# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for Victoria

---
title: "Victoria building permits: when you need one and how to apply"
question: "Do I need a building permit, and how do I apply?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit.json"
---

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

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

**Short answer:** In the City of Victoria you need a building permit before you build, alter, rebuild, demolish, remove or relocate a building or structure, or change its use. Check the City's Permit Finder, then apply online through eApply. The application fee is $100.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** $100 application fee, then a permit fee of 1.40% of the cost of construction. See the building-permit-fees answer.  
**How long:** For single-family dwelling or duplex permits, the City's targeted review time is seven business days once the application is complete and the $100 fee is paid. Other types are not stated.  
**Where:**
- Online: Building Permits page (Permit Finder and eApply), https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building
- Phone: Building and Inspection Services (Permit Services), 250-361-0344
- Email: Permit Services, permits@victoria.ca
- In person: Building and Inspection Services, 1 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC

## Key facts

- **Needed for:** A building permit is required before starting any construction, alteration, reconstruction, demolition, removal or relocation of a building or structure, or a change of its occupancy, including excavation. Use the City's Permit Finder to check a specific project.
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), s. 4(1), s. 6(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "A permit is required whenever work regulated under this bylaw is to be undertaken." … "No person shall commence or continue any construction, alteration, reconstruction, demolition, removal, relocation or change the occupancy of any"
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
  - Official wording: "use the Permit Finder to determine if your project needs a permit"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Not needed for:** Not covered by the bylaw: retaining structures under 1.2 m high, platforms under 0.6 m above grade, accessory buildings with a building area under 10 m², and work exempted by the BC Building Code. Rooftop solar on Part 9 buildings needs no building permit if all City conditions are met.
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), s. 5(2)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "retaining structures less than 1.2 meters in height;" … "platforms less than 0.6 meters above grade;" … "accessory buildings with a building area of less than 10 square meters."
  - Source: [Building Permits, Solar Panels policy](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
  - Official wording: "Solar Panels meeting all of the following conditions do not require a building permit." … "The installation is on the roof a BCBC Part 9 building"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to apply:** Apply online through the City's eApply portal (separate applications for single-family/duplex, complex building, interior-only, demolition and strip-out). Any development permits must be approved before the building permit application. Staff: 250.361.0344 or permits@victoria.ca.
  - Source: [Building Permits, How to Apply](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
  - Official wording: "Refer to checklists/requirements above before applying for a Building Permit online." … "all applicable development permits must be approved before applying for building permits" … "Please contact a Permit Services Representative at 250.361.0344 or permits@victoria.ca"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What to submit:** A complete online application with plans to professional drafting standards (site plan at 1:100 or 1:200, site survey, project data table), plus letters of assurance (Schedules A and B) if registered professionals are involved. Checklist varies by project type.
  - Source: [Single Family Dwelling or Duplex eApplication Checklist, Single Family Dwelling or Duplex checklist (new, additions, exterior)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/section-b-part-2-single-family-eapplication-checklist)
  - Official wording: "only complete applications that include plans prepared to professional drafting standards will be accepted" … "Site Plan: Metric 1:100 or 1:200" … "Schedule A from coordinating registered professional" … "Project data table (including height, setbacks, floor area, number of storeys, site coverage and other relevant data)"
  - Source: [Building Permits, Application Checklists](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
  - Official wording: "Complex Building Checklist (New Projects, Additions, Excavations and Exterior Alterations)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Processing time:** For single-family dwelling or duplex permits, the City's targeted review time is seven business days once the application is complete and the $100 fee is paid.
  - Source: [Single Family Dwelling or Duplex eApplication Checklist, Single Family Dwelling or Duplex checklist](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/section-b-part-2-single-family-eapplication-checklist)
  - Official wording: "the targeted review time for this application type is seven business days"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Inspections:** Book through the MyCity portal (until 7 a.m. on the day), by the Building Permit Inspection Request Form or by phone at 250.361.0344 (until 4 p.m. the business day before). The bylaw requires at least 24 hours' notice. The permit package must be on site.
  - Source: [Request an Inspection](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/request-inspection)
  - Official wording: "Requests can be made until 7 a.m. on the day of the requested date." … "Forms can be submitted until 4 p.m. on the business day before the requested inspection date." … "Inspections can also be requested by phone by calling 250.361.0344." … "your permit package is required to be on site during the inspection"
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), s. 13(4)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "shall give at least 24 hours’ notice to the City when requesting an inspection"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Contact:** Building and Inspection Services (Permit Services), 1 Centennial Square: 250.361.0344, permits@victoria.ca.
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
  - Official wording: "Please contact a Permit Services Representative at 250.361.0344 or permits@victoria.ca"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw No. 17-113
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), title page](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "BUILDING AND PLUMBING REGULATION BYLAW" … "BYLAW NO. 17-113"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of Victoria's [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated) requires a permit before any construction, alteration, reconstruction, demolition, removal or relocation of a building or structure, or a change of its occupancy, including excavation. Use the City's Permit Finder to check a specific project.

## Steps

1. Confirm zoning allows your project. Any development permit must be approved before you apply for a building permit.
2. Use the Permit Finder on the Building Permits page, or call 250-361-0344 or email permits@victoria.ca.
3. Pick the checklist for your project type (single-family or duplex, complex building, interior only, demolition or strip-out) and gather the plans and letters of assurance.
4. Apply online through the City's eApply portal. Pay the $100 application fee when the City sends the payment link.
5. Book inspections through the MyCity portal (until 7 a.m. on the day), with the Building Permit Inspection Request Form, or by phone at 250-361-0344 (until 4 p.m. the business day before). The bylaw requires at least 24 hours' notice. Keep the permit package on site.

## Good to know

- The bylaw does not cover retaining structures under 1.2 m high, platforms under 0.6 m above grade, accessory buildings with a building area under 10 m², or work the BC Building Code exempts. Zoning rules still apply.
- Rooftop solar on Part 9 buildings needs no building permit if all the City's conditions are met. It still needs an electrical permit.
- Work done without a permit pays 2.8% on the first $20,000 of construction cost and 1.4% on the rest. The maximum fine under the bylaw is $10,000.

## What you'll need

- The City's checklist for your project type (single-family or duplex, complex building, interior only, strip-out, demolition)
- Plans to professional drafting standards (site plan at 1:100 or 1:200, site survey, project data table)
- Letters of assurance (Schedules A and B) if registered professionals are involved

## Official forms and pages

- [Building Permits (City of Victoria)](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
- [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)

## Related questions

- [Victoria building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Victoria permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Victoria zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/zoning-lookup.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Building permits in British Columbia: how to apply, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/building-permit.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/building-permit.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/building-permit.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/building-permit.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/building-permit.md)

## Sources

- [Building Permits, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Single Family Dwelling or Duplex eApplication Checklist (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/section-b-part-2-single-family-eapplication-checklist) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Request an Inspection, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/request-inspection) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit/_


---

---
title: "Victoria fence rules: permits and height limits"
question: "Do I need a permit to build a fence, and how high can it be?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fence-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fence-rules.json"
---

# Victoria fence rules: permits and height limits

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

**Short answer:** A fence in the City of Victoria does not need a building permit, but zoning sets the height. On a lot with an existing residential use the limit is 1.22 m in the front yard and 1.83 m elsewhere. Barbed wire, razor wire and electrified fences are not allowed. Check which zoning bylaw covers your property.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** No building permit fee for a fence.  
**How long:** Not applicable for a fence.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Development Services (zoning questions), 250-361-0316
- Email: Zoning, zoning@victoria.ca
- Phone: Building and Inspection Services, 250-361-0344
- Email: Permit Services, permits@victoria.ca

## Key facts

- **Permit:** No building permit is needed for a fence: the Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw excludes fences (and retaining structures under 1.2 m) from 'structure'. Zoning height and material rules still apply.
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113, Bylaw 17-113 s. 2(2), definition of 'structure'](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "landscaping, fences, paving, or retaining structures less than 1.2 meters in height."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Height, front yard:** 1.22 m for a lot with an existing residential use. Gate posts, gates and decorative features that are part of or above a gate in a front yard may be up to 2.6 m high and 1.5 m wide. Fence posts may project 0.30 m above the maximum.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Part 3 section 25, Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3, s. 25(e), (i), (j)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "The maximum height of a Fence for a Lot with an existing residential use is 1.22m in the" … "Front Yard Setback and 1.83m in all other Setbacks." … "Fence posts are permitted to project up to 0.30m above the maximum permitted height of" … "are permitted up to 2.6m in height and 1.5m in width."
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S Fences, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S, s. 3(a)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-s)
  - Official wording: "For a lot with an existing residential use (maximum)" … "In the front yard 1.22m"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Height, side and rear yards:** 1.83 m for a lot with an existing residential use (all setbacks other than the front yard).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Part 3 section 25, Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3, s. 25(e)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "Front Yard Setback and 1.83m in all other Setbacks."
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S Fences, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S, s. 3(a)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-s)
  - Official wording: "In all side yards or rear yards 1.83m"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Corner lots and sightlines:** On a corner lot, no fence over 1.0 m may be closer to the street corner than a diagonal line between points 6.0 m from the corner (if one street is an arterial) or 3.0 m (otherwise). Fences must also meet section 28 of the Highway Access Bylaw near driveways.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Part 3 section 25, Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3, s. 25(k), (l)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "On Corner Lots, to secure sight lines, no Fence over 1.0m shall be sited closer to the corner" … "6.0m distant from the corner of the Lot when one of the Streets is an arterial." … "Fences must comply with section 28 of the Highway Access"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S Fences, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S, s. 4](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-s)
  - Official wording: "3m distant from the corner of the lot in all other circumstances."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other rules:** No barbed wire, razor wire or electrified fences. Height is measured from natural grade; on a retaining wall, from natural grade on its highest side to the top of the fence. On sloping sites it is measured at the highest corner or edge and every 2.5 m after.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Part 3 section 25, Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3, s. 25(a)-(d)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "construct, keep or permit the construction or keeping of a Fence of barbed wire, razor wire, razor sharp" … "the height of a Fence is measured in a vertical straight line between the" … "from Natural Grade on the highest side of the retaining wall to the top of the Fence." … "at intervals of a maximum horizontal distance of 2.5 metres"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S Fences, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S, s. 1-2](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-s)
  - Official wording: "steel strips or a similar material, or electrified in any manner."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 18-072), Part 3, s. 25; for properties still under the older bylaw, Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 80-159), Schedule S - Fences.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Part 3 section 25, Part 3, s. 25](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "Fences must comply with the following:"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S Fences](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-s)
  - Official wording: "Schedule S - FENCES 2 Measuring Height a. Subject to section 2.(b) and (c) the height of a fence is measured in a vertical straight line"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Victoria's [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated) leaves fences, and retaining structures under 1.2 m high, out of its definition of a "structure", so a fence needs no building permit. Zoning height and material rules still apply.

Victoria has two zoning bylaws, each covering different properties: [Zoning Bylaw 2018](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) (most residential lands) and the older Zoning Regulation Bylaw, whose fence rules are in [Schedule S](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-s). Check which one applies to your property (see the zoning-lookup answer). For a lot with an existing residential use, the limits below are the same in both.

## Steps

1. Find out which zoning bylaw covers your property.
2. Measure height from natural grade. On a retaining wall, measure from natural grade on its highest side to the top of the fence. On a slope, measure at the highest corner or edge and every 2.5 m after.
3. Keep within the limits below, then build. For a taller fence, call Development Services at 250-361-0316 or email zoning@victoria.ca.

## Good to know

- Lot with an existing residential use: 1.22 m in the front yard; 1.83 m in all other setbacks.
- Lot without an existing residential use: the two bylaws differ. Zoning Bylaw 2018 says 2.13 m; Schedule S says 1.83 m. Confirm with staff.
- Next to a park, playing field or industrial use: 3.05 m in both bylaws.
- Where two lots with different uses meet, the greater height applies on the shared line.
- Fence posts may project 0.30 m above the maximum. Front yard gates and gate features may be up to 2.6 m high and 1.5 m wide.
- Corner lot: no fence over 1.0 m closer to the street corner than a diagonal line between points 6.0 m from the corner (if one street is an arterial) or 3.0 m (otherwise). Fences must also meet section 28 of the Highway Access Bylaw near driveways.
- Barbed wire, razor wire and electrified fences are not allowed.
- To find where your boundary is, see the property lines answer.

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3 section 25 Fences (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S Fences (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-s)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/fence-rules.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/fence-rules.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/fence-rules.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fence-rules.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/fence-rules.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/fence-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Part 3 section 25 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule S Fences (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-s) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Starting a Business, City of Victoria Business Hub (Development Services contact)](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-hub/starting-business) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fence-rules/_


---

---
title: Victoria permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages
question: "Do I need a permit for a deck, shed, carport, or garage?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/deck-shed-garage-permit/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/deck-shed-garage-permit.json"
---

# Victoria 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 Victoria, the Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw does not apply to a platform less than 0.6 m above grade or an accessory building under 10 m², so those need no permit under it. Larger buildings fall under its permit rule. Zoning limits on size and location still apply.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** If a building permit is needed, a $100 application fee plus 1.40% of the cost of construction; see the building-permit-fees answer.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building and Inspection Services, 250-361-0344
- Email: Permit Services, permits@victoria.ca
- Online: Building Permits page (Permit Finder), https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building

## Key facts

- **Sheds:** The Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw does not apply to accessory buildings with a building area under 10 m², so none is needed under it for those. Larger accessory buildings fall under the bylaw's permit requirement. Zoning limits still apply.
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113, sections 5 and 6, s. 5(2)(f), s. 6(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "accessory buildings with a building area of less than 10 square meters." … "No person shall commence or continue any construction, alteration, reconstruction, demolition, removal, relocation or change the occupancy of any"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Decks:** Platforms less than 0.6 m above grade are outside the Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw. For higher decks the City points to its Permit Finder and posts example deck plans.
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113, sections 5 and 6, s. 5(2)(b)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "platforms less than 0.6 meters above grade;"
  - Source: [Building Permits, Building Permits page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
  - Official wording: "use the Permit Finder to determine if your project needs a permit" … "Deck example plans 2013"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Garages and carports:** Not confirmed. The bylaw has no separate rule for garages or carports.
- **Zoning limits:** Accessory buildings: rear yard only; max floor area 37 m²; max height 3.5 m; at least 0.6 m from side and rear lot lines; 3.5 m on a flanking street; 2.4 m from the main building; max 25% of the rear yard. No dwelling use, no bath/shower/toilet, and only one drainage fixture.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3 section 27, Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3, s. 27](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "Accessory Buildings must be located in the Rear Yard;" … "The Floor Area of an Accessory Building must not exceed 37m2;" … "The Height of an Accessory Building must not exceed 3.5m;" … "The Accessory Building must not occupy more than 25% of the area of the rear yard;" … "have more than one plumbing fixture that requires drainage"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule F Accessory Building Regulations](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-f)
  - Official wording: "Accessory buildings must be located in the rear yard" … "Floor area, of all floor levels combined" … "Separation space between an accessory"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw No. 17-113 (permits); Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 18-072), s. 27; Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 80-159), Schedule F.
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113, sections 5 and 6, title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "BUILDING AND PLUMBING REGULATION BYLAW BYLAW NO. 17-113 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule F Accessory Building Regulations](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-f)
  - Official wording: "SCHEDULE F - ACCESSORY BUILDING REGULATIONS"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of Victoria's [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated) does not apply to platforms less than 0.6 m above grade or to accessory buildings with a building area under 10 m². Larger accessory buildings fall under the bylaw's permit requirement. For decks higher than that, the City points to its Permit Finder and posts example deck plans. The bylaw has no separate rule for garages or carports, so treat them as accessory buildings and confirm with Permit Services.

Zoning limits apply whether or not you need a permit.

## Steps

1. Check the deck height above ground, or the floor area of the shed, garage or carport.
2. Find your zone and which zoning bylaw covers your property (see the zoning-lookup answer).
3. If unsure whether a permit is needed, use the Permit Finder, call 250-361-0344 or email permits@victoria.ca.
4. If a permit is needed, apply online with a site plan and drawings.

## Good to know

- Accessory building limits (Zoning Bylaw 2018, s. 27, and Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule F, which has the same limits): rear yard only; up to 37 m² floor area; up to 3.5 m high; at least 0.6 m from side and rear lot lines (3.5 m on a flanking street); at least 2.4 m from the main building; no more than 25% of the rear yard.
- An accessory building cannot be used as a dwelling, cannot have a bath, shower or toilet, and can have only one drainage fixture. Schedule F also bars roof decks on accessory buildings.
- Under Zoning Bylaw 2018, lot coverage, setback and height rules also apply to decks and patios more than 0.6 m above average grade.
- An accessory building for parking or storing a vehicle is also subject to the off-street parking schedule.

