# Gov Handbook: full text of all answers for White Rock

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

# White Rock 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 White Rock you need a building permit before you build, repair, alter or change the use of a building or structure. To apply, book an intake appointment with a Building Official at Planning and Development Services by calling 604-541-2149. Fences need no building permit.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** See the building-permit-fees answer. In 2026 the non-refundable application fee is $227 for an addition or alteration to an existing home and $840 for a new single-family or small-scale multi-unit home, plus a fee based on construction value.  
**How long:** The City's pages and the Building Bylaw do not state a processing time. An application expires if there is no meaningful activity on information requests within 6 months, and a permit expires after 2 years of inactivity.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Book an intake appointment (Building Department), 604-541-2149
- Email: Building Department, Building@whiterockcity.ca
- In person: Planning and Development Services, City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Phone: 24-hour Inspection Line (permit holders), 604-541-2135

## Key facts

- **Needed for:** A building permit is required before constructing, repairing, altering, or changing the use or occupancy of any building or structure. The City's guide also lists new homes, new accessory buildings, additions, interior wall changes, finishing a basement or creating a suite, pools and hot tubs, porches and sundecks, and chimneys and wood stoves. Demolition and moving need their own permits.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, consolidated March 2022), s. 8.1(a)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "a building permit before constructing, repairing, altering, or changing the use" … "a demolition permit before demolishing a building or structure"
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Permits required list](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Constructing a new accessory building or accessory structure." … "Constructing a new home." … "Constructing, covering or enclosing a porch or sundeck." … "Constructing a swimming pool, hot tub or spa pool."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Not needed for:** The Building Bylaw does not apply to buildings or structures exempted by Division A Part 1 of the BC Building Code, to retaining structures 1.2 m (3.9 ft) or less in height, or to clearing stoppages or repairing leaks without replacing pipes, valves or fixtures. The 2026 Good Neighbour Guide adds a permit for any retaining wall on a slope steeper than 2:1. (Sources differ: Conflict on retaining walls: the Guide for Building Permit Applications (Feb 2025) says a permit is needed for retaining walls over 1 m; the Building Bylaw s. 5.3(b) excludes retaining structures up to 1.2 m. Value follows the bylaw. The Code Part 1 exemptions themselves (e.g. small sheds) are not spelled out in the City text I read.)
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, consolidated March 2022), s. 5.3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "buildings or structures exempted by Division A Part 1 of the Building Code" … "retaining structures less than or equal to 1.2 meters in height"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, consolidated March 2022), s. 8.1(f)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "for the repair of leaks in water pipes or for the replacement of plumbing"
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Permits required list](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Constructing retaining walls over 1m in height."
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide, Retaining Walls](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "Over 1.2 m (4 ft) in height; or" … "Located on land with a slope steeper than 2:1."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to apply:** Book an intake appointment with a Building Official at Planning and Development Services (City Hall) by calling 604-541-2149. Staff do a preliminary review; if documents are missing the application is not accepted and you must book another appointment.
  - Source: [Single-Family Dwelling / Houseplex Renovation Permits, Apply](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1278/SFD-Houseplex-Renovation-Permit)
  - Official wording: "To submit, you must book an Intake Appointment with a Building Official." … "To book your appointment for a building permit application, call: 604-541-2149"
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Building permit application process](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "an appointment with a Building Official is required."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What to submit:** A completed Building Permit Application form plus the checklist for your project type. For a Part 9 building the bylaw also asks for the owner's acknowledgement (Form A), a title search made within 30 days, a site plan by a BC Land Surveyor (may be waived for repairs or alterations), floor plans, and two sets of drawings.
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Application checklists](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Different scopes of work contain different requirements:"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, consolidated March 2022), s. 10.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "include a copy of a title search for the relevant property made within thirty (30) days of the date of the permit application" … "include two copies of specifications and two sets of drawings at a suitable scale" … "include proposed plans prepared by a British Columbia Land Surveyor" … "include floor plans showing the dimensions and uses of all areas, including:"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, consolidated March 2022), s. 10.1(b)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "be accompanied by the owner's acknowledgment of responsibility and"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Processing time:** Not confirmed. Not found in the official sources that were read.
- **Inspections:** Permit holders call the 24-hour Inspection Line, 604-541-2135, with the site address, permit number, site contact and inspection type. Requests before 3:30 p.m. are booked for the next business day. Inspections run 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on business days; no specific times are given. The bylaw requires at least 24 hours' notice.
  - Source: [Inspections, Building Inspections](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/172/Inspections)
  - Official wording: "call the 24-hour Inspection Line: 604-541-2135" … "All inspection requests received prior to 3:30pm will be booked for the next business day." … "Inspections occur each business day between 9:30am and 3:30pm."
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, consolidated March 2022), s. 18.4](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "shall give at least 24 hours of notice to the City when requesting an inspection"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Contact:** Planning and Development Services (Building Department), City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue: 604-541-2149, Building@whiterockcity.ca. Inspection line for permit holders: 604-541-2135.
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide, Ancillary buildings](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "Contact the Building Department by email Building@whiterockcity.ca or call 604-541-2149."
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Header](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "15322 Buena Vista Avenue, White Rock, B.C. V4B 1Y6" … "Phone: 604 541 2149"
  - Source: [Inspections, Building Inspections](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/172/Inspections)
  - Official wording: "call the 24-hour Inspection Line: 604-541-2135"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw, 2012, No. 1928
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, consolidated March 2022), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Building Bylaw, 2012, No. 1928" … "A Bylaw for the administration of the Building Code."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Building Bylaw 1928](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF) requires a permit before you construct, repair, alter or change the use or occupancy of any building or structure. The City's guide also lists new homes, new accessory buildings, additions, interior wall changes, finishing a basement or creating a suite, pools and hot tubs, porches and sundecks, and chimneys and wood stoves. The guide says its list is not limited to these. Demolition, moving, oil tank removal, fireplace or chimney, plumbing and pool work need their own permits.

The bylaw does not apply to buildings the BC Building Code exempts, to retaining structures 1.2 m (3.9 ft) or less in height, or to clearing stoppages or repairing leaks without replacing pipes, valves or fixtures.

## Steps

1. Read the Guide for Building Permit Applications and the checklist for your project.
2. Call 604-541-2149 to book an intake appointment. Staff do a preliminary review; if documents are missing the application is not accepted and you must book another appointment.
3. The plan review (application) fee goes in with the application. The permit fee must be paid in full before the permit is reviewed and issued, along with any bonds. The City's pages do not say which payment methods it accepts.
4. Once the permit is issued, call the 24-hour Inspection Line, 604-541-2135, with the site address, permit number, site contact and inspection type. Requests before 3:30 p.m. are booked for the next business day. Inspections run 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on business days.

## Good to know

- The bylaw requires at least 24 hours' notice for an inspection. No specific inspection times are given.
- Gas and electrical inspections come from the BC Safety Authority, 866-566-7233, not the City.
- Retaining walls: the City's guide says a permit is needed over 1 m, but the bylaw excludes those 1.2 m or less. Confirm with the Building Department.
- The City's 2026 Good Neighbour Guide also asks for a permit for any retaining wall on a slope steeper than 2:1.

## What you'll need

- Completed Building Permit Application form and the checklist for your project type
- For a Part 9 building, the owner's acknowledgement (Form A), a title search made within 30 days, a site plan by a BC Land Surveyor (the Building Official may waive it for a repair or alteration) and two sets of drawings

## Official forms and pages

- [Application Forms and Guidelines](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/171/Applications-Forms-Guidelines)
- [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
- [Inspections](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/172/Inspections)
- [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)

## Related questions

- [White Rock building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/building-permit-fees.md)
- [White Rock permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [White Rock fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/fence-rules.md)
- [White Rock tree removal rules and permits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/tree-removal.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Building permits in British Columbia: how to apply, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/building-permit.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/building-permit.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/building-permit.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/building-permit.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/building-permit.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/building-permit.md)

## Sources

- [Single-Family Dwelling / Houseplex Renovation Permits, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1278/SFD-Houseplex-Renovation-Permit) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Inspections, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/172/Inspections) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, consolidated March 2022), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Good Neighbour Guide (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898) (read 2026-11-05)
- [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 1 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/building-permit/_


---

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

# White Rock fence rules: permits and height limits

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

**Short answer:** In the City of White Rock a fence does not need a building permit, because the Building Bylaw's definition of "structure" excludes fences. The Zoning Bylaw limits a fence to 2.0 m (6.56 ft) high, and to 1.0 m (3.28 ft) within 4.5 m of an exterior lot corner.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** No building permit is needed for a fence, so there is no permit fee.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building Department (zoning and permit questions), 604-541-2149
- Phone: Bylaw Enforcement (complaints), 604-541-2146
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **Permit:** No building permit is needed for a fence: the Building Bylaw's definition of structure excludes fences. Fences must still meet Zoning Bylaw s. 4.12 (2.0 m maximum, 1.0 m within 4.5 m of an exterior lot corner). A pool enclosure falls under the pool permit.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928, s. 2.0 Definitions, 'structure'](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "but specifically excludes landscaping, fences,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Height, front yard:** Maximum 2.0 m (6.56 ft). Section 4.12 sets one limit for fences anywhere on a lot and does not set a separate front-yard height. Within 4.5 m of an exterior lot corner the limit is 1.0 m (3.28 ft).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 4.12), s. 4.12.2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "may be sited on any portion of a lot; and" … "shall not exceed a height of 2.0m (6.56ft)."
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide (PDF, Fencing Rules)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "Max height: 2.0 m (6.56 ft)."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Height, side and rear yards:** Maximum 2.0 m (6.56 ft), and the fence may be on any portion of the lot (subject to the corner rule). Must be entirely within your property lines.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 4.12), s. 4.12.2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "shall not exceed a height of 2.0m (6.56ft)."
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide (PDF, Fencing Rules)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "Must be entirely within your property lines."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Corner lots and sightlines:** A fence, wall or similar structure over 1.0 m (3.28 ft) high is not allowed within 4.5 m (14.76 ft) of an exterior lot corner formed by an exterior side lot line and a front or rear lot line meeting at an interior angle of 135 degrees or less.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 4.12), s. 4.12.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "A fence, wall or similar structure over 1.0m (3.28ft) in height shall not be permitted" … "within 4.5m (14.76ft) of an exterior lot corner"
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide (PDF, Fencing Rules)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "Corner lots: Within 4.5 m of corner to max 1.0 m height."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other rules:** Fence height is measured from the natural grade at that point to the fence's highest point. Retaining structures over 1.2 m need a registered professional's design and field reviews. Pool enclosures must be at least 1.0668 m (3.5 ft) high with a self-latching gate.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 4.12), s. 3 Definitions](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "of the fence and the natural grade elevation at that point"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928, s. 20.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "construction or structural repair of any retaining structure greater than 1.2 meters in"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928, s. 23.3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Every pool shall be completely enclosed within a fence or other structure that is not" … "less than 1.0668 metres (3.5 feet) in height."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** White Rock Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506, s. 4.12 Screening & Fencing (retaining structures and pool fences: Building Bylaw, 2012, No. 1928, ss. 20 and 23)
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 4.12), s. 4.12](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "4.12 Screening & Fencing" … "WHITE ROCK ZONING BYLAW, 2024, No. 2506"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Zoning Bylaw 2506](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (section 4.12) allows a fence on any part of a lot up to 2.0 m (6.56 ft) high. Height is measured from the natural grade at that point to the fence's highest point. The fence must be entirely within your property lines.

Corner rule: a fence, wall or similar structure over 1.0 m (3.28 ft) high is not allowed within 4.5 m (14.76 ft) of an exterior lot corner. That is a corner formed by an exterior side lot line and a front or rear lot line meeting at an interior angle of 135 degrees or less.

The [Building Bylaw 1928](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF) leaves fences out of its definition of "structure", so a fence needs no building permit.

## Steps

1. Confirm where your property lines are. The Good Neighbour Guide suggests considering a professional survey.
2. Keep the fence at or under 2.0 m, and at or under 1.0 m inside the corner area if your lot is on a corner.
3. Ask the Building Department, 604-541-2149, if you want something outside these limits or are unsure about your zone.

## Good to know

- The bylaw sets one height limit for the whole lot. It does not set a separate front-yard height.
- Pool enclosures are covered by the pool permit and must be at least 1.0668 m (3.5 ft) high with a self-latching gate.
- Retaining structures over 1.2 m need a registered professional's design and field reviews.
- Failing to comply with the fencing requirements can bring a ticket under the Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw: $500 for a first offence, $1,000 for a second and $2,000 for a third and later.
- The bylaws and City pages read set no rules on barbed wire, electric fences or hedges. Ask Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146.

