "What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: regional owner_body: Regional District of North Okanagan sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dangerous-dogs/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dangerous-dogs.json" --- # Vernon rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs **Question:** What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, aggressive and dangerous dogs are regulated by the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881. Such a dog must be in a secure fence or enclosure at home and muzzled on a leash of 1 metre or less in public. Report a dog at 250-541-3647. **Who handles it:** Regional district (Regional District of North Okanagan, https://www.rdno.ca) **Cost:** Bylaw notice: no dangerous-dog sign $500; aggressive dog unsecured, unmuzzled or in a prohibited area $300 ($240 if paid within 14 days); dog bites a person $500 ($400 early). Municipal ticket: sign $500; each aggressive-dog offence $300; bite $500. Repeat and nuisance dogs pay double. No separate licence fee is listed. **Where:** - Phone: RDNO Dog Control (DOGS), 250-541-3647 - Email: RDNO Dog Control, dogbylaw@rdno.ca - Online: Dog complaint form, https://www.rdno.ca/dog-control/file-dog-complaint ## Key facts - **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** Aggressive: chases or approaches people menacingly, or has attacked, bitten or injured (or tried to) a person or domestic animal, or was designated aggressive by an officer, the BC SPCA, RCMP, a vet or a court. Dangerous: has seriously injured or killed a person or domestic animal. Animal Control Officers decide. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 5 (definitions), 56](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "has attacked, bitten, or caused injury to, or attempted to attack, bite, or cause Injury to, a person or Domestic Animal, as determined by an Animal Control Officer;" … "has been designated or found to be an Aggressive Dog by an Animal Control Officer, the BC SPCA, the RCMP" … "means any Dog that has seriously injured or killed a person or domestic animal as determined by an Animal Control Officer" … "The Animal Control Officer may determine whether a Dog is a Nuisance Dog, Aggressive Dog, or Dangerous Dog for the purposes of the Bylaw." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Rules for owners:** Dangerous dog: owner must post a warning sign. Aggressive or dangerous dog: in a secure fence or enclosure when outside the dwelling; in public (not in a closed vehicle) on a leash of 1 m at most and muzzled; never in sports fields, playgrounds, beaches, parkland, dog parks or school grounds. - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 29-32, Schedule B](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "An Owner of a Dangerous Dog shall post signage visible to the public" … "must be kept within a secure Fence or Enclosure." … "wearing a Muzzle securely fastened." … "No Owner shall allow an Aggressive Dog or a Dangerous Dog into any sports field, playground, public beach, swimming area, Parkland, off-Leash Dog Park, or school grounds at any time." … "posted on all sides of the property adjacent to a Public Place;" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Licence fee:** None set. The regional dog control bylaw lists no separate licence fee for these dogs. - **How to report:** Submit an online dog complaint to RDNO Dog Control, or call 250-541-3647 (DOGS); email dogbylaw@rdno.ca. RDNO Dog Control Officers handle aggressive dog investigations. - Source: [Dog Control, Regional District of North Okanagan, Submit a Dog Complaint](https://www.rdno.ca/dogcontrol) - Official wording: "Report barking, off-leash, aggressive dog, dogs at large, lost or found dogs." … "off-leash infractions, and aggressive dog investigations" … "Dog Control dogbylaw@rdno.ca 250-541-3647 (DOGS)" - Source: [Submit a Dog Complaint, Regional District of North Okanagan, File a dog complaint](https://www.rdno.ca/dog-control/file-dog-complaint) - Official wording: "To report a Dog Control Bylaw concern, please submit an online report." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice: no dangerous-dog sign $500; unsecured, unmuzzled or prohibited-area aggressive dog $300 ($240 if paid within 14 days); dog bites a person $500 ($400 early). Municipal ticket: sign $500; each aggressive-dog offence $300; bite $500. Repeat and nuisance dogs pay double. - Source: [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf, Schedule A, Appendix 4](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Failure to post Dangerous Dog 29 $500.00 $500.00 No" … "Unsecured Aggressive Dog 30 $300.00 $240.00 No" … "Aggressive Dog in prohibited area 32 $300.00 $240.00 No" … "Dog bites, inflicts injury, assaults or 21.b $500.00 $400.00 No" - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule G](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Failure to post Dangerous Dog signage $500.00" … "Unsecured Aggressive Dog $250.00" … "Aggressive Dog in prohibited area $250.00" … "Dog bites, inflicts injury, assaults or otherwise attacks a person $500.00" … "Nuisance Dogs are charged double the applicable Fine" - Source: [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf, Bylaw 2908, Schedule E](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Failure to post Dangerous Dog signage 29 $500.00" … "Unsecured Aggressive Dog 30 $300.00" … "Aggressive Dog in prohibited area 32 $300.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (Regional District of North Okanagan) - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 1](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Dog control for the City of Vernon is an RDNO service under [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881](). An aggressive dog chases or approaches people menacingly, has attacked, bitten or injured (or tried to) a person or domestic animal, or was designated aggressive by an officer, the BC SPCA, the RCMP, a veterinarian or a court. A dangerous dog has seriously injured or killed a person or domestic animal. Animal Control Officers decide. ## Rules for the owner 1. At home, keep an aggressive or dangerous dog in a secure fence or enclosure when it is outside the dwelling. 2. In public, keep it on a leash of 1 metre or less and muzzled, unless it is in a closed vehicle. 3. Never take it into sports fields, playgrounds, beaches, parkland, dog parks or school grounds. 4. For a dangerous dog, post a warning sign. It must be at least 22.86 cm by 27.94 cm. ## Good to know - A released aggressive dog needs a signed Application for Release of Aggressive Dog. - The bylaw lists no separate licence fee for these dogs. Impound fees for aggressive dogs are $200, $500, then $1,000, plus boarding at $50 a day. - To report a dog, use the online complaint form, call 250-541-3647 or email dogbylaw@rdno.ca. Animal cruelty goes to the BC SPCA at 1-855-622-7722. In an emergency call 9-1-1. ## Official forms and pages - [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881 (PDF)](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - [Dog Control, RDNO](https://www.rdno.ca/dogcontrol) ## Related questions - [Vernon dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-leash-rules.md) - [Vernon dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-licence.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/dangerous-dogs.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/dangerous-dogs.md) ## Sources - [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated) (PDF), Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dog Control, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/dogcontrol) (read 2026-11-05) - [Submit a Dog Complaint, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/dog-control/file-dog-complaint) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _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 Regional District of North Okanagan. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dangerous-dogs/_ --- --- title: How many dogs or cats you can keep in Vernon question: "How many dogs or cats can I keep?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: shared sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/how-many-pets/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/how-many-pets.json" --- # How many dogs or cats you can keep in Vernon **Question:** How many dogs or cats can I keep? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, you may keep up to three dogs per lot under the Regional District of North Okanagan's Dog Control Bylaw. The City's Bylaw 5252 limits companion animals such as cats to "three total of any species" per lot, but the wording is unclear, so ask Bylaw Compliance. **Who handles it:** More than one level of government **Cost:** More than 3 dogs: $100 ticket, or bylaw notice $100 ($80 if paid within 14 days). Too many companion animals: City bylaw notice $50 ($25 early, $60 late); City municipal ticket $150 ($100 early). **Where:** - Phone: RDNO Dog Control (dogs), 250-541-3647 - Phone: City Bylaw Compliance (other animals), 250-550-3505 ## Key facts - **Dogs allowed:** Three dogs per lot within a municipal boundary such as Vernon (RDNO Dog Control Bylaw s. 6). Not counted: a registered guide dog living with the person it assists, owners in the Guide Dog in Training Program, and RCMP dogs. (Sources differ: The RDNO licensing page says 'per single-family dwelling'; the bylaw says per lot. The bylaw is followed.) - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 6, 7](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "No Owner shall have more than three (3) Dogs on:" … "a lot within a municipal boundary; or," … "The three (3) Dog limit in section 6 of this Bylaw excludes:" … "any Dog used by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police." - Source: [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan, Dog Licensing Information](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) - Official wording: "Maximum of three dogs allowed per single-family dwelling." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Cats allowed:** Bylaw 5252 says no more than "three (3) total of any species of companion animal" (cats, dogs, rabbits and others) on one lot unless licensed or the Zoning Bylaw permits. It can be read as three in total or three per species; ask Bylaw Compliance (250-550-3505). - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, s. 1 (Companion Animal), 3(b)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "No owner may own more than three (3) total of any species of companion animal on one lot unless they are licenced to do so or the Zoning Bylaw permits otherwise." … "means any species of cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, reptiles or Mini Pigs" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other animal limits:** Mini pigs: two per property, counted within the companion-animal total. Urban hens: four. No swine, male goats or more than four guinea pigs on any lot unless it is assessed as farm land. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, Schedule C s. 4; s. 3(h); Schedule A s. 2](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "No more than two Mini Pigs may be kept on any property, except as an" … "No person shall keep swine, male goats, or more than four (4) guinea pigs" … "on any lot in the City, unless the lot is assessed as "farm land"" … "No person shall keep more than four (4) hens, except as an agricultural use" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Exceptions:** More than three companion animals if licensed to do so or if the Zoning Bylaw permits it. The dog limit excludes guide dogs, guide-dog-in-training owners and RCMP dogs. The Dog Control Bylaw defines a 'Dog' as an animal over three months old. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, s. 3(b)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "unless they are licenced to do so or the Zoning Bylaw permits otherwise." - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 5 (Dog), 7](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: ""Dog" means an animal of the canine species over the age of three (3) months;" … "any Dog used by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** More than 3 dogs: $100 ticket; bylaw notice $100, or $80 if paid within 14 days. Too many companion animals (City Bylaw 5252 s. 3(b)): City bylaw notice $50 ($25 early, $60 late); City municipal ticket $150 ($100 early). - Source: [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf, Schedule A, Appendix 4](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) - Official wording: "More than (3) Dogs 6 $100.00 $80.00 Yes" - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule G](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "More than (3) Dogs $100.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A, Schedule A (Bylaw 5252)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "3(b) To many companion animals $ 50.00 $25.00 $60.00 YES" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049, 2025, Schedule B (Bylaw 5252)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "3(b) Too many companion animals $150.00 $100.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (dogs; Regional District of North Okanagan). Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw Number 5252, 2010 (other companion animals; City of Vernon). - Source: [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated), Regional District of North Okanagan, s. 1](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021" - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, s. 13](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw Number 5252, 2010" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Two bylaws apply in the City of Vernon. The Regional District of North Okanagan's [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881]() allows three dogs per lot within a municipal boundary. Not counted: a registered guide dog living with the person it assists, owners in the Guide Dog in Training Program, and RCMP dogs. The City's [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252]() covers other companion animals such as cats and rabbits. ## Limits - Dogs: three per lot. - Cats and other companion animals: Bylaw 5252 says no more than "three (3) total of any species of companion animal" on one lot, unless licensed or the Zoning Bylaw permits more. This can be read as three in total or three per species. Ask Bylaw Compliance at 250-550-3505 which applies to you. - Mini pigs: two per property, counted within the companion-animal total. - Guinea pigs: no more than four per lot. - Swine and male goats: not allowed on any lot unless it is assessed as farm land. - Urban hens: four (see backyard chickens). ## Good to know - The RDNO licensing page says three dogs "per single-family dwelling", but the bylaw says per lot. This answer follows the bylaw. - The bylaws describe no licence or kennel process for keeping more, and the cat rule refers to the old Zoning Bylaw 5000; the current one is Zoning Bylaw 6000. Ask the City. ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881 (PDF)](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/dog-licence.md) - [Vernon backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-chickens.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Dog and cat limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/how-many-pets.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/how-many-pets.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/how-many-pets.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/how-many-pets.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/how-many-pets.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/how-many-pets.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/how-many-pets.md) ## Sources - [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Dog Control Bylaw No. 2881, 2021 (consolidated) (PDF), Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2881_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [DocuPet Dog License Information, Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/doglicense) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049, 2025](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with any government. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/how-many-pets/_ --- --- title: Vernon backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules question: "Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Pets, animals and wildlife owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-chickens/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-chickens.json" --- # Vernon backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules **Question:** Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock? **Short answer:** Yes, in the City of Vernon. Under Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252 you may keep up to four urban hens if you register with the City ($5 per hen per year). Roosters are not allowed on ordinary residential lots. Beehives and other livestock have their own limits. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Urban hens $5 per hen per year; pigeon permit $25; mini pig registration $25 per pig per year. No beehive fee found. Keeping hens without registration: bylaw notice $50 ($25 early, $60 late); municipal ticket $150 ($100 early). **Where:** - Phone: City Bylaw Compliance, 250-550-3505 ## Key facts - **Hens allowed:** Yes. Urban hens (female chickens at least four months old) are allowed on a lot with a single family detached dwelling, at least 12 m of frontage and 20 m of depth. The keeper must register with the City, and hens must be kept in a coop in the rear yard. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, s. 1 (Urban Hen); Schedule A s. 3, 5, 12](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "means domesticated female chickens that are at least four months old" … "An owner of urban hens shall keep them on a lot that has:" … "at least one single family detached dwelling on it;" … "a frontage of at least 12 meters; and," … "a depth of at least 20 meters." … "All coops shall be located in the rear yard of a lot and shall fully enclose the urban hens and prevent them from escaping." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Most hens:** Four. More than four only as an agricultural use in an agricultural zone. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, Schedule A s. 2; s. 3(c)(i)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall keep more than four (4) hens, except as an agricultural use" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Roosters:** Not on ordinary residential lots, by a plain reading. The bylaw has no rooster rule, but "poultry" includes roosters and excludes urban hens, and poultry are allowed only on larger agricultural lots (ten on lots over half an acre). Small lots may keep only rabbits or hens. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, s. 1 (Poultry); s. 3(a), 3(c)(ii)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "means any domestic bird, including chickens, roosters, turkeys, geese, ducks, pigeons, or game birds, owned for any purpose, but does not include urban hens;" … "the keeping of animals other than companion animals or animals regulated under the Wildlife Act RSBC 1996, c.488 is prohibited in all Zones in the City." … "but less than 1 acre (.40 ha.) in area: ten (10) rabbits or ten (10) poultry or a combination thereof are permitted." … "three (3) rabbits or four (4) urban hens as regulated in Schedule A, or a combination thereof are permitted." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Coop rules:** Coop required, in the rear yard, fully enclosed. Setback 1 m from the rear lot line if the neighbouring house is 23 m or more away, otherwise 3 m; 3 m from side lines (Schedule A). Section 3(e) separately says 50 ft (15.24 m) from lot lines for non-companion animals; confirm with Bylaw Compliance. (Sources differ: Within Bylaw 5252: s. 3(e) says structures housing animals other than companion animals must be at least 50 feet (15.24 m) from any lot line, while Schedule A sets the 1 m / 3 m coop setbacks for urban hens. Schedule A is the specific hen rule. Also: no more than 1 cubic metre of composted manure, dead hens disposed of within 24 hours, no backyard slaughter (Schedule A s. 8-10).) - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, Schedule A s. 5-7](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "a coop shall be located a minimum of 1 meter from the rear lot line" … "If a property line is less than 23 meters from a neighbouring residential structure, or the neighbouring lot is vacant, a coop shall be located at least 3 meters from the rear lot line." … "Every coop shall be located at least 3 meters from any side lot line of the lot on which the coop is located." … "Every coop shall be designed and constructed to ensure proper ventilation and sufficient space for the urban hens" … "in no case may be less than a minimum of fifty (50) feet (15.24 metres) from any front, side, or rear lot line of the lot it occupies." - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, s. 3(e)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "in no case may be less than a minimum of fifty (50) feet (15.24 metres) from any front, side, or rear lot line of the lot it occupies." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit or registration:** Yes. Register with the City (the Clerk or designate) and pay $5 per hen per year. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, Schedule A s. 12](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "No person may keep urban hens unless registered with the Clerk or designate and upon paying the required fees and charges" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated), Schedule A, section 13 (Bylaw Enforcement), item F](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Licencing fee for the keeping of Urban hens $5.00 per hen - per year" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bees:** Yes. Up to 2 hives on property of 0.1 ha or less, 4 on larger, in the rear yard behind a solid fence or hedge at least 1.8 m high with a 6 m setback (3 m if hives are raised 2 m). Not at schools or hospitals unless tied to a community garden or educational use. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, Schedule F s. 4-8](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "Up to 2 beehives on property less than or equal to 0.1 ha, and" … "Up to 4 beehives on property greater than 0.1 ha." … "All beehives shall be situated in the rear yard of a property." … "Sited behind a solid fence or hedge that is at least 1.8m in height with a setback of 6m from the property line" … "beehives shall not be located on the same property as schools or hospitals" … "beehives shall not be located on the same property as schools or hospitals, except if the beehives are associated with a maintained community garden or educational use." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other livestock:** Only on larger lots in agricultural or rural zones. Bylaw 5252 names zones A1-A3 and RR from the replaced Zoning Bylaw 5000: over 1/2 acre, 10 rabbits or poultry; over 1 acre, one horse, cow or sheep plus 10 rabbits or poultry. No swine or male goats unless farm land. Confirm zones with the City. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, s. 3(c)(iii), 3(c)(iv), 3(h)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "but less than two acres (.81 ha.) in area: one (1) horse, or one (1) cow, or one (1) sheep, or one (1) other large animal; plus ten (10) rabbits or ten (10) poultry or a combination thereof are permitted." … "In the RR zone, as defined in the Zoning Bylaw, where the lot is or exceeds 2 acres (.81 ha.) in area:" … "No person shall keep swine, male goats, or more than four (4) guinea pigs" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw Number 5252, 2010 (urban hens: Schedule A; beekeeping: Schedule F). Fees: City of Vernon Fees & Charges Bylaw Number 3909, 1993. - Source: [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252, s. 13](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - Official wording: "Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw Number 5252, 2010" - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated), s. 1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Vernon Fees & Charges Bylaw Number 3909, 1993" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The City of Vernon's [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252]() allows urban hens and bees with conditions. The bylaw names zones (A1, A2, A3, RR) from the old Zoning Bylaw 5000, which the City has replaced with Zoning Bylaw 6000. Those names cannot be matched to the new zones, so confirm your lot with the City. ## Urban hens 1. Register with the City (the Clerk or designate) and pay $5 per hen per year, under [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909](). 2. Keep no more than four hens (female, at least four months old). More than four is allowed only as an agricultural use in an agricultural zone. 3. Your lot needs a single family detached dwelling, at least 12 m of frontage and 20 m of depth. 4. Keep the hens in a fully enclosed coop in the rear yard. The setback is 1 m from the rear lot line if the neighbouring house is 23 m or more away, otherwise 3 m, and 3 m from side lines. 5. No more than 1 cubic metre of composted manure, dispose of dead hens within 24 hours, and no backyard slaughter. ## Bees - Up to 2 hives on property of 0.1 ha or less, 4 on larger property, in the rear yard. - Behind a solid fence or hedge at least 1.8 m high with a 6 m setback (3 m if hives are raised 2 m). - Provide water on the property and follow the provincial Bee Regulation. ## Good to know - Roosters: the bylaw has no rooster rule, but "poultry" includes roosters and excludes urban hens, and poultry are allowed only on larger lots. So roosters are not allowed on ordinary residential lots. - Section 3(e) separately says buildings for non-companion animals must be 50 feet (15.24 m) from lot lines. Confirm the coop setback with Bylaw Compliance. - Other livestock is allowed only on larger lots: over half an acre, 10 rabbits or poultry; over 1 acre, one horse, cow or sheep plus 10 rabbits or poultry. Pigeons need a $25 City permit (maximum 8 adult birds). Mini pigs: two, registered at $25 per pig per year. No swine or male goats unless farm land. ## Official forms and pages - [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) ## Related questions - [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Vernon](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/how-many-pets.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/backyard-chickens.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/backyard-chickens.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/backyard-chickens.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/backyard-chickens.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/backyard-chickens.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/backyard-chickens.md) ## Sources - [Animal Regulation and Animal Pound Bylaw 5252 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/animal_regulation_and_animal_pound_bylaw_5252.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated) (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-chickens/_ --- --- title: Vernon RV, boat and trailer parking rules question: "Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Parking, tickets and driving owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/rv-boat-trailer-parking/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json" --- # Vernon RV, boat and trailer parking rules **Question:** Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, no vehicle, including an RV or boat trailer, may stay on a street longer than 48 consecutive hours. On a lot in a housing zone, Zoning Bylaw 6000 allows one RV, not over 30 feet long unless it is inside a fully enclosed permanent building. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Street, over 48 hours or RV over 5,500 kg over 24 hours: bylaw notice $35 ($15 if paid within 14 days, $50 after 28 days); municipal ticket $50. RV stabilized or with slide-outs out: notice $100 ($90 early, $110 late); ticket $200. RV over the allowance on a lot: notice $100 ($75 early, $125 late); ticket $500. **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Compliance, 250-550-3505 ## Key facts - **On the street:** No vehicle, including an RV or boat trailer, may stay on a street longer than 48 consecutive hours. An RV over 5,500 kg net weight in a residential zone: 24 hours. An RV may not be stabilized with jacks or blocks (24 hours at most in a residential zone) or have slide-outs, push-outs or awnings out. - Source: [Traffic Bylaw 5600, s. 4.1(cc), (ff), (mm), (nn)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) - Official wording: "on a Highway for a period of time longer than 48 consecutive hours;" … "classified as a Recreational Vehicle with a licensed Net Weight exceeding 5,500 kilograms on a Highway in a Residential Zone, for a period longer than 24 consecutive hours;" … "classified as a Recreational Vehicle in a manner where it is stabilized, secure or otherwise prevented from movement, including the use of jacks, blocks, stabilizers, bricks or other material, unless in a Residential Zone for a period no longer than 24 consecutive hours;" … "are operated, used, deployed, or opened." - Source: [Traffic Bylaw 5600, Schedule A (definition of Recreational Vehicle)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) - Official wording: "includes travel trailers, tent trailers, motorhomes, campers, campervans, and trailers carrying recreational items such as boats, snowmobiles, and all-terrain Vehicles" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **On your property:** In housing zones: one RV per lot, and none over 30 ft long unless inside a fully enclosed permanent building. Short-term parking of up to two consecutive days for loading, unloading, service or repair is allowed. No more than six vehicles of any type outdoors. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000 (combined), s. 3.3.8.2, 3.3.8.3, 3.3.8.6](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "park or store a Recreational Vehicle in excess of 30 ft in length on a Lot in a housing zone, except in a fully enclosed permanent Building, provided that short term parking of no more than two consecutive days for the purposes of loading," … "park or store more than one Recreational Vehicle on a Lot in a housing zone;" … "park or store more than six Vehicles of any type outdoors on a Lot in a housing zone." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000 (combined), Definitions (Recreational Vehicle)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "Typical examples include motor homes, travel trailers, fifth wheel trailers, truck campers, tent trailers, park model recreational vehicles, or camper van conversions." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Living in an RV:** Not addressed for RVs in the Traffic Bylaw or Zoning Bylaw 6000 text read. The Parks and Public Places Bylaw bars sleeping in a public place (which includes highways and parks) unless authorized under its s. 14. - Source: [Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057, s. 1 (public place), s. 13](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/parks_and_public_places_bylaw_5057.pdf) - Official wording: "or sleep in a public place." … "an area of land, including a highway or park, or improvement on the land, in respect of which the City holds an interest" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Street: parking over 48 hours or an RV over 5,500 kg over 24 hours: bylaw notice $35 ($15 early, $50 late), municipal ticket $50 ($45 early). RV stabilized or with slide-outs out: notice $100 ($90, $110), ticket $200 ($150). Lot: RV over allowance: notice $100 ($75, $125); ticket $500 ($450). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A (Traffic Bylaw; Zoning Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "4.1(cc) Stop or Park on Highway $35.00 $15.00 $50.00 NO" … "4.1(mm) RV parked with stabilization $100.00 $90.00 $110.00 NO" … "3.3.8.3 Park or Store Recreational $100.00 $75.00 $125.00 YES" - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, Schedule B (Traffic Bylaw; Zoning Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "4.1(cc) Stop or Park on Highway longer $50.00 $45.00" … "4.1(mm) RV parked with stabilization $200.00 $150.00" … "3.3.8.3 Park or Store Recreational Vehicles in $500.00 $450.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Traffic Bylaw Number 5600, 2018 (streets) and City of Vernon Zoning Bylaw #6000 (s. 3.3.8, lots) - Source: [Traffic Bylaw 5600, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited for all purposes as "Traffic Bylaw Number 5600, 2018"." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000 (combined), Section 3 page footer](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Vernon Zoning Bylaw #6000 page 46" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Two bylaws apply in the City of Vernon: [Traffic Bylaw 5600]() for streets and [Zoning Bylaw 6000]() for your lot. The Traffic Bylaw's definition of a recreational vehicle includes trailers carrying boats. Zoning Bylaw 6000 defines one as a vehicle designed for recreation and travel and does not name boats or boat trailers. ## Steps 1. On the street, do not leave any vehicle longer than 48 consecutive hours. An RV over 5,500 kg net weight in a residential zone: 24 hours. 2. Do not stabilize an RV on the street with jacks or blocks (24 hours at most in a residential zone), and do not put out slide-outs, push-outs or awnings. 3. On a lot in a housing zone, keep to one RV, none over 30 ft long unless inside a fully enclosed permanent building. Parking up to two consecutive days for loading, unloading, service or repair is allowed. 4. No more than six vehicles of any type outdoors on the lot. ## Good to know - Other Traffic Bylaw parking rules also apply on the street (distance from curb, hydrants, driveways, intersections, bus stops). - Living in an RV on a street or lot is not addressed in the bylaws read. The Parks and Public Places Bylaw bars sleeping in a public place unless authorized. - The Zoning Bylaw has no lot rule for parking a boat or boat trailer in a housing zone. Ask Bylaw Compliance. ## Official forms and pages - [Traffic Bylaw 5600 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/zoning-lookup.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) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md) ## Sources - [Traffic Bylaw 5600 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/traffic_bylaw_5600.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000 (combined) (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Parks and Public Places Bylaw 5057 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/parks_and_public_places_bylaw_5057.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_ --- --- title: "Vernon noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines" question: "What are the noise rules and quiet hours?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/noise-rules/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/noise-rules.json" --- # Vernon noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines **Question:** What are the noise rules and quiet hours? **Short answer:** The City of Vernon's Good Neighbour Bylaw sets no fixed quiet hours. It bans noise that disturbs neighbours at any time. Construction noise is not allowed before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m., and motorized lawn and garden equipment is banned from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. Report noise to 250-550-3505. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Disturbing noise on private property: bylaw notice $100 ($90 if paid within 14 days, $120 after 28 days); municipal ticket $200. On a highway or public place, or construction noise outside 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.: bylaw notice $250 ($225 early, $275 late); municipal ticket $500. **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Compliance, 250-550-3505 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The City says calls for service are answered until 10:00 p.m., on weekends and on holidays by an on-duty officer. 3005 33 Street.) - Online: Bylaw Compliance contact form, https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-directory/bylaw-compliance ## Key facts - **General rule:** No one may make or allow noise on a street or other public place, and no owner, occupier or tenant may allow noise from a property, that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people in the neighbourhood. - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 4.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "any noise in or on a highway or other public place in the City which disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment," … "No person being the owner, occupier or tenant of real property shall allow or permit such real property to be used so that noise or sound which occurs thereon or emanates there from, disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Quiet hours:** None set. Vernon's Good Neighbour Bylaw does not set quiet hours for ordinary noise. - **Construction hours:** Not allowed before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. on any day of the week, if the noise disturbs people in the neighbourhood. The Chief Building Inspector may grant a written construction permit for other hours. - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 4.5(e), 4.3(a)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "no person in the City shall, on any day before 0700 hours or after 2100 hours, construct, erect, reconstruct, alter, repair or demolish any building, structure or thing" … "may, on application in writing, grant a construction permit to carry out work that is found to be necessary, at designated hours on designated days" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Other limits:** Motorized lawn and garden equipment is banned from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. Loud radios, stereos and animals or birds that unduly disturb the neighbourhood are also covered. No decibel limits. Exempt: emergency work, farm operations, normal household equipment such as pool pumps, and noise common to a trade in industrial zones. - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 4.2, 4.5(a), 4.5(c), 4.5(d)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "No person may operate, or cause, suffer or permit the operation of, any motorized lawn-grooming or garden equipment in the City between the hours of 2100 hours and 0700 hours;" … "no person shall own, keep or harbour any animal or bird which by its cries or sounds unduly disturbs the peace, quiet, rest or tranquility of the surrounding neighbourhood" … "farm operations conducted in accordance with normal farm practices under the Farm Practices Protection (Right to Farm) Act;" … "operating residential household equipment including, but not limited to, pool pump motors" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, business hours:** City of Vernon Bylaw Compliance, 250-550-3505, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (3005 33 St.). - Source: [Bylaw Compliance, Bylaw Compliance contact page](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-directory/bylaw-compliance) - Official wording: "Regular Bylaw Office hours are Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm" - Source: [Contact Us, Bylaw Compliance](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) - Official wording: "Bylaw Compliance ### Hours of Operation Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm 3005 33 St. Vernon, BC V1T 9X3 250-550-3505" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Who to call, after hours:** City of Vernon Bylaw Compliance, 250-550-3505. The City says calls for service are answered until 10:00 p.m., on weekends and on holidays by an on-duty officer. - Source: [Bylaw Compliance, Bylaw Compliance contact page](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-directory/bylaw-compliance) - Official wording: "*Calls for service will be answered until 10:00pm, on weekends and on holidays by an on-duty officer." - Source: [Contact Us, Bylaw Compliance](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) - Official wording: "Bylaw Compliance ### Hours of Operation Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm 3005 33 St. Vernon, BC V1T 9X3 250-550-3505" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Disturbing noise on private property: bylaw notice $100 ($90 early, $120 late); municipal ticket $200 ($190 early). On a highway or public place: $250 notice ($225, $275); $500 ticket ($475). Construction noise outside 7 a.m.-9 p.m.: $250 notice ($225, $275); $500 ticket ($475). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A (Good Neighbour Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "4.4(a) Disturb Peace - Highway $250.00 $225.00 $275.00 NO" … "4.4(b) Disturb Peace - Private $100.00 $90.00 $120.00 NO" … "4.5(e) Construction Noise $250.00 $225.00 $275.00 NO" - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, Schedule B (Good Neighbour Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "4.4(a) Disturb Peace - Highway or $500.00 $475.00" … "4.4(b) Disturb Peace - Private Property $200.00 $190.00" … "4.5(e) Contruction Noise Outside $500.00 $475.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** City of Vernon Good Neighbour Bylaw Number 4980, 2005 - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "City of Vernon Good Neighbour Bylaw Number 4980, 2005"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980]() does not set quiet hours for ordinary noise. No one may make or allow noise on a street or other public place, and no owner, occupier or tenant may allow noise from a property, that disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people in the neighbourhood. There are no decibel limits. ## Steps 1. If you can, talk to the neighbour first. 2. If the noise continues, call Bylaw Compliance at 250-550-3505 or use the online form. Give the address, the time and what you heard. ## Good to know - Construction: not allowed before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. on any day if it disturbs people nearby. The Chief Building Inspector may grant a written permit for other hours. Owners who allow others to do the work are also covered. - Motorized lawn and garden equipment is banned from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. - Loud radios and stereos, and animals or birds that unduly disturb the neighbourhood, are also covered. - Exempt: emergency work, farm operations, normal household equipment such as pool pumps, and noise common to a trade in industrial zones. - A mobile public address system needs a permit and may run only 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Boat motors must be muffled. - Barking dogs are handled under the Regional District of North Okanagan's Dog Control Bylaw. ## Official forms and pages - [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (PDF), Part IV Noise Regulation](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/bylaw-fines.md) - [Vernon fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/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) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/noise-rules.