## What you'll need

- Site plan showing property lines, setbacks and the building
- Building plans

## Official forms and pages

- [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule F, Accessory Building Regulations (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-f)

## Related questions

- [Victoria building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit.md)
- [Victoria building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Victoria fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fence-rules.md)
- [Victoria zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Victoria secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/secondary-suite.md)
- [Victoria tree removal rules and permits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/tree-removal.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Deck and shed permit thresholds in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)

## Sources

- [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (PDF), sections 5 and 6](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (PDF), Part 3 section 27](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule F Accessory Building Regulations (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-f) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building Permits, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building) (read 2026-11-05)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 4 of 5 facts was matched to the official text; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/deck-shed-garage-permit/_


---

---
title: Victoria building permit fees
question: "How much does a building permit cost?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit-fees/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit-fees.json"
---

# Victoria building permit fees

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

**Short answer:** A City of Victoria building permit costs a $100 application fee plus a permit fee of 1.40% of the cost of construction, not counting plumbing and electrical. Plumbing is 1.40% of the plumbing cost plus $100. The City states no minimum permit fee.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Building: $100 application fee (non-refundable) + 1.40% of cost of construction. Plumbing: 1.40% of plumbing cost + $100. Work done without a permit: 2.8% on the first $20,000, then 1.4%.  
**How long:** The application fee is due when your application is complete; other fees are due when the permit is issued.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building and Inspection Services, 250-361-0344
- Email: Permit Services, permits@victoria.ca

## Key facts

- **Lowest fee:** No minimum permit fee is stated. The $100 application fee is due with the application (non-refundable); the permit fee is 1.40% of the cost of construction.
  - Source: [Permits and Inspections Fees and Deposits (PDF, September 3, 2026), Fees & Deposits (Sept 3, 2026)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/permits-and-inspections-fees-and-deposits)
  - Official wording: "Building permit - application fee" … "(required at time of application)" … "1.40% of cost of construction*"
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), Schedule A and section 19, s. 19(2), 19(3)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "An application fee is non-refundable."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How the fee is worked out:** Permit fee is 1.40% of the cost of construction (not including plumbing and electrical value). Cost is the greater of the contract price or the Chief Building Inspector's fair-market estimate. Work done without a permit: 2.8% on the first $20,000 and 1.4% on the rest. A 5% reduction (max $500) applies with sealed plans and letters of assurance.
  - Source: [Permits and Inspections Fees and Deposits (PDF, September 3, 2026), Fees & Deposits](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/permits-and-inspections-fees-and-deposits)
  - Official wording: "1.40% of cost of construction* (not including plumbing & electrical value)" … "2.8% of cost of construction up to $20,000" … "1.4% of the cost f construction for the remainder in excess of $20,000" … "the permit fee shall be reduced by 5% up to a maximum of $500"
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), Schedule A and section 19, s. 19(9)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "the contract price including professional fees and a reasonable allowance"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Application or plan review fee:** $100 application fee is paid at the time of application. It is non-refundable and is a separate charge; the bylaw does not say it counts toward the permit fee.
  - Source: [Permits and Inspections Fees and Deposits (PDF, September 3, 2026), Fees & Deposits](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/permits-and-inspections-fees-and-deposits)
  - Official wording: "Building permit - application fee" … "(required at time of application)"
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), Schedule A and section 19, s. 19(2), 19(3)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "An application fee is non-refundable."
  - Source: [Guide to Building Permit Fees and Deposits](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/guide-building-permit-fees-and-deposits)
  - Official wording: "The application fee is due at the time of application."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other fees:** Plumbing permit: 1.40% of plumbing cost plus $100. Re-inspection $50, extension $100, revision after issuance at least $100, excavation deposit 1.2 times the backfill cost. Deconstructing a single-family dwelling or duplex: $500 administration fee plus $19,500 refundable waste management fee.
  - Source: [Permits and Inspections Fees and Deposits (PDF, September 3, 2026), Fees & Deposits](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/permits-and-inspections-fees-and-deposits)
  - Official wording: "Plumbing permits" … "1.40% of cost of plumbing work + $100" … "$50 re-inspection fee" … "$100 permit extension" … "1.2 times the estimated cost to backfill the excavation" … "$100 for each sign"
  - Source: [Guide to Building Permit Fees and Deposits](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/guide-building-permit-fees-and-deposits)
  - Official wording: "Demolition and" … "Deconstruction Administration Fee" … "Refundable Waste" … "When a single-family dwelling or duplex is being deconstructed."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to pay:** The application fee is paid when the application is complete (the City sends a payment link). All other fees and deposits are due when the permit is issued. Once approved, the City sends a fee summary.
  - Source: [Guide to Building Permit Fees and Deposits](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/guide-building-permit-fees-and-deposits)
  - Official wording: "The application fee is due at the time of application. All other fees are due upon issuance of the permit."
  - Source: [Building Permits, Fees](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
  - Official wording: "you will receive a fee summary with all the fees and deposits required for a building permit"
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), Schedule A and section 19, s. 19(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "must be paid in full"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw No. 17-113, Schedule A (Fees); current amounts shown on the City's Fees & Deposits schedule dated September 3, 2026.
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), Schedule A and section 19](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "a permit fee, calculated in accordance with Schedule A to this bylaw, must be paid in full" … "BYLAW NO. 17-113"
  - Source: [Permits and Inspections Fees and Deposits (PDF, September 3, 2026), Fees & Deposits](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/permits-and-inspections-fees-and-deposits)
  - Official wording: "0018BLDG2021 PERMIT AND DEPOSIT RATES"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The fees are set in Schedule A of the [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated), and the City's Fees & Deposits schedule (September 3, 2026) shows current amounts. The cost of construction is the greater of the contract price or the Chief Building Inspector's fair-market estimate. The City states no minimum permit fee.

## Steps

1. Pay the $100 application fee when the City sends a payment link after your application is complete. It is non-refundable, and the bylaw does not say it counts toward the permit fee.
2. Pay the permit fee (1.40% of the cost of construction) and any deposits when the permit is issued. The City sends a fee summary once your application is approved.
3. For plumbing work, the fee is 1.40% of the plumbing cost plus $100.

## Good to know

- Work done without a permit pays 2.8% on the first $20,000 and 1.4% on the rest.
- With sealed plans and letters of assurance, the permit fee is reduced by 5%, up to $500.
- Other fees: re-inspection $50, permit extension $100, excavation deposit 1.2 times the backfill cost, revision after issuance at least $100.
- Deconstructing a single-family dwelling or duplex: $500 administration fee plus a $19,500 refundable waste management fee.
- Development cost charges and amenity cost charges are separate from these fees.

## Official forms and pages

- [Permits and Inspections, Fees and Deposits (PDF, dated September 3, 2026)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/permits-and-inspections-fees-and-deposits)
- [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113, Schedule A (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
- [Guide to Building Permit Fees and Deposits (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/guide-building-permit-fees-and-deposits)

## Related questions

- [Victoria building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/building-permit-fees.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/building-permit-fees.md)

## Sources

- [Permits and Inspections Fees and Deposits (PDF, September 3, 2026), City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/permits-and-inspections-fees-and-deposits) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (consolidated, PDF), Schedule A and section 19](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Guide to Building Permit Fees and Deposits (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/guide-building-permit-fees-and-deposits) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building Permits, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit-fees/_


---

---
title: "Victoria 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: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/zoning-lookup/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/zoning-lookup.json"
---

# Victoria zoning: find your zone and what it allows

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

**Short answer:** In the City of Victoria, select your property on VicMap to see its zone, then read that zone in the Zoning Bylaw. Two bylaws are in force for different properties, Zoning Bylaw 2018 and the older Zoning Regulation Bylaw, so check which applies to yours. Email zoning@victoria.ca if unsure.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Free to look up; the City's pages state no fee for zoning information.  
**How long:** Not stated on the City's page.  
**Where:**
- Online: VicMap, https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/maps
- Email: Zoning, zoning@victoria.ca
- Phone: Development Services (zoning), 250-361-0316
- Email: Planning and Development Department, planning@victoria.ca

## Key facts

- **How to find your zone:** Use VicMap: select a property on the map to see its zoning, or turn on the Planning and Development theme under Show Layers and Themes. Then read that zone's rules in the Zoning Bylaw.
  - Source: [What Can I Do With My Property](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/what-can-i-do-my-property)
  - Official wording: "Select a property on VicMap to see the applicable zoning; consult the Zoning Bylaw to determine what is permitted in your zone."
  - Source: [Zoning, Zoning page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/zoning)
  - Official wording: "Click on a property or choose the Planning and Development theme under the Show Layers and Themes menu."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Zoning bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 18-072) covers the Downtown Core, Industry, Arts and Innovation District, Villages, Town Centres and most residential lands; the older Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 80-159) covers remaining properties. Copy of 2018 bylaw lists amendments to Oct 1, 2026 (header says June 9, 2022).
  - Source: [Zoning, Zoning page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/zoning)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw 2018 regulates the Downtown Core Area and most of the commercial and low-density residential properties within Victoria." … "applies to most industrial properties, medium- to high-density residential properties outside of the downtown, comprehensive development districts and some commercial properties."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018, Zoning Bylaw 2018 page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/zoning/zoning-regulation-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "Ten zones now cover the Downtown Core Area, the Industry, Arts and Innovation District, the Villages and Town Centres and most residential lands."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What the zone controls:** Permitted uses, density of development, height, setbacks, lot coverage and open space, lot size, and motor vehicle and bicycle parking, plus any site-specific rules for particular addresses.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 4 (e.g. LVD-1 zone)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "1. Permitted Uses" … "2. Density of Development" … "3. Height" … "4. Setbacks and Projections" … "6. Lot Coverage and Open Space" … "7. Lot Dimension and Area" … "8. Site Specific Regulations"
  - Source: [What Can I Do With My Property](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/what-can-i-do-my-property)
  - Official wording: "the density of development and the size and siting of all buildings and off-street parking"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Contact:** Development Services: 250.361.0316 or zoning@victoria.ca. The Zoning Bylaw 2018 cover also lists the Planning and Development Department, planning@victoria.ca.
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Business Licensing page, Step One](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing)
  - Official wording: "For information on zoning, contact the City's Development Services at 250.361.0316 or zoning@victoria.ca."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Publishing information](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "1 Centennial Square Victoria, BC V8W 1P6 E: planning@victoria.ca W: victoria.ca This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of section 139 of the Community Charter."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 18-072) and Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 80-159)
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Publishing information](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "Title: Zoning Bylaw 2018"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw (80-159), general regulations, title page](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-regulation-bylaw-general-regulations)
  - Official wording: "NO. 80 - 159" … "This bylaw may be cited as the "Zoning Regulation Bylaw"."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

[Zoning Bylaw 2018](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) (No. 18-072) covers the Downtown Core, the Industry, Arts and Innovation District, Villages, Town Centres and most residential lands. The older Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 80-159) covers the remaining properties. A zone sets permitted uses, density, height, setbacks, lot coverage and open space, lot size, and motor vehicle and bicycle parking, plus any site-specific rules for particular addresses.

## Steps

1. Open VicMap and select your property to see its zoning. You can also turn on the Planning and Development theme under Show Layers and Themes.
2. Note the zone name, and which of the two bylaws it belongs to.
3. Read that zone's rules in the matching bylaw.
4. If you are unsure, email zoning@victoria.ca or call Development Services at 250-361-0316.

## Good to know

- A building permit and, in some cases, a development permit are still needed before you build.
- The City's website copies of both bylaws are office consolidations. The City says to check City Hall for the current text.

## Zones

838 zones are listed from [Zoning Regulation Bylaw No. 80-159 (consolidated on October 17, 2019 up to Bylaw No. 19-074; zone Parts amended to Bylaw 24-060, August 2024) and Zoning Bylaw 2018 (consolidated on June 9, 2022 up to Bylaw No. 22-048)](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/zoning/zoning-regulation-bylaw). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/zoning/index.json

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

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning (City page)](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/zoning)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, general regulations (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-regulation-bylaw-general-regulations)

## Related questions

- [Victoria secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/secondary-suite.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/zoning-lookup.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/zoning-lookup.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/zoning) (read 2026-11-05)
- [What Can I Do With My Property, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/what-can-i-do-my-property) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/zoning/zoning-regulation-bylaw-2018) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw (80-159), general regulations (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-regulation-bylaw-general-regulations) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Business Licensing, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/zoning-lookup/_


---

---
title: Victoria secondary suite and carriage house rules
question: "Can I add a secondary suite or a carriage house?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/secondary-suite/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/secondary-suite.json"
---

# Victoria secondary suite and carriage house rules

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

**Short answer:** Yes. The City of Victoria permits secondary suites in residential buildings and garden suites (its term for a carriage house) in the rear yard. Both need a building permit, plus plumbing and electrical permits. Rules differ between the City's two zoning bylaws, so check which covers your lot.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** A building permit is required, plus plumbing and electrical permits; see the building-permit-fees answer. No parking is required for a suite under Zoning Bylaw 2018.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building and Inspection Services (Permit Services), 250-361-0344
- Email: Permit Services, permits@victoria.ca
- Phone: Development Services (zoning), 250-361-0316
- Email: Zoning, zoning@victoria.ca
- Online: What Can I Do With My Property, https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/what-can-i-do-my-property

## Key facts

- **Secondary suite allowed:** Secondary suites are permitted in residential buildings, built to the BC Building Code with all required permits. Zoning Bylaw 2018 zones such as GRD-1 permit 'Residential' (any self-contained dwelling unit). Under the Zoning Regulation Bylaw, restricted zones may have 3 to 6 housing units per lot, including suites, with exceptions.
  - Source: [What Can I Do With My Property, What Can I Do With My Property, Can I build a secondary suite](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/what-can-i-do-my-property)
  - Official wording: "Secondary suites are permitted in residential buildings, and must be built in accordance with the BC Building Code and with all required building, plumbing and electrical permits."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** Zoning Bylaw 2018: a garden suite (detached dwelling unit in the rear yard) on a lot with a single-detached dwelling or duplex; one per lot. Zoning Regulation Bylaw: Schedule M allows one only if the house is a single family dwelling without a secondary suite, but in restricted zones s. 52 waives those two limits.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Zoning Bylaw 2018, s. 2 definition and Part 3, s. 28](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "used or designed as a Dwelling Unit" … "located on a Lot with a single-detached dwelling or duplex." … "Garden Suites must be located in the Rear Yard;" … "Only one Garden Suite is permitted on a Lot;"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule M Garden Suites, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule M, s. 1](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-mpdf)
  - Official wording: "A garden suite is only permitted when the primary building is used for a single family" … "c. No more than one garden suite is permitted on a lot."
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, general regulations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw general regulations s. 52(1)(d)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-regulation-bylaw-general-regulations)
  - Official wording: "a garden suite is permitted on a lot, subject to the regulations within Schedule “M”," … "sections 1.a., 1.b. and 6.a. of Schedule “M” do not apply; and"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits:** Zoning Bylaw 2018: garden suite max 56 m² and 4.2 m high, one per lot, within 25% of rear yard. Zoning Regulation Bylaw restricted zones: up to 3 housing units (lot 280 m² or less), 4 (larger lot), or 6 (larger lot near a bus stop); Schedule M garden suite 37 m² and 3.5 m. No owner-occupancy rule found.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3, s. 28](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "The Floor Area of a Garden Suite must not exceed 56m2;" … "The Height of a Garden Suite must not exceed 4.2m;" … "constructed prior to July 11, 2019 or a minimum of 5 years before the proposed conversion;" … "The Garden Suite must not occupy more than 25% of the rear yard."
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule M Garden Suites, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule M, s. 1, 4, 5](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-mpdf)
  - Official wording: "A garden suite is not permitted on a lot when a single family dwelling contains a" … "Floor area (maximum) 37m2" … "iii. Floor area (maximum) 56m2"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, general regulations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw general regulations s. 52(1)(a)-(c)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-regulation-bylaw-general-regulations)
  - Official wording: "up to three housing units are permitted on lots with a site area equal to, or less than," … "up to four housing units are permitted on lots with a site area greater than 280m2;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Parking:** No parking is required for a secondary or garden suite under Zoning Bylaw 2018. Under the Zoning Regulation Bylaw none is required unless two suites share a lot (then one extra space), and none for residential uses in transit oriented areas or on lots using the 6-unit allowance (s. 52(1)(f), 53).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 5, Table 1](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "Secondary Suite," … "Garden Suite or a"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule C Off-Street Parking](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1197)
  - Official wording: "unless two Secondary Suites, two Garden Suites," … "shall be provided in addition to the number of"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, general regulations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw general regulations s. 52(1)(f), s. 53(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-regulation-bylaw-general-regulations)
  - Official wording: "no vehicle parking spaces are required on lots that utilize the housing unit allowances" … "within transit oriented areas no vehicle" … "parking spaces are required for residential uses, subject to subsection (2)."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permits:** A building permit is required to create a secondary suite (and a garden suite), with all required plumbing and electrical permits. Secondary suites generally need no rezoning or development permit; a development permit applies if the property's development permit area requires one. Development permits are approved first.
  - Source: [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113, s. 6(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated)
  - Official wording: "unless a building official has issued a valid and subsisting permit"
  - Source: [Building Permits, How to Apply](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building)
  - Official wording: "all applicable development permits must be approved before applying for building permits"
  - Source: [What Can I Do With My Property, What Can I Do With My Property, secondary suite and residential infill sections](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/what-can-i-do-my-property)
  - Official wording: "A building permit is required to create a garden suite or secondary suite." … "In addition to obtaining a building permit, development may require a development permit or heritage alteration permit,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 18-072), Part 3 s. 28 and Part 5; Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 80-159), general regulations s. 52, Schedule M (Garden Suites) and Schedule C; Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw No. 17-113.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072), Part 3, s. 28](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "Garden Suites must be in compliance with the following:"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule M Garden Suites](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-mpdf)
  - Official wording: "Schedule M – Garden Suites"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, general regulations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw general regulations s. 52](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-regulation-bylaw-general-regulations)
  - Official wording: "Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Bylaw, the following regulations apply to restricted"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Victoria permits secondary suites in residential buildings, built to the BC Building Code with all required permits. Zoning Bylaw 2018 zones such as GRD-1 permit "Residential", which means any self-contained dwelling unit. A garden suite is a detached dwelling unit in the rear yard.

Victoria has two zoning bylaws, each covering different properties: Zoning Bylaw 2018, which covers most residential lands, and the older Zoning Regulation Bylaw. Check which applies to your property, since the rules below differ.

## Steps

1. Look up your zone and bylaw on VicMap (see the zoning-lookup answer), or call Development Services at 250-361-0316 or email zoning@victoria.ca.
2. If your property's development permit area requires a development permit, get it approved first. Secondary suites generally need no rezoning.
3. Apply for a building permit, plus plumbing and electrical permits.

## Good to know

- Zoning Bylaw 2018: a garden suite goes on a lot with a single-detached dwelling or duplex; one per lot; up to 56 m² and 4.2 m high; within 25% of the rear yard.
- Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule M: a garden suite is up to 37 m² and 3.5 m high (one storey), or up to 56 m², 4.2 m and 1.5 storeys on a "plus site" (a corner lot, a lot with two street frontages or rear lane access, or a lot over 557 m²). It is allowed only if the house is a single family dwelling without a secondary suite.
- In restricted zones under the Zoning Regulation Bylaw, section 52 allows up to 3 housing units on a lot of 280 m² or less, 4 on a larger lot, or 6 on a larger lot near a bus stop. It also waives the Schedule M limits on the house type and an existing secondary suite.
- Parking: none is required for a secondary or garden suite under Zoning Bylaw 2018. Under the Zoning Regulation Bylaw none is required unless two suites share a lot (then one extra space), and none in transit oriented areas or on lots using the 6-unit allowance.
- Building a garden suite may require tree information under the Tree Protection Bylaw; see the tree-removal answer.