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw 2506, section 4.12 Screening & Fencing (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
- [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Fence height limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fence-rules.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/fence-rules.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/fence-rules.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/fence-rules.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/fence-rules.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/fence-rules.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/fence-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 4.12), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Good Neighbour Guide (PDF, Fencing Rules), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

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


---

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

# White Rock 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 White Rock a deck, shed, garage or carport may need a building permit, and the City's two guides differ on small sheds. One says sheds over 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m²); the other lists every new accessory building. Call the Building Department at 604-541-2149 before you build.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Building permit fees are in the building-permit-fees answer. The 2026 application fee is $227 for an addition or alteration to an existing home. Demolishing an accessory building is $100.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building Department, 604-541-2149
- In person: Planning and Development Services, City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **Sheds:** The Good Neighbour Guide says a building permit is required for sheds or ancillary buildings larger than 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m²). The Guide for Building Permit Applications lists any new accessory building or structure without a size threshold. (Sources differ: Two City documents differ: the Good Neighbour Guide (2026) gives a 9.3 m² threshold; the permit guide (Feb 2025) lists all new accessory buildings. The bylaw excludes buildings exempted by the BC Building Code, whose threshold is not stated in the City text read. Confirm with the Building Department (604-541-2149).)
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide, Ancillary buildings](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "A Building Permit is required for sheds or ancillary buildings larger than 100 sq. ft."
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Permits required list](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Constructing a new accessory building or accessory structure."
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928, s. 5.3(a)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "buildings or structures exempted by Division A Part 1 of the Building Code"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Decks:** A permit may not be needed for permeable decks less than 0.6 m (2 ft) high. A building permit is required for impermeable decks and for structurally supported decks regardless of height. Covering or enclosing a porch or sundeck also needs a permit.
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide, Decks](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "A building permit may not be required for:" … "Permeable decks less than 0.6 m (2 ft) high." … "Structurally supported decks regardless of height."
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Permits required list](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Constructing, covering or enclosing a porch or sundeck."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Garages and carports:** The Feb 2025 permit guide lists any new accessory building or structure. The 2026 Good Neighbour Guide says a permit is required for sheds or ancillary buildings larger than 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m²), and the Zoning Bylaw counts detached garages and carports as ancillary buildings. Confirm with the Building Department.
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Permits required list](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Constructing a new accessory building or accessory structure."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, s. 3 Definitions](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "includes accessory dwelling units, detached garages, detached carports, detached workshops and storage sheds."
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide, Ancillary buildings](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "A Building Permit is required for sheds or ancillary buildings larger than 100 sq. ft."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Zoning limits:** In the RS-1 zone: only one ancillary building per lot; not in a required front or exterior side yard; at least 3.0 m from the house; 1.5 m from rear and interior side lot lines; height up to 5.0 m. Total lot coverage 40%, including sheds, garages and covered decks. Other zones differ (e.g. 4.0 m in RS-3).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, s. 6.1.10](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "there shall be not more than one ancillary building per lot." … "ancillary buildings or structures shall not be located in any required front yard or" … "shall not be sited less than 3.0m (9.84ft) from a"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, s. 6.1.8](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "ancillary buildings and structures shall not exceed a height of 5.0m (16.40ft)."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, s. 6.1.4](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "The maximum lot coverage is 40%."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, s. 6.3.8](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "ancillary buildings and structures shall not exceed a height of 4.0m (13.12ft)"
  - Source: [Good Neighbour Guide, Ancillary buildings](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "A minimum 1.5 m setback from all property lines is required."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Building Bylaw, 2012, No. 1928; Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928, Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Building Bylaw, 2012, No. 1928"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "WHITE ROCK ZONING BYLAW, 2024, No. 2506"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Two City documents give different answers for sheds. The Good Neighbour Guide (2026) says a building permit is required for sheds or ancillary buildings larger than 100 sq. ft. (9.3 m²). The Guide for Building Permit Applications (February 2025) lists any new accessory building or structure, with no size threshold. The [Building Bylaw 1928](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF) excludes buildings exempted by the BC Building Code, but the City text does not say what that threshold is.

Garages and carports: the Zoning Bylaw counts them as ancillary buildings, and the City does not state a separate rule. The same two documents apply.

Decks: a permit may not be needed for a permeable deck less than 0.6 m (2 ft) high. A permit is required for an impermeable deck, and for a structurally supported deck regardless of height. Covering or enclosing a porch or sundeck also needs one.

## Steps

1. Look up your zone (see zoning-lookup) and read its section of the [Zoning Bylaw 2506](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024).
2. Call 604-541-2149 to confirm whether your project needs a permit.
3. If it does, book an intake appointment (see building-permit).

## Good to know

- In the RS-1 zone: only one ancillary building per lot; not in a required front or exterior side yard; at least 3.0 m from the house; 1.5 m from rear and interior side lot lines; height up to 5.0 m. Other zones differ (for example, 4.0 m height in RS-3).
- Total lot coverage in RS-1 is 40%, including sheds, garages and covered decks.
- Roof drainage must go to the municipal storm system.
- Check your zone in WROMS, the City's online map.

## Official forms and pages

- [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
- [Application Forms and Guidelines](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/171/Applications-Forms-Guidelines)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2506 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)

## Related questions

- [White Rock building permits: when you need one and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/building-permit.md)
- [White Rock building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/building-permit-fees.md)
- [White Rock fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/fence-rules.md)
- [White Rock zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/zoning-lookup.md)
- [White Rock tree removal rules and permits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/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)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)

## Sources

- [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Good Neighbour Guide (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (read 2026-11-05)
- [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/deck-shed-garage-permit/_


---

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

# White Rock building permit fees

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

**Short answer:** In the City of White Rock a building permit has a non-refundable application fee ($227 for an addition or alteration to a home, $840 for a new single-family or small-scale multi-unit home) plus a permit fee based on construction value, starting at $234. The 2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 sets them.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Application fee: $227 home addition or alteration; $480 multi-family or commercial tenant improvement; $840 new single-family or small-scale multi-unit home. Permit fee by construction value: $234 up to $1,000, then $20 per $1,000 or part up to $100,000.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building Department, 604-541-2149

## Key facts

- **Lowest fee:** $234 for construction value of $0 to $1,000. A separate non-refundable application fee is also paid (for example $227 for an addition or alteration to an existing residential dwelling).
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Sch. A, Building Permit Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "$0 to $1,000 $234.00"
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Sch. A, Permit Application Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "(including Interior alterations to multi-family residential units) $227.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How the fee is worked out:** By construction value: $0 to $1,000, $234. $1,001 to $100,000, $234 plus $20 per $1,000 or part above $1,000. $100,001 to $250,000, $2,214 plus $16 per $1,000 or part above $100,000. Over $250,000, $4,614 plus $13 per $1,000 or part above $250,000. Reduced 2.5% (maximum $500) when a Coordinating Registered Professional provides Letters of Assurance.
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Sch. A, Building Permit Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "$1,001 to $100,000 $234.00 $20.00" … "$100,001 to $250,000 $2,214.00 $16.00" … "$250,000 and over $4,614.00 $13.00" … "Any Building Permit fee payable shall be reduced by 2.5% to a maximum reduction of $500.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Application or plan review fee:** Non-refundable application fee: $227 for additions or alterations to existing residential dwellings (including interior alterations to multi-family units); $480 for multi-family or commercial tenant improvements; $840 for a new single-family or small-scale multi-unit dwelling; other new buildings 50% of the estimated permit fee (minimum $840, maximum $10,811).
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Sch. A, Permit Application Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "(including Interior alterations to multi-family residential units) $227.00" … "Commercial (Tenant improvements) buildings $480.00" … "Building permits to construct new SFD/SSMUH dwelling $840.00" … "50% of the estimated permit fee Maximum $10,811.00" … "Permit Application Fees are non-refundable."
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, section 12), s. 12.2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "shall accompany an application made for a permit under this"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other fees:** Demolition permit: $100 accessory building, $1,276 single-family/duplex, $1,524 commercial/multi-family. Re-inspection $306. Each additional plumbing fixture $49 (first included). Permit extension $243. Permit transfer $427. Secondary suite registration $280 with a new house permit, $370 otherwise.
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Sch. A, Demolition Permit](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "Commercial Cooking Facility (NFPA 96) - Plan Review and Inspection Fee $454.00 Demolition Permit Accessory Building $100.00 SFD/Duplex $1,276.00 Commercial/Multi-Family $1,524.00 Permit Fees First Fixture (included in application fee) $0.00"
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Sch. A, Other Permit Related Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "Re-Inspection Fee $306.00" … "Extension of Permit $243.00" … "Permit Transfer $427.00"
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Sch. A, Permit Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "Each Additional Fixture $49.00"
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Sch. A, Other Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "house building permit registration $280.00" … "All other secondary suite registrations $370.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to pay:** The permit fee must be paid in full before the permit is reviewed and issued; the plan review (application) fee goes in with the application. Permit issue also needs payment of any bonds. The City's pages read do not say which payment methods are accepted.
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, section 12), s. 12.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "shall be paid in full prior to the review and issuance"
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Building permit issuance](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "payment of the appropriate permit fees and bonds"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Fees and Charges Bylaw, 2025, No. 2554 (2026 fees), Schedule 'A' Planning and Development Services (Sources differ: The Feb 2025 Guide for Building Permit Applications still cites Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2447; the City's Bylaws page lists Bylaw 2554 (2026) as the current one. Building Bylaw 1928 s. 12 refers to 'Schedule A of the Fees and Charges Bylaw'.)
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), Title and Schedule A](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw, 2025, No. 2554 - Consolidated" … "PLANNING and DEVELOPMENT SERVICES"
  - Source: [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Schedule A of the City of White Rock Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2447 as amended"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Schedule A of the [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) lists a non-refundable application (plan review) fee that depends on the project type, and a building permit fee that depends on construction value. The Building Official may set the construction value using Marshall Valuation Service or Marshall and Swift. The permit fee is reduced 2.5% (maximum $500) when a Coordinating Registered Professional provides Letters of Assurance.

## Steps

1. Find your project type in the application fee list below.
2. Find your construction value band in the permit fee list.
3. Confirm the amount with the Building Department, 604-541-2149, before your intake appointment.

## Good to know

Application fees (2026):
- Addition or alteration to an existing residential dwelling, including interior alterations to multi-family units: $227
- Multi-family or commercial tenant improvement: $480
- New single-family or small-scale multi-unit dwelling: $840
- Other new buildings: 50% of the estimated permit fee, minimum $840, maximum $10,811

Permit fee by construction value:
- $0 to $1,000: $234
- $1,001 to $100,000: $234 plus $20 per $1,000 or part above $1,000
- $100,001 to $250,000: $2,214 plus $16 per $1,000 or part above $100,000
- Over $250,000: $4,614 plus $13 per $1,000 or part above $250,000

Other fees: demolition permit $100 for an accessory building, $1,276 for a single-family or duplex, $1,524 for commercial or multi-family; re-inspection $306; each additional plumbing fixture $49 (first included); permit extension $243; permit transfer $427; secondary suite registration $280 with a new house permit, $370 otherwise; re-review of plans $306 per hour.

- Starting work without a permit costs an additional charge equal to double the permit fee, which may be waived for a first-time offender (Building Bylaw s. 28.7).
- The schedule does not say whether the per-$1,000 amount applies to the whole value or only the part above each band's start. Ask the Building Department.

## Official forms and pages

- [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF), Schedule A](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
- [Application Forms and Guidelines](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/171/Applications-Forms-Guidelines)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Building permit fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/building-permit-fees.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/building-permit-fees.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/building-permit-fees.md)

## Sources

- [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF, Schedule A), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF, section 12), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Guide for Building Permit Applications (PDF, February 2025), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/217/Guide-for-Building-Permit-Applications-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

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


---

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

# White Rock 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:** The City of White Rock shows zoning on its online mapping system (WROMS) and on nine PDF zone map sheets. Find your zone, then read that zone's rules in Zoning Bylaw 2506. Planning and Development Services can confirm at 604-541-2136 or planning@whiterockcity.ca.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Where:**
- Online: WROMS (White Rock Online Mapping System), https://maps.whiterockcity.ca/wroms/
- Phone: Planning and Development Services, 604-541-2136
- Email: Planning, planning@whiterockcity.ca
- In person: City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **How to find your zone:** Use the City's online mapping system, WROMS (White Rock Online Mapping System), which shows zoning, land use and other property information. Zone map PDFs (Sheets 1 to 9) are also on the City website. Check the Zoning Bylaw for the rules of that zone.
  - Source: [WROMS, White Rock Online Mapping System](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/335/WROMS---White-Rock-Online-Mapping-System)
  - Official wording: "Launch WROMS to look up property information like:"
  - Source: [Zone Map](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/384/Zone-Map)
  - Official wording: "View the Zone Maps below to learn about which zone your property is in" … "Sheet 1 (PDF)"
  - Source: [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, Your property](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1213/Small-Scale-Multi-Unit-Housing)
  - Official wording: "Launch the SSMUH Zoning Tool to determine your new zone."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Zoning bylaw:** White Rock Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506, adopted June 27, 2024. The City's copy is consolidated as of June 2026.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "WHITE ROCK ZONING BYLAW, 2024, No. 2506" … "Consolidated as of June 2026."
  - Source: [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, Intro](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1213/Small-Scale-Multi-Unit-Housing)
  - Official wording: "On June 27, 2024, Council adopted the City"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What the zone controls:** Each zone sets the permitted uses and the lot size, lot coverage, density, floor area, building heights, setbacks and landscaping. The bylaw regulates the use of land, buildings and structures and the location, height, siting and intensity of development.
  - Source: [Zone Map](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/384/Zone-Map)
  - Official wording: "regulates the location, height, siting, and intensity of development"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, s. 6.1 (RS-1 example)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "6.1.1 Permitted Principal Uses:" … "6.1.4 Lot Coverage:" … "6.1.8 Building Heights:" … "6.1.9 Minimum Setback Requirements:"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Contact:** Planning and Development Services: 604-541-2136, planning@whiterockcity.ca.
  - Source: [Zone Map, Contact](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/384/Zone-Map)
  - Official wording: "contact Planning & Development Department at 604-541-2136 or email planning@whiterockcity.ca"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** White Rock Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "WHITE ROCK ZONING BYLAW, 2024, No. 2506"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Every property in the City of White Rock has a zone under [Zoning Bylaw 2506](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024), adopted June 27, 2024. Each zone sets the permitted uses and the lot size, lot coverage, density, floor area, building heights, setbacks and landscaping. The City's copy of the bylaw is consolidated as of June 2026 and is for convenience only.