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/noise-rules.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/noise-rules.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/noise-rules.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/noise-rules.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/noise-rules.md) ## Sources - [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated) (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Compliance, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-directory/bylaw-compliance) (read 2026-11-05) - [Contact Us, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 is recorded as not set. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/noise-rules/_ --- --- title: Vernon unsightly property rules and how to report question: "How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/unsightly-property/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/unsightly-property.json" --- # Vernon unsightly property rules and how to report **Question:** How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, call Bylaw Compliance at 250-550-3505, use its online form or the VernonConnect app to report rubbish, weeds or an unsightly property. Under the Good Neighbour Bylaw, an officer can order the owner to fix it within 14 days. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Unsightly property: bylaw notice $50 ($40 if paid within 14 days, $60 after 28 days); municipal ticket $100. Rubbish accumulating: notice $100 ($90 early, $120 late); ticket $200. Overgrowth: notice $50; ticket $100. The City can add its clean-up costs to the property taxes. **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Compliance, 250-550-3505 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) - Online: Bylaw Compliance contact form, https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-directory/bylaw-compliance ## Key facts - **What counts:** Owners and occupiers must not let rubbish or noxious or offensive matter collect, rubbish overflow a container, the property become or stay unsightly (visible filth, rubbish, graffiti or discarded materials, dead or uncontrolled vegetation, disrepair), or dead growth or noxious weeds build up. Farm operations are exempt. - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 5.2, 5.3; Schedule D](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "the real property to become or remain unsightly;" … "the accumulation of dead landscaping, vegetation, noxious weeds or other growths to occur or to remain on the real property; or" … "rubbish to overflow from or accumulate around any container situate on the real property;" … "landscaping or vegetation that is dead or characterized by uncontrolled growth or lack of maintenance, or is damaged;" … "Part V of this Bylaw does not apply to farm operations conducted in accordance with normal farm practices" … "of filth, rubbish, graffiti or any other discarded materials;" … "the accumulation of dead landscaping, vegetation, noxious weeds" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to report:** Call Bylaw Compliance at 250-550-3505 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), use the online Bylaw Compliance contact form on vernon.ca (give the incident address; photo optional), or use the VernonConnect app. - Source: [Bylaw Compliance, Bylaw Compliance contact form](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-directory/bylaw-compliance) - Official wording: "Regular Bylaw Office hours are Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm" … "Address of the Incident/Complaint" … "Image of the incident (optional)" - Source: [Recreational Cannabis in Vernon, Reporting concerns](https://www.vernon.ca/business/recreational-cannabis-vernon) - Official wording: "Citizens can call the Bylaw department at 250-550-3505." … "You can also use the VernonConnect app to report concerns." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What happens next:** A Bylaw Enforcement Officer may issue a compliance order giving 14 days from delivery to fix the problem (24 hours for rubbish on a sidewalk). If the owner does not comply, the City may do the work without further notice and add the cost to the property taxes; the owner may also be prosecuted. - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 5.8, 5.10, 5.12, 5.13](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "may issue an order requiring that the owner or occupier bring the real property into compliance" … "must be remedied within 14 days of the date of delivery of the notice, or, in the case of rubbish on a sidewalk or footpath, within 24 hours from the time the rubbish is deposited thereon" … "the City may, without further notice, proceed to carry out the work required, and the cost of such work will be added to the taxes of the real property" … "defaults in paying the cost referred to in Section 5.12 to the City within 30 days after receipt of a demand for payment" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Unsightly property (s. 5.3(c)): bylaw notice $50 ($40 early, $60 late); municipal ticket $100 ($90 early). Rubbish accumulating (5.3(a)): $100 notice ($90, $120); $200 ticket ($190). Overgrowth (5.3(d)): $50 notice; $100 ticket. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A (Good Neighbour Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "5.3(c) Allow Property to become or $50.00 $40.00 $60.00 YES" … "5.3(a) Allow Rubbish/Matter to $100.00 $90.00 $120.00 YES" … "5.3(d) Allow accumulation of growth $50.00 $40.00 $60.00 YES" - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, Schedule B (Good Neighbour Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "5.3(c) Allow Property to become or $100.00 $90.00" … "5.3(a) Allow Rubbish/Matter to $200.00 $190.00" … "5.3(d) Allow accumulation of growth $100.00 $90.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** City of Vernon Good Neighbour Bylaw Number 4980, 2005 (Part V, Property Maintenance) - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 1.1, Part V](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "City of Vernon Good Neighbour Bylaw Number 4980, 2005"." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Part V of the [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980]() says owners and occupiers must not let rubbish or noxious or offensive matter collect, let rubbish overflow a container, or let the property become or stay unsightly (visible filth, rubbish, graffiti or discarded materials, dead or uncontrolled vegetation, disrepair). Dead growth and noxious weeds must not build up. Farm operations are exempt. Owners must also keep the boulevard and lane next to their property clear of debris and weeds. ## Steps 1. Note the address and, if you can, take a photo. 2. Call Bylaw Compliance at 250-550-3505, use the online contact form on vernon.ca, or use the VernonConnect app. 3. An officer may issue a compliance order giving 14 days from delivery to fix the problem (24 hours for rubbish on a sidewalk). 4. If the owner does not comply, the City may do the work without further notice and add the cost to the property taxes. The owner may also be prosecuted. ## Good to know - More serious calls are attended first, so a response may take longer. - Graffiti is covered by the separate Graffiti Bylaw 5010. - Bylaw notices for these offences can be settled with a compliance agreement. ## Official forms and pages - [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (PDF), Part V Property Maintenance](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/unsightly-property.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/unsightly-property.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/unsightly-property.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/unsightly-property.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/unsightly-property.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/unsightly-property.md) ## Sources - [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated) (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Compliance, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-directory/bylaw-compliance) (read 2026-11-05) - [Recreational Cannabis in Vernon, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/business/recreational-cannabis-vernon) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/unsightly-property/_ --- --- title: Vernon backyard fire and burning rules question: "Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-fire/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-fire.json" --- # Vernon backyard fire and burning rules **Question:** Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste? **Short answer:** In the City of Vernon, campfires and CSA-certified outdoor fireplaces are allowed under the bylaws with size and distance limits. Burning yard waste or other residential waste in the open is not allowed. Check BC Wildfire Service for fire bans before lighting. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Open-burning permit (land clearing or agricultural burning only): $75. Fines: burning without a permit, bylaw notice $200 ($175 early, $225 late), municipal ticket $400; burning during a fire ban, notice $500, ticket $1,000; burning prohibited material in a campfire, notice $100, ticket $200. **Where:** - Phone: Open burning permit questions, 250-550-3561 ## Key facts - **Backyard campfires:** Yes. Campfires and CSA-certified outdoor fireplaces are allowed: up to 1 m wide and high in Interface Zone 1, 0.6 m in Zones 2 and 3, where a 45-60 cm tall enclosure and a spark guard are also required. Keep 3 m (Zone 1) or 5 m (Zones 2, 3) from combustibles and property lines. Dry wood or briquettes only; never unattended. - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, s. 5.5(a)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "Campfires and Outdoor Fireplaces - are permitted provided burning is conducted in conformance with the current "City of Vernon Good Neighbour Bylaw"." - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 6.3, 6.4, 6.9, 6.12; Schedule E](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "not exceeding one meter in diameter (3 ft.) and one meter (3 ft.) in height in Interface Zone 1" … "or not exceeding 0.60 meters (2 ft.) and 0.60 meters (2 ft.) in height in Interface Zone 2 or Interface Zone 3." … "less than 3 meters (10 feet) from any combustible materials including but not limited to buildings, sheds, shrubs, grassy fields or from property boundary." … "less than 5 meters (15 feet) from any combustible materials including but not limited to buildings, sheds, shrubs, grassy fields or from property boundary." … "No person shall burn any material other than dry seasoned wood or charcoal briquettes in a campfire or outdoor fireplace." … "No person may allow a campfire or outdoor fireplace to burn unattended." … "All campfires, located in interface zone two and three must be enclosed in rock, concrete, ceramic clay or metal container no greater than 60 centimeters (24 inches) wide and no less than 45 centimeters (18 inches) in height." … "All campfires, located in zones two and three require a spark guard or heavy wire mesh screen with openings no larger than 13 millimeters (one half inch)." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Burning yard waste:** No. Burning residential waste, including household and yard materials, is strictly prohibited in the open air. Only land clearing debris or agricultural material from the same site (at least 5 acres) may be burned, under a permit, between November 1 and April 30, at least 500 m from neighbouring homes and businesses. - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, s. 5.4, 5.6(b)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "Burning of residential waste, including both household and yard materials, is strictly prohibited in the open air." … "originating from the site on which the burning is to be carried out (site must be a minimum of 5 acres)" … "may only occur between November 1 and April 30, when authorized by the Director of Fire Rescue Services." … "must be carried out at least 500 metres from neighboring residences and businesses" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** Not for campfires or outdoor fireplaces. An open-burning permit from the Director of Fire Rescue Services is needed for land clearing or agricultural burning: $75. Issued only November 1 to April 30; can be cancelled during a fire ban. Questions: 250-550-3561. - Source: [Fire Prevention and Life Safety, Open Burning Permits](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/fire-safety/fire-prevention) - Official wording: "a burning permit is required for open burning." … "Open burning permits will only be issued between November 1 and April 30 and can be cancelled during a fire ban." … "If you have any questions regarding burn permits, please contact 250-550-3561." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated), Schedule A, section 6 (Fire Rescue Services), item E](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Outdoor Burning Permit $75.00 each" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fire bans:** The Director of Fire Rescue Services may suspend all outdoor burning in hazardous conditions. No campfire may be lit or kept burning during a fire ban, if the Air Quality Health Index is above 3, the Ventilation Index is below 55, or conditions are hazardous. Check BC Wildfire Service (bcwildfire.ca) for bans; venting index 1-888-281-2992. - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, s. 5.9](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "The Director of Fire Rescue Services may suspend all outdoor burning when conditions exist that such burning creates a Fire Hazard" … "during periods of prolonged "High" and "Extreme" fire indexes." - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 6.7](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "to burn when; (a) the Air Quality Health Index is greater than 3, or (b) the Ventilation Index is less than 55, or (c) conditions are hazardous, or (d) a fire ban is in place." - Source: [Fire Prevention and Life Safety, Campfires and Outdoor Fireplaces](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/fire-safety/fire-prevention) - Official wording: "Environment Canada (venting index) Phone: 1-888-281-2992" … "BC Wildfire Provincial fire bans" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Instead of burning:** Yard waste goes in the weekly organics cart; the City also runs spring curbside chipping and a fall leaf pick-up. Residential yard and garden waste can be dropped off free at RDNO facilities such as the Greater Vernon Landfill (120 Birnie Road). - Source: [Residential Organics](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics) - Official wording: "Household organics (kitchen and yard waste) are collected every week" … "Residential yard and garden waste can be dropped off at any RDNO Diversion and Disposal Facility free of charge." - Source: [2026 Spring Chipping](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-chipping) - Official wording: "crews collecting pruning material from residences between the end of March and mid-April" - Source: [Fall Leaf Pick Up](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-fall-leaf-pickup) - Official wording: "Emterra Environmental will provide curbside collection of leaves in clear plastic bags on your regular garbage collection day." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Burning without a permit: bylaw notice $200 ($175 early, $225 late); municipal ticket $400 ($390 early). Burning in contravention of a fire ban: notice $500; ticket $1,000. Burning prohibited material in a campfire: notice $100 ($90, $120); ticket $200 ($190). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A (Fire Services Bylaw; Good Neighbour Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "5.4 Burning without Permit $ 200.00 $175.00 $ 225.00 NO" … "6.7(d) Burn in contravention of fire $500.00 $500.00 $500.00 NO" … "6.9 Burn prohibited material $100.00 $90.00 $120.00 NO" - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, Schedule B (Fire Services Bylaw; Good Neighbour Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "5.4 Burning without Permit $400.00 $390.00" … "6.7(d) Burn in contravention of fire ban $1000.00 $1000.00" … "6.9 Burn prohibited material $200.00 $190.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fire Services Bylaw No. 5635 and City of Vernon Good Neighbour Bylaw Number 4980, 2005 (Part VI, Nuisance Smoke) - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, Schedule A (definitions)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "means the City of Vernon Fire Services Bylaw No. 5635." - Source: [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated), s. 1.1, Part VI](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) - Official wording: "City of Vernon Good Neighbour Bylaw Number 4980, 2005" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under the [Fire Services Bylaw 5635](), burning residential waste, including household and yard materials, in the open air is strictly prohibited in the City of Vernon. Campfires and CSA-certified outdoor fireplaces are allowed. Barbecues and CSA/ULC-rated appliances are allowed if used safely. ## Campfire rules 1. Size: up to 1 m wide and high in Interface Zone 1, and 0.6 m in Zones 2 and 3. Zone boundaries are on the City's Fire Interface Zone Map. 2. In Zones 2 and 3, use an enclosure of rock, concrete, ceramic clay or metal, 45 to 60 cm tall, and a spark guard or mesh with openings 13 mm or smaller. 3. Keep 3 m (Zone 1) or 5 m (Zones 2 and 3) from combustibles and property lines. 4. Burn dry wood or briquettes only, and never leave the fire unattended. ## Good to know - No campfire may be lit or kept burning during a fire ban, if the Air Quality Health Index is above 3, the Ventilation Index is below 55, or conditions are hazardous. Check BC Wildfire Service (bcwildfire.ca) for current bans; the venting index line is 1-888-281-2992. - A permit from the Director of Fire Rescue Services ($75) is needed only for land clearing debris or agricultural material from the same site (at least 5 acres). It is issued November 1 to April 30, the fire must be at least 500 m from neighbouring homes and businesses, and the permit can be cancelled during a fire ban. Questions: 250-550-3561. - For yard waste, use the weekly organics cart, spring curbside chipping and fall leaf pick-up, or drop it off free at Regional District of North Okanagan facilities such as the Greater Vernon Landfill (120 Birnie Road). ## Official forms and pages - [Fire Prevention and Life Safety (open burning permits, campfires)](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/fire-safety/fire-prevention) - [Fire Services Bylaw 5635 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (PDF), Part VI](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fireworks.md) - [Vernon yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/yard-waste.md) - [Vernon bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/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) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/backyard-fire.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/backyard-fire.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/backyard-fire.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/backyard-fire.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/backyard-fire.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/backyard-fire.md) ## Sources - [Fire Services Bylaw 5635 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Good Neighbour Bylaw 4980 (consolidated) (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/good_neighbour_bylaw_4980.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fire Prevention and Life Safety, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/fire-safety/fire-prevention) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated) (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Residential Organics, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics) (read 2026-11-05) - [2026 Spring Chipping, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-chipping) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fall Leaf Pick Up, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/waste-management/residential-organics/spring-fall-leaf-pickup) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-fire/_ --- --- title: Vernon fireworks rules question: "Are fireworks allowed?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fireworks/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fireworks.json" --- # Vernon fireworks rules **Question:** Are fireworks allowed? **Short answer:** No. Under the City of Vernon's Fire Services Bylaw, no one may store, sell, possess or discharge fireworks in the City unless authorized by a permit. The only permit the bylaw describes is for Display Fireworks, issued by the Director of Fire Rescue Services. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Display Fireworks Permit $100. Possessing or discharging without a permit: bylaw notice $150 ($125 if paid within 14 days, $175 after 28 days); municipal ticket $300. Storing without a permit: notice $100; ticket $200. **Where:** - Phone: Bylaw Compliance (to report), 250-550-3505 ## Key facts - **Setting off fireworks:** Not without a permit. No one may store, sell, possess or discharge fireworks anywhere in the City unless authorized by a permit under the Fire Services Bylaw. The only permit the bylaw describes is for Display Fireworks, issued by the Director of Fire Rescue Services. - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, s. 9.1, 9.2(a)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall, at any time, store, sell, possess or discharge Fireworks anywhere within the City, unless authorized by a Permit under this Bylaw." … "No person shall at any time, possess or set off Display Fireworks unless that person has first obtained a valid Permit from the Director of Fire Rescue Services in the prescribed form." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Selling fireworks:** No. No one may sell fireworks in the City unless authorized by a permit under the bylaw. Display Fireworks may be sold only to a person presenting a valid permit from the Director of Fire Rescue Services. - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, s. 9.1, 9.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "No person shall, at any time, store, sell, possess or discharge Fireworks anywhere within the City, unless authorized by a Permit under this Bylaw." … "No person shall offer for sale, sell, give or trade any Display Fireworks to any person other than a person presenting a valid Permit issued by the Director of Fire Rescue Services." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **What counts as fireworks:** "Fireworks" includes cannon crackers, fireballs, firecrackers, mines, roman candles, skyrockets, squibs, torpedoes and other explosive products made to produce an explosion. "Display Fireworks" are high-hazard articles for professionals, such as aerial shells, cakes, roman candles, waterfalls, lances and wheels. - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, Schedule A (definitions)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "includes cannon crackers, fireballs, firecrackers, mines, roman candles, skyrockets, squibs, torpedoes, and other explosive products or devices manufactured to intentionally produce an explosion." … "means high-hazard firework articles designed for use by professionals. These articles include items such as aerial shells, cakes, roman candles, waterfalls, lances and wheels." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Permit:** A Display Fireworks Permit from the Director of Fire Rescue Services, $100. The applicant must be the person who will supervise the display and must hold a Fireworks Supervisor Certificate from Natural Resources Canada. - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, s. 9.2, 9.3](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "Every person applying for a Permit to possess or set off Display Fireworks must be the same person who will supervise the setting off of the Display Fireworks and that person must also possess a valid Fireworks Supervisor Certificate issued by Natural Resources Canada." - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated), Schedule A, section 6 (Fire Rescue Services), item F](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Display Fireworks Permit $100.00 each" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Possessing or discharging fireworks without a permit: bylaw notice $150 ($125 early, $175 late); municipal ticket $300 ($225 early). Storing fireworks without a permit: notice $100 ($75 early, $90 late); ticket $200 ($180 early). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A (Fire Services Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "9.1 Possession or discharge of $150.00 $125.00 $175.00 NO" … "9.5 Storage of Fireworks $100.00 $75.00 $90.00 NO" - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, Schedule B (Fire Services Bylaw)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "9.1 Possession or discharge of $300.00 $225.00" … "9.5 Storage of Fireworks without $200.00 $180.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Fire Services Bylaw No. 5635 (Part Nine, Fireworks) - Source: [Fire Services Bylaw 5635, Schedule A (definitions)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) - Official wording: "means the City of Vernon Fire Services Bylaw No. 5635." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Part Nine of the [Fire Services Bylaw 5635]() says no one may store, sell, possess or discharge fireworks anywhere in the City of Vernon unless authorized by a permit. "Fireworks" includes cannon crackers, fireballs, firecrackers, mines, roman candles, skyrockets, squibs, torpedoes and other explosive products made to produce an explosion. The bylaw sets no dates or hours when fireworks are allowed. ## Steps 1. For a professional display, apply for a Display Fireworks Permit from the Director of Fire Rescue Services. The fee is $100. 2. The applicant must be the person who will supervise the display and must hold a Fireworks Supervisor Certificate from Natural Resources Canada. 3. Display Fireworks (high-hazard articles such as aerial shells, cakes, waterfalls, lances and wheels) may be sold only to a person with a valid permit. ## Good to know - The bylaw describes permits for Display Fireworks only. It does not say whether any other fireworks can be permitted, and it does not mention sparklers. Ask Bylaw Compliance. - Report fireworks being set off to Bylaw Compliance at 250-550-3505. For a fire or danger to people, call 9-1-1. ## Official forms and pages - [Fire Services Bylaw 5635 (PDF), Part Nine Fireworks](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/backyard-fire.md) - [Vernon noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/noise-rules.md) - [Vernon bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/bylaw-fines.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/fireworks.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/fireworks.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/fireworks.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/fireworks.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/fireworks.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/fireworks.md) ## Sources - [Fire Services Bylaw 5635 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fire_services_bylaw_5635.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909 (consolidated) (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Contact Us, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/contact-us) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/fireworks/_ --- --- title: Vernon bylaw fines and how tickets work question: "What are the common bylaw fines?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Bylaws, noise and complaints owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/bylaw-fines/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/bylaw-fines.json" --- # Vernon bylaw fines and how tickets work **Question:** What are the common bylaw fines? **Short answer:** The City of Vernon uses two ticket systems. Bylaw notices (Bylaw 6048) carry lower fixed amounts, with a lower amount if paid within 14 days. Municipal ticket information (Bylaw 6049) tickets carry higher fines. Dog and water offences are ticketed by the Regional District of North Okanagan. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Examples (bylaw notice, early payment, then municipal ticket): parking contrary to a sign $35 ($15), ticket $50; noise on private property $100 ($90), ticket $200; unsightly property $50 ($40), ticket $100. Dog at large (RDNO): $150 ($120 early). Amounts vary by offence; see the schedules. **Where:** - Online: Ticket payment, appeal and dispute, https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/bylaws/ticket-payment-appeal-dispute - Phone: Bylaw Compliance, 250-550-3505 ## Key facts - **How tickets work:** Two systems. Bylaw notices (Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025) carry lower amounts, an early-payment amount and a late surcharge, and disputes go to an adjudication registry. Municipal Ticket Information (Bylaw 6049, 2025) tickets carry higher fines. Bylaw Compliance Officers, RCMP and other officers named in Schedule A of Bylaw 6049 issue them. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025, s. 5.1, 8.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "may be dealt with by bylaw notice." … "The Registry is established as a bylaw notice dispute adjudication system in accordance with the Act to resolve disputes in relation to bylaw notices." - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, 2025, s. 3.1, 4.1, Schedule A](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "may be enforced by means of a ticket in the form prescribed for the purpose pursuant to Chapter 26, Part 8, Division 3, of the Community Charter." … "are designated as Bylaw Enforcement Officers pursuant to Chapter 26, Part 8, Division 3, Section 264, 1(b) of the Community Charter" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Common fines:** Parking contrary to a sign: bylaw notice $35 ($15 early, $50 late); ticket $50. Dog at large (RDNO): $150 ($120 early). Noise on private property: notice $100 ($90, $120); ticket $200. Unsightly property: notice $50 ($40, $60); ticket $100. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025, Schedule A](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "4.1(a) Stop or Park contrary to $35.00 $15.00 $50.00 NO" … "4.4(b) Disturb Peace - Private $100.00 $90.00 $120.00 NO" … "5.3(c) Allow Property to become or $50.00 $40.00 $60.00 YES" - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, 2025, Schedule B](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "4.1(a) Stop or Park contrary to Traffic $50.00 $45.00" … "4.4(b) Disturb Peace - Private Property $200.00 $190.00" … "5.3(c) Allow Property to become or $100.00 $90.00" - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2909, Regional District of North Okanagan, Schedule A, Appendix 4](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) - Official wording: "Dog At Large 20 $150.00 $120.00 Yes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying early:** Yes. A bylaw notice paid within 14 days of being received (or presumed received) is charged the lower Early Payment amount in the schedule. Municipal tickets also list an Early Payment amount, with the same 14-day test. The amount varies by offence. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025, s. 6.1(b)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "If received by the City within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to have received the notice, is the Early Payment Penalty set out in Column A2" - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, 2025, s. 5.1(b)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "If received by the City within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to have received the notice, is the Early Payment Penalty set out in Column A2" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Paying late:** Bylaw notices: if paid more than 28 days after received (or presumed received), a late-payment surcharge applies and the Late Penalty column amount is charged. Bylaw 6049 (municipal tickets) sets no late amount. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025, s. 6.1(c)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "If more than 28 days after the person received or is presumed to have received the bylaw notice, is subject to a late payment surcharge" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Disputing a ticket:** For a bylaw notice, within 14 days either pay or request dispute adjudication by delivering the form in person during regular office hours or by mail; no dispute after 14 days. Online appeal form at vernon.ca for bylaw notices. Municipal ticket: follow directions on the back of the ticket. An unsuccessful dispute costs a further $25. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025, s. 7.1, 7.2, 8.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "A person who receives a bylaw notice must, within 14 days of the date on which the person received or is presumed to have received the bylaw notice:" … "Request dispute adjudication by filling in the appropriate portion of the bylaw notice" … "but no person may dispute the notice after 14 days of receiving the bylaw notice." … "must pay the City an additional fee of $25" - Source: [Ticket Payment, Appeal and Dispute, Ticket Payment, Appeal & Dispute](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/bylaws/ticket-payment-appeal-dispute) - Official wording: "If the ticket is a "Bylaw Offence Notice", you may appeal the ticket online through the appeal form below. To appeal a Municipal Ticket Information, please follow the directions on the reverse of the ticket." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** City of Vernon: Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025 and Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049, 2025. Dog control and water offences: RDNO Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2909, 2021 and Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw 2908, 2021. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "This bylaw may be cited as "Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025"." - Source: [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, 2025, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "This bylaw may be cited as "Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049, 2025"." - Source: [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf, s. 1 and s. 9](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as “Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw No. 2908, 2021”." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works The City of Vernon issues two kinds of tickets. A bylaw notice (Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048) carries a penalty, a lower early-payment amount and a late-payment amount, and disputes go to an adjudication registry. A municipal ticket (Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049) carries a higher fine. Bylaw Compliance Officers, the RCMP and other officers named in the bylaw can issue them. Dog control and water offences are ticketed by the Regional District under its own bylaws (Bylaws 2908 and 2909). ## Steps 1. Read the ticket for how to pay or dispute. 2. For a bylaw notice, within 14 days either pay it or ask for a dispute by delivering the form in person during office hours or by mail. There is an online appeal form on vernon.ca. 3. For a municipal ticket, follow the directions on the back of the ticket. ## Good to know - A bylaw notice paid within 14 days of being received is charged the lower early-payment amount. Municipal tickets also list an early-payment amount with the same 14-day test. The amount varies by offence. - A bylaw notice paid more than 28 days after it was received carries a late-payment surcharge. Bylaw 6049 sets no late amount. - You cannot dispute a bylaw notice after 14 days. An unsuccessful dispute costs a further $25. - Fine amounts do not increase while a ticket is under appeal. - Phone messages and notes are not valid appeals. - For some offences a screening officer can enter a compliance agreement. ## Official forms and pages - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF), Schedule A of fines](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - [Ticket Payment, Appeal and Dispute](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/bylaws/ticket-payment-appeal-dispute) ## Related questions - [Vernon noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/noise-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Bylaw tickets in British Columbia: early payment, late payment and disputes by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/bylaw-fines.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/bylaw-fines.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/bylaw-fines.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/bylaw-fines.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/bylaw-fines.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/bylaw-fines.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/bylaw-fines.md) ## Sources - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, 2025 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw 6049, 2025 (PDF), City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Ticket Payment, Appeal and Dispute, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/government-services/bylaws/ticket-payment-appeal-dispute) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 2909 (PDF), Regional District of North Okanagan](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2909_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf](https://www.rdno.ca/sites/default/files/2025-03/BL_2908_C.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/bylaw-fines/_ --- --- title: "Vernon business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply" question: "Do I need a business licence in Vernon, and how do I get one?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/business-licence/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/business-licence.json" --- # Vernon business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply **Question:** Do I need a business licence in Vernon, and how do I get one? **Short answer:** Yes. The City of Vernon requires a business licence to carry on a business, with a separate licence for each business and premises. You pay a $100 application fee plus a yearly fee set by floor area, from $115. Apply online or at the Community Services Building. **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** $100 application fee, plus a yearly fee by floor area: $115 (0 to 100 m²), $135 (101 to 300), $275 (301 to 600), $350 (601 to 2,500), $800 (over 2,500). Contractors $125, non-resident $125, home occupation $90. Halved if liable after July 1. Non-profit societies pay $1 a year. **How long:** The sources do not state a processing time. Licences run January 1 to December 31. **Where:** - Online: Apply or pay online (City of Vernon Business Licences & Permits page), https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits - In person: Community Services Building (business licensing), 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; bring completed forms.) - Phone: Business Licensing, 250-550-3634 - Email: Business Licensing, buslicence@vernon.ca ## Key facts - **Who needs one:** Anyone who carries on a business in Vernon, as owner or operator; a separate licence is needed for each business and each premises. Non-resident businesses need an inter-community or non-resident licence. Non-profit societies need one but pay $1 a year. Exempt: concerts, arts-and-crafts shows, home-and-trade shows, farmers' markets. - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 4.1, 4.3](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "no Person will carry on, maintain, own," … "each Business is a separate Business for licencing purposes" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 4.5, 4.7](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "a performance or concert;" … "an arts-and-crafts show;" … "to pay a nominal Licence Fee of $1.00 per year." - Source: [Business Licences & Permits, Business Licence Information & Application](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits) - Official wording: "A Business Licence is required to operate a business in Vernon." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fee:** Yearly fee for a resident business is set by floor area: $115 (0 to 100 m²), $135 (101 to 300), $275 (301 to 600), $350 (601 to 2,500), $800 (over 2,500). Plus a $100 application fee. Other rates: contractors $125, non-resident $125, home occupation $90. Fee is halved if liable after July 1. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 14](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "RB1 - Resident Business (0 -100 sq meters) $ 115 per year" … "RB2 - Resident Business (101- 300 sq meters) $ 135 per year" … "RB3 - Resident Business (301- 600 sq meters) $ 275 per year" … "RB4 - Resident Business (601- 2500 sq meters) $ 350 per year" … "RB5 - Resident Business (over 2500 sq meters) $ 800 per year" … "Application Fee - Resident Business $ 100 per application" … "CON - Contractors - Resident or Non Resident $ 125 per year" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 4.15-4.17](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "pay to the City the applicable Application Fee." … "The Licence Fee will be reduced by 50% in respect to a Business that becomes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **How to apply:** Apply online through the City's business licence portal, or in person at the Planning & Community Services building, 3001 32 Ave., with forms complete. The application fee is paid when applying and the licence fee on approval. Staff check zoning and parking; Fire, Building or Environmental Health approvals may be needed. - Source: [Business Licences & Permits](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits) - Official wording: "APPLY FOR A Business Licence online" … "Staff will verify if the Zoning District in which the property is situated will allow the particular business type" … "approvals from the Fire Inspector, Building Inspector or the Environmental Health Officer may be necessary" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 4.9, 4.15-4.16](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "the Applicant does not have any expired or incomplete building permits in" … "pay to the City the applicable Application Fee." … "pay to the City the applicable Licence Fee." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Renewal:** Licences run January 1 to December 31 and are renewed yearly by paying the fee. Unpaid by March 1, the licence is cancelled and a new application and fee are needed. The City's page says licences renew automatically unless cancelled in writing before January 31 (buslicence@vernon.ca). - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 4.19-4.20](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "All Business Licences will have a Licence Period of one-year, commencing on the" … "1st day of January and terminating on the 31st day of December in each and every" … "the Licence Period for a Seasonal Business is six (6) months." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 4.23](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "If the Licence Fee is not paid by March 1 of the" … "Licence will be deemed cancelled." - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulations, Cancelling a Business Licence](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/short-term-rental-regulations) - Official wording: "Business licences are set to renew automatically, and fees are applied to the accounts, unless a notification of cancellation has been received before January 31." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Inter-community licence:** Yes. A business that serves clients by moving from client to client pays its home-community licence fee plus $150 to work in the other participating places: Armstrong, Coldstream, Central Okanagan Regional District, Enderby, Kelowna, Keremeos, Lake Country, Lumby, Oliver, Osoyoos, Peachland, Penticton, Princeton, Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Sicamous, Spallumcheen, Summerland and West Kelowna. - Source: [Inter-Community Licence](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/inter-community-licence) - Official wording: "The City of Vernon, along with Armstrong, Coldstream, Central Okanagan Regional District, Enderby, Kelowna, Keremeos, Lake Country, Lumby, Oliver, Osoyoos, Peachland, Penticton, Princeton, Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Sicamous, Spallumcheen, Summerland and The District of West Kelowna" … "an additional licensing fee of $150 to allow access to all other participating municipalities." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 3.3 definition](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "means a business licence issued by a participating" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 6048): $300 ($250 if paid within 14 days; $325 late). Municipal ticket (Bylaw 6049): $3,000. - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A, Bylaw 6100 s. 4.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "No Business Licence $300.00 $250.00 $325.00 YES" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049, Schedule B, Bylaw 6100 s. 4.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "No Business Licence $3000.00 $3000.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Business Licence Bylaw 6100, 2025 - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Business Licence Bylaw 6100, 2025" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Under [Business Licence Bylaw 6100](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) (adopted July 15, 2025), anyone who carries on a business in Vernon, as owner or operator, needs a licence. A separate licence is needed for each business and each premises. Non-resident businesses need an inter-community or non-resident licence. Concerts, arts-and-crafts shows, home-and-trade shows and farmers' markets are exempt. The City's page gives garage or yard sales and farms with no retail sales on site as examples that may not need one. ## Steps 1. Apply online through the City's business licence portal, or in person at 3001 32 Avenue with your forms complete. Staff check zoning and parking. 2. Pay the application fee when you apply and the licence fee on approval. 3. Fire, Building or Environmental Health approval may be needed. The City says these inspections cost nothing when tied to a licence application. 4. The licence is issued once the Licence Inspector is satisfied you meet City bylaws and provincial and federal law, have paid, owe no fees or fines, and have no expired building permits and an occupancy permit for the premises. ## Good to know - Licences run January 1 to December 31 and are renewed yearly by paying the fee. If it is unpaid by March 1, the licence is cancelled and you need a new application and fee. The City's short-term rental page says licences renew automatically unless cancelled in writing before January 31 (buslicence@vernon.ca); confirm whether that applies to yours. - Fees are not refundable. - Inter-community licence: if you work by moving from client to client, you pay your home-community licence fee plus $150 to work in the other participating places (Armstrong, Coldstream, Central Okanagan Regional District, Enderby, Kelowna, Keremeos, Lake Country, Lumby, Oliver, Osoyoos, Peachland, Penticton, Princeton, Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Sicamous, Spallumcheen, Summerland and West Kelowna). Not eligible: social escort services, vehicles for hire, body-rub services, and businesses selling from a fixed location. - Operating without a licence: a bylaw notice is $300 ($250 if paid within 14 days); a municipal ticket is $3,000. On conviction the bylaw allows a fine up to $50,000. ## Official forms and pages - [Business Licences & Permits (City of Vernon)](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits) - [Business Licence Bylaw 6100 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) ## Related questions - [Vernon home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/home-based-business.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/business-licence.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/business-licence.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/business-licence.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/business-licence.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/business-licence.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/business-licence.md) ## Sources - [Business Licences & Permits, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits) (read 2026-11-05) - [Business Licence Bylaw 6100 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Short-Term Rental Regulations, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/short-term-rental-regulations) (read 2026-11-05) - [Inter-Community Licence, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/inter-community-licence) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/business-licence/_ --- --- title: Vernon home-based business rules question: "Can I run a business from my home?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Starting and running a business owner: municipal owner_body: City of Vernon sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/home-based-business/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/home-based-business.json" --- # Vernon home-based business rules **Question:** Can I run a business from my home? **Short answer:** Yes, in the City of Vernon, with a home occupation business licence ($50 application plus $90 a year). You must live there, work inside the home or one accessory building, have no more than two clients on site at once, and use no more than 30% of the floor area, up to 50 m². **Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Vernon, https://www.vernon.ca) **Cost:** Home occupation licence $50 application fee plus $90 per year; halved for businesses that become liable after July 1 (Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909; Business Licence Bylaw 6100). **How long:** The City's sources do not state a processing time. **Where:** - Phone: Business Licensing, 250-550-3634 - In person: Community Services Building, 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) ## Key facts - **Allowed:** Yes. A home-based business is an accessory use in housing zones and is also listed as an accessory use in the rural, resort and commercial mixed-use zones. It must be run by a resident of the dwelling and operated at the licensee's principal residence. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, Definitions](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "Home Based Business means a business operated primarily inside a Dwelling Unit or an" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations (5.4), s. 5.3.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "All Home Based Businesses shall be Accessory Uses and must comply with the" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 5.4](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "A Home-Based Business must be operated at the Licensee's principal residence." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 9.1 MUS Multi-Unit Small Scale, s. 9.1.2](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-9_1-mus.pdf) - Official wording: "Commercial Home Based Business" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** Yes. A business licence is required: $50 application fee and $90 per year for a home occupation licence. Applicants must sign the Home Based Business form. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 14 a. and e.](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "Home Occupation $ 50 per application" … "e. HBO - Home Occupation $ 90 per year" - Source: [Business Licences & Permits, Home Based Businesses](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits) - Official wording: "For anyone intending to operate a "home-based business", please ensure that you have read the home-based business form below and that you are able to comply." - Source: [Home Based Business form, Home Based Business Form](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/business/home_based_minor.pdf) - Official wording: "Mandatory to submit with any Home Based Business License Applications" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Limits:** Run inside the home and/or one accessory building; no outdoor storage or operation; no change to the home's housing appearance or external structure; no more than two clients on site at once; only residents of the dwelling may work in it; all customer parking on the lot, clearly marked; business takes up no more than 30% of the dwelling's floor area, up to 50 m². - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations (5.4), s. 5.3.1.1-.6](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "no outdoor storage for, or outdoor operation of, a Home Based Business shall be permitted;" … "the Home Based Business shall not generate more than two clients to the Site" … "no person other than residents of the Dwelling Unit shall be engaged in the Home" … "the total area of Home Based Businesses shall not occupy more than 30% of the" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 5.5-5.6](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "All parking for customers of a Home-Based Business must be contained on the" … "Parking spaces identified for a Home-Based Business are for the exclusive use of" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Businesses not allowed:** Food and Beverage Service, Vehicle Support Services, and Light Industrial uses of any kind. - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, Definitions](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "This Use does not include Food and Beverage Service, Vehicle Support Services or Light" … "Industrial Uses of any kind." - Source: [Home Based Business form, Home Based Business Form](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/business/home_based_minor.pdf) - Official wording: "The Home Based Business use does not include Food and Beverage Service, Vehicle Support Services or Light" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw No. 6000, s. 5.3 (Home Based Businesses); Business Licence Bylaw 6100, 2025, s. 5.4 to 5.6; Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3909, Schedule A, s. 14 - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations (5.4), s. 5.3](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "5.3 Home Based Businesses" - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Business Licence Bylaw 6100, 2025" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works A home-based business is an accessory use in housing zones and is also listed in the rural, resort and commercial mixed-use zones, under [Zoning Bylaw 6000](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000) section 5.3. It must be run by a resident of the dwelling and operated at the licensee's principal residence. A business licence is required under Business Licence Bylaw 6100. Staff check that the zone allows your type of business when you apply. ## Steps 1. Read the Home Based Business form and make sure you can follow every rule. 2. Submit the signed form with your licence application. 3. Depending on the business, approval from the Fire Inspector, Building Inspector or Environmental Health Officer may be needed. The City says these inspections cost nothing when tied to a licence application. ## Good to know - Run the business inside the home and/or one accessory building. No outdoor storage or operation. - No change to the home's housing appearance or external structure. - No more than two clients on site at once. Only residents of the dwelling may work in it. - All customer parking must be on the lot and clearly marked. Spaces set aside for the business do not count toward the dwelling's required parking. - The business may use no more than 30% of the dwelling's floor area, up to 50 m². - Not allowed: Food and Beverage Service, Vehicle Support Services, and Light Industrial uses of any kind. - An unlawful home-based business can bring a bylaw notice of $250 ($225 if paid within 14 days) or a municipal ticket of $500 ($450 early). ## What you'll need - Signed Home Based Business form (required with any home-based licence application) ## Official forms and pages - [Home Based Business form (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/business/home_based_minor.pdf) - [Business Licences & Permits (City of Vernon)](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits) ## Related questions - [Vernon business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/business-licence.md) - [Vernon zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/zoning-lookup.md) - [Vernon short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/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) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/home-based-business.