## Official forms and pages

- [What Can I Do With My Property (City of Victoria)](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/what-can-i-do-my-property)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018, Part 3 section 28 Garden Suites (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule M Garden Suites (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-mpdf)

## Related questions

- [Victoria building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/building-permit.md)
- [Victoria zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Victoria tree removal rules and permits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/tree-removal.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Secondary suite and carriage house rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/secondary-suite.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/secondary-suite.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/secondary-suite.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/secondary-suite.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/secondary-suite.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/secondary-suite.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/secondary-suite.md)

## Sources

- [What Can I Do With My Property, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/what-can-i-do-my-property) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (18-072) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule M Garden Suites (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/schedule-mpdf) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, general regulations (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-regulation-bylaw-general-regulations) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule C Off-Street Parking (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1197) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building and Plumbing Regulation Bylaw 17-113 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/building-and-plumbing-regulation-bylaw-17-113-consolidated) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building Permits, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/permits-development-construction/building-renovating/apply-permit/building) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Starting a Business, City of Victoria Business Hub (Development Services contact)](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-hub/starting-business) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/secondary-suite/_


---

---
title: Victoria tree removal rules and permits
question: "Do I need permission to cut down a tree on my property?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Building, renovating and your property
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/tree-removal/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/tree-removal.json"
---

# Victoria tree removal rules and permits

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

**Short answer:** In the City of Victoria you need a tree permit to cut, prune or remove a protected tree on private property. Protected trees include any tree over 30 cm across at chest height, plus Garry oak, arbutus, Pacific yew and Pacific dogwood over 50 cm tall. There is no fee for hazard or dead trees.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** No fee to remove a hazard, dead or invasive tree, for emergency removal, or for pruning only. Otherwise $50 for a lot up to 2,000 m², $100 for 2,000 to 4,000 m², $250 per 4,000 m² for larger lots. Replacement-tree security is $350 per tree for ordinary permits.  
**Where:**
- Email: Tree permits, treepermits@victoria.ca
- Online: Tree Protection Bylaw page, https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/trees-urban-forest/tree-protection-bylaw

## Key facts

- **When a permit is needed:** The owner of a protected tree on private property must get a tree permit to cut, prune or remove it. Protected: trees over 30 cm DBH, hedges with a stem over 30 cm DBH, Garry oak, arbutus, Pacific yew or Pacific dogwood over 50 cm tall, replacement trees, covenant trees, trees on slopes over 33%, and trees within 15 m of a watercourse.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035, s. 1 'protected tree', s. 5(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035)
  - Official wording: "The owner of a protected tree wishing to cut, prune, or remove the tree must apply for and" … "a tree with a DBH over 30 cm," … "Garry Oak (Quercus garryana), Arbutus (Arbutus menziesii), Pacific Yew (Taxus" … "a tree that is within 15 metres of the natural boundary of a watercourse"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw, Tree Protection Bylaw page](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/trees-urban-forest/tree-protection-bylaw)
  - Official wording: "The bylaw applies to trees on private property"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Exemptions:** The bylaw does not apply to City work on park, highway or City-owned land. A person may cut a tree in imminent danger of failing before applying, but must apply the next business day with a photo or video and leave the remains for City inspection. The Director may waive a permit in limited cases.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035, s. 3(2), s. 5(3), s. 15](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw does not apply to the cutting, pruning or removal of a tree undertaken by or on" … "in such imminent danger of failing that there is not time to obtain a tree permit prior to the" … "on the next business day from the date of cutting, pruning, or removing, apply for a" … "The Director may waive the requirement to obtain a tree permit pursuant to subsection (1)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** No fee to remove a hazard tree, dead tree or invasive tree, for emergency removal, or for pruning only. Otherwise $50 for a lot up to 2,000 m², $100 for 2,000 to 4,000 m², $250 per 4,000 m² for larger lots. $50 to extend or modify a permit. Fees are not refundable.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035, Schedule A, s. 23](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035)
  - Official wording: "To only cut or remove any of the following trees:" … "For emergency cutting or removal only" … "To prune a tree only" … "For any other tree permit, the fee is determined as follows:" … "For a lot that is less than or equal to 2,000m2 in size" … "ii. For a lot that is between 2000m2 and 4000m2 in size" … "A fee pursuant to subsection (1) is not refundable."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Replacement trees:** One replacement tree for each protected tree removed, on the same lot (two smaller trees if a larger one will not fit; hedges per 4 m). Security of $350 per tree for ordinary permits ($2,000 or $1,000 for development-related permits). If the lot cannot hold the tree, $2,000 cash-in-lieu per tree (not required for hazard trees).
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035, s. 20, s. 25](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035)
  - Official wording: "The owner of a lot must plant replacement trees in accordance with this section for every" … "for all other tree permits, $350.00 per tree or 4 metres of hedge length being" … "$2000.00 cash-in-lieu for each replacement tree that cannot be accommodated," … "the applicant is not required to provide cash-in-lieu to"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035, s. 25(1)(a)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035)
  - Official wording: "$2,000.00 per replacement tree of a species described in Part 1 or Part 3 of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **City trees:** The Tree Protection Bylaw covers private trees, not City work on City land. On a boulevard no one may cut, injure or remove a tree without a City agreement or Parks permit (Streets and Traffic Bylaw s. 103A(7)). City posts removal notices 14 days ahead. Do not plant within 45 cm of a street line.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035, s. 3(2)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw does not apply to the cutting, pruning or removal of a tree undertaken by or on"
  - Source: [Trees Planting and Removal](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/trees-urban-forest/trees-planting-removal)
  - Official wording: "Tree removal notices will be posted on trees 14 days before any planned removal."
  - Source: [Streets and Traffic Bylaw, Streets and Traffic Bylaw s. 112](https://www.victoria.ca/media/3543)
  - Official wording: "A person must not plant a tree, hedge, bush, or shrub closer than 45 cm to a" … "cut, break, injure, remove, climb, or in any way destroy or damage" … "persons acting under an agreement with the City or a permit issued by"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** $1,000 ($850 if paid within 30 days) for cutting, damaging, pruning or removing a protected tree against the bylaw or a permit (s. 4(1)). $300 ($250) for failing to get a tree permit (s. 5(1)). $750 for failing to replace a tree removed in an emergency (s. 15(4)).
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071, Schedule PP, Ticket Bylaw 10-071, Schedule PP (Tree Protection Bylaw)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "remove tree in conflict" … "with tree permit" … "Fail to obtain tree" … "Fail to replace tree" … "4(1) $1,000.00 $850.00" … "removed in emergency"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Tree Protection Bylaw No. 21-035
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035, title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035)
  - Official wording: "1 NO. 21-035 TREE PROTECTION BYLAW A BYLAW OF THE CITY OF VICTORIA The purposes of this Bylaw are to protect and enhance the urban forest by:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of Victoria's [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035) says the owner of a protected tree on private property must get a tree permit to cut, prune or remove it. Pruning means trimming branches 10 cm in diameter or larger. Protected trees are:

- trees over 30 cm diameter at breast height (1.4 m above the ground), and hedges with a stem over 30 cm;
- Garry oak, arbutus, Pacific yew or Pacific dogwood over 50 cm tall;
- replacement trees and trees covered by a covenant;
- trees on slopes over 33%, and trees within 15 m of a watercourse.

## Steps

1. Measure the trunk at 1.4 m above the ground to see if the tree is protected.
2. Email treepermits@victoria.ca or fill in the Tree Permit Application Form.
3. Wait for the permit before cutting. Expect to replace each protected tree on the same lot (two smaller trees if a larger one will not fit) and to give security. If the lot cannot hold the tree, the cash-in-lieu is $2,000 per tree (not required for hazard trees).
4. Post the public notice on your lot, facing the street, at least 24 hours before work, and leave it up until the work is done.

## Good to know

- Examples where a permit may be granted: a hazard tree, a dead tree, an invasive species, a tree in the building envelope, or one damaging structures.
- Emergency: you may cut a tree in imminent danger of failing before applying, but you must apply the next business day with a photo or video and leave the remains for City inspection.
- Fees: $50 to extend or modify a permit, and fees are not refundable.
- Fines: $1,000 ($850 if paid within 30 days) for cutting a protected tree against the bylaw or a permit; $300 ($250) for failing to get a permit; $750 for failing to replace a tree removed in an emergency.
- The bylaw does not cover City work on park, highway or City-owned land. On a boulevard, no one may cut, injure or remove a tree without a City agreement or Parks permit. The City posts removal notices 14 days ahead.
- Building work may require tree information and a permit, for example an accessory building (including a garden suite) or an addition over 10 m², excluding decks, patios and balconies.

## Official forms and pages

- [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035)
- [Tree Permit Application Form (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/assets/Departments/Parks~Rec~Culture/Parks/Documents/Tree%20Permit%20Application%20Form.pdf)

## Related questions

- [Victoria permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Victoria secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/secondary-suite.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/tree-removal.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/tree-removal.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/tree-removal.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/tree-removal.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/tree-removal.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/tree-removal.md)

## Sources

- [Tree Protection Bylaw, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/trees-urban-forest/tree-protection-bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Tree Protection Bylaw 21-035 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/tree-protection-bylaw-21-035) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Trees Planting and Removal, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/trees-urban-forest/trees-planting-removal) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (PDF), Schedule PP](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Streets and Traffic Bylaw (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/3543) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/tree-removal/_


---

---
title: "Victoria garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits"
question: "When is garbage collected, and what are the rules for carts, limits, and extra bags?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Garbage, recycling and waste
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/garbage-collection/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/garbage-collection.json"
---

# Victoria garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits

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

**Short answer:** The City of Victoria collects garbage (grey bin) and organics (green bin) from residential properties every two weeks. Have bins out and accessible by 7 a.m. Extra bags need a $4 extra-garbage ticket and must weigh under 15 kg. Look up your day on the City's Waste Collection page.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Per dwelling unit per year (from January 1, 2026): 80 L bin $249.90, 120 L bin $287.79, 180 L bin $344.67, billed every four months with the water and sewer utility. Extra garbage ticket $4 each. Changing the grey bin size $30 per request.  
**How long:** Collection every two weeks; bins out and accessible by 7 a.m.  
**Where:**
- Online: Find your collection day and sign up for reminders, https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection
- Phone: City of Victoria (schedule help, Helping Hands), 250-361-0400
- Phone: Utility Billing (missing or stolen bin), 250-361-0226

## Key facts

- **How often:** Garbage (grey bin) and organics (green bin) are collected every two weeks from residential properties. Recycling (blue box) is a separate regional service run by the Capital Regional District.
  - Source: [Waste Collection](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection)
  - Official wording: "Garbage and organic waste is collected every two weeks from residential properties in Victoria."
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016), s. 16(b)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)
  - Official wording: "The City's solid waste collections shall occur at regular intervals occurring approximately every two weeks, with the exception of statutory holidays;"
  - Source: [Curbside Collection, Recycling - Blue Box](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
  - Official wording: "Curbside recycling service is provided to Victoria residents by the Capital Regional District (CRD)."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Finding your day:** Enter your street address on the City's Waste Collection page to find your day and sign up for email or app reminders, print the schedule, or add it to a calendar. Call 250.361.0400 if you cannot reach the schedule.
  - Source: [Waste Collection, Your Collection Schedule](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection)
  - Official wording: "You can find your collection day and sign up for reminders by entering your street address in the box below." … "Call 250.361.0400 if you are unable to access your collection schedule."
  - Source: [Curbside Recycling, Capital Regional District, Collection schedule](https://www.crd.ca/programs-services/garbage-recycling/curbside-recycling)
  - Official wording: "Enter your address below and never miss your collection day again!"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Carts:** Each home gets one grey garbage bin (80, 120 or 180 litres; 120 L if you do not choose) and one green organics bin (120 L only). Changing the grey bin size costs $30 per request. Report damaged bins on the City form; for a missing or stolen bin call Utility Billing at 250.361.0226.
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016), s. 8](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)
  - Official wording: "An account holder may elect to be issued a garbage bin of 80 litres, 120 litres, or 180 litres in size." … "The only available size for a kitchen scraps bin is 120 litres."
  - Source: [Curbside Collection](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
  - Official wording: "A change of bin size is $30 per request." … "If your bin is missing or suspected stolen, please call Utility Billing at 250.361.0226."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Setting carts out:** Have bins out and accessible by 7 a.m. on collection day, at ground level, with lids closed and the sidewalk kept clear. The bylaw says bins must be accessible between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and must be taken back from the curb by the end of the collection day.
  - Source: [Curbside Collection](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
  - Official wording: "Have your bins out and accessible by 7 a.m. on your collection day." … "leave sidewalks accessible for pedestrians and mobility devices"
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016), s. 16(d), (i)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)
  - Official wording: "are placed in a position, at ground level, that is easily accessible to City employees between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on collection days." … "an occupier must retrieve them from the curb by the end of the collection day;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits and extra garbage:** Extra garbage: bagged, under 15 kg (33 lb) per bag, set beside the grey bin with a $4 extra-garbage ticket on each bag. Tickets are sold at City Hall and cannot be used for extra organics or yard waste. Bins must be closed and not heavier than the weight marked on the lid.
  - Source: [Curbside Collection, Option 1](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
  - Official wording: "Tickets are $4 each at the Public Service Centre at Victoria City Hall." … "All extra garbage must be bagged and weigh less than 15 kilograms or 33 pounds."
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016), s. 16(d)(ii); Schedule C](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)
  - Official wording: "do not exceed the weight limit marked on the lid of the bin;" … "Extra Garbage Tickets $4.00 each"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** Per dwelling unit, per year (Solid Waste Bylaw Schedule A, from January 1, 2026): 80 L bin $249.90, 120 L bin $287.79, 180 L bin $344.67. Billed every four months with the water and sewer utility, e.g. $95.93 every four months for 120 L.
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 25-076, Schedule A](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-amendment-bylaw-no-15-no-25-076)
  - Official wording: "80 Litre Bin $249.90" … "120 Litre Bin $287.79" … "180 Litre Bin $344.67" … "This Bylaw comes into force on January 1, 2026."
  - Source: [Utility Rates and Billing, Garbage Rates](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/utilities/utility-rates-billing)
  - Official wording: "120 litre bin | $95.93 every four months" … "Garbage, sewer and water utilities are billed every four months."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Solid Waste Bylaw No. 12-086 (fees amended by Amendment Bylaw No. 25-076)
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)
  - Official wording: "SOLID WASTE BYLAW BYLAW NO. 12-086 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 25-076, Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-amendment-bylaw-no-15-no-25-076)
  - Official wording: "SOLID WASTE BYLAW, AMENDMENT BYLAW (NO. 15)" … "NO. 25-076"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086>), garbage (grey bin) and organics (green bin) are collected every two weeks from residential properties. Each home gets one grey bin (80, 120 or 180 litres; 120 L if you do not choose) and one green bin (120 L only). Recycling (blue box) is a separate regional service run by the Capital Regional District. Fees are set by Amendment Bylaw No. 25-076.

## Steps

1. Enter your street address on the City's Waste Collection page to find your day. You can sign up for email or app reminders, print the schedule or add it to a calendar. If you cannot reach the schedule, call 250-361-0400. Blue box days are looked up separately on the CRD's page.
2. Have bins out and accessible by 7 a.m. on collection day, at ground level, with lids closed and the sidewalk kept clear. The bylaw says bins must be accessible between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and be taken back from the curb by the end of the collection day.
3. Extra garbage: bag it, keep each bag under 15 kg (33 lb), set it beside the grey bin with a $4 extra-garbage ticket on each bag. Tickets are sold at City Hall and cannot be used for extra organics or yard waste.

## Good to know

- No garbage or organics collection on listed 2026 holidays: January 1, February 16, April 6, May 18, July 1, August 3, September 7, September 30, October 12, November 11 and December 25.
- Bins must be closed and not heavier than the weight marked on the lid.
- Changing the grey bin size costs $30 per request. Report a damaged bin on the City's form; for a missing or stolen bin call Utility Billing at 250-361-0226.
- Staff need not climb stairs or open gates. A Helping Hands program exists for residents who need help with bins (250-361-0400).
- Households of several units can ask for a shared 240 L bin at the Director's discretion. Properties with four or more units, or mixed commercial use, may use a private collector, and some condos are served by private companies.
- Garbage and organics are a user-pay utility, not property tax. The consolidated bylaw on the City site shows older fees; the amounts above are from the amending bylaw.

## Official forms and pages

- [Waste Collection page](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection)
- [Curbside Collection page](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
- [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/garbage-collection.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/garbage-collection.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/garbage-collection.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/garbage-collection.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/garbage-collection.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/garbage-collection.md)

## Sources

- [Waste Collection, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Curbside Collection, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Utility Rates and Billing, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/utilities/utility-rates-billing) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Solid Waste Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 25-076 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-amendment-bylaw-no-15-no-25-076) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Curbside Recycling, Capital Regional District](https://www.crd.ca/programs-services/garbage-recycling/curbside-recycling) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/garbage-collection/_


---

---
title: Victoria yard waste collection and drop-off
question: "Where does yard waste and brush go?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Garbage, recycling and waste
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/yard-waste/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/yard-waste.json"
---

# Victoria yard waste collection and drop-off

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

**Short answer:** The City of Victoria's current pages say grass clippings, pruning waste, plants and small branches go in the green bin, collected every two weeks. You can also drop yard waste at the Public Works Yard, 417 Garbally Road, on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The 2016 bylaw copy says otherwise; see below.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Free for Victoria residents at the Public Works Yard drop-off. The green bin is part of the user-pay garbage and organics utility, not property tax. No separate charge is stated for the seasonal leaf or branch programs.  
**How long:** Drop-off Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., year-round (closed some Saturdays).  
**Where:**
- In person: Public Works Yard yard and garden waste drop-off, 417 Garbally Road, Victoria (Saturdays 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Plan to arrive before 1:30 p.m. Closed some Saturdays, for example December 26, 2026.)
- In person: Beacon Hill Parks Yard leaf drop-off, 100 Cook Street, Victoria (Sundays noon to 3 p.m., November 1 to December 6, 2026. Proof of residency required.)
- Phone: Parks (leaf collection), 250-361-0600
- Email: Parks, parks@victoria.ca
- In person: Hartland Landfill (invasive plants), 1 Hartland Avenue, Victoria, BC

## Key facts

- **Curbside collection:** Yes, in the green bin: grass clippings, pruning waste, plants and small branches go in the green organics bin, collected every two weeks. In fall the City also collects piled leaves from the boulevard by neighbourhood zone, and offers one bagged-leaf pick-up per household on request (Oct. 19 to Dec. 11, 2026). Residential branch chipping was complete for 2026. (Sources differ: CONFLICT: the consolidated Solid Waste Bylaw on the City site (dated January 2016) says the City is not responsible for yard waste and bans yard waste from solid waste bins, but the City's current Curbside Collection page says yard waste goes in the green bin. That bylaw copy looks out of date; the value follows the current City page. 2026 leaf dates: James Bay, Fairfield, Rockland, Gonzales Oct. 19 and Dec. 7; Jubilee, Fernwood, Oaklands, Hillside Quadra Nov. 9 and Dec. 21; North Park, Burnside, Victoria West, Downtown Nov. 30 and Jan. 4.)
  - Source: [Curbside Collection, Organics - Green Bin](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
  - Official wording: "You can put food scraps and yard waste in your green bin."
  - Source: [Yard and Garden Waste, Leaf collection](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste)
  - Official wording: "Pile your leaves on the boulevard in advance of the collection start date for your neighbourhood." … "Call for bagged leaf pick-up service between Oct.19 and Dec.11 2026." … "The City's residential branch chipping service is complete for 2026."
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016), ss. 3(3), 13(2)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)
  - Official wording: "No person shall place construction waste, prohibited waste, recyclable materials, or yard waste into a solid waste bin."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to set it out:** Leaves: pile on the grass boulevard, visible and accessible from the street, away from trees, poles, signs and hydrants; bags not needed (use clear bags only). Bagged-leaf pick-up: clear bags, leaves only. Branch chipping: one loose pile per household no bigger than 1 x 1 x 2.5 m, branches 2.5 cm to 25 cm thick, not bagged or tied. Drop-off branches: no longer than 1.8 m or thicker than 50 mm.
  - Source: [Yard and Garden Waste, Preparation](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste)
  - Official wording: "Place leaf piles on the grassy boulevard, visible and accessible from the street" … "Leaves must be bagged in clear bags." … "Bags must contain leaves only" … "Avoid placing leaf piles on or against trees, power poles, signs and fire hydrants" … "Do not place leaves in other types of bags, boxes or containers" … "no bigger than 1 x1 x 2.5 metres or 4x4x6 feet" … "Branches greater than 1.8 m (six feet) in length or 50 mm (two inches) in diameter"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Drop-off:** Public Works Yard, 417 Garbally Road, Saturdays 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. year-round (closed some Saturdays, e.g. Dec. 26, 2026). From Nov. 1 to Dec. 6, 2026, leaves can also go to the Beacon Hill Parks Yard, 100 Cook Street, Sundays noon to 3 p.m. Proof of residency required for leaf drop-off; invasive plants go to Hartland Landfill.
  - Source: [Yard and Garden Waste, Drop-Off Program](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste)
  - Official wording: "Victoria residents can drop off branches and other garden waste for free, year-round at the Public Works Yard on Saturdays from 7 a.m.-2 p.m." … "Between Nov.1–Dec. 6, 2026, leaves can be dropped off at the Beacon Hill Parks Yard, 100 Cook Street, on Sundays from noon to 3 p.m." … "Proof of residency required." … "Take your bags to Hartland Landfill, located at 1 Hartland Avenue"
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016), s. 23(a)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)
  - Official wording: "may also dispose of yard waste at the City's disposal site located at 417 Garbally Road on any Saturday during the designated operating hours"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Cost:** Free for Victoria residents at the Public Works Yard drop-off. The green bin is part of the user-pay garbage and organics utility, not property tax. No separate charge is stated for the seasonal leaf or branch programs.
  - Source: [Yard and Garden Waste, Drop-Off Program](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste)
  - Official wording: "Victoria residents can drop off branches and other garden waste for free, year-round"
  - Source: [Curbside Collection, FAQs](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
  - Official wording: "No, the organics and garbage services are both a user-pay utility."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Not accepted:** At the drop-off: rocks, sod, soil, stumps, invasive plants, and branches over 1.8 m long or 50 mm thick. Green bin: soil, sod, invasive plants. Leaf collection also excludes ivy, pine needles, blackberry canes, lawn clippings, branches, stumps, compost and commercial contractor material.
  - Source: [Yard and Garden Waste, Items not Accepted](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste)
  - Official wording: "Branches greater than 1.8 m (six feet) in length or 50 mm (two inches) in diameter" … "Invasive plant and vine material should not be disposed of through the green bin program or through drop-off at the Garbally Road yard." … "any construction lumber or branch material from commercial tree contractors and landscaping companies"
  - Source: [Curbside Collection, What cannot go in your green bin](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
  - Official wording: "soil, sod and invasive plants"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Solid Waste Bylaw No. 12-086 (s. 23 on the Garbally Road yard waste site)
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016), s. 23](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)
  - Official wording: "An occupier of a residential property for which the City provides solid waste collection:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City's current Curbside Collection page says grass clippings, pruning waste, plants and small branches go in the green organics bin, collected every two weeks. However, the consolidated [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086>) on the City's site (dated January 2016) says the City is not responsible for yard waste and bans it from solid waste bins. That copy looks out of date, but confirm with the City if unsure.