## Steps

1. Open WROMS, the City's online mapping system, and search your address. Zoning is one of its layers. Or find your lot on the zone map PDFs (Sheets 1 to 9) on the City's Zone Map page.
2. The Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing page also links an SSMUH Zoning Tool.
3. Open the Zoning Bylaw and read your zone's section.
4. Email planning@whiterockcity.ca or call 604-541-2136 to confirm before you spend money on plans.

## Good to know

- For setback questions the City's Good Neighbour Guide gives planning@whiterockcity.ca and 604-541-2227. The Building Department is 604-541-2149.
- The consolidated bylaw is for convenience only. Staff can confirm the current wording.

## Zones

70 zones are listed from [White Rock Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506 (consolidated as of June 2026)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024). Each zone has its own page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/zoning/index.json

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

## Official forms and pages

- [Zone Map (nine sheets)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/384/Zone-Map)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
- [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1213/Small-Scale-Multi-Unit-Housing)

## Related questions

- [White Rock secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/secondary-suite.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Zoning maps in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/zoning-lookup.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/zoning-lookup.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/zoning-lookup.md)

## Sources

- [WROMS, White Rock Online Mapping System, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/335/WROMS---White-Rock-Online-Mapping-System) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zone Map, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/384/Zone-Map) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1213/Small-Scale-Multi-Unit-Housing) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Good Neighbour Guide (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/zoning-lookup/_


---

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

# White Rock secondary suite and carriage house rules

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

**Short answer:** Yes, in the City of White Rock's small-scale multi-unit housing (SSMUH) zones. One registered secondary suite per lot is allowed inside the house, up to 90 m² and two bedrooms, with one extra parking space. A detached suite (coach house or garden suite) is allowed only where the zone specifically permits it.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Registration $280 with a new house permit, $370 otherwise; building permit fees apply (see building-permit-fees). Annual secondary suite service fee $317, billed on the property tax bill.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Building Department (book intake appointment), 604-541-2149
- Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, Bylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **Secondary suite allowed:** Only in the Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) residential zones, as an accessory to a one-unit home, semi-detached building or rowhouse. The suite must be inside the house, not in a detached building.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), s. 5.5.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "shall only be permitted in all SSMUH" … "be an accessory to a one-unit residential use; semi-detached residential building or"
  - Source: [Secondary Suites](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1279/Secondary-Suites)
  - Official wording: "This means the suite cannot be located in a detached accessory building"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Coach house or garden suite allowed:** Detached accessory dwelling units (coach house or garden suite) are allowed in the SSMUH zones where specifically permitted. Needs lane access or a 1.0 m wide hard-surfaced lit path to the street; not in a required front or exterior side yard; at least 3.0 m from the house; height up to 7.0 m (6.0 m with a flatter roof) in RS-1.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), s. 3 Definitions](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "is accessory and detached to the principal building;"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), s. 5.6.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "be allowed only where secondary access can be provided from a lane, or common" … "unobstructed, hard‑surfaced path at least 1.0 m wide"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), s. 6.1.8](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed a height of 7.0m (22.97ft) for a building with"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), s. 6.1.10](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "accessory dwelling units shall be located not less than 3.0m (9.84ft) from a principal"
  - Source: [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, Key changes](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1213/Small-Scale-Multi-Unit-Housing)
  - Official wording: "Detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs), such as garden suites or coach houses"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits:** One registered secondary suite per lot, up to 90 m² of residential gross floor area and no more than two bedrooms. Tenants only for periods of 90 days or longer. Cannot be stratified or sold separately. The Zoning Bylaw sets no owner-occupancy rule for a suite. (Sources differ: The City web page says 'one secondary suite per dwelling unit'; the bylaw says per lot. Value follows the bylaw. Owner-occupancy: searched s. 5.5 and the City page; none stated for suites (it applies only to short term rentals, s. 5.8).)
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), s. 5.5.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "be limited to one accessory registered secondary suite per lot;" … "limited to a maximum of 90" … "only accommodate tenants for periods of ninety (90) days or greater."
  - Source: [Secondary Suites](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1279/Secondary-Suites)
  - Official wording: "Secondary suites are not permitted to be stratified or sold separately."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Parking:** One additional on-site parking space for the suite's occupants (Zoning Bylaw s. 5.5.1(d)). The City says the Province prohibits it from requiring off-street parking on some lots near prescribed bus stops, so check your lot.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), s. 5.5.1(d)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "provide one additional on-site parking space for occupants of the accessory registered"
  - Source: [Secondary Suites](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1279/Secondary-Suites)
  - Official wording: "One additional on-site parking space must be provided for the occupants of the suite."
  - Source: [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, Your property / key changes](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1213/Small-Scale-Multi-Unit-Housing)
  - Official wording: "The Province has incorporated provisions within the legislation, that prohibit the City from requiring off-street parking for lots within these areas."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permits:** A single-family/houseplex renovation permit (building permit) is required to add a suite; book an intake appointment on 604-541-2149. The suite must also be inspected and registered through the City's Secondary Suite Registration process (fee $280 with a new house permit, $370 otherwise).
  - Source: [Single-Family Dwelling / Houseplex Renovation Permits, Intro](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1278/SFD-Houseplex-Renovation-Permit)
  - Official wording: "is required for renovations to a single-family home, including the addition of a secondary suite."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), s. 5.5.1(e)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "be inspected and registered through the City’s Secondary Suite Registration process;"
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554, Sch. A, Other Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "house building permit registration $280.00" … "All other secondary suite registrations $370.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506 (s. 5.5, s. 5.6); Building Bylaw, 2012, No. 1928; Secondary Suite Service Fee Bylaw, 2012, No. 2009
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "WHITE ROCK ZONING BYLAW, 2024, No. 2506"
  - Source: [Building Bylaw 1928, Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Building Bylaw, 2012, No. 1928"
  - Source: [Secondary Suite Service Fee Bylaw 2009 (PDF, consolidated January 2026), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/310/Secondary-Suite-Service-Fee-Bylaw-2012-Number-2009-PDF)
  - Official wording: "CITY OF WHITE ROCK BYLAW NO. 2009 A Bylaw to establish a fee payable by the owners and occupiers"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Zoning Bylaw 2506](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (section 5.5) allows a registered secondary suite only in the SSMUH residential zones, as an accessory to a one-unit home, semi-detached building or rowhouse. The suite must be inside the house, not in a detached building. It is limited to one per lot, up to 90 m² of residential gross floor area and no more than two bedrooms. Tenants may stay only 90 days or longer, and the suite cannot be stratified or sold separately. The bylaw sets no owner-occupancy rule for a suite.

A detached accessory dwelling unit (coach house or garden suite) is allowed in SSMUH zones where specifically permitted (section 5.6). It needs lane access or a 1.0 m wide hard-surfaced lit path to the street, must not be in a required front or exterior side yard, and must be at least 3.0 m from the house. In RS-1 the height limit is 7.0 m (6.0 m with a flatter roof). Floor-area limits for a detached unit were not found.

## Steps

1. Check your zone (see zoning-lookup).
2. Call 604-541-2149 to book an intake appointment and apply for a renovation (building) permit using the single-family or houseplex checklist.
3. Have the suite inspected and registered through the City's Secondary Suite Registration process.
4. Expect the annual service fee on your property tax bill.

## Good to know

- Parking: one additional on-site space for the suite's occupants. The City says the Province bars it from requiring off-street parking on some lots near prescribed bus stops, so check your lot.
- The City's page says "one secondary suite per dwelling unit"; the bylaw says per lot. Confirm with the Building Department.
- In RS-1, one accessory use is allowed at a time on a one-unit lot, except that a registered suite and a detached unit may be permitted together.
- The business licence fee schedule lists an accessory registered secondary suite at $40, but that schedule is from April 2020 and may be out of date.
- Tickets under Bylaw 1929 for failing to comply with the suite requirements are $500, $1,000, then $2,000 for a third and later offence. Disobeying an order to bring a suite up to Building Code is $250, $500, then $1,000.

## What you'll need

- Building Permit Application and the interior renovation checklist for a single-family dwelling or houseplex

## Official forms and pages

- [Secondary Suites](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1279/Secondary-Suites)
- [Secondary Suite Service Fee Bylaw 2009 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/310/Secondary-Suite-Service-Fee-Bylaw-2012-Number-2009-PDF)

## Related questions

- [White Rock building permit fees](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/building-permit-fees.md)
- [White Rock permits for decks, sheds, carports and garages](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/deck-shed-garage-permit.md)
- [White Rock zoning: find your zone and what it allows](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/zoning-lookup.md)
- [White Rock short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/short-term-rental.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Secondary suite and carriage house rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/secondary-suite.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/secondary-suite.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/secondary-suite.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/secondary-suite.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/secondary-suite.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/secondary-suite.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/secondary-suite.md)

## Sources

- [Secondary Suites, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1279/Secondary-Suites) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Single-Family Dwelling / Houseplex Renovation Permits, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1278/SFD-Houseplex-Renovation-Permit) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1213/Small-Scale-Multi-Unit-Housing) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, sections 5.5 and 5.6), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Secondary Suite Service Fee Bylaw 2009 (PDF, consolidated January 2026), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/310/Secondary-Suite-Service-Fee-Bylaw-2012-Number-2009-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Building Bylaw 1928 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/266/Building-Bylaw-2012-Number-1928-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/secondary-suite/_


---

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

# White Rock tree removal rules and permits

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

**Short answer:** Usually yes. In the City of White Rock you need a Tree Management Permit to cut or remove a protected tree on any private land: a trunk 20 cm or more across (measured 1.4 m above ground), or any Arbutus, Garry Oak or Pacific Dogwood of any size. A tree permit is also needed with any building or demolition permit.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Type 1 (dead or high-risk tree): no fee. Type 2 (unwanted tree): $558. Type 3 (with a building or demolition permit): $1,163. You also pay for the survey, arborist report and plans, and replacement tree security is separate.  
**Where:**
- In person: Planning and Development Services, City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Phone: Tree Preservation Official, 604-541-2143
- Email: Tree Preservation Official, treebylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **When a permit is needed:** A Tree Management Permit is needed to cut or remove a protected tree on any private land in the City. Protected means a trunk 20 cm or more across (measured 1.4 m above ground), any Arbutus, Garry Oak or Pacific Dogwood of any size, a replacement tree planted under a permit, or a tree with raptor or listed-bird nests. Also needed with any building or demolition permit.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 1, “protected tree”](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "a tree with a DBH of 20cm or greater;" … "an Arbutus (Arbutus menziesii), Garry Oak (Quercus garryana), or Pacific Dogwood"
  - Source: [Tree Management Permits, When You Need a Permit](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1273/Tree-Management-Permits)
  - Official wording: "A Tree Management Permit is required to cut or remove protected tree(s) on private property if:" … "You are applying for a demolition or building permit."
  - Source: [Trees on private property, Cutting & Removing Trees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/324/Private-Trees)
  - Official wording: "This bylaw applies to all private land in the City"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Exemptions:** No permit is needed to prune a protected tree following sound arboricultural practice (no topping, no removal of over 25% of the crown in a season, no crown-raising below 65% live crown, no structural root pruning). A tree in imminent danger of falling from natural causes may be cut, but report it the next business day and leave it on site until the City inspects. No permit if City staff confirm no protected trees are on the lot.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 5 s. 5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "A Tree Management Permit is not required for the pruning of a protected tree provided that the"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 3 s. 3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "shall not remove the tree from the property until the City has visited the property"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 5 s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "A Tree Management Permit is not required if it"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 2 s. 2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw does not apply to protected trees that are cut, removed or damaged, pursuant to the"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** Type 1 (dead or high-risk tree): no fee. Type 2 (unwanted tree): $558. Type 3 (with a demolition or building permit): $1,163. The applicant also pays for the survey, arborist report and plans.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 7 s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "There are no fees for a Type 1 Tree Management Permit."
  - Source: [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554, Sch. A, Permit Application Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "Tree Management Permit – Type 3 $1,163.00" … "Tree Management Permit – Type 2 $558.00"
  - Source: [Trees on private property, Cost](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/324/Private-Trees)
  - Official wording: "The costs of all survey work, arborist's reports and coordinated site development plans will be borne by the applicants."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Replacement trees:** Type 1 permits need no replacement trees. For Type 2 and 3: two replacement trees for a tree under 50 cm across, rising to six for one over 85 cm. Security is $1,500 per replacement tree. Deciduous replacements need a 6 cm caliper, conifers 3 m height.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 6, Type 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "No replacement tree requirements"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 7 s. 8](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "Less than 50 cm DBH protected tree removed – Two (2) replacement trees" … "Greater than 85 cm DBH protected tree – Six (6) replacement trees"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 7 s. 9](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "shall be $1,500 per"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 8 s. 5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "Deciduous replacement trees must have a minimum caliper of 6 centimeters and coniferous"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **City trees:** Protected trees include any tree, hedge or shrub of any size on City-owned property. Residents must get separate approval from Engineering and Municipal Operations (604-541-2181, operations@whiterockcity.ca) to trim, prune or remove one.
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 1, “protected tree”](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "a tree, hedge, or shrub of any size on City-Owned Properties;"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 2 s. 4](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "Requests by residents for the trimming, pruning or removal of protected trees on City-Owned"
  - Source: [Trees on Neighbouring Properties, Inquiries](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1010/Trees-on-Neighbouring-Properties)
  - Official wording: "Engineering and Municipal Operations at 604-541-2181, or email operations@whiterockcity.ca."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** $500 for a first offence and $1,000 for a second or later offence for cutting, removing or damaging a protected tree without a permit (ticket under the Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw). Court fine up to $10,000 or six months in jail.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), Schedule B11](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Cutting, removing or damaging a protected" … "$500 for 1st offense;" … "$1,000 for 2nd or"
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Part 11 s. 3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "shall be liable to a fine of not more than Ten Thousand ($10,000.00) Dollars"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** White Rock Tree Protection Bylaw, 2021, No. 2407
  - Source: [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)
  - Official wording: "CONSOLIDATED Version - White Rock Tree Protection Bylaw, 2021, No. 2407"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407) protects trees on all private land in White Rock. Protected means a trunk 20 cm or more across (measured 1.4 m above ground), any Arbutus, Garry Oak or Pacific Dogwood of any size, a replacement tree planted under a permit, or a tree with raptor or listed-bird nests. Cutting roots in the critical root zone of a protected tree also needs a permit.