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/home-based-business.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/home-based-business.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/home-based-business.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/home-based-business.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/home-based-business.md) ## Sources - [Business Licences & Permits, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits) (read 2026-11-05) - [Home Based Business form (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/business/home_based_minor.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/homes-building/zoning-land-use/zoning-bylaw-6000) (read 2026-11-05) - [Business Licence Bylaw 6100 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations (5.4)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 9.1 MUS Multi-Unit Small Scale](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-9_1-mus.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 5 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Vernon. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/home-based-business/_ --- --- title: Vernon short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) question: "Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Vernon?" place: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada place_path: ca/bc/vernon category: Housing and renting owner: shared sources_read: 2026-11-05 review: machine_checked canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/short-term-rental/" json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/short-term-rental.json" --- # Vernon short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo) **Question:** Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Vernon? **Short answer:** Yes, in the City of Vernon, with a City business licence. Stays must be under 90 consecutive days and only at your principal residence. The licence is $400 a year plus a $150 application fee, and you must also register with the Province. **Who handles it:** More than one level of government **Cost:** $150 non-refundable application fee, then a $400 annual licence, which is halved for applications after July 1. Strata-titled hotel or motel: $100 application fee, then $250 plus $5 per unit. **How long:** Licences renew every year. The City's STR page says they renew automatically unless you send a cancellation notice before January 31. **Where:** - Online: Apply for a short-term rental business licence, https://ecommerce2.vernon.ca/TempestApps/eapply/licensing/welcome.aspx?Category=BUSINESS%20LICENCES&Template=STR - In person: Community Services Building (Business Licensing), 3001 32 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 2L8 (250-550-3634; Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; forms must be complete before you arrive.) - Email: Business Licensing (applications, cancellations, unlicensed operators), buslicence@vernon.ca - Phone: Bylaw Compliance (nuisance complaints), 250-550-3505 - Phone: Provincial short-term rental registry (ServiceBC), 1-833-828-2240 ## Key facts - **Allowed:** Yes, with a City business licence. Under 90 consecutive days, only at the operator's principal residence (house, suite, accessory dwelling, apartment, duplex, multi-family). Zoning lists it in rural (AGRL, AGRS), housing, resort and commercial mixed-use zones. Suites need an on-lot principal resident. Strata-titled hotels are exempt. - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulations](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/short-term-rental-regulations) - Official wording: "is permitted only within a single-family home, secondary suite, accessory dwelling unit, an apartment, duplex or muli-family for less than 90 consecutive days." … "it must be operated by a principal resident that resides at a dwelling unit on the same lot as the secondary suite or accessory building." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 5.15](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "A Short-Term Rental (all classifications) must be operated at the Licensee's principal residence." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8, Definitions and zone tables](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) - Official wording: "Short-term Rental Accommodation means the commercial provision of overnight" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Business licence:** Yes. Application fee $150 (non-refundable) and a $400 annual licence fee, renewed each year. Fee is halved for applications after July 1. Strata-titled hotel or motel: $100 application, then $250 plus $5 per unit. - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated, Schedule A, s. 14](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) - Official wording: "m.1 STR – Short-Term Rentals $ 400 per year (Bylaw 6045)" … "Rentals $150 per application (Bylaw" - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulations, Fees](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/short-term-rental-regulations) - Official wording: "Business Licences for short-term rentals cost $400 and must be renewed annually." … "The licence fee for a Short-Term Rental will be reduced by 50% for applications after the first day of July in any year." - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 4.17](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "The Licence Fee will be reduced by 50% in respect to a Business that becomes" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Provincial registration:** Yes. Hosts must also register with the Province's short-term rental registry and renew each year. - Source: [Short-term rental registration - Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) - Official wording: "Short-term rental hosts, platforms and strata hotel platforms in B.C. must register and pay annual registration fees." … "If you have a short-term rental registration, you must renew it each year to continue operating." - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulations, Eligibility and Licensing Requirements](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/short-term-rental-regulations) - Official wording: "short-term rental operators must also meet Provincial requirements." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Operating rules:** One booking per dwelling unit at a time; no more than two guests per bedroom, up to eight guests; no more than two adults per sleeping unit; one marked parking spot per bedroom; a local contact who can attend within 1 hour; fire evacuation plan posted; guest records kept. Listings must show the business licence and say whether parking is available. - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 5.17](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "accommodate no more than two (2) guests per bedroom up to a maximum" … "provide one designated parking spot on the Premises per bedroom, to be used exclusively for patron vehicles, and clearly marked as such;" … "within 1 hour of a request made by the City." - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations (5.4), s. 5.5.1-5.5.2](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "No more than one booking or reservation for Short-term Rental Accommodation is" … "No more than two adults may occupy a Sleeping Unit used for Short-term Rental" - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulations, Example Offences](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/short-term-rental-regulations) - Official wording: "Listing or advertising a short-term rental without displaying a valid business licence." … "Listing or advertising a short-term rental without indicating if parking is available or not." - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 6048): operating without a licence $300 ($250 if paid within 14 days); not a principal residence, or over the guest limit, $500 ($450 early). Municipal ticket (Bylaw 6049): no licence $3,000; not a principal residence or over guest limit $1,000 ($950 early). - Source: [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048, Schedule A, Bylaw 6100](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) - Official wording: "No Business Licence $300.00 $250.00 $325.00 YES" … "Not Principal Residence $500.00 $450.00 $500.00 YES" … "Exceed Guest Limit (Short- $500.00 $450.00 $500.00 YES" - Source: [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049, Schedule B, Bylaw 6100](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) - Official wording: "No Business Licence $3000.00 $3000.00" … "Not Principal Residence (Short- $1000.00 $950.00" … "Exceed Guest Limit (Short-Term $1000.00 $950.00" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 - **Bylaw:** Business Licence Bylaw 6100, 2025 (s. 5.15 to 5.18); Zoning Bylaw No. 6000, s. 5.5 (Short-term Rental Accommodation); Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 3909, Schedule A, s. 14 - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 6100, s. 1.1](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) - Official wording: "Business Licence Bylaw 6100, 2025" - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations (5.4), s. 5.5](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) - Official wording: "5.5 Short-term Rental Accommodation" - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06 ## How it works Short-term rental is allowed in the City of Vernon with a City business licence under [Business Licence Bylaw 6100](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) and Zoning Bylaw 6000 (section 5.5). Stays must be under 90 consecutive days, and only at the operator's principal residence (house, suite, accessory dwelling, apartment, duplex or multi-family unit). A suite needs a principal resident on the lot. Zoning lists it in the rural (AGRL, AGRS), housing, resort and commercial mixed-use zones. Properties in the Agricultural Land Reserve must also follow ALR rules. Strata-titled hotels are exempt from the principal residence rule. ## Steps 1. Prepare proof of principal residence, a fire evacuation plan, a Good Neighbour Agreement and a Local Contact Form. 2. Apply for the City licence and pay the $150 non-refundable application fee. The annual licence fee is $400, halved for applications after July 1. 3. Register with the Province's short-term rental registry and renew it each year. Without registration, listings are removed and bookings cancelled. ## Good to know - Operating rules: one booking per dwelling unit at a time; no more than two guests per bedroom, up to eight guests; no more than two adults per sleeping unit; one marked parking spot per bedroom; a local contact who can attend within 1 hour; a fire evacuation plan posted; guest records kept. - Also required: a fire extinguisher on each floor, and monthly smoke alarm tests logged. Listings must show the business licence and say whether parking is available. - Fines: a bylaw notice is $300 for operating without a licence ($250 if paid within 14 days) and $500 for not being a principal residence or exceeding the guest limit ($450 early). A municipal ticket is $3,000 for no licence and $1,000 for the other two ($950 early). ## What you'll need - Proof of principal residence - Fire evacuation plan of the whole dwelling unit - Good Neighbour Agreement, Local Contact Form, and the Short Term Rental Business Licence Application ## Official forms and pages - [Short-Term Rental Regulations](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/short-term-rental-regulations) - [Short Term Rental Business Licence Application (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/2025-09/COV_STR_BL%20Application_Form_0.pdf) - [Short-term rentals, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals) ## Related questions - [Vernon business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/business-licence.md) - [Vernon home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/home-based-business.md) - [Vernon secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/secondary-suite.md) - [Vernon noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/noise-rules.md) ## The same question elsewhere - [Short-term rental rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/short-term-rental.md) - [Coldstream](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/coldstream/short-term-rental.md) - [Lake Country](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lake-country/short-term-rental.md) - [Spallumcheen](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/spallumcheen/short-term-rental.md) - [Armstrong](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/armstrong/short-term-rental.md) - [Lumby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/lumby/short-term-rental.md) - [Enderby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/enderby/short-term-rental.md) ## Sources - [Short-Term Rental Regulations, City of Vernon](https://www.vernon.ca/business/business-licences-permits/short-term-rental-regulations) (read 2026-11-05) - [Business Licence Bylaw 6100 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/6100%20Business%20Licence%20Bylaw.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Fees and Charges Bylaw 3909, consolidated (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/fees_and_charges_bylaw_3909_consolidated.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw 6048 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Bylaw%20Notice%20Enforcement%20Bylaw%206048.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw 6049 (PDF)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/bylaws/Municipal%20Ticketing%20Information%20Bylaw%206049.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Short-term rentals, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, section 3.3.8](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/6000%20Zoning%20Bylaw%20-%20COMBINED.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) - [Short-term rental registration - Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/registry) (read 2026-11-05) - [Zoning Bylaw 6000, Section 5 Specific Use Regulations (5.4)](https://www.vernon.ca/sites/default/files/docs/planning-building/zoning/bylaw6000/section-5-specific-use-regulations.pdf) (read 2026-11-05) _Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with any government. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/vernon/short-term-rental/_