## Steps

1. Small amounts: use the green bin, as the City's page says.
2. Larger amounts: take them to the Public Works Yard, 417 Garbally Road, on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is free for Victoria residents. Branches may be no longer than 1.8 m or thicker than 50 mm.
3. Fall leaves: pile them on the grass boulevard, visible from the street and away from trees, poles, signs and hydrants. Bags are not needed (if you use bags, clear only). The City collects by neighbourhood zone: James Bay, Fairfield, Rockland and Gonzales on Oct. 19 and Dec. 7; Jubilee, Fernwood, Oaklands and Hillside Quadra on Nov. 9 and Dec. 21; North Park, Burnside, Victoria West and Downtown on Nov. 30 and Jan. 4.
4. Or ask for one bagged-leaf pick-up per household, Oct. 19 to Dec. 11, 2026: clear bags, leaves only. Call 250-361-0600 or email parks@victoria.ca.

## Good to know

- Leaves can also go to the Beacon Hill Parks Yard, 100 Cook Street, on Sundays from noon to 3 p.m., Nov. 1 to Dec. 6, 2026. Proof of residency is required.
- Not accepted at the drop-off: rocks, sod, soil, stumps, invasive plants, and branches over 1.8 m long or 50 mm thick. Not in the green bin: soil, sod and invasive plants. Leaf collection also excludes ivy, pine needles, blackberry canes, lawn clippings, branches, stumps, compost and commercial contractor material.
- Invasive plants go to Hartland Landfill, in bags labelled "INVASIVE PLANTS".
- Branch chipping: one loose pile per household, no bigger than 1 x 1 x 2.5 m, branches 2.5 cm to 25 cm thick, not bagged or tied. Residential chipping was complete for 2026; check the City page for future dates.
- The drop-off limit is one pickup truck load or two car loads per day.

## Official forms and pages

- [Yard and Garden Waste page](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste)
- [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086)

## Related questions

- [Victoria garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/garbage-collection.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/yard-waste.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/yard-waste.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/yard-waste.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/yard-waste.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/yard-waste.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/yard-waste.md)

## Sources

- [Yard and Garden Waste, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Curbside Collection, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Solid Waste Bylaw 12-086 (consolidated to January 2016) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/solid-waste-bylaw-consolidated-12-086) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/yard-waste/_


---

---
title: Victoria watering restrictions
question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Water, sewer, roads and snow
owner: regional
owner_body: Capital Regional District
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/water-restrictions/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/water-restrictions.json"
---

# Victoria watering restrictions

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

**Short answer:** Yes. Under the Capital Regional District's Water Conservation Bylaw 4099, Stage 1 watering rules apply in Victoria every year from May 1 to September 30. Lawns can be watered two days a week, by street address, in the early morning or evening only. The CRD can bring in stricter stages at any time.

**Who handles it:** Regional district (Capital Regional District, https://www.crd.bc.ca)  
**Cost:** Ticket (CRD Bylaw 1857): $200 for watering a lawn outside the Stage 1 days or times. Court fine of $100 to $10,000 per offence.  
**How long:** Stage 1 runs May 1 to September 30 every year. Stricter stages take effect 48 hours after notice.  
**Where:**
- Online: CRD Regional Watering Schedule, https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule

## Key facts

- **When restrictions apply:** Stage 1 restrictions apply every year from May 1 to September 30. The regional water commission can change that period or bring in a stricter stage at any time of year; stricter stages take effect 48 hours after notice.
  - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw 4099), s. 4](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016)
  - Official wording: "The Stage 1 Water Use Restrictions prescribed in Schedule "A" are in effect each year from May 1 to September 30 inclusive" … "take effect 48 hours after the"
  - Source: [Regional Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District, Water Conservation Bylaw](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule)
  - Official wording: "Stage 1 Watering Schedule of the Water Conservation Bylaw No. 4099 for the Regional Water Supply System is in effect May 1 through September 30 every year."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Sprinkling schedule:** May 1 to September 30. Even-numbered addresses: Wednesdays and Saturdays. Odd-numbered addresses: Thursdays and Sundays. Any method 4 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m.; timed or automatic irrigation systems may also run 12:01 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m. For a strata or multi-unit complex use the complex's street number.
  - Source: [Regional Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District, Lawn Watering](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule)
  - Official wording: "Odd Number | Thursdays & Sundays" … "Even Number | Wednesdays & Saturdays" … "Any method: 4-10am or 7-10pm" … "Timed/automatic irrigation systems: 12:01-10 am or 7-10 pm" … "the address number means the street address that is assigned to the entire complex, and not the individual unit number."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Allowed at any time:** Hand watering and micro or drip irrigation: any day, any time. Established trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables with a sprinkler: any day, 4 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m. Vehicles and boats can be washed with a container or hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle, or at commercial washes. Pools, hot tubs and ponds may be filled. Nurseries and farms are exempt.
  - Source: [Regional Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District, Stage 1](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule)
  - Official wording: "Hand Watering & Micro/Drip Irrigation | Any day, any time" … "Sprinkler | Any day 4-10am or 7-10pm" … "A person may wash their vehicle or boat anytime using a handheld container or a handheld hose equipped with an automatic shut-off nozzle" … "You may use water to fill wading pools, swimming pools, hot tubs, or garden pond during Stage 1 Water Restrictions." … "Nurseries, farms, turf farms and tree farms are exempt from the Water Conservation Bylaw 4099."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **New lawns:** No permit needed. New sod may be watered on installation and for the first 21 days, and newly seeded lawn until growth is established or 49 days, whichever is less, between 4 to 10 a.m. and 7 to 10 p.m. Then go back to your lawn watering days.
  - Source: [Regional Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District, New Sod](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule)
  - Official wording: "A permit is not required to install new sod and/or newly seeded lawns." … "for new sod on installation and during the first 21 days after installation, and newly seeded lawns until growth is established or for 49 days after installations, whichever is less." … "Once your new lawn is established, please revert to your designated lawn watering days and times."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Court fine of $100 to $10,000 per offence, each day a separate offence. Ticket (CRD Bylaw 1857): $200 for watering a lawn outside the Stage 1 days or times, wasting water in Stage 1 or watering contrary to a restriction; $100 for playing fields or spray parks; $250 for lawns in Stage 2; $400 in Stage 3.
  - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw 4099), s. 10](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016)
  - Official wording: "A person who contravenes this bylaw commits an offence and is liable to a fine not less than $100 and not exceeding $10,000." … "a ticket information pursuant to Bylaw No. 1857"
  - Source: [CRD Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw 1857, Schedule 26](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/1857-consolidated-capital-regional-district-ticket-information-authorization-bylaw-1990b)
  - Official wording: "Stage 1 – water lawn contrary to even-numbered" … "Wasting water during Stage 1" … "Stage 3 – water lawn or boulevard"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Capital Regional District Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw No. 4099)
  - Source: [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw 4099), Title](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016)
  - Official wording: "CAPITAL REGIONAL DISTRICT WATER CONSERVATION" … "BYLAW NO. 1, 2016"
  - Source: [Report a Bylaw Violation, Watering Restrictions](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation)
  - Official wording: "The Capital Regional District regulates water conservation through its Water Conservation Bylaw."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Victoria is served by the CRD Regional Water Supply, and the [Water Conservation Bylaw 4099](<https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016>) applies in each municipality. Stage 1 restrictions apply every year from May 1 to September 30. The regional water commission can change that period or bring in a stricter stage at any time of year, and a stricter stage takes effect 48 hours after notice. Check the CRD page for the stage in force now.

## Stage 1 schedule

1. Lawns, May 1 to September 30: even-numbered addresses water on Wednesdays and Saturdays; odd-numbered addresses on Thursdays and Sundays. Any method may be used 4 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m. Timed or automatic irrigation systems may also run 12:01 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m. For a strata or multi-unit complex, use the complex's street number.
2. Established trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables: a sprinkler any day, 4 to 10 a.m. or 7 to 10 p.m. Hand watering and micro or drip irrigation: any day, any time.
3. New sod or seeded lawn: no permit needed. New sod may be watered on installation and for the first 21 days; new seed until growth is established or 49 days, whichever is less, between 4 to 10 a.m. and 7 to 10 p.m. Then go back to your lawn watering days.

## Good to know

- Vehicles and boats can be washed with a container or a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle, or at commercial washes. Pools, hot tubs and ponds may be filled. Nurseries and farms are exempt.
- Hand-held hoses must have an automatic shut-off nozzle. Wasting water, such as running taps or hoses, over-watering, or spray onto neighbouring property, is also banned.
- Tickets under CRD Bylaw 1857: $200 for watering a lawn outside the Stage 1 days or times, wasting water in Stage 1, or watering contrary to a restriction; $100 for playing fields or spray parks; $250 for lawns in Stage 2; $400 in Stage 3.
- A court can fine $100 to $10,000 per offence, and each day is a separate offence.

## Official forms and pages

- [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw 4099) (PDF)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/water-restrictions.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/water-restrictions.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/water-restrictions.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/water-restrictions.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/water-restrictions.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/water-restrictions.md)

## Sources

- [Regional Watering Schedule, Capital Regional District](https://www.crd.ca/environment/water-conservation/watering-schedule) (read 2026-11-05)
- [CRD Water Conservation Bylaw No. 1, 2016 (Bylaw 4099) (PDF)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/4099-capital-regional-district-water-conservation-bylaw-no-1-2016) (read 2026-11-05)
- [CRD Ticket Information Authorization Bylaw 1857, Schedule 26 (PDF)](https://www.crd.ca/media/file/1857-consolidated-capital-regional-district-ticket-information-authorization-bylaw-1990b) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Report a Bylaw Violation, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation) (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 Capital Regional District. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/water-restrictions/_


---

---
title: "Victoria dog licences: fees and how to get one"
question: "How do I get a dog licence, and what does it cost?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-licence/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-licence.json"
---

# Victoria 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 Victoria, every dog over four months old needs a City licence each year. A spayed or neutered dog costs $30 in January or February and $50 from March 1; a dog that is not costs $40, then $60. Renew online; a first licence must be bought in person.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Spayed or neutered dog: $30 in January or February, $50 from March 1 to December. Dog not spayed or neutered: $40, then $60. A dog sterilized in the past 12 months can get a free licence for one year. Replacement tag $5. Fine for no licence: bylaw notice $125, municipal ticket $125.  
**How long:** Every licence expires on December 31 of the year it was issued for.  
**Where:**
- Online: Renew online (tag mailed to you), https://tender.victoria.ca/WebApps/ecom/SelectPayableItem.aspx
- In person: Victoria Animal Control Services, 564 David St., Victoria, BC
- In person: Victoria City Hall, 1 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC
- Phone: Victoria Animal Control Services, 250-414-0233

## Key facts

- **Licence required:** Yes. The owner of a dog over the age of 4 months must hold a valid City of Victoria licence for it.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 32(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "The owner of a dog over the age of 4 months must hold a valid licence issued by the City for the dog."
  - Source: [Animal Control & Licences, Dog Licences](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
  - Official wording: "All dogs over the age of four months must be licensed in the City of Victoria."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Issued by:** The City of Victoria. Licences are sold at City Hall, at Victoria Animal Control Services (564 David St.) and at listed vendors; renewals can be paid online.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 32(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "must hold a valid licence issued by the City for the dog."
  - Source: [Animal Control & Licences, Dog Licence Vendors](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
  - Official wording: "Victoria City Hall | 1 Centennial Square | 250.385.5711" … "Victoria Animal Control Services | 564 David St. | 250.414.0233"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $30 if bought in January or February; $50 from March 1 to December (the $30 fee plus a $20 late purchase fee). A dog sterilized in the past 12 months can get a free licence for one year.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Schedule D, s. 32(5)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "1. Sterilized dog licence $30.00" … "3. Late purchase $20.00" … "A person who obtains a licence on or after March 1 must pay the late purchase fee prescribed in Schedule D in addition to the licence fee."
  - Source: [Animal Control & Licences, Licence Fees](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
  - Official wording: "If purchased March to December" … "Neutered or spayed dog | $50"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $40 if bought in January or February; $60 from March 1 to December (the $40 fee plus a $20 late purchase fee).
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Schedule D, s. 32(5)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "2. Unsterilized dog licence $40.00" … "3. Late purchase $20.00"
  - Source: [Animal Control & Licences, Licence Fees](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
  - Official wording: "| If purchased in January or February | Neutered or spayed dog | $30 | Unaltered dog | $40 | If purchased March to December | Neutered or spayed dog | $50" … "| If purchased March to December | Neutered or spayed dog | $50 | Unaltered dog | $60 ## Victoria Dog Data"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other fees and discounts:** Replacement tag $5. Late purchase fee $20 from March 1 (not charged for a dog acquired that year). Free licence if the dog was sterilized in the past 12 months (proof needed, once per dog) or the owner holds a valid licence from another jurisdiction and surrenders that tag.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Schedule D; s. 32(4), (6), (7)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "4. Replacement licence tag $5.00" … "The late purchase fee provided for in subsection (5) does not apply to a person who obtains a licence for a dog that was purchased or acquired in the calendar year for which the licence is issued." … "the person holds a valid licence for the dog issued in another jurisdiction and surrenders the licence tag from the other jurisdiction."
  - Source: [Animal Control & Licences, Licence Fees](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
  - Official wording: "dogs spayed or neutered in the past 12 months will receive a free licence for one year."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Renewal:** Every licence expires on December 31 of the year it was issued for, so it must be renewed each year; the lower fee applies if bought in January or February.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 32(2)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "Every licence expires on December 31 of the calendar year for which the licence is issued."
  - Source: [Animal Control & Licences, Licence Fees](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
  - Official wording: "If purchased in January or February"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to get one:** Renew online (a new tag is mailed) or in person at City Hall or a listed vendor. A first-time licence must be bought in person; bring proof if the dog is spayed or neutered.
  - Source: [Animal Control & Licences, How to Licence Your Dog](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
  - Official wording: "You can renew your dog licence online or at various locations around the city." … "If you renew online, a new dog tag will be mailed to you." … "If you are licensing your dog for the first time, you must visit one of the locations below in person to purchase a licence." … "If your dog is neutered or spayed, please provide documentation to receive a reduced rate."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine, unlicensed dog:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): $125 ($93.75 if paid within 14 days; $156.25 if unpaid 15 days after receipt). Municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): $125 ($100 if paid within 30 days). Each day is a separate offence.
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "No dog licence 32(1) $125.00 $100.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "32(1) No dog licence $125.00 $31.25 $31.25"
  - Source: [Animal Control & Licences, Dog Licences](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
  - Official wording: "Owners of unlicensed dogs can be fined up to $125 per day for non-compliance."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 11-044
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as the "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW"." … "BYLAW NO. 11-044"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/554>), the owner of a dog over four months old must hold a valid City of Victoria licence for it. Licences are sold at City Hall, at Victoria Animal Control Services (564 David St.) and at vendors listed on the City's page. Every licence expires on December 31, so you renew each year.

## Steps

1. First licence for a dog: buy it in person at one of the places above. If the dog is spayed or neutered, bring proof.
2. Renewal: pay online, or in person. If you renew online, a new tag is mailed to you.
3. Buy in January or February for the lower fee. From March 1 a $20 late purchase fee is added, except for a dog you bought or acquired that calendar year.

## Good to know

- A dog sterilized in the past 12 months can get a free licence for one year (proof needed, once per dog). It is also free if you hold a valid licence for the dog from another jurisdiction and hand in that tag.
- A replacement tag is $5.
- Not having a licence is an offence, and each day is a separate offence. A bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) is $125 ($93.75 if paid within 14 days; $156.25 if unpaid 15 days after receipt). A municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) is $125 ($100 if paid within 30 days).
- The City's fee table is headed "2025 Licence Fees", so confirm the current amounts with the City.

## What you'll need

- Proof that your dog is spayed or neutered, for the lower rate or the free year

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Control and Licences (City of Victoria)](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences)
- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/dog-licence.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/dog-licence.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/dog-licence.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-licence.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/dog-licence.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/dog-licence.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control & Licences, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/animal-control-licences) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (read 2026-11-05)

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


---

---
title: Victoria dog leash rules and off-leash areas
question: "Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-leash-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-leash-rules.json"
---

# Victoria 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 Victoria a dog in a public place must be firmly held on a leash by a person able to restrain it. The exception is the 15 leash-optional park areas, at their set times only. The leash can be up to 2.4 metres, or a retractable lead up to 8 metres.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Fine for a dog in a public place without restraint: bylaw notice $100, municipal ticket $100.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Victoria Animal Control Services, 250-414-0233

## Key facts

- **Leash rule:** A dog in a public place must be firmly held on a leash by a person competent to restrain it. Exception: leash-optional park areas, only at the listed times, with the dog under effective control (in sight and returns within three calls) and the area not closed or under permit.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 19(1)-(3)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "The owner of a dog must not allow the dog to be in a public place unless the dog is firmly held on" … "by a person competent to restrain the dog." … "the dog is under the effective control of a competent person" … "when the person calls the dog, the dog returns to the person within three calls."
  - Source: [Dogs in Parks](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/our-parks/dogs-parks)
  - Official wording: "All dogs must be on a leash in the City of Victoria except in designated leash-optional areas or within enclosed spaces on private property."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Maximum leash length:** A leash up to 2.4 m long, or a retractable lead up to 8 m when fully extended.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 19(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "a leash not exceeding 2.4 m in length, or" … "a retractable lead not exceeding 8 m in length when fully extended,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Off-leash areas:** 15 leash-optional park areas, each with set times (Schedule A), for example Arbutus Park, Oswald Park and Vic West Park all days 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Barnard Park 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. The City's Dogs in Parks page has a map and a list version.
  - Source: [Dogs in Parks, Leash-Optional Areas](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/our-parks/dogs-parks)
  - Official wording: "There are 15 leash-optional dog parks in Victoria." … "Click here for a list version of the dog parks highlighted on the map below."
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Schedule A](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "Arbutus Park all days 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m." … "Barnard Park all days 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Places dogs are not allowed:** Dogs are banned in: the dogs-prohibited part of Beacon Hill Park, Pioneer Square, Ross Bay Cemetery, Gonzales Beach from June 1 to August 31, playgrounds with sand, wood chip or rubber surfacing, and Finlayson Field in Topaz Park. The City page says only certified assistance dogs are allowed in no-dog areas.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 19(4)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "all times in Pioneer Square;" … "all times in Ross Bay Cemetery;" … "from June 1 to August 31 on Gonzales Beach;" … "all times on the all-weather sports field, known as Finlayson Field, in Topaz Park."
  - Source: [Dogs in Parks, No-Dog Areas](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/our-parks/dogs-parks)
  - Official wording: "Only certified assistance dogs are allowed in the following areas; all other dogs are prohibited."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Cleaning up:** The owner must immediately remove the dog's excrement and dispose of it lawfully, in a public place or on any private property other than the owner's. Guide animals are exempt (s. 3(2)).
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 35(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "The owner of a dog must not allow the dog to defecate" … "unless the owner immediately removes the excrement and lawfully disposes of it."
  - Source: [Dogs in Parks](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/our-parks/dogs-parks)
  - Official wording: "Pick up after your dog"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): $100 for a dog in a public place without restraint (s. 19(1)) or in a prohibited place (s. 19(4)); $75 if paid within 14 days, $125 if unpaid 15 days after receipt. Municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): $100, or $65 if paid within 30 days.
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Dog in public place 19(1) $100.00 $65.00" … "Dog in prohibited 19(4) $100.00 $65.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "19(1) Dog in public place without restraint $100.00 $25.00 $25.00" … "19(4) Dog in prohibited public place $100.00 $25.00 $25.00"
  - Source: [Dogs in Parks, Dallas Road Waterfront](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/our-parks/dogs-parks)
  - Official wording: "may face fines from $100 to $300."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 11-044
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW BYLAW NO. 11-044 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/554>), a dog in a public place must be firmly held on a leash by a person competent to restrain it. The leash may be up to 2.4 metres, or a retractable lead up to 8 metres when fully extended.