Permit types: Type 1 for a dead or high-risk tree; Type 2 for an unwanted tree (roots destroying property or completely obstructing views); Type 3 for tree removal tied to a building or demolition permit.

## Steps

1. Decide which type applies (see above). Staff can confirm no protected trees are on your lot, in which case no permit is needed.
2. Apply through Planning and Development Services, using the application on the City's Tree Management Permits page.
3. Do not cut until the permit is issued.
4. For Types 2 and 3, plant the replacement trees on time: within one year for Type 2 and three years for Type 3, or the security is forfeited.

## Good to know

- Replacement: Type 1 needs none. For Types 2 and 3, two replacement trees for a tree under 50 cm across, rising to six for one over 85 cm. Security is $1,500 per replacement tree. Retained trees also need security deposits of $3,000, $4,500 or $10,000 per tree by size. Cash-in-lieu is possible where planting is impractical.
- No permit is needed to prune a protected tree following sound arboricultural practice: no topping, no removing over 25% of the crown in a season, no raising the crown below 65% live crown, no structural root pruning.
- A tree in imminent danger of falling from natural causes may be cut, but report it the next business day and leave it on site until the City inspects.
- Bird-nest surveys may be required from March 1 to August 31. Pileated woodpecker nest trees must be kept 36 months.
- Fines: a ticket is $500 for a first offence and $1,000 for a second or later one for cutting, removing or damaging a protected tree without a permit. A court fine can be up to $10,000 or six months in jail. Each tree and each day is a separate offence.
- Any tree, hedge or shrub on City-owned property is protected. Get separate approval from Engineering and Municipal Operations, 604-541-2181, operations@whiterockcity.ca.

## Official forms and pages

- [Tree Management Permits](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1273/Tree-Management-Permits)
- [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Tree removal permits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/tree-removal.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/tree-removal.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/tree-removal.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/tree-removal.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/tree-removal.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/tree-removal.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/tree-removal.md)

## Sources

- [Tree Management Permits, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1273/Tree-Management-Permits) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Trees on private property, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/324/Private-Trees) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Trees on Neighbouring Properties, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1010/Trees-on-Neighbouring-Properties) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Tree Protection Bylaw 2407 (PDF, consolidated October 2025), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/7219/Bylaw-2407---White-Rock-Tree-Protection-Bylaw-2021-No-2407) (read 2026-11-05)
- [2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (PDF), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

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


---

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

# White Rock garbage collection: schedule, carts and limits

**Question:** When is garbage collected in White Rock, and what are the rules for bins, limits and extra bags?

**Short answer:** The City of White Rock collects garbage every second week, but only from properties zoned One, Two or Three Unit Residential. You supply your own bin (up to 110 litres and 22 kg, two per unit) and set it out by 7 a.m. Find your day on the City's Service Zone map and calendar.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** You buy your own Garbage Bin. Extra Garbage Stickers are $5.70 each (2026 Fees and Charges). The annual collection fee is $429 per property (January 2025 rate; the 2026 amount is unconfirmed).  
**How long:** Garbage is collected every second week; organics and recycling weekly.  
**Where:**
- Online: Waste Collection Schedule and Service Zones (map and calendar), https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1261/Waste-Collection-Schedule-Service-Zones
- Phone: Engineering and Operations (register for service, missed pickups), 604-541-2181 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; calls after hours go to Fire Dispatch)
- Phone: Extra Garbage Stickers, 604-541-2148
- Email: Extra Garbage Stickers, finance@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **How often:** Garbage: every second week. Organics (Green Can) and recycling (Blue Box, Red Box, Yellow Bag): weekly. The City serves only properties zoned One, Two or Three Unit Residential.
  - Source: [Waste Collection Service and Containers, Service Delivery Overview](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1268/Waste-Collection-Service-Containers)
  - Official wording: "Garbage Bin is picked up once every other week (i.e. every second week)" … "Green Can is picked up weekly" … "Blue Box, Red Box, and Yellow Bag are picked up weekly" … "only for residents living on properties zoned"
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), ss. 7, 17, 25](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "no more than two garbage containers bi-weekly (every two weeks)" … "is entitled to have weekly collection of 10"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Finding your day:** Use the Service Zone map and Service Calendar on the City's Waste Collection Schedule and Service Zones page: find your coloured zone and its circle or square symbol, then match it to the calendar.
  - Source: [Waste Collection Schedule and Service Zones](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1261/Waste-Collection-Schedule-Service-Zones)
  - Official wording: "Find the coloured zone where your home is located on the map below." … "Each coloured collection area is broken down into either a circle or square zone."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Carts:** Residents supply their own Garbage Bin and Green Can (each no more than 110 litres / 4 cubic feet). The City provides Blue Boxes, Red Boxes and Yellow Bags free at any City facility, and free Green Can stickers (maximum two per unit).
  - Source: [Waste Collection Schedule and Service Zones, Residents' Responsibilities](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1261/Waste-Collection-Schedule-Service-Zones)
  - Official wording: "Purchase containers (not to exceed 110 litres / 4 cubic feet) to serve as Green Cans and Garbage Bins" … "Go to any City facility to obtain Blue Box, Red Box, and Yellow Bag containers free of charge"
  - Source: [Waste Collection Service and Containers, Green Can](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1268/Waste-Collection-Service-Containers)
  - Official wording: "There is a maximum of two (2) Green Can stickers per unit."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Setting carts out:** Set containers out by 7 a.m. on collection day at the curb or edge of the pavement on the street or lane the truck travels, without blocking traffic or pedestrians; bring them in as soon as possible after collection.
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), s. 28](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "than 7:00 a.m. on the day assigned to such dwelling unit for collection, at the curb or edge" … "of the travelled portion of the pavement on the street or lane upon which the collection" … "truck travels"
  - Source: [Waste Collection Schedule and Service Zones, Service Calendar](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1261/Waste-Collection-Schedule-Service-Zones)
  - Official wording: "take-in/store your containers (as soon as possible) after collection"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits and extra garbage:** Up to two Garbage Bins per unit every second week, each no more than 110 litres and 22 kg (50 lb). Extra bags need an Extra Garbage Sticker (up to ten extra containers per collection day). Organics: up to two Green Cans plus eight kraft paper bags weekly. Sticker cost: $5.70 (2026 Fees and Charges). (Sources differ: Sticker price differs by source: Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (2026) $5.70; the Solid Waste Bylaw Schedule A (Jan 2025 consolidation) $5; the Trash and Garbage page $5.60 plus GST and PST. Value follows the 2026 fees bylaw. Buy by the stickers form, finance@whiterockcity.ca or 604-541-2148.)
  - Source: [Waste Collection Service and Containers, Garbage Bin](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1268/Waste-Collection-Service-Containers)
  - Official wording: "will collect up to two (2) Garbage Bins (not to exceed 110 litres / 4 cubic feet) per unit of TRASH bi-weekly." … "No waste containers may exceed 22 kilograms/ 50 pounds." … "up to two (2) Green Cans and up to eight (8) kraft paper bags weekly"
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), s. 10; Schedule A](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "to a maximum of ten garbage containers per collection day." … "Excess garbage container decal"
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2026, No. 2554, Schedule B](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "Surplus Household Waste Decals $5.70"
  - Source: [Trash and Garbage, Getting a Garbage Bin](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1271/Trash-Garbage)
  - Official wording: "Extra Garbage Stickers, for trash that is in excess of the Garbage Bin allotment, can be purchased ($5.60 each plus GST and PST)"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** $429 a year per property receiving service, charged with property taxes (January 2025 bylaw schedule; the 2026 amount in Annual Rates Bylaw No. 2581 could not be read).
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), Schedule A; ss. 37-41](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Solid Waste Collection Service $429" … "are payable concurrently with each year's real property taxes." … "are payable concurrently with each year’s real property taxes."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw, 2015, No. 2084
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), citation clause](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling" … "of Solid Waste Bylaw, 2015, No. 2084"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock collects garbage every second week. Organics (Green Can) and recycling (Blue Box, Red Box, Yellow Bag) are collected weekly. Under the [Solid Waste Bylaw 2084](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF), the City serves only properties zoned One, Two or Three Unit Residential. Ground-level townhouse complexes of up to 15 units may be served by separate agreement.

## Steps

1. Register for service by calling Engineering and Municipal Operations at 604-541-2181.
2. Find your coloured zone and its circle or square symbol on the City's Service Zone map, then match it to the Service Calendar.
3. Set containers out by 7 a.m. on collection day at the curb or edge of the pavement on the street or lane the truck travels. Do not block traffic or pedestrians. Bring them in as soon as possible.

## Good to know

- Residents supply their own Garbage Bin and Green Can, each no more than 110 litres (4 cubic feet). The City provides Blue Boxes, Red Boxes and Yellow Bags free at any City facility, and free Green Can stickers (maximum two per unit).
- Limit: two Garbage Bins per unit every second week, each no more than 22 kg (50 lb). Extra bags need an Extra Garbage Sticker, up to ten extra containers per collection day. Organics: up to two Green Cans plus eight kraft paper bags weekly.
- Stickers cost $5.70 under the 2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw, which we followed. The bylaw schedule shows $5 and the Trash and Garbage page shows $5.60 plus GST and PST, so confirm the price. Buy by the stickers form, finance@whiterockcity.ca or 604-541-2148.
- The annual collection fee is $429 per property, charged with property taxes. That is the January 2025 rate; the 2026 amount could not be read. It is payable whether or not you use the service.
- Roll outs for eligible locations of 6 or fewer units are listed at $181.20 in the Fees and Charges Bylaw.
- Missed pickups: 604-541-2181, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After hours calls go to Fire Dispatch.