In a leash-optional area the dog must be under effective control: in sight, and returning within three calls. The area must be open and not closed or under permit, and you may use it only at its listed times.

## Good to know

- There are 15 leash-optional park areas, each with set times in Schedule A. For example, Arbutus Park, Oswald Park and Vic West Park are all days 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Barnard Park is 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. The City's Dogs in Parks page has a map and a list.
- Dogs are banned in the dogs-prohibited part of Beacon Hill Park, Pioneer Square, Ross Bay Cemetery, Gonzales Beach from June 1 to August 31, playgrounds with sand, wood chip or rubber surfacing, and Finlayson Field in Topaz Park. The City page also lists the Beacon Hill Park heron rookery south of Goodacre Lake, and says only certified assistance dogs are allowed in no-dog areas.
- The owner must immediately remove the dog's excrement and dispose of it lawfully, in a public place or on any private property other than the owner's. Guide animals are exempt.
- A dog in a public place without restraint, or in a prohibited place: a bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) is $100 ($75 if paid within 14 days; $125 if unpaid 15 days after receipt). A municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) is $100 ($65 if paid within 30 days).
- Dangerous dogs have their own rules; see the dangerous dogs answer.

## Official forms and pages

- [Dogs in Parks (City of Victoria)](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/our-parks/dogs-parks)
- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044, Schedule A (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)

## Related questions

- [Victoria dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-licence.md)
- [Victoria rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dangerous-dogs.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/dog-leash-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Dogs in Parks, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/our-parks/dogs-parks) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-leash-rules/_


---

---
title: Victoria rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs
question: "What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dangerous-dogs/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dangerous-dogs.json"
---

# Victoria rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs

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

**Short answer:** In the City of Victoria, an animal control officer can designate a dog dangerous if it bites a person or animal without provocation, or is known to attack. A dangerous dog must be leashed and muzzled in public, confined at home and posted with a warning sign. Report a dog to 250-414-0233.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** No separate dangerous-dog licence fee is stated. Fines up to $500 (bylaw notice and municipal ticket).  
**Where:**
- Phone: Victoria Animal Control Services, 250-414-0233
- Email: Victoria Animal Control Services, vacs@shaw.ca

## Key facts

- **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** An animal control officer may designate a dog dangerous if it bites a human or animal without provocation, has a known propensity to attack without provocation, or was already designated and endangers safety. The officer sets the length of the designation and must tell the owner in writing.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 28(1)-(3)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "An animal control officer may designate a dog as a dangerous dog if the dog" … "bites a human or animal without provocation," … "has a known propensity, tendency or disposition to attack a human or animal without provocation, or" … "After designating a dog as a dangerous dog, an animal control officer must inform the owner of the dog in writing of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Rules for owners:** In public or on private land the dog must be held on a leash of 2.4 m or less by a competent person and wear a humane basket muzzle. On the owner's own land it must be confined indoors, on a deck at least 3 m high, or in a locked rear-yard pen approved by an animal control officer. Warning signs required.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), ss. 29-31](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "firmly held by a person competent to restrain the dog on a leash not exceeding 2.4 m in length, and" … "properly fitted with a humane basket muzzle that allows the dog to pant and drink." … "on a deck that is no less than 3 m above ground level, or" … "is locked to prevent casual entry by another person, and" … "The owner of a dangerous dog must display a sign in the form prescribed in" … "WARNING DANGEROUS DOG ON PREMISES"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Licence fee:** None set. Victoria's bylaw does not set a separate licence fee for a dangerous dog.
- **How to report:** Call Victoria Animal Control Services at 250.414.0233 or email vacs@shaw.ca.
  - Source: [Report a Bylaw Violation, Dog-Related Concerns](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation)
  - Official wording: "To report an issue, call Victoria Animal Control Services at 250.414.0233 or email vacs@shaw.ca."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): $500 for a dangerous dog unlawfully in a public or private place or a prohibited place (ss. 29(1), 29(3)), $375 within 14 days; $125 for no sign or removing one (s. 30), $93.75; $300 for breaking owner conditions (s. 31), $225. Municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): $500 ($500), $125 ($100), $300 ($250) within 30 days.
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Dangerous dog 29(1) $500.00 $500.00" … "Fail to display 30(1) $125.00 $100.00" … "Owner fails to comply 31 $300.00 $250.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "29(1) $500.00 $125.00 $125.00" … "31 Owner fails to comply with conditions $300.00 $75.00 $75.00" … "30(1) Fail to display dangerous dog sign $125.00 $31.25 $31.25"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 11-044
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW BYLAW NO. 11-044 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Part 5 of the [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/554>) lets an animal control officer designate a dog dangerous if it bites a human or animal without provocation, has a known propensity to attack without provocation, or was already designated and endangers safety. The officer sets the length of the designation, based on the circumstances, and must tell the owner in writing.

To report a dog, call Victoria Animal Control Services at 250-414-0233 or email vacs@shaw.ca.

## Good to know

- In public or on private land, a dangerous dog must be held by a competent person on a leash of 2.4 metres or less and wear a humane basket muzzle.
- On the owner's own land it must be confined indoors, on a deck at least 3 metres high, or in a locked rear-yard pen approved by an animal control officer. Warning signs are required.
- It may not be on school grounds, within 30 metres of any playground apparatus, or in the no-dog places listed in the bylaw.
- The owner must allow photographs on demand, tell an officer within two working days of moving, selling or giving away the dog, or its death, and report immediately if the dog is loose or has bitten or attacked.
- A dangerous dog may be held up to 14 days after seizure.
- The bylaw does not set a separate licence fee for a dangerous dog.
- Fines, bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): $500 for a dangerous dog unlawfully in a public or private place or a prohibited place ($375 if paid within 14 days); $125 for no sign or removing one ($93.75); $300 for breaking owner conditions ($225).
- Fines, municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): $500; $125 ($100 if paid within 30 days); $300 ($250 if paid within 30 days).

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044, Part 5 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)

## Related questions

- [Victoria dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-leash-rules.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/dangerous-dogs.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Report a Bylaw Violation, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation) (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 City of Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dangerous-dogs/_


---

---
title: How many dogs or cats you can keep in Victoria
question: "How many dogs or cats can I keep?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/how-many-pets/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/how-many-pets.json"
---

# How many dogs or cats you can keep in Victoria

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

**Short answer:** In the City of Victoria you may keep no more than six dogs and cats in total on one lot; dogs and cats count together. Dogs and cats under 12 weeks old are not counted. Rabbits, guinea pigs and poultry have their own limits.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Fine for keeping too many dogs: bylaw notice $100, municipal ticket $100.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Victoria Animal Control Services, 250-414-0233

## Key facts

- **Dogs allowed:** No more than six dogs and cats in total on a lot (dogs and cats count together). Each self-contained dwelling unit on a lot counts as a separate lot if no animals are kept on shared or common property or outside buildings.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 25(1), (5)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "No person may have on a lot more than six dogs or cats, or any combination of dogs or cats greater than six," … "each self-contained dwelling unit on a lot shall be considered a separate lot"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Cats allowed:** Same combined limit: six dogs and cats in total per lot. The bylaw sets no separate cat limit.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 25(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "No person may have on a lot more than six dogs or cats, or any combination of dogs or cats greater than six,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other animal limits:** Rabbits and guinea pigs: no more than four in total per lot. Poultry: no more than fifteen female chickens or other poultry per lot. Farm animals, roosters and peafowl may not be kept (with limited exceptions).
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 25(2), (3); s. 27(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "No person may keep, or allow to be kept, at any one time, on a lot more than four rabbits or guinea pigs" … "more than fifteen female chickens or other poultry" … "A person must not keep a"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Exceptions:** Dogs and cats younger than 12 weeks are not counted. The dog/cat and rabbit/guinea pig limits do not apply to animals at a vet during business hours, at a groomer or animal daycare where zoning allows it, or at an animal shelter or veterinary hospital. Council may exempt a person or property by resolution in cases of undue hardship.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 25(1), (4); s. 3A](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "except for dogs and cats that are younger than the age of 12 weeks." … "Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply to animals kept:" … "Council may, by resolution, exempt a person or property from the application of that provision."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): $100 for keeping an excess number of dogs (s. 25); $75 if paid within 14 days, $125 if unpaid 15 days after receipt. Municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): $100, or $75 if paid within 30 days. No ticket is listed for too many cats, rabbits or poultry.
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Keep excess number 25 $100.00 $75.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "25 Keep excess number of dogs $100.00 $25.00 $25.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 11-044
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW BYLAW NO. 11-044 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/554>) allows no more than six dogs and cats in total on a lot. Dogs and cats count together, and the bylaw sets no separate cat limit. Each self-contained dwelling unit on a lot counts as a separate lot if no animals are kept on shared or common property or outside buildings.

## Good to know

- Rabbits and guinea pigs: no more than four in total per lot.
- Poultry: no more than fifteen female chickens or other poultry per lot. Farm animals, roosters and peafowl may not be kept, with limited exceptions.
- Dogs and cats younger than 12 weeks are not counted.
- The dog and cat limit and the rabbit and guinea pig limit do not apply to animals at a vet during business hours, at a groomer or animal daycare where zoning allows it, or at an animal shelter or veterinary hospital.
- Council may exempt a person or property by resolution in cases of undue hardship.
- Keeping too many dogs: a bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) is $100 ($75 if paid within 14 days; $125 if unpaid 15 days after receipt). A municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) is $100 ($75 if paid within 30 days). No ticket is listed for too many cats, rabbits or poultry.

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)

## Related questions

- [Victoria dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/dog-licence.md)
- [Victoria backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/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)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/how-many-pets.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/how-many-pets.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/how-many-pets.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/how-many-pets.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/how-many-pets.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/how-many-pets.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/how-many-pets/_


---

---
title: Victoria backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules
question: "Can I keep chickens, bees, or other livestock?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Pets, animals and wildlife
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/backyard-chickens/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/backyard-chickens.json"
---

# Victoria backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules

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

**Short answer:** In the City of Victoria you may keep chickens on the lot where you live, up to fifteen female chickens or other poultry combined. Roosters are not allowed. Bees are allowed under set rules. Farm animals and peafowl may not be kept, with limited exceptions.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** No permit or registration fee was found.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Services, 250-361-0215
- Phone: Victoria Animal Control Services, 250-414-0233

## Key facts

- **Hens allowed:** The bylaw allows chickens but only on the same lot where the keeper lives, and limits the number. It sets no zone rule.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), ss. 18(3), 25(3)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "A person may keep chickens only on the same lot where he or she resides." … "more than fifteen female chickens or other poultry"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Most hens:** No more than fifteen female chickens or other poultry (combined) on a lot.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 25(3)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "No person may keep, or allow to be kept, at any one time, on a lot more than fifteen female chickens or other poultry"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Roosters:** No. A person must not keep a rooster.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 27(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "A person must not keep a" … "rooster,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Coop rules:** No coop size or setback rule found. Poultry manure may be stored or composted only in one fully enclosed container no larger than 1 m by 1 m by 1 m, at least 3 m from the nearest property line.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 35(3), (4)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "stored in a single fully enclosed container that is not more than one metre by one metre by one metre in size; and" … "located at least three metres from the nearest property line."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permit or registration:** None set. Victoria's Animal Responsibility Bylaw sets no permit, registration or zone rule for chickens.
- **Bees:** Allowed. Beekeepers must provide water on their property, keep bees in a condition that reasonably prevents swarming, and keep hives at least 7.6 m from each property line unless a solid fence or hedge at least 1.8 m tall runs along the line.
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), s. 21(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "provide adequate water for the bees on the person's property," … "keep hives at least 7.6 m away from each property line, unless there is a solid fence or hedge at least 1.8 m tall parallel to the property line."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other livestock:** Farm animals (cattle, horses, swine, sheep, goats, mules, donkeys and similar) and peafowl may not be kept, with limited exceptions. Rabbits and guinea pigs: four total per lot; outdoor rabbits must be securely enclosed. Ducks and other domesticated birds count as poultry (fifteen limit).
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), ss. 2, 22, 25(2), 27(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "means any domesticated animal normally raised for food, milk or as a beast of burden and includes cattle, horses, swine, sheep, goats, mules, donkeys, asses and oxen" … "peafowl." … "A person must not keep rabbits in an outdoor pen, cage or run, unless the pen, cage or run is securely enclosed to prevent escape." … "means any domesticated bird that is normally kept for its eggs, meat, or feathers,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Responsibility Bylaw No. 11-044
  - Source: [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)
  - Official wording: "ANIMAL RESPONSIBILITY BYLAW BYLAW NO. 11-044 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/554>) allows chickens, but only on the same lot where the keeper lives, and limits the number to fifteen female chickens or other poultry combined. Poultry means any domesticated bird kept for its eggs, meat or feathers. The bylaw sets no permit, registration or zone rule for chickens.

## Good to know

- Roosters are not allowed.
- The bylaw sets no coop size or setback. Poultry manure may be stored or composted only in one fully enclosed container no larger than 1 m by 1 m by 1 m, at least 3 m from the nearest property line.
- Bees are allowed. Beekeepers must provide water on their property, keep bees in a condition that reasonably prevents swarming, and keep hives at least 7.6 m from each property line unless a solid fence or hedge at least 1.8 m tall runs along the line. Improper husbandry of bees carries a municipal ticket of $150 ($125 if paid within 30 days).
- Farm animals (cattle, horses, swine, sheep, goats, mules, donkeys and similar) and peafowl may not be kept, with limited exceptions. Unlawfully keeping a farm animal or bird is a municipal ticket of $125 ($100 if paid within 30 days).
- Rabbits and guinea pigs: four in total per lot. Outdoor rabbits must be securely enclosed.
- Ducks and other domesticated birds count as poultry, under the fifteen limit.

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554)

## Related questions

- [How many dogs or cats you can keep in Victoria](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/how-many-pets.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/backyard-chickens.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/backyard-chickens.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Responsibility Bylaw 11-044 (consolidated to July 2022) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/554) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule C (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/backyard-chickens/_


---

---
title: Victoria RV, boat and trailer parking rules
question: "Can I park an RV, boat, or trailer on the street or in my yard?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Parking, tickets and driving
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/rv-boat-trailer-parking/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/rv-boat-trailer-parking.json"
---

# Victoria 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 Victoria, a motor home, camper truck, recreational trailer or boat on a trailer owned by someone with a Capital Regional District address may not be parked on a street between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. A trailer may not be left on a street unless attached to a vehicle or permitted.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Fines differ between the City's two ticket schedules. Overnight street parking of an RV, boat or trailer: bylaw notice $80, municipal ticket $75.  
**How long:** The overnight street ban applies each night, 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Parking Services, 250-361-0260
- Phone: Bylaw Services (general questions), 250-361-0215

## Key facts

- **On the street:** Between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. a motor home, camper truck, recreational trailer, or pleasure boat on a trailer may not be parked on any street if it is registered to or owned by someone with a Capital Regional District address; same for a trailer over 1,400 kg GVW or 6 m long, and for any semi-trailer. A trailer may not be left on a street unless attached to a motor vehicle or permitted. No trailer attached in a metered zone.
  - Source: [Streets and Traffic Bylaw 09-079 (consolidated June 18, 2026), ss. 75, 83, 96](https://www.victoria.ca/media/3543)
  - Official wording: "a motor home," … "a trailer used for recreational purposes," … "a pleasure boat and trailer used for recreational purposes; or" … "and that is registered to, or owned by, a person with an address within the Capital Regional District must not be parked on any street between 10:00 p.m. of one day and 6:00 a.m. of the next day." … "A person must not leave, or permit to be left, a trailer on a street unless it is" … "if the vehicle has a trailer attached to it."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **On your property:** No rule specific to RVs, boats or trailers was found. Zoning limits vehicle parking in the front yard: for a single-family dwelling, at most one parking space in the front yard.
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw No. 80-159, Schedule C - Off-Street Parking, Schedule C, s. 11](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1197)
  - Official wording: "Vehicle parking is not permitted in the front yard of a lot except as follows:" … "A maximum of one parking space that meets the minimum dimensions described in this Schedule may be provided in the front yard of a property where the principal use of the lot is Single Family Dwelling; or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Living in an RV:** Not on a street: a person must not park a vehicle on a street to sleep overnight in it, and must not sleep overnight in a vehicle parked on a street.
  - Source: [Streets and Traffic Bylaw 09-079 (consolidated June 18, 2026), s. 84](https://www.victoria.ca/media/3543)
  - Official wording: "A person must not park a vehicle in a street for the purpose of sleeping overnight in the vehicle." … "A person must not sleep overnight in a vehicle parked on a street."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): overnight street parking of an RV, boat or trailer (s. 83) $80 ($40 within 14 days); sleeping in a vehicle (s. 84) and a trailer left on a street (s. 96) $75 in Schedule LL but $60 in Schedule MM. Municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): each $75, or $50 if paid within 30 days. (Sources differ: The Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017 lists different amounts and is itself inconsistent: s. 83 $80 ($40 if paid within 14 days); s. 84 $75 in the first streets schedule (LL) and $60 in the parking schedule (MM); s. 96 $75 (LL) and $60 (MM).)
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule MM](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Unlawful Night Parking 83 $75.00 $50.00" … "Sleep in Vehicle 84(2) $75.00 $50.00" … "Leave unattended trailer on street 96 $75.00 $50.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B, Schedules LL and MM](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "Prohibited parking overnight $80.00 $40.00 $0.00" … "Parking trailer left on street $60.00 $30.00 $0.00" … "83 Prohibited parking overnight $80.00 $40.00 $0.00" … "96 Parking trailer in street $75.00 $30.00 $0.00" … "96 Parking trailer left on street $60.00 $30.00 $0.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Streets and Traffic Bylaw No. 09-079 (ss. 75, 83, 84, 96); Zoning Regulation Bylaw No. 80-159, Schedule C
  - Source: [Streets and Traffic Bylaw 09-079 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/3543)
  - Official wording: "STREETS AND TRAFFIC BYLAW BYLAW NO. 09-079 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw No. 80-159, Schedule C - Off-Street Parking, Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1197)
  - Official wording: "Zoning Bylaw No. 80-159"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Streets and Traffic Bylaw 09-079](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/3543>) controls parking on streets. Between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., a motor home, camper truck, recreational trailer, or pleasure boat on a trailer may not be parked on any street if it is registered to or owned by someone with a Capital Regional District address. The same ban covers a trailer over 1,400 kg gross vehicle weight or 6 m long, and any semi-trailer.