## Official forms and pages

- [Trash and Garbage (City page)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1271/Trash-Garbage)
- [Waste Collection Schedule and Service Zones](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1261/Waste-Collection-Schedule-Service-Zones)
- [Solid Waste Bylaw 2084 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Garbage collection in British Columbia: frequency, limits and fees by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/garbage-collection.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/garbage-collection.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/garbage-collection.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/garbage-collection.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/garbage-collection.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/garbage-collection.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/garbage-collection.md)

## Sources

- [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2026, No. 2554 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Waste Collection Service and Containers, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1268/Waste-Collection-Service-Containers) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Waste Collection Schedule and Service Zones, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1261/Waste-Collection-Schedule-Service-Zones) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Trash and Garbage, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1271/Trash-Garbage) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/garbage-collection/_


---

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

# White Rock yard waste collection and drop-off

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

**Short answer:** In White Rock, yard trimmings are organics. The City collects them weekly in the Green Can (up to two) plus up to eight kraft paper bags, and the bylaw also allows tied bundles of twigs and small branches. Only properties zoned One, Two or Three Unit Residential are served. Extra goes to depots in Surrey.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** No separate charge for curbside organics. It is covered by the annual solid waste collection fee ($429 per property in the January 2025 schedule). Depot charges are not stated on City pages.  
**How long:** Collected weekly.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Engineering and Operations, 604-541-2181 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- In person: Central Surrey Recycling and Waste Centre, 6711 154 Street, Surrey, BC V3S 7C6 (604-681-5600)
- In person: Revolution Resource Recovery, 19500 56th Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 6K4 (604-539-1900)

## Key facts

- **Curbside collection:** Yes, with organics: collected weekly in the Green Can (up to two) and up to eight kraft paper bags; the bylaw also allows tied bundles of twigs and small branches. Only properties zoned One, Two or Three Unit Residential are served.
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), ss. 25, 27](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "is entitled to have weekly collection of 10" … "bundles of twigs, or plastic or metal garbage cans with lids."
  - Source: [Waste Collection Service and Containers, Green Can](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1268/Waste-Collection-Service-Containers)
  - Official wording: "up to two (2) Green Cans and up to eight (8) kraft paper bags weekly"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to set it out:** Twigs and small branches up to 75 mm (3 in) thick may be tied in bundles no more than 1 m long, 0.5 m across and 23 kg; each bundle counts as one of the 10 weekly organics units. Each can or bag is limited to 110 litres and 22 kg (50 lb).
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), s. 27](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Twigs and small branches up to 3 inches (75 mm) in diameter each can be tied in bundles" … "that do not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) in weight, 3 feet (1 metre) in length and 1.5" … "feet (.5 metres) in diameter."
  - Source: [Organics and Food Scraps, Using the Green Can](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1270/Organics-Food-Scraps)
  - Official wording: "Ensure any one Green Can or kraft paper bag does not exceed 22 kilograms / 50 pounds"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Drop-off:** The City runs no public drop-off depot for organics. Excess organics may go to Central Surrey Recycling and Waste Centre, 6711 154 Street, Surrey (604-681-5600), Revolution Resource Recovery, 19500 56th Avenue, Surrey (604-539-1900), or the City of Vancouver Landfill, 5400 72 Street, Delta (604-873-7000).
  - Source: [Keep Our Community Clean, Prevent Illegal Dumping](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1264/Keep-Our-Community-Clean)
  - Official wording: "nor does it operate public drop-off Depots for Containers, Glass, Mixed Paper, Organics, and/or Trash."
  - Source: [Organics and Food Scraps, Alternate Recycling Facilities](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1270/Organics-Food-Scraps)
  - Official wording: "Central Surrey Recycling and Waste Centre, 6711 – 154 Street, Surrey, BC V3S 7C6, 604-681-5600" … "Revolution Resource Recovery, 19500 56th Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 6K4, 604-539-1900"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Cost:** No separate charge for curbside organics; it is covered by the annual solid waste collection service fee ($429 a year per property in the Jan 2025 bylaw schedule). Depot charges are not stated on City pages.
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), Schedule A; s. 25](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Solid Waste Collection Service $429" … "must pay the solid waste collection service fee specified in Schedule A"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Not accepted:** Plastic bags, including "compostable" plastic, are not accepted: wrap food scraps in newspaper, paper towel or kraft paper. Garbage, banned materials and deposit beverage containers may not go in organics. Bundled branches thicker than 75 mm are not covered.
  - Source: [Waste Collection Service and Containers, Green Can](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1268/Waste-Collection-Service-Containers)
  - Official wording: "Use kraft paper bags (no plastic) to dispose of organics and food scraps."
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), ss. 31, 32](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No recycling or organic waste put out for collection by the City may contain any garbage,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw, 2015, No. 2084
  - Source: [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025), citation clause](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling" … "of Solid Waste Bylaw, 2015, No. 2084"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock collects yard trimmings with organics every week, under its [Solid Waste Bylaw 2084](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF). Use your Green Can (up to two) and up to eight kraft paper bags. Twigs and small branches up to 75 mm (3 in) thick may be tied in bundles no more than 1 m long, 0.5 m across and 23 kg. Each bundle counts as one of the 10 weekly organics units. The City's pages do not mention bundles, so confirm with the City. Only properties zoned One, Two or Three Unit Residential are served.

## Good to know

- Each can or bag is limited to 110 litres and 22 kg (50 lb).
- Not accepted: plastic bags, including "compostable" plastic. Wrap food scraps in newspaper, paper towel or kraft paper. Garbage, banned materials and deposit beverage containers may not go in organics. Bundled branches thicker than 75 mm are not covered.
- Green Can stickers are free (maximum two per unit).
- The City runs no public drop-off depot for organics. Excess may go to Central Surrey Recycling and Waste Centre, 6711 154 Street, Surrey (604-681-5600), Revolution Resource Recovery, 19500 56th Avenue, Surrey (604-539-1900), or the City of Vancouver Landfill, 5400 72 Street, Delta (604-873-7000). Depot hours and rates are not on City pages; contact the depots.
- Burning yard waste is not allowed. See the backyard fire answer.
- Questions: Engineering and Operations, 604-541-2181, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

## Official forms and pages

- [Organics and Food Scraps (City page)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1270/Organics-Food-Scraps)
- [Solid Waste Bylaw 2084 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)

## Related questions

- [White Rock backyard fire and burning rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/backyard-fire.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Yard waste collection in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/yard-waste.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/yard-waste.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/yard-waste.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/yard-waste.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/yard-waste.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/yard-waste.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/yard-waste.md)

## Sources

- [Collection, Removal, Disposal and Recycling of Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (consolidated January 2025) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Organics and Food Scraps, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1270/Organics-Food-Scraps) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Waste Collection Service and Containers, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1268/Waste-Collection-Service-Containers) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Keep Our Community Clean, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1264/Keep-Our-Community-Clean) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/yard-waste/_


---

---
title: White Rock watering restrictions
question: "Are there lawn sprinkling or watering restrictions?"
place: White Rock, British Columbia, Canada
place_path: ca/bc/white-rock
category: Water, sewer, roads and snow
owner: municipal
owner_body: City of White Rock
sources_read: 2026-11-05
review: machine_checked
canonical: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/water-restrictions/"
json: "https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/water-restrictions.json"
---

# White Rock watering restrictions

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

**Short answer:** Yes. The City of White Rock applies watering restrictions each year from May 1 to October 15, starting with Stage 1 on May 1. In Stage 1, residential lawns may be watered one day a week: even-numbered addresses on Saturdays, odd-numbered on Sundays. Check the Water Conservation page for the current stage.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** A Water Exemption Permit for a newly planted lawn costs $61 and is valid 21 days.  
**How long:** Restrictions run May 1 to October 15 each year (one City page says October 31).  
**Where:**
- Online: Water Conservation page, https://www.whiterockcity.ca/296/Water-Conservation
- Phone: Report a violation, 604-541-2181
- Email: Water team (exemption permits), water@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **When restrictions apply:** Restrictions apply every year from May 1 to October 15 (one City page elsewhere says October 31). Stage 1 starts automatically each May 1; Stages 2 to 4 are brought in as needed. The City's 2026 guide says to follow Stage 1.
  - Source: [Water Conservation, Water Restrictions](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/296/Water-Conservation)
  - Official wording: "Outdoor watering restrictions are in effect every year from May 1 to October 15." … "Stage 1 restrictions are automatically implemented each year on May 1." … "Stage 2 to Stage 4 restrictions are implemented as needed." … "runs from May 1 to October 31 every year to assist in water conservation."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Sprinkling schedule:** Stage 1, residential lawns: one day a week only. Even-numbered addresses Saturdays, odd-numbered Sundays. Automatic systems 5 a.m. to 7 a.m.; manual (hand-held) watering 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. Multi-family buildings go by the building number. Stage 2 and higher: no lawn watering.
  - Source: [Water Conservation, Stage 1 Restrictions](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/296/Water-Conservation)
  - Official wording: "Residential lawn watering is permitted one day a week." … "Automatic watering is allowed 5 a.m. to 7 a.m." … "Manual watering is allowed 6 a.m. to 9 a.m." … "Even numbered addresses: Saturdays" … "Odd numbered addresses: Sundays" … "All lawn watering is prohibited."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Allowed at any time:** Stage 1: gardens, shrubs, trees and flower beds may be watered any day 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. with a sprinkler (residential), or at any time by hand or with drip irrigation. Stage 2: vegetable gardens at any time; trees, shrubs and flowers by hand, soaker hose or drip at any time. Hoses washing a boat or vehicle need an automatic shut-off.
  - Source: [Water Conservation, Stages 1 and 2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/296/Water-Conservation)
  - Official wording: "watering of gardens, shrubs, trees and flower beds is permitted any day from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. for residential properties" … "or anytime if hand watering or using drip irrigation." … "Vegetable gardens can be watered at any time." … "water hoses must be equipped with an automatic shut off device."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **New lawns:** A Water Exemption Permit for a newly planted, not yet established lawn costs $61, is valid 21 days, and allows daily watering 4 a.m. to 9 a.m. Available under Stage 1 and Stage 2; one renewal is available unless Stage 3 is in effect.
  - Source: [Water Conservation, Water Exemption Permits](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/296/Water-Conservation)
  - Official wording: "Water exemption permits are allowed under Stage 1 and Stage 2 water restrictions." … "Permit Fees are $61" … "Permits are valid for only three weeks (21 days) from the permit issue date" … "every day for 21 days between the morning hours of 4 a.m. to 9 a.m."
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2026, No. 2554, Water Fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "Water Restriction Exemption Permit $61.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Not confirmed. Not found in the official sources that were read.
- **Bylaw:** Not confirmed. The City's Water Conservation page names no bylaw.

## How it works

The City of White Rock's [Water Conservation page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/296/Water-Conservation) sets four stages of watering restrictions every year from May 1 to October 15. One City page elsewhere says October 31. Stage 1 starts automatically each May 1, and Stages 2 to 4 are brought in as needed. The City's 2026 guide says to follow Stage 1. No current stage notice was in the pages we read, so check the Water Conservation page for today's stage.

## Good to know

- Stage 1, residential lawns: one day a week only. Even-numbered addresses on Saturdays, odd-numbered on Sundays. Automatic systems 5 a.m. to 7 a.m.; hand-held watering 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. Multi-family buildings go by the building number. Non-residential: even addresses Mondays, odd Tuesdays; automatic 4 to 6 a.m.; manual 6 to 9 a.m.
- Stage 2 and higher: no lawn watering.
- Stage 1: gardens, shrubs, trees and flower beds may be watered any day 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. with a sprinkler (residential), or at any time by hand or with drip irrigation. Stage 2: vegetable gardens at any time; trees, shrubs and flowers by hand, soaker hose or drip at any time. Stage 3 allows gardens only by hand, containers or drip irrigation; Stage 4 bans all outdoor watering.
- Hoses washing a boat or vehicle need an automatic shut-off.
- New lawn: a Water Exemption Permit costs $61, is valid 21 days, and allows daily watering 4 a.m. to 9 a.m. It is available under Stage 1 and Stage 2, with one renewal unless Stage 3 is in effect. Email water@whiterockcity.ca.
- Fines: we found no ticket amount or City bylaw for breaking the restrictions. The Water Services Bylaw sets a general court fine of $100 to $10,000 but has no sprinkling rules. Report violations to the Bylaws Department at 604-541-2181.