## Steps

1. Do not leave these vehicles on a street overnight, between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
2. Do not leave a trailer on a street unless it is attached to a motor vehicle or permitted.
3. Do not park with a trailer attached in a metered zone.
4. Ask Parking Services at 250-361-0260 about a specific street. The bylaw can also set No Parking Zones for vehicles over 6 m long including load or trailer.

## Good to know

- Sleeping in a vehicle on a street overnight is not allowed. A person must not park a vehicle on a street to sleep overnight in it.
- The bylaw sets no daytime time limit specific to RVs or boats.
- On your own property, no rule specific to RVs, boats or trailers was found. Under the [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule C](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/1197>), a single-family dwelling may have at most one parking space in the front yard. Two-family and semi-attached dwellings may have two.
- Fines differ between the City's two ticket schedules, so confirm the amount with the City. Overnight street parking of an RV, boat or trailer: a bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) is $80 ($40 if paid within 14 days); a municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) is $75 ($50 if paid within 30 days).
- Sleeping in a vehicle on a street, and a trailer left on a street: the municipal ticket is $75 ($50 within 30 days). The bylaw notice schedules disagree with each other: $75 in one and $60 in the other.

## Official forms and pages

- [Streets and Traffic Bylaw 09-079 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/3543)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule C - Off-Street Parking (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1197)

## The same question elsewhere

- [RV, boat and trailer parking rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)

## Sources

- [Streets and Traffic Bylaw 09-079 (consolidated June 18, 2026) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/3543) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw No. 80-159, Schedule C - Off-Street Parking (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1197) (read 2026-11-05)
- [On-Street Parking, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/getting-around/parking/street-parking) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_


---

---
title: "Victoria noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines"
question: "What are the noise rules and quiet hours?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/noise-rules/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/noise-rules.json"
---

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

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

**Short answer:** Victoria's Noise Bylaw 03-012 has no single quiet-hours rule. It bans noise that disturbs neighbours and sets lower decibel limits at "nighttime", which means outside daytime. Daytime is 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sundays and holidays.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Fines, bylaw notice and municipal ticket: noise disturbing the neighbourhood $350; construction at a prohibited time $350; animal or bird noise $250. Noise exemption application fee: $50.  
**Where:**
- Online: Report a Bylaw Violation, https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation
- Phone: Victoria Police non-emergency line (after hours), 250-995-7654
- Phone: Bylaw Services general inquiries, 250-361-0215
- Email: Construction noise exemptions (Permit Services), permits@victoria.ca

## Key facts

- **General rule:** No one may make a noise in a street, park or plaza that disturbs the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people nearby. An owner or occupier of property must not make or allow a noise that can be easily heard off the premises and disturbs the neighbourhood.
  - Source: [Noise Bylaw 03-012 (consolidated to February 1, 2015), s. 11(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/noise-bylaw-03-012)
  - Official wording: "a person must not make or cause a noise or sound in a street, park, plaza" … "which can be easily heard by a person not on the same premises and which disturbs or tends to disturb"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Quiet hours:** No single quiet-hours rule. Lower decibel limits apply at "nighttime", meaning any time outside daytime. Daytime is 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. Noise clearly audible in a residential area between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. can still break the bylaw.
  - Source: [Noise Bylaw 03-012 (consolidated to February 1, 2015), ss. 3, 11(2)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/noise-bylaw-03-012)
  - Official wording: "from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on a week day or Saturday;" … "from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on a Sunday or holiday;" … "means any time not included within the definition of daytime under this Bylaw;" … "is clearly audible at a point of reception in a residential area between the hours of 10:00 p.m. one day and 7:00 a.m. the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Construction hours:** Construction that disturbs the quiet is allowed only 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays that are not holidays and 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays that are not holidays, so not on Sundays or holidays. Construction noise over 85 dBA near homes is never allowed (except work within a street).
  - Source: [Noise Bylaw 03-012 (consolidated to February 1, 2015), s. 19(1), (3)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/noise-bylaw-03-012)
  - Official wording: "between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on a weekday that is not a holiday;" … "between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on a Saturday that is not a holiday." … "exceeds 85 dBA on an approved sound meter"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other limits:** Decibel limits by district, for example 55 dBA by day and 45 dBA at night received in a Quiet District. Leaf blowers: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends and holidays, 65 dBA. Chainsaws: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends and holidays. Amplified sound from a vehicle audible at 5 m is banned. Commercial music: 70 dBC day, 65 dBC night.
  - Source: [Noise Bylaw 03-012 (consolidated to February 1, 2015), ss. 5, 12, 15, 17, 18](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/noise-bylaw-03-012)
  - Official wording: "55 dBA when received at a point of reception in a Quiet District;" … "45 dBA when received at a point of reception in a Quiet District;" … "between 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on a weekday, or" … "between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday;" … "can easily be heard by a person of normal hearing acuity at a distance of 5 m" … "70 dBC during the daytime;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Who to call, business hours:** Community Safety and Bylaw Services answers noise complaints from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week; report through the City's online Report a Bylaw Violation form. General bylaw inquiries: 250.361.0215.
  - Source: [Report a Bylaw Violation, Noise](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation)
  - Official wording: "Bylaw responds to noise complaints between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., seven days a week."
  - Source: [Community Safety and Bylaw Services, General Inquiries](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services)
  - Official wording: "please email bylawservices@victoria.ca or call 250.361.0215."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Who to call, after hours:** Victoria Police non-emergency line, 250.995.7654, if the noise is too loud or unbearable. Bylaw follows up complaints made outside 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. the next day.
  - Source: [Report a Bylaw Violation, Noise](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation)
  - Official wording: "Bylaw will follow up with complaints made outside of these hours, the next day." … "please contact the Victoria Police non-emergency line at 250.995.7654."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) and municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) share base amounts of $250 to $400 by offence. Noise disturbing the neighbourhood (s. 11(1)) $350 (notice $262.50 within 14 days; ticket $300 within 30 days). Construction at a prohibited time (s. 19(3)) $350. Animal or bird noise $250 ($187.50; $200).
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule U](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Noise in public - 11(1)(b) $350.00 $300.00" … "Construction at 19(3) $350.00 $300.00" … "Noise exceeding limit 5/6/7/8 $400.00 $350.00" … "Animal/bird noise 12(1)(c) $250.00 $200.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B, Schedule S](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "19(3) Construction at prohibited time $350.00 $87.50 $87.50" … "12(1)(c) Animal/bird noise $250.00 $62.50 $62.50"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Noise Bylaw No. 03-012
  - Source: [Noise Bylaw 03-012 (consolidated to February 1, 2015), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/noise-bylaw-03-012)
  - Official wording: "NOISE BYLAW BYLAW NO. 03-012 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Noise Bylaw 03-012](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/noise-bylaw-03-012>), no one may make a noise in a street, park or plaza that disturbs the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of people nearby. An owner or occupier of property must not make or allow a noise that can be easily heard off the premises and disturbs the neighbourhood.

The bylaw also sets decibel limits by noise district, for example 55 dBA by day and 45 dBA at night received in a Quiet District. Lower limits apply at "nighttime", meaning any time outside daytime. Noise clearly audible in a residential area between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. can still break the bylaw.

## Steps

1. Check the rule for your activity in the list below.
2. To report noise, use the City's Report a Bylaw Violation form. Bylaw and Community Safety Services answers noise complaints from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week.
3. If the noise is too loud or unbearable outside those hours, call the Victoria Police non-emergency line at 250-995-7654. Bylaw follows up complaints made outside those hours the next day.

## Good to know

- Construction that disturbs the quiet is allowed only 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays that are not holidays and 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays that are not holidays. It is not allowed on Sundays or holidays. Construction noise over 85 dBA near homes is never allowed, except work within a street.
- Leaf blowers: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays, at no more than 65 dBA.
- Chainsaws: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
- Amplified sound from a vehicle that is audible at 5 m is banned. Commercial music is limited to 70 dBC by day and 65 dBC at night.
- Events with amplified sound need a Noise Bylaw exemption. Construction exemptions are decided by the Chief Building Inspector; the City page says the fee is $50 and asks for an acoustical engineer's report and letters of support from neighbours.
- Fines: noise disturbing the neighbourhood is $350 for both. A bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) drops to $262.50 if paid within 14 days; a municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) drops to $300 if paid within 30 days. Construction at a prohibited time is also $350. Animal or bird noise is $250 ($187.50 within 14 days on a notice; $200 within 30 days on a ticket).

## Official forms and pages

- [Noise Bylaw 03-012 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/noise-bylaw-03-012)
- [Noise Bylaw page and exemption application](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/bylaw-services/noise-bylaw)

## Related questions

- [Victoria bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Noise bylaws in British Columbia: quiet hours, construction hours and fines by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/noise-rules.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/noise-rules.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/noise-rules.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/noise-rules.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/noise-rules.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/noise-rules.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/noise-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Noise Bylaw, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/bylaw-services/noise-bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Noise Bylaw 03-012 (consolidated to February 1, 2015) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/noise-bylaw-03-012) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Report a Bylaw Violation, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Community Safety and Bylaw Services, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/noise-rules/_


---

---
title: Victoria unsightly property rules and how to report
question: "How do I report an unsightly or overgrown property?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/unsightly-property/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/unsightly-property.json"
---

# Victoria unsightly property rules and how to report

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

**Short answer:** Report it on the City of Victoria's online Report a Bylaw Violation form. The Property Maintenance Bylaw 07-050 bans accumulated refuse, unsightly property and unkempt weeds. After written notice, the City can do the work itself at the owner's expense if it is not done within 14 days.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Unsightly property: bylaw notice $200, municipal ticket $200. Accumulated refuse: $350 on both. Graffiti in a public place: $500 on a bylaw notice, $750 on a municipal ticket.  
**Where:**
- Online: Report a Bylaw Violation, https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation
- Phone: Bylaw Services general inquiries, 250-361-0215
- Email: Bylaw Services general inquiries, bylawservices@victoria.ca

## Key facts

- **What counts:** An owner or occupier must not let water, refuse, garbage or other noxious, offensive or unwholesome material collect on the property, or let it become or stay "unsightly" (untidy accumulation of filth, discarded materials, junk or refuse, including graffiti). Weeds or growths likely to spread or so unkempt as to be unsightly are also banned.
  - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw 07-050 (consolidated to February 1, 2015), ss. 2, 4(1), 5](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/property-maintenance-bylaw-07-050)
  - Official wording: "means an untidy or otherwise non-aesthetic accumulation of filth, discarded materials, junk, or refuse on any real property, and includes graffiti." … "allow real property, of which that person is the owner or occupier, to become or remain unsightly;" … "are so unkempt as to be unsightly to nearby residents."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to report:** Use the City's online Report a Bylaw Violation form (needs accurate, detailed information). General inquiries: bylawservices@victoria.ca or 250.361.0215.
  - Source: [Report a Bylaw Violation](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation)
  - Official wording: "To report a bylaw violation, please fill out the form below." … "accurate and detailed information is required to investigate a bylaw violation."
  - Source: [Community Safety and Bylaw Services, General Inquiries](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services)
  - Official wording: "please email bylawservices@victoria.ca or call 250.361.0215."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What happens next:** The City may give written notice. If the owner or occupier has not done the work within 14 days of service, the City may enter and do it at the owner's expense. The person can appeal within 14 days to the Planning and Land Use Standing Committee. Unpaid costs on December 31 can be collected as a debt or added to property taxes.
  - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw 07-050 (consolidated to February 1, 2015), s. 8](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/property-maintenance-bylaw-07-050)
  - Official wording: "stating that the City will take the action at the expense of the owner or occupier if that person does not take the action within 14" … "for a hearing by the City's Committee." … "they may be collected in the same manner and with the same remedies as ordinary taxes on the real property on which the action was taken." … "means the standing committee of Council known as the Planning and Land Use Standing Committee."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): unsightly property (s. 4(1)(c)) $200 ($150 within 14 days; $250 if unpaid 15 days after receipt); accumulated refuse (s. 4(1)(a)) $350 ($262.50). Municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): $200 ($150 within 30 days); $350 ($300). Graffiti in a public place: $500 notice, $750 ticket.
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule BB](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Unsightly property 4(1)(c) $200.00 $150.00" … "Accumulated 4(1)(a) $350.00 $300.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B, Schedule Z](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "4(1)(c) Unsightly property $200.00 $50.00 $50.00" … "Placing graffiti public place $500.00 $125.00 $125.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Property Maintenance Bylaw No. 07-050
  - Source: [Property Maintenance Bylaw 07-050 (consolidated to February 1, 2015), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/property-maintenance-bylaw-07-050)
  - Official wording: "PROPERTY MAINTENANCE BYLAW BYLAW NO. 07-050 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Property Maintenance Bylaw 07-050](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/property-maintenance-bylaw-07-050>), an owner or occupier must not let water, refuse, garbage or other noxious, offensive or unwholesome material collect on the property, or let it become or stay "unsightly". Unsightly means an untidy accumulation of filth, discarded materials, junk or refuse, including graffiti. Weeds or growths that are likely to spread, or so unkempt as to be unsightly, are also banned. "Refuse" includes unlicensed, unused or stripped vehicles and boats, bulky waste, yard trimmings and construction waste.

## Steps

1. Use the City's Report a Bylaw Violation form. Give accurate, detailed information.
2. The City may give the owner or occupier written notice.
3. If the work is not done within 14 days of service, the City may enter and do it at the owner's expense.

## Good to know

- The person can appeal within 14 days to the Planning and Land Use Standing Committee, which can dismiss the appeal, extend the time or vary the action required.
- Unpaid costs on December 31 can be collected as a debt or added to the property taxes.
- Graffiti on or next to a public place is also banned.
- Unsightly property: a bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) is $200 ($150 if paid within 14 days; $250 if unpaid 15 days after receipt). A municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) is $200 ($150 if paid within 30 days).
- Accumulated refuse: a bylaw notice is $350 ($262.50 within 14 days); a municipal ticket is $350 ($300 within 30 days).
- Graffiti in a public place: a bylaw notice is $500 and a municipal ticket is $750.
- For general questions, email bylawservices@victoria.ca or call 250-361-0215. That line is for questions, not requests for service.

## Official forms and pages

- [Property Maintenance Bylaw 07-050 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/property-maintenance-bylaw-07-050)

## Related questions

- [Victoria bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/unsightly-property.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/unsightly-property.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/unsightly-property.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/unsightly-property.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/unsightly-property.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/unsightly-property.md)

## Sources

- [Property Maintenance Bylaw 07-050 (consolidated to February 1, 2015) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/property-maintenance-bylaw-07-050) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Report a Bylaw Violation, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services/report-bylaw-violation) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Community Safety and Bylaw Services, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/unsightly-property/_


---

---
title: Victoria backyard fire and burning rules
question: "Can I have a backyard fire or burn yard waste?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/backyard-fire/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/backyard-fire.json"
---

# Victoria backyard fire and burning rules

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

**Short answer:** Not without a permit. In the City of Victoria, any open-air fire, including in a chiminea or outdoor fireplace, needs a permit from the Fire Chief, and permits are only for certain purposes. Burning yard waste also needs one. Cooking barbecues and approved gas appliances are not covered.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** No permit fee is stated in the bylaw. Fine for prohibited open-air burning: $250 on a bylaw notice and on a municipal ticket.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Fire or smoke in a park or on a beach, 9-1-1

## Key facts

- **Backyard campfires:** Not without a permit. Anyone burning a fire in the open air, including in a chiminea, outdoor fireplace or other portable outdoor burner, needs a permit. Not covered: charcoal, natural gas or propane barbecues and grills used only for cooking, and CSA- or ULC-approved gas or liquid-fuel outdoor appliances used as the maker directs.
  - Source: [Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw 14-100 (sections 36 to 38 and the offence schedule), ss. 37(1)-(2)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-14-100)
  - Official wording: "No person shall light, ignite, start or burn any fire in the open air or in any portable incinerator, chiminea, outdoor fireplace or other portable outdoor burner without first obtaining a Permit." … "charcoal, natural gas or propane gas fires contained within barbecues, grills or other outdoor appliances for the sole purpose of cooking food; or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Burning yard waste:** Burning of any kind in the open air (including yard waste or brush piles) needs a permit, and permits are limited to certain purposes (see permit). Burning in a fireplace, stove or incinerator is limited to seasoned firewood or similar material without paint, treated wood or adhesives.
  - Source: [Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw 14-100 (sections 36 to 38 and the offence schedule), ss. 2, 36, 37(1)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-14-100)
  - Official wording: "any burning of any kind, of any material, for any purpose that takes place outside" … "No person shall burn in a fireplace, stove or incinerator any materials other than seasoned firewood" … "No person shall light, ignite, start or burn any fire in the open air"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permit:** Yes. Apply to the Fire Chief on the Fire Chief's form. A permit may be issued only for a religious, cultural or special event, member training, or ecological or conservation purposes; the Fire Chief may refuse or add conditions. The holder must notify the Fire Department before lighting and after the fire is out and keep a competent adult watching until it is out. No fee is stated.
  - Source: [Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw 14-100 (sections 36 to 38 and the offence schedule), s. 38](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-14-100)
  - Official wording: "An application for a Permit shall be made to the Fire Chief in a form specified by the Fire Chief." … "the observance or celebration of a religious, cultural or special event;" … "ecological or conservation purposes." … "shall have a competent person at all times in charge of the fire."
  - Source: [Fire Prevention and Regulation Amendment Bylaw 21-010, Amendment 21-010, s. 6(e)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-amendment-bylaw-21-010)
  - Official wording: "notify the Fire Department before the initiation and after the" … "at all times ensure that a competent adult is keeping watch on the fire until the fire is completely extinguished"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fire bans:** None set. Victoria's Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw has no section on fire bans.
- **Instead of burning:** Put yard waste in the green bin (collected every two weeks), or take leaves and garden waste to the Public Works Yard, 417 Garbally Road, on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The City also runs seasonal leaf collection.
  - Source: [Curbside Collection, Organics - Green Bin](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection)
  - Official wording: "You can put food scraps and yard waste in your green bin."
  - Source: [Yard and Garden Waste, Leaf Drop Off](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste)
  - Official wording: "Leaves and garden waste can be dropped off year-round at the Public Works Yard, 417 Garbally Road on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): $250 for prohibited open-air burning (s. 37(1)) or burning in a fireplace or stove (s. 36), $187.50 within 14 days; $300 for failing to notify or supervise a permitted fire (s. 38(3)(b)), $225. Municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): $250 ($200 within 30 days); $300 ($250).
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule Q](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Prohibited Open Air 37(1) $250.00 $200.00" … "Prohibited burning 36 $250.00 $200.00" … "Fail to notify or 38(3)(b) $300.00 $250.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B, Schedule O](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "37(1) Prohibited Open Air burning $250.00 $62.50 $62.50" … "36 Prohibited burning $250.00 $62.50 $62.50"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw No. 14-100, as amended by Amendment Bylaw No. 21-010
  - Source: [Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw 14-100 (sections 36 to 38 and the offence schedule), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-14-100)
  - Official wording: "FIRE PREVENTION AND REGULATION BYLAW" … "NO. 14-100"
  - Source: [Fire Prevention and Regulation Amendment Bylaw 21-010, Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-amendment-bylaw-21-010)
  - Official wording: "FIRE PREVENTION AND REGULATION BYLAW, AMENDMENT BYLAW (NO. 1)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw 14-100](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-14-100>), as amended by [Bylaw 21-010](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-amendment-bylaw-21-010>), burning of any kind in the open air needs a permit. That includes a fire in a chiminea, outdoor fireplace or other portable outdoor burner, and burning yard waste or brush piles.

Not covered: charcoal, natural gas or propane barbecues and grills used only for cooking, and CSA- or ULC-approved gas or liquid-fuel outdoor appliances used as the maker directs.

## Steps

1. Apply to the Fire Chief on the Fire Chief's form. A permit may be issued only for a religious, cultural or special event, member training, or ecological or conservation purposes. The Fire Chief may refuse or add conditions. No fee is stated.
2. If you hold a permit, notify the Fire Department before you light the fire and after it is out.
3. Keep a competent adult watching the fire until it is completely out.

## Good to know

- Burning in a fireplace, stove or incinerator is limited to seasoned firewood or similar material without paint, treated wood or adhesives.
- In City parks a fire is allowed only with the Director's prior written consent and in a lawfully authorized fire pit.
- The bylaw sets no size rules for backyard fire pits and no section on fire bans. Ask the Fire Department about current restrictions.
- For yard waste, use the green bin (collected every two weeks), or take leaves and garden waste to the Public Works Yard, 417 Garbally Road, on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The City also runs seasonal leaf collection.
- Fines: prohibited open-air burning, or burning in a fireplace or stove, is $250. A bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) is $187.50 if paid within 14 days; a municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) is $200 if paid within 30 days.
- Failing to notify or supervise a permitted fire is $300 ($225 within 14 days on a notice; $250 within 30 days on a ticket).

## Official forms and pages

- [Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw 14-100 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-14-100)
- [Fire Prevention and Regulation Amendment Bylaw 21-010 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-amendment-bylaw-21-010)
- [Parks Regulation Bylaw 07-059 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/parks-regulation-bylaw-consolidated-07-059)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Backyard fire and burning rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-fire.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/backyard-fire.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/backyard-fire.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/backyard-fire.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/backyard-fire.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/backyard-fire.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/backyard-fire.md)

## Sources

- [Fire Prevention and Regulation Bylaw 14-100 (sections 36 to 38 and the offence schedule) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-14-100) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Fire Prevention and Regulation Amendment Bylaw 21-010 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fire-prevention-and-regulation-bylaw-amendment-bylaw-21-010) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Parks Regulation Bylaw 07-059, section 11 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/parks-regulation-bylaw-consolidated-07-059) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Yard and Garden Waste, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/yard-garden-waste) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Curbside Collection, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/home-property/waste-collection/curbside-collection) (read 2026-11-05)

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


---

---
title: Victoria fireworks rules
question: "Are fireworks allowed?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fireworks/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fireworks.json"
---

# Victoria fireworks rules

**Question:** Are fireworks allowed?

**Short answer:** Only with a permit. Under Victoria's Fireworks Bylaw 07-070, nobody may fire fireworks without a permit from the Fire Chief, and the bylaw sets no dates or hours for residents. Possessing them also needs a permit, and only wholesalers may sell them. The fine is $400.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Permit $100 per event (no fee for City-sponsored events or events by local not-for-profit community associations). Fine for possessing or firing without a permit: $400. Selling without a permit: $500 on a bylaw notice, $750 on a municipal ticket.  
**How long:** Apply at least 14 days before the event.  
**Where:**
- Online: Fireworks Bylaw 07-070 (PDF), https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070

## Key facts

- **Setting off fireworks:** Only with a permit. A person may fire or discharge fireworks only if authorized by a permit; the bylaw sets no dates or hours for residents. Possessing fireworks also needs a current permit unless the person is a wholesaler.
  - Source: [Fireworks Bylaw 07-070 (consolidated to March 1, 2015), ss. 8, 9](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070)
  - Official wording: "A person may fire or discharge fireworks only if that is authorized by a permit." … "A person who is not a wholesaler must not possess fireworks without a current permit."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Selling fireworks:** Only wholesalers may offer for sale, sell, give or trade fireworks. A wholesaler is a permit holder in bulk sales under a City business licence; retail sale to the general public is excluded from that definition.
  - Source: [Fireworks Bylaw 07-070 (consolidated to March 1, 2015), ss. 2, 7](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070)
  - Official wording: "A person who is not a wholesaler must not offer for sale, sell, give, or trade fireworks." … "does not include a person engaged in the retail sale of fireworks to the general public."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What counts as fireworks:** "Fireworks" means Class 7 fireworks under the Explosives Regulation (Canada). It does not include sparklers, Christmas crackers, caps for toy guns, model rocket engines, or highway flares and small distress signals.
  - Source: [Fireworks Bylaw 07-070 (consolidated to March 1, 2015), s. 2](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070)
  - Official wording: "means the "Class 7" fireworks in the Explosives Regulation (Canada) or its successor regulation;" … "does not include sparklers, Christmas crackers, caps for toy guns, model"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permit:** The Fire Chief may grant or refuse a permit. Apply at least 14 days before the event with proof of a Fireworks Supervisor Certificate, $5 million liability insurance, and a site plan. Fee $100 per event; no fee for City-sponsored events or events by local not-for-profit community associations. Site re-inspection $100.
  - Source: [Fireworks Bylaw 07-070 (consolidated to March 1, 2015), ss. 4, Schedule A](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070)
  - Official wording: "be submitted to the Fire Chief at least 14 days before the date of the event for which the permit is required;" … "include proof of a valid Fireworks Supervisor Certificate;" … "Permit $100 per event" … "-events sponsored by the City no fee" … "Site re-inspection $100"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017): $400 for possessing or firing fireworks without a permit (ss. 8, 9), $300 within 14 days; $500 for selling without a permit (s. 7). Municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071): $400 ($350 within 30 days); selling $750. Court penalty $200 to $10,000 (s. 12). (Sources differ: Under Bylaw 16-017 Schedule P the sale offence (s. 7) is $500 (not $750), and the $400 offences are $100 off within 14 days. The bylaw also sets a $200 minimum and $10,000 maximum penalty on conviction (s. 12) and an incident service fee of $500 per hour per unit (minimum 3 hours) if misuse causes a fire department call.)
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule R](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Possess fireworks 8 $400.00 $350.00" … "Fire/discharge 9 $400.00 $350.00" … "Offer for 7 $750.00 $750.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B, Schedule P](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "8 Possess fireworks without permit $400.00 $100.00 $100.00" … "Offer for sale/sell/give/trade" … "Possess fireworks without permit $400.00 $100.00 $100.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Fireworks Bylaw No. 07-070
  - Source: [Fireworks Bylaw 07-070 (consolidated to March 1, 2015), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070)
  - Official wording: "FIREWORKS BYLAW BYLAW NO. 07-070 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Fireworks Bylaw 07-070](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070>), a person may fire or discharge fireworks only if authorized by a permit. The bylaw sets no dates or hours for residents. Possessing fireworks also needs a current permit unless the person is a wholesaler. Only wholesalers (permit holders in bulk sales under a City business licence) may offer for sale, sell, give or trade fireworks.

"Fireworks" means Class 7 fireworks under the federal Explosives Regulation. It does not include sparklers, Christmas crackers, caps for toy guns, model rocket engines, or highway flares and small distress signals.

## Steps

1. Apply to the Fire Chief at least 14 days before the event. The Fire Chief may grant or refuse a permit.
2. Include proof of a Fireworks Supervisor Certificate, $5 million liability insurance, and a site plan.
3. Pay the fee of $100 per event. There is no fee for City-sponsored events or events by local not-for-profit community associations. A site re-inspection is $100.

## Good to know

- Possessing or firing fireworks without a permit: a bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) is $400 ($300 if paid within 14 days); a municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) is $400 ($350 if paid within 30 days).
- Selling without a permit: a bylaw notice is $500; a municipal ticket is $750. The two schedules differ here, so confirm with the City.
- The court penalty is $200 to $10,000.
- If misuse brings out the fire department, the bylaw also sets an incident service fee of $500 per hour per unit, with a three-hour minimum.

## Official forms and pages

- [Fireworks Bylaw 07-070 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070)

## Related questions

- [Victoria backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/backyard-fire.md)
- [Victoria bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/fireworks.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/fireworks.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/fireworks.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/fireworks.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/fireworks.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/fireworks.md)

## Sources

- [Fireworks Bylaw 07-070 (consolidated to March 1, 2015) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/fireworks-bylaw-07-070) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedule B (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/fireworks/_


---

---
title: Victoria bylaw fines and how tickets work
question: "What are the common bylaw fines?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Bylaws, noise and complaints
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/bylaw-fines/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/bylaw-fines.json"
---

# Victoria bylaw fines and how tickets work

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

**Short answer:** The City of Victoria issues two kinds of bylaw ticket. A bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) is for minor offences with fines up to $500; a municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) is for fines up to $3,000. Examples of the amounts: $350 for noise disturbing neighbours, $250 for open-air burning.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Examples (the same base amount on a bylaw notice and a municipal ticket): dog off leash $100; no dog licence $125; noise disturbing the neighbourhood $350; unsightly property $200; open-air burning $250; fireworks without a permit $400; bin not secured $200. Overnight RV or trailer parking on a street: $80 notice, $75 ticket.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Services, 250-361-0215
- Online: Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), https://www.victoria.ca/media/635

## Key facts

- **How tickets work:** Two types. A bylaw offence notice ticket ("VIC #") is for minor infractions with fines up to $500 and can be handed over, left on a vehicle, delivered or mailed. A municipal ticket (five-digit number, Municipal Ticket Information) is for fines up to $3,000 and must be issued in person. Bylaw officers (and police for some bylaws) issue them.
  - Source: [Community Safety and Bylaw Services, Bylaw Tickets](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services)
  - Official wording: "The City of Victoria issues two types of tickets as enforcement tools: a bylaw offence notice ticket and a municipal ticket." … "Bylaw offence notice tickets are issued for minor bylaw infractions with fines up to $500." … "Municipal tickets are issued for bylaw infractions with fines up to $3,000." … "They must be issued in person"
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedule A](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Noise Bylaw Bylaw Officer; Police Constable"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Common fines:** Bylaw notice (Bylaw 16-017) and municipal ticket (Bylaw 10-071) have the same base amounts: dog off leash $100; no dog licence $125; noise disturbing the neighbourhood $350; unsightly property $200; open-air burning $250; fireworks without a permit $400; bin not secured $200. Overnight RV or trailer parking on a street: $80 notice, $75 ticket.
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Schedules C, U, BB, MM, Q, R, JJ](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Dog in public place 19(1) $100.00 $65.00" … "No dog licence 32(1) $125.00 $100.00" … "Noise in public - 11(1)(b) $350.00 $300.00" … "Unsightly property 4(1)(c) $200.00 $150.00" … "Unlawful Night Parking 83 $75.00 $50.00" … "Prohibited Open Air 37(1) $250.00 $200.00" … "Possess fireworks 8 $400.00 $350.00" … "Fail to secure waste in 10(1) $200.00 $150.00"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Schedules B, S, Z, O, P, JJ, LL](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "10(1) Fail to secure waste in container $200.00 $50.00 $50.00" … "83 Prohibited parking overnight $80.00 $40.00 $0.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Paying early:** Bylaw notice: the penalty is reduced by a set discount (usually 25%) if paid within 14 days of receiving the notice. Municipal ticket: a reduced fine applies if paid within 30 calendar days of receipt, for example $100 becomes $65 or $75 depending on the offence.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, s. 5(2)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "If payment is received by the City within 14 days of the person receiving or being presumed to have received the bylaw notice" … "If payment is received by the City within 14 days of the person receiving or being"
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), s. 6](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "provided that the Municipal Ticket Information is paid within 30 calendar days upon receipt."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Paying late:** Bylaw notice: the penalty is increased by a surcharge (usually 25%) if not paid 15 days after receipt. The City says not paying by the due date results in late penalty fees.
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, s. 5(3)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "If payment is not received by the City 15 days after the person received or is presumed to have received the bylaw notice" … "is increased by the surcharge amount set out in Column C of each Schedule."
  - Source: [Community Safety and Bylaw Services, How do I pay a bylaw ticket?](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services)
  - Official wording: "Not paying the fine by the due date will result in late penalty fees."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Disputing a ticket:** Bylaw notice: request a review within 14 days of service; a screening officer may cancel it, offer a compliance agreement, or send it to an adjudicator. If the adjudicator finds the offence happened you pay the penalty plus a $25 fee; the decision is final. Municipal ticket: dispute within 14 days with a Notice of Dispute Form; it goes to Provincial Court.
  - Source: [Community Safety and Bylaw Services, FAQ](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services)
  - Official wording: "You can request a review within 14 days of the ticket being served." … "If the adjudicator decides the offence did occur, the bylaw offence notice must be paid in full, plus an additional $25 administrative fee" … "An adjudicator's decision is final and cannot be appealed." … "You can dispute the ticket within 14 days of it being served by completing a Notice of Dispute Form"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, s. 7(2)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "shall pay an administrative fee of $25.00, in addition to any other penalty amount"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Ticket Bylaw No. 10-071; Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw No. 16-017
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026), Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "TICKET BYLAW BYLAW NO. 10-071 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of" … "41 inclusive, 65-71 inclusive, 72A, 75-88 Notice under Bylaw No. 16-017 inclusive, 90, 95, 96, 102, 110, 117 only"
  - Source: [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017, Title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)
  - Official wording: "BYLAW NOTICE ADJUDICATION BYLAW" … "NO. 16-017"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of Victoria has two ticket systems side by side. A bylaw notice (VIC number), under [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923>), is for minor infractions with fines up to $500, and can be handed over, left on a vehicle, delivered or mailed. A municipal ticket (five-digit number), under [Ticket Bylaw 10-071](<https://www.victoria.ca/media/635>), is for fines up to $3,000 and must be issued in person. Bylaw officers, and police for some bylaws, issue them.

## Good to know

- The two systems have the same base amounts for most offences: dog off leash $100; no dog licence $125; noise disturbing the neighbourhood $350; unsightly property $200; open-air burning $250; fireworks without a permit $400; bin not secured $200. Some differ (graffiti, fireworks sale, parking). For overnight RV or trailer parking on a street, a notice is $80 and a ticket is $75.
- Paying early: a bylaw notice is reduced by a set discount, usually 25%, if paid within 14 days of receiving it. A municipal ticket has a reduced fine if paid within 30 calendar days of receipt; for example $100 becomes $65 or $75, depending on the offence.
- Paying late: a bylaw notice is increased by a surcharge, usually 25%, if not paid 15 days after receipt. No late amount for municipal tickets was found; the court process applies if one is disputed.
- Disputing a bylaw notice: request a review within 14 days of service. A screening officer may cancel it, offer a compliance agreement, or send it to an adjudicator. If the adjudicator finds the offence happened, you pay the penalty plus a $25 fee, and the decision is final.
- Disputing a municipal ticket: use a Notice of Dispute Form within 14 days; it goes to Provincial Court.
- Questions: Bylaw Services, 250-361-0215.

## Official forms and pages

- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923)

## Related questions

- [Victoria noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/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)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/bylaw-fines.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/bylaw-fines.md)

## Sources

- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026) (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Notice Adjudication Bylaw 16-017 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/2923) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Community Safety and Bylaw Services, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/city-government/community-safety-bylaw-services) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/bylaw-fines/_


---

---
title: "Victoria business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply"
question: "Do I need a business licence in Victoria, and how do I get one?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Starting and running a business
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/business-licence/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/business-licence.json"
---

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

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

**Short answer:** Yes. Every business in the City of Victoria needs a City business licence. Send the application and supporting documents to Business Licences by email, in person at City Hall or by mail. Approval takes about 10 working days. A business not otherwise named pays $100 a year.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** Fees are set by business type in the bylaw. A business not otherwise named pays $100 a year; wholesale or wholesale-and-retail $200; retail with 10 or more lines of goods $3,000; storefront cannabis retailer $1,500.  
**How long:** About 10 working days for a complete application.  
**Where:**
- Email: Business Licences, businesslicence@victoria.ca
- Phone: Business Licences, 250-361-0572
- In person: Public Service Centre, City Hall, 1 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC
- Online: Business Licensing page (some applications can be done online), https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing
- Phone: Business Hub, 250-361-0629

## Key facts

- **Who needs one:** Every business in Victoria needs a business licence. The bylaw bars anyone from carrying on a listed trade, business or profession without a valid licence, paid for in advance and displayed at the premises; a single transaction normally done only by such a business counts.
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Business Licensing page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing)
  - Official wording: "Every business in the City of Victoria is required to have a business licence."
  - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 89-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026, PDF), Business Licence Bylaw 89-071, s. 4, s. 9](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/business-licence-bylaw-consolidated-89-071)
  - Official wording: "No person shall carry on any of the trades, businesses, professions, occupations," … "displays such licence in a conspicuous place on the premises" … "performs a single transaction which is normally performed only by persons"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** Fees are set by business type in the bylaw's Schedule of Licence Fees. A business not otherwise named pays $100 a year. Examples: wholesale or wholesale-and-retail $200; retail with 10 or more lines of goods $3,000; storefront cannabis retailer $1,500.
  - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 89-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026, PDF), Business Licence Bylaw 89-071, Schedule of Licence Fees, items 34, 43, 47, 55](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/business-licence-bylaw-consolidated-89-071)
  - Official wording: "SCHEDULE OF LICENCE FEES" … "any business not otherwise mentioned in this Schedule, for each such business" … "Any person carrying on the business of a wholesale or wholesale and retail merchant or trader" … "Any person carrying on a retail business which includes 10 or more distinctive line or class of goods, wares or merchandise"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to apply:** Pick a location first (zoning and legal use), then send the application form and supporting documents by email to businesslicence@victoria.ca, in person at the Public Service Centre, City Hall, or by mail. Some applications can be done online. Approval takes about 10 working days; several City departments review it.
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Business Licensing page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing)
  - Official wording: "by email: businesslicence@victoria.ca" … "in person: Public Service Centre, Main Floor, City Hall" … "A complete business licence application takes approximately 10 working days to process." … "Several City departments must review and approve an application before a business licence is issued."
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Step One](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing)
  - Official wording: "Zoning regulations vary in different areas of Victoria and determine the type of business you are permitted to operate."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Renewal:** Licences run January 16 to January 15. Renew and pay on or before January 15; invoices are mailed (or e-billed) each November. After February 15 a $25 late fee applies.
  - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 89-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026, PDF), Business Licence Bylaw 89-071, s. 10](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/business-licence-bylaw-consolidated-89-071)
  - Official wording: "commencing on the 16th day of January and terminating" … "must renew the licence and pay the annual licence fee on or before January 15" … "a late fee of $25 in addition to the applicable annual licence fee."
  - Source: [Business Licensing, Renewal](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing)
  - Official wording: "Each November, you will receive a Business Licence Renewal Invoice in the mail or you can sign up for e-billing"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Inter-community licence:** Greater Victoria Inter-Municipal licence: 13 communities (Central Saanich, Colwood, Esquimalt, Highlands, Langford, Metchosin, North Saanich, Oak Bay, Saanich, Sidney, Sooke, Victoria, View Royal), no extra fee. Inter-Community licence: Vancouver Island communities (City says 15; Province lists 14), $170 on top. Eligibility depends on business type.
  - Source: [Starting a Business, Starting a Business page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-hub/starting-business)
  - Official wording: "Inter-Municipal Business Licence: this licence includes the ability to do business in the 13 municipalities in the Capital Regional District." … "This licence is available to you at no additional cost from your base business licence cost." … "This business licence has a fee of $170 on top of your City of Victoria business licence."
  - Source: [Mobile business licences, Province of B.C., Province mobile business licences](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/business/managing-a-business/starting-a-business/permits-licences/mobile-business-licence-program)
  - Official wording: "Each mobile business licence area allows different types of businesses to apply."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Ticket Bylaw Schedule H: $250 for carrying on business without a licence ($200 if paid within 30 days); $250 ($200) for failing to renew; $100 ($75) for not displaying the licence.
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071, Schedule H](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Schedule H 23-067 Business Licence Bylaw Offences and Fines Column 1 - Offence Column 2 - Section Column 3 - Set Fine Column 4 - Fine if" … "Column 1 - Offence Column 2 - Section Column 3 - Set Fine Column 4 - Fine if paid within 30 days Conduct business 4(a) $250.00 $200.00 w/o licence Fail to display 4(c) $100.00 $75.00" … "paid within 30 days Conduct business 4(a) $250.00 $200.00 w/o licence Fail to display 4(c) $100.00 $75.00 licence on premises" … "Fail to comply with 8(4) $500.00 $500.00 good neighbour agreement Fail to renew 10(2) $250.00 $200.00 business licence Hinder/obstruct 13 $500.00 $500.00 inspector" … "paid within 30 days No business licence 3(a) $250.00 $200.00 Failure to provide 3(b) $150.00 $125.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Business Licence Bylaw No. 89-071
  - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 89-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026, PDF), title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/business-licence-bylaw-consolidated-89-071)
  - Official wording: "BUSINESS LICENCE BYLAW BYLAW NO. 89-071 This consolidation is a copy of a bylaw consolidated under the authority of"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Business Licence Bylaw 89-071](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/business-licence-bylaw-consolidated-89-071) bars anyone from carrying on a listed trade, business or profession in Victoria without a valid licence, paid for in advance and displayed at the premises. The licence is non-transferable and the fee is non-refundable. Licences run January 16 to January 15.