## What you'll need

- Water Exemption Permit Application (only for a newly planted lawn that has not yet established)

## Official forms and pages

- [Water Conservation](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/296/Water-Conservation)
- [Water Exemption Permit Application](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/620/Water-Exemption-Permit-Application)
- [Water Services Bylaw 2117 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/313/Water-Services-Bylaw-2015-Number-2117-PDF)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Watering restrictions in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/water-restrictions.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/water-restrictions.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/water-restrictions.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/water-restrictions.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/water-restrictions.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/water-restrictions.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/water-restrictions.md)

## Sources

- [Water Conservation, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/296/Water-Conservation) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2026, No. 2554 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Water Services Bylaw 2015, No. 2117 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/313/Water-Services-Bylaw-2015-Number-2117-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 4 of 6 facts was matched to the official text; 2 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/water-restrictions/_


---

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

# White Rock dog licences: fees and how to get one

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

**Short answer:** Every dog over four months old in White Rock needs a City of White Rock licence each calendar year. Apply or renew online with Dogs eApply or at City Hall. The fee is $25 for a spayed or neutered dog and $40 for one that is not.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** $25 spayed or neutered; $40 not. Nuisance dog $100; aggressive dog $200. Tag replacement $10; licence transfer $10. No seniors or early-payment discount is stated.  
**How long:** Licences run January 1 to December 31. Renewal forms are mailed to dogs on record and payment is due January 1.  
**Where:**
- Online: Dogs eApply, https://my.whiterockcity.ca/TempestApps/eApply/Dogs/Welcome.aspx
- In person: White Rock City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6
- Phone: Planning and Development Services (dog licensing), 604-541-2139
- Email: Licences, licences@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **Licence required:** Yes. Every dog over four months old must have a valid licence for the current year; dogs under four months are excluded. A licence cannot be issued to anyone under 18. Dogs used by law enforcement are exempt; guide dogs are exempt from the fees.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 8, 15, 51](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No person shall keep or allow to be kept on any real property any dog unless a valid" … "dog license for the current year has first been obtained for that dog from the City." … "No dog license shall be issued to or in the name of any person under the age of 18" … "excludes any dog under the" … "age of four months" … "is exempt from the licensing fees set out in this Bylaw"
  - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
  - Official wording: "All dogs over the age of four months residing in White Rock must have a valid dog licence."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Issued by:** The City of White Rock (online through Dogs eApply, or in person at City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue).
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 9](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "the city shall issue a numbered dog license tag for the current license year"
  - Source: [Dog Licences, How do I register / renew](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
  - Official wording: "Apply online with Dogs eApply" … "In person at City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee, spayed or neutered:** $25 a year for a spayed or neutered dog. A veterinarian's certificate is required, and the rate is not available for an aggressive or nuisance dog.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 19, Schedule A](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Altered Dog (each, male or female) $ 25.00" … "may pay the license fee set out in Schedule "A" for altered dogs"
  - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog licence fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
  - Official wording: "Altered Dog (each) | $25"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee, not spayed or neutered:** $40 a year for a dog that is not spayed or neutered.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), Schedule A](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Unaltered Dog (each, male or female) $ 40.00"
  - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog licence fees](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
  - Official wording: "Unaltered Dog (each) | $40"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other fees and discounts:** Licence tag replacement $10; licence transfer (change of address in the City, or a licence from another municipality) $10; nuisance dog $100; aggressive dog $200. No seniors or early-payment discount is stated.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), Schedule A; ss. 12-14](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "License Tag Replacement $ 10.00" … "License Transfer $ 10.00" … "Nuisance Dog $100.00" … "Aggressive Dog $200.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Renewal:** Licences run January 1 to December 31 and expire on December 31. Renewal forms are mailed to owners of dogs on record and payment is due January 1.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 10](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Every dog license and corresponding license tag issued under this Bylaw shall expire" … "on the 31st day of December in the calendar year in which the license was issued."
  - Source: [Dog Licences, How long is my dog's license valid](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
  - Official wording: "Dog licence renewal forms are mailed in December to owners for dogs on record and are due and payable on January 1."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to get one:** Apply or renew online with Dogs eApply or in person at City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue; renewals can also be paid by mail. First-time applications need the dog's name, breed, colour, sex, a picture and a spay/neuter certificate. Applications for guide, service, police, guard, aggressive, vicious or dangerous dogs must be made in person.
  - Source: [Dog Licences, How do I register / renew](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
  - Official wording: "Apply online with Dogs eApply" … "In person at City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue." … "Name, breed, colour, sex, picture and spay/neuter certificate" … "Dog licence renewal payments can be made online, in-person, or by mail." … "Dog deemed guard, aggressive, vicious or dangerous"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine, unlicensed dog:** Failure to license a dog: $300. No licence tag on the dog: $150. (Sources differ: The City's Dog Licences page still says "Dog unlicenced fine - $50" (and impound fees of $80 or $60), which does not match the ticketing schedule; the Animal Control page matches the schedule at $300. Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw No. 1929 consolidated November 2024.)
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Failure to license a dog" … "$300.00" … "No licence tag on dog" … "$150.00"
  - Source: [Animal Control, Animal Control page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/376/Animal-Control)
  - Official wording: "Unlicenced dog fine: $300"
  - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
  - Official wording: "Dog unlicenced fine - $50"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025)
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959.""
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock requires a licence for every dog over four months old, under its [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 1959](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF). Dogs under four months are excluded. The City issues the licence; no one under 18 can hold one. The tag number lasts the dog's life, so you do not get a new tag each year when you renew.

## Steps

1. Apply online with Dogs eApply, or in person at City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue.
2. Give the dog's name, breed, colour, sex and a picture, and a veterinarian's certificate to get the $25 rate.
3. Pay the fee. Renewals can also be paid by mail.
4. Each year the City mails renewal forms for dogs on record. Payment is due January 1.

## Good to know

- Applications for guide, service, police, guard, aggressive, vicious or dangerous dogs must be made in person.
- Dogs used by law enforcement are exempt, and guide dogs are exempt from the fees.
- The $25 rate is not available for an aggressive or nuisance dog. A nuisance dog is one impounded or ticketed (for barking or at large) three times in 24 months.
- A licence from another municipality needs the $10 transfer fee, as does a change of address within the City.
- A ticket for failing to license a dog is $300; a dog without its tag is $150. The Dog Licences page still shows older amounts, so confirm with the City.
- Questions: 604-541-2139 or licences@whiterockcity.ca.

## What you'll need

- Dog's name, breed, colour, sex and a picture
- Veterinarian's certificate showing the dog is spayed or neutered, for the lower fee

## Official forms and pages

- [Dog Licences page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 1959 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-licence.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/dog-licence.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/dog-licence.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/dog-licence.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/dog-licence.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/dog-licence.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/dog-licence.md)

## Sources

- [Dog Licences, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Animal Control, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/376/Animal-Control) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

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


---

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

# White Rock dog leash rules and off-leash areas

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

**Short answer:** In White Rock a dog in a public place must be on a leash and under a competent person's control. The leash may be up to 3 metres. The City's only off-leash area is the fenced dog park in Ruth Johnson Park, 14600 North Bluff Road. Dogs are not allowed on the pier.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Where:**
- In person: Off-leash dog park, Ruth Johnson Park, 14600 North Bluff Road, White Rock
- Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **Leash rule:** In a public place a dog must be on a leash and under the immediate control of a competent person. A dog must not run at large, trespass, or be on private land unless contained by a fence and gate, tether, enclosure or similar, or under a competent person's immediate control.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 23(1)-(4)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Be running at large;" … "Be in a public place unless the dog is kept on a leash not exceeding three metres" … "in length and is under the immediate control of a competent person"
  - Source: [Dogs in White Rock, Dogs Pet-iquette](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/799/Dogs-in-White-Rock)
  - Official wording: "Dogs in White Rock must be leashed and licenced"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Maximum leash length:** 3 metres in a public place. On the Promenade the leash must not exceed 2 metres, with one person controlling no more than three dogs.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 23(4), (6), (7)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Be in a public place unless the dog is kept on a leash not exceeding three metres" … "kept on a leash not exceeding two metres in length and is under the immediate" … "control of a competent person who is controlling a maximum of three dogs"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Off-leash areas:** The fenced off-leash dog park at Ruth Johnson Park, 14600 North Bluff Road.
  - Source: [Off-Leash Dog Park](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1106/Off-Leash-Dog-Park)
  - Official wording: "Bring your dog to the off-leash dog park at the Ruth Johnson Park located at 14600 North Bluff Road."
  - Source: [Dogs in White Rock, Dogs Pet-iquette](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/799/Dogs-in-White-Rock)
  - Official wording: "Dogs can go off-leash in the off-leash dog park located in Ruth Johnson Park"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Places dogs are not allowed:** Pier: not allowed, except guide and service dogs (Parks Regulation Bylaw). Centennial Park Oval track: not allowed. Promenade, April 1 to September 30: only 5:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., leashed. Beach: the Animal Control bylaw text bans dogs, but the City's Dogs page says leashed dogs are allowed. Also schools, playgrounds, sports fields and posted areas (per City guide). (Sources differ: Beach: the Dogs in White Rock page says dogs are permitted on the beach on a leash under two metres (the beach is provincial land under the Wildlife Act), but the consolidated bylaw text still reads "Be on the beach area at any time" with a carve-out west of Bay Street, and it is unclear which wording is current. Beach left out of the value. The Promenade rules were changed by Bylaw 2538 (April 2025).)
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 23(5)-(6)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Be on the pier at any time (Bylaw 2307);" … "Be on the Promenade between April 1st to September 30th except between the" … "hours of 5:30am to 9:00am"
  - Source: [2026 Good Neighbour Guide, Being a Responsible Pet Owner](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "Dogs are not permitted on:" … "School grounds" … "Playgrounds" … "Sports fields" … "Running tracks" … "Areas posted with "No Dogs" signage"
  - Source: [Dogs in White Rock, Dogs at the Waterfront](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/799/Dogs-in-White-Rock)
  - Official wording: "Dogs are not allowed on the White Rock Pier at anytime"
  - Source: [Parks Regulation Bylaw 1977, No. 675 (consolidated), s. 7.1(a), s. 7.4](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2071/Consolidated---Parks-Regulation-Bylaw-1977-No-675-PDF)
  - Official wording: "the Pier, except for a guide or service dog or dog-in-training under the Guide" … "track at Centennial Park Oval, as shown outlined on Schedule B, except for a guide or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Cleaning up:** Anyone with a dog must carry a suitable means of removing excrement, and must immediately remove it and dispose of it in a sanitary manner when the dog defecates in a public place or on private property without the owner's consent.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 37, 38](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "shall have in their" … "possession a suitable means of facilitating removal of the excrement." … "shall immediately" … "remove the excrement and dispose of it in a sanitary manner."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine, dog at large or off leash:** Dog running at large: $150 first offence, $250 second, $500 third and later. Dog off leash in a public place: $200. (Sources differ: The Dog Licences page still says "Dog at large fine - $100", which differs from the ticketing schedule ($150/$250/$500) that the Animal Control page repeats. Dog on the pier $200 and dog on the Promenade between April 1 and September 30 $200 are also in the schedule.)
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Dog running at large" … "$150.00 1st" … "$250.00 2nd" … "Dog off leash in a public place" … "$200.00"
  - Source: [Animal Control, Animal Control page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/376/Animal-Control)
  - Official wording: "Animal Control Officers make every reasonable effort to return licensed dogs to their rightful owners prior to impounding. Once the dog is impounded, the owner could be assessed the following charges: - Dog running at large fine: - First offense: $150 - Second offense: $250" … "- Dog running at large fine: - First offense: $150 - Second offense: $250 - Third & subsequent: $500"
  - Source: [Dog Licences, Dog Licences page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences)
  - Official wording: "Dog at large fine - $100"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025)
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959.""
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under the [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 1959](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF), a dog in a public place in White Rock must be on a leash and under the immediate control of a competent person. A dog may not run at large, and may not be on private land unless it is contained by a fence and gate, tether or enclosure, or under a competent person's immediate control. The leash may be up to 3 metres. Anyone with a dog must carry a way to remove its waste and remove it immediately, in public or on private property without the owner's consent.

## Good to know

- Off leash: only the fenced off-leash dog park in Ruth Johnson Park, 14600 North Bluff Road.
- Pier: dogs are not allowed, except guide and service dogs (Parks Regulation Bylaw). The Centennial Park Oval track is also off limits, and the City's guide lists schools, playgrounds, sports fields and posted areas.
- Promenade, April 1 to September 30: leashed dogs only from 5:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. On the Promenade the leash may not exceed 2 metres, and one person may control no more than three dogs.
- Beach: the sources disagree. The bylaw text bans dogs on the beach, with a carve-out west of Bay Street, while the City's Dogs in White Rock page says leashed dogs under two metres are allowed (the beach is provincial land). Confirm with Bylaw Enforcement before you go.
- Fines: dog running at large $150, then $250, then $500; dog off leash in a public place $200; dog on the pier $200; dog on the Promenade from April 1 to September 30 outside the allowed hours $200. The Dog Licences page still says $100 for at large.
- Report a loose dog to Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146.

## Official forms and pages

- [Dogs in White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/799/Dogs-in-White-Rock)
- [Off-Leash Dog Park](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1106/Off-Leash-Dog-Park)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 1959 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog leash rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/dog-leash-rules.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/dog-leash-rules.md)

## Sources

- [Dogs in White Rock, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/799/Dogs-in-White-Rock) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Off-Leash Dog Park, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1106/Off-Leash-Dog-Park) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Parks Regulation Bylaw 1977, No. 675 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2071/Consolidated---Parks-Regulation-Bylaw-1977-No-675-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [2026 Good Neighbour Guide, City of White Rock (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Animal Control, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/376/Animal-Control) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Dog Licences, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/381/Dog-Licences) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/dog-leash-rules/_


---

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

# White Rock rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs

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

**Short answer:** In White Rock, the City can classify a dog as aggressive after an incident under its Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw. The owner must confine it, keep it leashed and muzzled in public, and pay a $200 yearly licence. A dog deemed dangerous cannot be kept in the city.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **How a dog is declared dangerous or aggressive:** Aggressive dog (bylaw s. 3): has attacked, bitten or injured a person or animal, or been found aggressive by an officer or court; the Director decides, with appeal in 10 days. Dangerous dog (Community Charter s. 49): has killed or seriously injured a person or animal, or an officer believes it is likely to seriously injure a person.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 26-28](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "A dog that has attacked, bitten or caused injury, with or without provocation, to" … "a dog that, while running at large, has bitten or caused injury to a domestic" … "a dog that has been found to be dangerous or aggressive by the animal control" … "a letter shall be sent to the owner of the dog" … "the owner of the dog may appeal the classification, in writing, within 10 days to the Director"
  - Source: [Community Charter, section 49, Province of BC, Community Charter s. 49(1)](https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/03026_03)
  - Official wording: "(a) has killed or seriously injured a person," … "(c) an animal control officer has reasonable grounds to believe is likely to kill or seriously injure a person."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Rules for owners:** On the owner's premises: keep the dog securely confined indoors or in an enclosure (at least 1.8 m high, solid floor, wire or steel mesh sides and roof). Off the premises: on a leash no longer than 3 m, under a competent person's immediate control, and muzzled. The owner must also let the City implant a microchip and pay the $60 microchip fee.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 29; Schedule B](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "keep the dog securely confined indoors or in an enclosure" … "On a leash or tether not exceeding three metres in length;" … "Muzzled to prevent it from attacking and/or biting a person or other animal." … "Permit the City to implant a microchip" … "a structure at least 1.8 metres in height having a solid floor and wire" … "Microchip Implant $ 60.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Licence fee:** $200 a year for an aggressive dog licence (Schedule A); the lower altered-dog rate is not available to an aggressive dog.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), Schedule A; s. 19](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Aggressive Dog $200.00" … "The owner of a dog that is not an aggressive dog or a nuisance dog"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to report:** Contact Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146 or bylaw@whiterockcity.ca to report a bite.
  - Source: [2026 Good Neighbour Guide, Being a Responsible Pet Owner](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "If you or your pet has been bitten, report it immediately. Contact Bylaw Enforcement at" … "604-541-2146 or email Bylaw@whiterockcity.ca."
  - Source: [Animal Control, Inquiries & Complaints](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/376/Animal-Control)
  - Official wording: "contact Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146 or email bylaw@whiterockcity.ca"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Failure to confine an aggressive dog: $500. Failure to keep an aggressive dog on a leash: $500. Failure to muzzle an aggressive dog: $250. Failure to comply with an order for an aggressive dog: $500.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Failure to confine an aggressive dog" … "Failure to keep an aggressive dog on leash" … "Failure to muzzle an aggressive dog" … "$250.00" … "Failure to comply with an order for an aggressive dog"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025)
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959.""
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Two terms apply. Under the [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF), a dog is aggressive if it has attacked, bitten or injured a person or animal, or been found aggressive by an officer or court. The Director decides, and the owner can appeal within 10 days. A "dangerous dog" is defined by section 49 of the provincial Community Charter: one that has killed or seriously injured a person or animal, or that an officer believes is likely to seriously injure a person.

## Good to know

- At home, an aggressive dog must be securely confined indoors or in an enclosure at least 1.8 metres high with a solid floor and wire or steel mesh sides and roof.
- Off the property, it must be on a leash of no more than 3 metres, under a competent person's immediate control, and muzzled.
- The owner must let the City implant a microchip and pay the $60 microchip fee.
- The licence is $200 a year; the lower spayed or neutered rate is not available. Impound fee: $600 (altered) or $1,000 (unaltered).
- Tickets: $500 for failing to confine, $500 for failing to leash, $250 for failing to muzzle, and $500 for failing to comply with an order. A court fine can be $1,000 to $10,000.
- A dog deemed dangerous in White Rock or elsewhere may not be kept in the city (the newer wording of section 4).
- To report a bite, contact Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146 or bylaw@whiterockcity.ca.

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 1959 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)

## Related questions

- [White Rock dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/dog-licence.md)
- [White Rock dog leash rules and off-leash areas](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/dog-leash-rules.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dangerous dog rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/dangerous-dogs.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/dangerous-dogs.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Community Charter, section 49, Province of BC](https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/03026_03) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Animal Control, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/376/Animal-Control) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [2026 Good Neighbour Guide, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/dangerous-dogs/_


---

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

# How many dogs or cats you can keep in White Rock

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

**Short answer:** White Rock's Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw allows no more than three dogs on any property, and no kennels. It sets no limit on cats. Exotic animals, livestock and poultry are banned.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **Dogs allowed:** No more than three dogs on any real property. Dogs under four months old are not counted. A kennel (more than three dogs) is not allowed.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 4, 5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No person shall keep or allow to be kept on any real property more than three dogs." … "No person shall keep, own or operate a kennel." … "excludes any dog under the" … "age of four months"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Cats allowed:** The bylaw sets no limit on cats.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 3 'pet'](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "“pet” means any domestic animal other than livestock or poultry kept within a"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other animal limits:** Exotic animals (Schedule D), livestock, poultry and aviaries are banned. Bees: no more than two colonies per lot, only on lots zoned RS1 or RS4, at least 15 feet from any property line.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 7, s. 45, Schedule D](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No person shall possess or keep in any area, temporarily or permanently, any species" … "individual or any exotic animal." … "any livestock, poultry, aviary, or apiary except as permitted pursuant to City of White Rock Bee Keeping" … "Snakes, except those designated as wildlife by Provincial enactment"
  - Source: [Bee Keeping Bylaw 1992, No. 1313, s. 3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/4187/Bee-Keeping-Bylaw-1992-no-1313)
  - Official wording: "No person shall keep more that two (2) colonies of bees on any lot." … "No person shall keep more that two (2) colonies of bees on any" … "Beehives shall only be permitted on a property that is zoned RSl"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Exceptions:** The limit and the kennel ban do not apply to a City-authorized animal shelter, BC SPCA premises, a retail pet store, a veterinary hospital, or an educational institution's research or teaching premises.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 6](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "The prohibitions in Sections 4 and 5 do not apply to:" … "An animal control shelter authorized by the City;" … "A retail pet store;" … "A veterinary hospital under the control of a veterinarian registered"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Operating a kennel (s. 5): $500. Keeping an exotic animal, livestock or poultry: $150 first offence, $250 second, $500 third and later. The ticket schedule has no separate line for the three-dog limit in s. 4. Court fine under the bylaw: $1,000 to $10,000.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Operating a kennel" … "$500.00" … "Keeping an exotic animal" … "$150.00 1st"
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 53](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "shall be liable upon summary" … "conviction to a fine of not less than one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) and not more than" … "ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00)."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025)
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959.""
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock limits dogs, not cats. The [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF) says no more than three dogs may be kept on any real property. Dogs under four months old are not counted. A kennel (more than three dogs) is not allowed. The bylaw sets no limit on cats.

## Good to know

- The limit and kennel ban do not apply to a City-authorized animal shelter, BC SPCA premises, a retail pet store, a veterinary hospital, or an educational institution's research or teaching premises.
- Exotic animals (listed in Schedule D of the bylaw), livestock, poultry and aviaries are banned. See the backyard chickens answer.
- Bees: no more than two colonies per lot, only on lots zoned RS1 or RS4, at least 15 feet from any property line. Those zone names come from a 1992 bylaw and predate the 2024 Zoning Bylaw, so ask Bylaw Enforcement how this applies today.
- Fines: operating a kennel $500. Keeping an exotic animal, livestock or poultry is $150, then $250, then $500. The ticket schedule has no separate line for the three-dog limit. A court fine under the bylaw can be $1,000 to $10,000.
- Every dog needs a licence. See the dog licence answer.

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 1959 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)

## Related questions

- [White Rock dog licences: fees and how to get one](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/dog-licence.md)
- [White Rock backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/backyard-chickens.md)
- [White Rock rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/dangerous-dogs.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Dog and cat limits in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/how-many-pets.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/how-many-pets.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/how-many-pets.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/how-many-pets.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/how-many-pets.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/how-many-pets.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/how-many-pets.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bee Keeping Bylaw 1992, No. 1313 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/4187/Bee-Keeping-Bylaw-1992-no-1313) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 6 of 6 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/how-many-pets/_


---

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

# White Rock backyard chickens, bees and livestock rules

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

**Short answer:** No. White Rock's Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw bans livestock, poultry (including hens, roosters, ducks and geese) and aviaries on any property. Bees are allowed under a 1992 bylaw, but only on lots zoned RS1 or RS4, which the 2024 Zoning Bylaw no longer uses.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **Hens allowed:** No. The Animal Control bylaw bans keeping livestock, poultry, an aviary or an apiary on any real property, except as permitted by the Bee Keeping Bylaw (which covers bees only). "Poultry" is defined to include chickens.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 45](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: ""poultry" means any fowl including a chicken, turkey, duck, goose, swan or peafowl" … "any livestock, poultry, aviary, or apiary except as permitted pursuant to City of White Rock Bee Keeping"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Most hens:** Not applicable: hens and other poultry are not allowed.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 45](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "“poultry” means any fowl including a chicken, turkey, duck, goose, swan or peafowl"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Roosters:** Not allowed. A rooster is a chicken, so the same poultry ban applies.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 45](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: ""poultry" means any fowl including a chicken, turkey, duck, goose, swan or peafowl"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Coop rules:** Not applicable: hens and other poultry are not allowed.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 45](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "“poultry” means any fowl including a chicken, turkey, duck, goose, swan or peafowl"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permit or registration:** Not applicable: hens and other poultry are not allowed.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 45](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "“poultry” means any fowl including a chicken, turkey, duck, goose, swan or peafowl"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bees:** Beekeeping is allowed under the 1992 Bee Keeping Bylaw: no more than two colonies per lot, hives only on lots zoned RS1 or RS4 (zone names predate the 2024 Zoning Bylaw), at least 15 feet from any property line.
  - Source: [Bee Keeping Bylaw 1992, No. 1313, ss. 3-5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/4187/Bee-Keeping-Bylaw-1992-no-1313)
  - Official wording: "No person shall keep more that two (2) colonies of bees on any lot." … "locate a beehive within fifteen (15) feet of any property line;" … "Beehives shall only be permitted on a property that is zoned" … "No person shall locate a beehive on a property within twenty" … "multi-family dwelling other than a duplex." … "No person shall keep more that two (2) colonies of bees on any" … "Beehives shall only be permitted on a property that is zoned RSl"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other livestock:** Not allowed. Livestock (cattle, horses, donkeys, mules, llamas, ostrich, swine, sheep, goats) and poultry (including ducks and geese) may not be kept on any real property.
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), ss. 3, 45](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: ""livestock" means cattle and other animals of the bovine species, horses, donkeys," … "mules, llamas, ostrich, swine, sheep or goats;" … "any livestock, poultry, aviary, or apiary except as permitted pursuant to City of White Rock Bee Keeping"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959; White Rock Bee Keeping Bylaw, 1992, No. 1313
  - Source: [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025), s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw, 2012, No. 1959.""
  - Source: [Bee Keeping Bylaw 1992, No. 1313, s. 9](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/4187/Bee-Keeping-Bylaw-1992-no-1313)
  - Official wording: "White Rock Bee Keeping Bylaw, 1992, No. 1313"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock bans keeping livestock, poultry, an aviary or an apiary (beehive) on any real property, except as the Bee Keeping Bylaw permits. The [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF) defines poultry to include chickens, so hens and roosters are not allowed, and no coop, permit or hen limit exists. Livestock means cattle, horses, donkeys, mules, llamas, ostrich, swine, sheep and goats. Ducks and geese count as poultry.

## Good to know

- Bees: the [Bee Keeping Bylaw](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/4187/Bee-Keeping-Bylaw-1992-no-1313) allows no more than two colonies per lot, hives only on lots zoned RS1 or RS4, and at least 15 feet from any property line.
- Those zone names predate the 2024 Zoning Bylaw, which now has RS-1, RS-2 and RS-3 zones. Ask Bylaw Enforcement whether your lot qualifies.
- Fines: keeping livestock or poultry is $150, then $250, then $500. A bee bylaw offence is $100 to $500 plus costs on conviction.
- The newer wording of the Animal Control Bylaw also bans feeding or enticing wildlife.
- Exotic animals are banned too. See the how many pets answer.
- Questions: Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146.