## Steps

1. Choose a location first. Zoning and the legal use of the space decide what business is allowed. Ask Development Services (250-361-0316, zoning@victoria.ca). A change of use may need a building permit.
2. Gather the supporting documents for your business type.
3. Send the application form and documents to businesslicence@victoria.ca, in person at the Public Service Centre at City Hall, or by mail.
4. Several City departments review it. After approval you receive an invoice (unless you paid in person) and the licence is issued.

## Good to know

- Renewal: pay on or before January 15; invoices are mailed (or e-billed) each November. After February 15 a $25 late fee applies. A licence issued after January 16 is valid to the next January 15, but the full fee is payable.
- Fines (Ticket Bylaw Schedule H): $250 for carrying on business without a licence ($200 if paid within 30 days); $250 ($200) for failing to renew; $100 ($75) for not displaying the licence.
- Greater Victoria Inter-Municipal licence: covers 13 communities, including Victoria, at no extra fee. The Inter-Community licence adds Vancouver Island communities for $170 on top. Eligibility depends on business type. The City says 15 communities; the Province lists 14.
- A home-based business pays $100 a year; see the home-based-business answer.

## What you'll need

- Business Licence Application Form
- Professional certificates, if your profession requires them
- Proof of incorporation and Notice of Articles, if incorporated
- Health inspection certificate from Island Health, for food businesses
- NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code

## Official forms and pages

- [General Business Application and Change Form (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/general-business-licence-and-change-form)
- [Business Licence Bylaw 89-071 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/business-licence-bylaw-consolidated-89-071)

## Related questions

- [Victoria home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/home-based-business.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/business-licence.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/business-licence.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/business-licence.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/business-licence.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/business-licence.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/business-licence.md)

## Sources

- [Business Licensing, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Starting a Business, City of Victoria Business Hub](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-hub/starting-business) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Business Licence Bylaw 89-071 (consolidated June 18, 2026, PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/business-licence-bylaw-consolidated-89-071) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (PDF), Schedule H](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Mobile business licences, Province of B.C.](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/business/managing-a-business/starting-a-business/permits-licences/mobile-business-licence-program) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/business-licence/_


---

---
title: Victoria home-based business rules
question: "Can I run a business from my home?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Starting and running a business
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of Victoria
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/home-based-business/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/home-based-business.json"
---

# Victoria home-based business rules

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

**Short answer:** Often yes. In the City of Victoria a home business is allowed as a "home occupation" and needs a City business licence; the fee is $100 a year. Zoning Bylaw 2018 and Schedule D of the older Zoning Regulation Bylaw set the conditions, depending on which covers your property.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of Victoria, https://www.victoria.ca)  
**Cost:** $100 a year for a home-based business licence.  
**How long:** About 10 business days for a complete application.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Business Hub, 250-361-0629
- Email: Business Hub, bizhub@victoria.ca
- Phone: Business Licences, 250-361-0572
- Email: Business Licences, businesslicence@victoria.ca

## Key facts

- **Allowed:** Yes, as a home occupation. Zoning Bylaw 2018 lists Home Occupation as a permitted use in the GRD-1, LVD-1, CVD-1, TCD-1, CBD-1, CBD-2, MRD-1 and OTD-1 zones. Elsewhere, Zoning Regulation Bylaw Schedule D sets the conditions where home occupations are permitted.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018, section 20, Zoning Bylaw 2018, s. 4.1 GRD-1 and s. 4.2 LVD-1 permitted uses](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "f. Home Occupation" … "i. Home Occupation" … "Non-Residential uses, other than Home Occupation, are not permitted above the second Storey." … "Home Occupation means the use of a Residential Dwelling Unit or Float Home for the practice"
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, Home Occupations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, s. 1](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198)
  - Official wording: "Where home occupations are permitted pursuant to the provisions"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Business licence:** Yes. A City business licence is required. The fee for a home-based business licence is $100 per year (check the 'home occupation' box on the application). Up to three home occupation licences may share an address.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018, section 20, Zoning Bylaw 2018, s. 20(a)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "A City business license is required;"
  - Source: [Starting a Business (How to Start a Home-Based Business), How to Start a Home-Based Business, Step 4](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-hub/starting-business)
  - Official wording: "The fee for a home-based business licence is $100 per year."
  - Source: [Starting a Business (How to Start a Home-Based Business), FAQ 3](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-hub/starting-business)
  - Official wording: "you can have up to three home occupation business licences registered to the same address"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits:** Zoning Bylaw 2018 (s. 20): sales on the premises only if accessory to the primary business; no nuisance beyond the premises; up to three per dwelling, one with customers; no signs. Zoning Regulation Bylaw Schedule D adds: one person living on the lot, no sales to customers attending, one licensed vehicle visible.
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, Home Occupations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, s. 4, 7-10](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198)
  - Official wording: "The sale of goods to customers attending on the lot on which the" … "not more than one person shall be" … "engaged in a home occupation, with the exception of" … "No more than three home occupations shall be carried on in" … "has customers that attend the dwelling unit." … "attendance is limited to 5 persons" … "no sign or other advertising device or advertising matter may be"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018, section 20, Zoning Bylaw 2018, s. 20(b), (f), (g)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "The sale of goods on the premises is not permitted, except as accessory to the primary" … "A Home Occupation may not create noise, electronic interference, dust, odour, smokeor any" … "No more than three Home Occupations shall be carried on in any one Dwelling Unit,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Businesses not allowed:** Schedule D bars: car repairs and garages, clubs, kennels, radio dispatch, restaurants, retail stores, salvage lots, storage lots, cannabis-related businesses, bed and breakfast and transient accommodation or short-term rental (except as Schedule D allows), and anything noxious or offensive. Zoning Bylaw 2018 also bars escort and dating services in multi-residential buildings.
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, Home Occupations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, s. 6](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198)
  - Official wording: "All uses that are noxious or offensive to any other dwelling" … "car repairs and garages;" … "(f) restaurants;" … "(g) retail stores;" … "cannabis-related business"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018, section 20, Zoning Bylaw 2018, s. 20(c), (d), (e)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "The provision of escort and dating services within a multi-residential Building is not" … "The operation of any cannabis-related business is not permitted"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Regulation Bylaw No. 80-159, Schedule D (Home Occupations); Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 18-072), s. 20; Business Licence Bylaw No. 89-071.
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, Home Occupations](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198)
  - Official wording: "Schedule "D" HOME OCCUPATIONS 1 Where home occupations are permitted pursuant to the provisions of this bylaw, the following conditions shall apply to the use:" … "Amending Bylaw 09-01 adopted Jan 19, 2009 Amending Bylaw 17-110 adopted Jan 11, 2018 Amending Bylaw 18-035 adopted March 8, 2018"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018, section 20, s. 20](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "Home Occupations must comply with the following:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

In the City of Victoria a home-based business needs a City business licence and must meet the zoning rules for home occupations. [Zoning Bylaw 2018](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) lists Home Occupation as a permitted use in the GRD-1, LVD-1, CVD-1, TCD-1, CBD-1, CBD-2, MRD-1 and OTD-1 zones. Elsewhere, [Schedule D](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198) of the older Zoning Regulation Bylaw sets the conditions. Check which bylaw covers your address (see the zoning-lookup answer).

## Steps

1. Confirm which zoning bylaw applies to your address and that your business is a permitted home occupation. Ask the Business Hub or Business Licences.
2. Complete the business licence application and check the "home occupation" box.
3. Send it with supporting documents to businesslicence@victoria.ca. Approval is expected within 10 business days if the documents are complete.

## Good to know

- Up to three home occupation licences may share an address.
- Zoning Bylaw 2018 (s. 20): sales on the premises only if accessory to the primary business; no nuisance beyond the premises; up to three per dwelling, one with customers; no signs.
- Schedule D adds: one person living on the lot, no sales to customers who attend, and one licensed vehicle visible. It also allows up to two people where the lot touches a lot in a zone permitting retail use and one lives on site.
- Schedule D bars car repairs and garages, clubs, kennels, radio dispatch, restaurants, retail stores, salvage and storage lots, cannabis-related businesses, bed and breakfast and transient accommodation or short-term rental (except as Schedule D allows), and anything noxious or offensive. Zoning Bylaw 2018 also bars escort and dating services in multi-residential buildings.

## Official forms and pages

- [Schedule D, Home Occupations (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198)
- [General Business Application and Change Form (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/general-business-licence-and-change-form)

## Related questions

- [Victoria business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/business-licence.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Home-based business rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/home-based-business.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/home-based-business.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/home-based-business.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/home-based-business.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/home-based-business.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/home-based-business.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/home-based-business.md)

## Sources

- [Starting a Business (How to Start a Home-Based Business), City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-hub/starting-business) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, Home Occupations (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (PDF), section 20](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) (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 Victoria. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/home-based-business/_


---

---
title: Victoria short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)
question: "Can I rent out my home or a room on Airbnb in Victoria?"
place: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/victoria
category: Housing and renting
owner: shared
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/short-term-rental/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/short-term-rental.json"
---

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

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

**Short answer:** In the City of Victoria you can rent only your principal residence, for under 30 nights, with a City short-term rental business licence ($150 a year) and a provincial registration. While you are home you may rent up to two bedrooms; while away, the whole home for up to 160 nights a year.

**Who handles it:** More than one level of government  
**Cost:** City licence $150 a year, not refunded if you later become ineligible. Hosts also pay an annual provincial registration fee (amount not stated in the sources read).  
**How long:** Licences expire January 15 and are renewed each year.  
**Where:**
- Email: Short-term rental licence applications and questions, str@victoria.ca
- Phone: ServiceBC (provincial short-term rental registry), 1-833-828-2240
- Email: Provincial short-term rental registry, STRregistry@sbc.gov.bc.ca
- Email: City Clerk's Office (appeal of a denied licence), legislativeservices@victoria.ca

## Key facts

- **Allowed:** Only in the operator's principal residence, with a City licence. While the operator is home, up to two bedrooms may be rented and the rental cannot take up an entire self-contained dwelling unit. While temporarily away, the whole residence may be rented up to 160 nights a calendar year. Rentals are under 30 nights.
  - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, Short-Term Rentals page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing/short-term-rentals)
  - Official wording: "Short-term rentals are only permitted in your principal dwelling unit." … "Short-term rental cannot occupy an entire self-contained dwelling unit." … "you can rent your entire unit for no more than 160 nights in a calendar year." … "you can rent no more than two bedrooms in your principal dwelling unit throughout the year."
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D Home Occupations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, s. 12](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198)
  - Official wording: "a short-term rental is" … "no more than two bedrooms may" … "no more than 160 nights in a calendar year;"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2018, Zoning Bylaw 2018, s. 20(i)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018)
  - Official wording: "the entire Principal Residence may be used for a Short-term Rental while"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Business licence:** Yes. A Short-Term Rental Business Licence is required to advertise or operate, even with no bookings. The fee is $150 and it is renewed each year (expires January 15). Applicants need owner consent, a strata letter if in a strata lot, and proof the home is their principal residence.
  - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulation Bylaw 18-036, Short-Term Rental Regulation Bylaw 18-036, s. 3](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/short-term-rental-regulation-bylaw-18-036-0)
  - Official wording: "A person must not carry on business as a short-term rental operator unless the" … "The licence fee for purposes of subsection (2)(b) is $150."
  - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, Short-Term Rentals page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing/short-term-rentals)
  - Official wording: "The cost of a Short-Term Rental Business Licence is $150." … "All Short-Term Rental Business Licences expire January 15 and must be re-applied for annually." … "a valid licence is required to advertise short-term rentals regardless if you have accepted any bookings."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Provincial registration:** Yes. Hosts must register each short-term rental unit with the Province to operate in B.C., and pay an annual registration fee.
  - Source: [Short-Term Rentals, Short-Term Rentals page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing/short-term-rentals)
  - Official wording: "Short-term rental hosts must register each of their short-term rental units with the Province to operate in B.C."
  - Source: [Short-term rentals, Province of British Columbia, Province of B.C. short-term rentals page](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals)
  - Official wording: "Short-term rental hosts, platforms and strata hotel platforms in B.C. must register and pay annual registration fees."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Operating rules:** Show the City business licence number in every advertisement. Display the responsible person's name and contact in the rental at all times; that person must reach the rental within two hours, and must be named if the operator is away. No liquor may be provided to guests and no advertising sign may be posted.
  - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulation Bylaw 18-036, s. 5, s. 6](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/short-term-rental-regulation-bylaw-18-036-0)
  - Official wording: "only if a valid business licence number is included in any advertising, listing, or promotion material" … "prominently displayed in the short-" … "The responsible person must be able to attend at the short-term rental premises" … "within two hours of being requested to do so."
  - Source: [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D Home Occupations, Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D, s. 12(3), (4)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198)
  - Official wording: "no liquor may be provided to short-term rental guest;" … "No sign may be erected, used, or maintained for the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Ticket Bylaw Schedule GG: $500 for operating without a valid licence ($500 if paid within 30 days); $250 for no licence number in advertising; $350 for each responsible-person failure. Court fines range from $100 to $10,000 per offence per day.
  - Source: [Ticket Bylaw 10-071, Schedule GG](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635)
  - Official wording: "Operate without a valid" … "Failure to include" … "business licence number in advertising" … "Failure to designate a" … "responsible person"
  - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulation Bylaw 18-036, s. 8](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/short-term-rental-regulation-bylaw-18-036-0)
  - Official wording: "a fine of not less than" … "$100.00 and not more than $10,000.00 for every instance that an offence occurs or each"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Short-Term Rental Regulation Bylaw No. 18-036; Zoning Regulation Bylaw No. 80-159, Schedule D (Home Occupations); Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 18-072), s. 20; Business Licence Bylaw No. 89-071.
  - Source: [Short-Term Rental Regulation Bylaw 18-036, title](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/short-term-rental-regulation-bylaw-18-036-0)
  - Official wording: "SHORT-TERM RENTAL REGULATION BYLAW" … "BYLAW NO. 18-036"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of Victoria allows short-term rentals (under 30 nights) only in the operator's principal residence, with a City licence. While you are home, you may rent up to two bedrooms, and the rental cannot take up an entire self-contained dwelling unit. While you are temporarily away, you may rent the whole residence for up to 160 nights in a calendar year. Renters may operate with the owner's permission (and the strata's, if any). Strata bylaws still apply.

## Steps

1. Register your rental with the Province (ServiceBC, 1-833-828-2240, STRregistry@sbc.gov.bc.ca). Hosts must register each unit and pay an annual fee.
2. Email a complete application to str@victoria.ca with owner consent, a strata letter if you are in a strata lot, and proof the home is your principal residence.
3. Pay the $150 licence fee. You need the licence to advertise or operate, even with no bookings.
4. Renew each year before the January 15 expiry.

## Good to know

- Show your City business licence number in every advertisement.
- Display the responsible person's name and contact in the rental at all times. That person must be able to reach the rental within two hours, and must be named if you are away.
- No liquor may be provided to guests and no advertising sign may be posted.
- Ticket Bylaw Schedule GG: $500 for operating without a valid licence; $250 for no licence number in advertising; $350 for each responsible-person failure. Court fines range from $100 to $10,000 per offence per day.
- A denied licence can be appealed through the City Clerk's Office at legislativeservices@victoria.ca.
- The bylaws are the [Short-Term Rental Regulation Bylaw 18-036](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/short-term-rental-regulation-bylaw-18-036-0) and Schedule D of the Zoning Regulation Bylaw; Zoning Bylaw 2018 section 20 applies to properties it covers.

## What you'll need

- Proof the home is your principal residence
- Owner consent if you rent
- A letter from your strata if you live in a strata lot

## Official forms and pages

- [Short-Term Rentals page](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing/short-term-rentals)
- [2026 Short-Term Rental Business Licence Application](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/2026-short-term-rental-business-application-form)
- [Provincial short-term rental rules](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals)

## Related questions

- [Victoria business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/business-licence.md)
- [Victoria home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/home-based-business.md)
- [Victoria bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/victoria/bylaw-fines.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Short-term rental rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/short-term-rental.md)
- [Oak Bay](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/oak-bay/short-term-rental.md)
- [Esquimalt](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/esquimalt/short-term-rental.md)
- [View Royal](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/view-royal/short-term-rental.md)
- [Saanich](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/saanich/short-term-rental.md)
- [Colwood](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/colwood/short-term-rental.md)
- [Langford](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langford/short-term-rental.md)

## Sources

- [Short-Term Rentals, City of Victoria](https://www.victoria.ca/building-business/business-licensing/short-term-rentals) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Short-Term Rental Regulation Bylaw 18-036 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/short-term-rental-regulation-bylaw-18-036-0) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Schedule D Home Occupations (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/1198) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2018 (PDF)](https://www.victoria.ca/media/file/zoning-bylaw-2018) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticket Bylaw 10-071 (PDF), Schedule GG](https://www.victoria.ca/media/635) (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)

_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/victoria/short-term-rental/_