## Official forms and pages

- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 1959 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF)
- [Bee Keeping Bylaw 1313 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/4187/Bee-Keeping-Bylaw-1992-no-1313)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Backyard chicken rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/backyard-chickens.md)
- [Port Coquitlam](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/port-coquitlam/backyard-chickens.md)

## Sources

- [Animal Control and Licensing Bylaw 2012, No. 1959 (consolidated April 2025) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/271/Consolidated---Animal-Control-and-Licensing-Bylaw-2012-Number-1959-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bee Keeping Bylaw 1992, No. 1313 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/4187/Bee-Keeping-Bylaw-1992-no-1313) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Animal Control, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/376/Animal-Control) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 8 of 8 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/backyard-chickens/_


---

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

# White Rock 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 White Rock, no vehicle may stay on a street over 72 hours, and a motor home or other accommodation vehicle needs a City Engineer permit to stay longer. An unattached trailer may not be parked on a street. On your own lot, an RV, boat or trailer over 7.7 m long must be hidden from the street.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Permit fee not stated. Tickets: unattached trailer $80 ($55 if paid within 7 days); parking over 72 hours or an accommodation vehicle without a permit $60 ($35 within 7 days); zoning breach $500 first offence.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Parking Services, 604-541-2148 (After 4:30 p.m. and on weekends 604-541-2141.)
- Phone: Engineering and Operations (City Engineer permits), 604-541-2181

## Key facts

- **On the street:** No street parking over 72 hours; a motor home or other accommodation vehicle needs a City Engineer permit to stay longer. An unattached trailer may not be parked. A trailer beside residential land needs the occupier's consent. Trailers or commercial vehicles over 4,536 kg may not park on a street 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
  - Source: [Street and Traffic Bylaw 1999, No. 1529 (consolidated), ss. 25, 27-30](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/280/Consolidated---Street-and-Traffic-Bylaw-1999-Number-1529-PDF)
  - Official wording: "no person shall park a vehicle on" … "any highway for more than seventy-two (72) hours continuously." … "No person shall park a trailer or semi-trailer with its motive power unattached." … "on any street for a period exceeding 72 hours without displaying a permit" … "abutting" … "lands used for park, church, school or residential purposes, except with the consent of" … "weight exceeding 4,536 kg on any street between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **On your property:** Accessory off-street parking may not be used for a house trailer, RV, boat or boat trailer longer than 7.7 m (25.26 ft) unless it is fully concealed in an enclosed garage, tarped in an open carport, or tarped and screened from the street by landscaping. Storing a vehicle, boat or RV on any landscaped part of a property is also prohibited.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, s. 4.1.9](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "Accessory off-street parking shall not be used for the parking or storing:" … "of house trailers or recreational vehicles, boats or boat trailers, any one of which" … "exceeds 7.7m (25.26ft) in length unless fully concealed from view within an" … "enclosed garage, tarped within an open carport, or tarped and screened from view"
  - Source: [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2013, No. 2019, s. 6.3(i)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF)
  - Official wording: "the storage of a vehicle, boat or recreation vehicle on any landscaped portion."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Living in an RV:** Not confirmed. Not found in the official sources that were read.
- **Fine:** Parked unattached trailer: $80 ($55 if paid within 7 days). Parking an accommodation vehicle over 72 hours without a permit, or any parking over 72 hours: $60 ($35 within 7 days). Trailer parked in a residential area: $60 ($35 within 7 days). Zoning breach (RV, boat or trailer parking on a lot): $500 first offence, $1,000 second, $2,000 third and later. Vehicle, boat or RV on landscaping: $250.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B10 / Parking for accommodation, section 29 payment within seven days](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Parking unattached trailer" … "$80 or $55 if paid" … "Parking vehicle for accommodation over 72 hours" … "Trailer/ commercial vehicle parked in residential area" … "Parking over 3 or 72 hours where prohibited" … "Parking over 3 or 72 hours where prohibited 27 $60 or $35 if paid within 7 days Parking unattached trailer 28 $80 or $55 if paid within 7 days Parking vehicle for accommodation over 72 hours $60 or $35 if paid without permit 29 within 7 days Parking on street to wash vehicle 31 $60 or $35 if paid within 7 days Parking unlicensed vehicle on highway 32 $80 or $55 if paid"
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B13](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Failure to comply with regulations for shipping" … "container and accessory off-street parking" … "house trailer or recreational vehicles, boats or boat trailers" … "$500.00 1st" … "$2000.00 3rd and"
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B12](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Outside storage of items Sec. 6.3 (h) $250.00 Vehicle on landscaping Sec 6.3 (i) $250.00 Placement of sweepings, ashes, refuse, rubbish or Sec 6.4 $1000.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Street and Traffic Bylaw, 1999, No. 1529; Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506; Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw, 2013, No. 2019
  - Source: [Street and Traffic Bylaw 1999, No. 1529 (consolidated), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/280/Consolidated---Street-and-Traffic-Bylaw-1999-Number-1529-PDF)
  - Official wording: "A Bylaw to regulate traffic and the use of streets in the City of White Rock."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506, s. 4.1.9](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "Accessory off-street parking shall not be used for the parking or storing:"
  - Source: [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2013, No. 2019, s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF)
  - Official wording: "White Rock Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement" … "Bylaw, 2013, No. 2019."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock's [Street and Traffic Bylaw 1529](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/280/Consolidated---Street-and-Traffic-Bylaw-1999-Number-1529-PDF) bans parking any vehicle on a street for more than 72 hours. A motor home or other accommodation vehicle can stay longer only with a City Engineer permit. Permits go to non-residents, disabled owners relying on the vehicle, or residents whose only transportation it is. The [Zoning Bylaw 2506](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) and the [Unsightly Premises Bylaw 2019](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF) cover RVs, boats and trailers on private lots.

## Good to know

- On a street, an unattached trailer may not be parked. A trailer beside residential land needs the occupier's consent.
- Trailers or commercial vehicles over 4,536 kg may not park on a street from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- On a lot, accessory off-street parking may not be used for a house trailer, RV, boat or boat trailer longer than 7.7 m (25.26 ft) unless it is fully concealed in an enclosed garage, tarped in an open carport, or tarped and screened from the street by landscaping.
- Storing a vehicle, boat or RV on any landscaped part of a property is also prohibited.
- No official source we read says whether you may sleep in an RV on a street or lot, or sets a limit on how many RVs or boats you may have. Ask Parking Services.
- Tickets: unattached trailer $80 ($55 if paid within 7 days); trailer in a residential area $60 ($35 within 7 days); parking over 72 hours, or an accommodation vehicle over 72 hours without a permit, $60 ($35 within 7 days); zoning breach for RV, boat or trailer parking on a lot $500, $1,000, then $2,000; vehicle, boat or RV on landscaping $250.
- Parking Services: 604-541-2148 (after 4:30 p.m. and weekends 604-541-2141). Permits: Engineering and Operations, 604-541-2181.

## Official forms and pages

- [Street and Traffic Bylaw 1529 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/280/Consolidated---Street-and-Traffic-Bylaw-1999-Number-1529-PDF)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2506 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
- [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2019 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF)

## 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)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/rv-boat-trailer-parking.md)

## Sources

- [Street and Traffic Bylaw 1999, No. 1529 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/280/Consolidated---Street-and-Traffic-Bylaw-1999-Number-1529-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2013, No. 2019 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Parking Tickets, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/326/Parking-Tickets) (read 2026-11-05)
- [2026 Good Neighbour Guide, City of White Rock (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/rv-boat-trailer-parking/_


---

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

# White Rock noise bylaw: quiet hours, construction hours and fines

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

**Short answer:** White Rock's Noise Control Bylaw is a scanned image the City publishes without readable text, so we could not confirm its rules. The City's 2026 Good Neighbour Guide gives construction hours of 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday. Confirm all noise rules with the City.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Tickets start at $200 for disturbing noise and $500 for construction noise outside permitted hours.  
**How long:** Not stated.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@whiterockcity.ca
- Online: Request for Service (noise complaint), https://www.whiterockcity.ca/728/Request-for-Service

## Key facts

- **General rule:** Not confirmed. White Rock's Noise Control Bylaw is published as a scanned image that could not be read.
- **Quiet hours:** Not confirmed. White Rock's Noise Control Bylaw is published as a scanned image that could not be read.
- **Construction hours:** Per the City's 2026 Good Neighbour Guide (the Noise Control Bylaw itself could not be read): Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sundays and statutory holidays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., owner-performed work only.
  - Source: [2026 Good Neighbour Guide, Construction & Noise Regulations](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m." … "Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m." … "Sundays & Statutory Holidays*: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m." … "Owner-performed work only. No construction for profit or hired trades."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Other limits:** Work outside the permitted hours needs City approval (a Noise Bylaw extension; contractors must notify neighbouring owners 24 hours before; admin fee $307). Commercial delivery noise outside permitted hours and amplified sound that disturbs are also ticketable offences.
  - Source: [2026 Good Neighbour Guide, Construction & Noise Regulations](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
  - Official wording: "Work outside permitted hours requires City approval."
  - Source: [Noise Bylaw Extension Application and Notice of Construction, Application form](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/6906/Noise-Bylaw-Extension-Application-and-Notice-of-Construction)
  - Official wording: "The Contractor must notify all neighbouring property owners" … "24 hours prior to work commencing."
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2026, No. 2554, Schedule A](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "Noise Bylaw Extension of Hours – Admin Fee" … "$307.00"
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Commercial delivery noise outside of permitted hours" … "Amplified sound which disturbs"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Who to call, business hours:** Bylaw Enforcement: 604-541-2146 or bylaw@whiterockcity.ca; or submit a Request for Service online (Noise Complaint). City Hall is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, Inquiries & Complaints](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement)
  - Official wording: "Call Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146" … "Email Bylaw Enforcement at bylaw@whiterockcity.ca"
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, City Hall Hours](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement)
  - Official wording: "Monday through Friday" … "8:30 am to 4:30 pm"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Who to call, after hours:** Not confirmed. Not found in the official sources that were read.
- **Fine:** Disturbing noise: $200 first offence, $350 second, $500 third and later. Construction noise outside permitted hours: $500, $1,000, $2,000; without approval $4,000. Construction noise on a Sunday or holiday: $500, $1,000, $2,000. Noise by owner or occupant outside permitted hours: $200, $350, $500.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Disturbing Noise" … "$200.00 1st" … "$350.00 2nd" … "Construction noise out of permitted hours" … "$500.00 1st" … "$1000.00 2nd" … "Construction noise outside of permitted hours without" … "$4000.00" … "Construction noise on a Sunday or Holiday" … "Noise by owner or occupant outside of permitted hours"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Noise Control Bylaw, 2013, No. 2018
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "White Rock Noise Control Bylaw, 2013, No. 2018"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock regulates noise under its [Noise Control Bylaw 2018](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/292/Noise-Control-Bylaw-2013-Number-2018-PDF). The City publishes that bylaw as a scanned image with no readable text, so we could not check what it says. The construction hours below come from the City's 2026 Good Neighbour Guide, which says it does not replace the bylaws. Confirm with the City before you rely on them.

## Good to know

- Construction hours (2026 Good Neighbour Guide): Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sundays and statutory holidays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., owner-performed work only.
- Quiet hours: no readable official source states fixed quiet hours or decibel limits. Ask Bylaw Enforcement.
- Work outside the permitted hours needs City approval through a Noise Bylaw extension. Contractors must notify neighbouring owners 24 hours before. The administration fee is $307.
- Tickets: disturbing noise $200 first offence, $350 second, $500 third and later. Noise by an owner or occupant outside permitted hours is the same. Construction noise outside permitted hours is $500, $1,000, then $2,000, or $4,000 without approval. Construction noise on a Sunday or holiday is $500, $1,000, then $2,000.
- To complain, call Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146, email bylaw@whiterockcity.ca, or submit a Request for Service online. City Hall is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- No official after-hours noise line was found. The ticketing bylaw names the RCMP as an enforcement officer but gives no number.

## Official forms and pages

- [Noise Control Bylaw No. 2018 (PDF, scanned)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/292/Noise-Control-Bylaw-2013-Number-2018-PDF)
- [2026 Good Neighbour Guide (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898)
- [Noise Bylaw Extension Application and Notice of Construction](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/6906/Noise-Bylaw-Extension-Application-and-Notice-of-Construction)

## Related questions

- [White Rock bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/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)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/noise-rules.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/noise-rules.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/noise-rules.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/noise-rules.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/noise-rules.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/noise-rules.md)

## Sources

- [2026 Good Neighbour Guide, City of White Rock (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12898) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Noise Control Bylaw 2013, No. 2018 (PDF, scanned image; text could not be read)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/292/Noise-Control-Bylaw-2013-Number-2018-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Noise Bylaw Extension Application and Notice of Construction (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/6906/Noise-Bylaw-Extension-Application-and-Notice-of-Construction) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2026, No. 2554 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Enforcement, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement) (read 2026-11-05)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 5 of 8 facts was matched to the official text; 3 could not be confirmed. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/noise-rules/_


---

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

# White Rock unsightly property rules and how to report

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

**Short answer:** In White Rock, submit a Request for Service online, email bylaw@whiterockcity.ca or call Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146. Under the Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw, a ticket for most unsightly conditions is $250, and $2,000 for a nuisance property.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Ticket $250 for most unsightly conditions; $2,000 for a nuisance property.  
**How long:** Not stated. The officer's Compliance Notice sets the date for the owner to fix the problem.  
**Where:**
- Online: Request for Service (Unsightly Property), https://www.whiterockcity.ca/728/Request-for-Service
- Phone: Bylaw Enforcement, 604-541-2146
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **What counts:** An owner or occupier must not allow a nuisance or unsightly conditions. This includes accumulated refuse, rubbish or discarded materials, unsanitary conditions, trees, weeds or growth that should be cut, graffiti, rodent or insect infestation, outside storage of household items or building materials, and storing a vehicle, boat or RV on any landscaped part. Grass not kept below 30 cm counts as unsightly.
  - Source: [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2013, No. 2019 (consolidated 2015), ss. 3, 5, 6.3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No owner or occupier shall cause or permit unsightly conditions on real property" … "trees, weeds or other growths that Council considers should be removed, cut" … "the outside storage of household items, building materials, tools or other items" … "the storage of a vehicle, boat or recreation vehicle on any landscaped portion." … "which is not maintained below 30cm in height"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to report:** Submit a Request for Service online (Unsightly Property), email bylaw@whiterockcity.ca, or call Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146. Include both civic addresses, your contact information and a detailed description; the complainant's identity is kept confidential.
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, Inquiries & Complaints](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement)
  - Official wording: "Call Bylaw Enforcement at 604-541-2146" … "Email Bylaw Enforcement at bylaw@whiterockcity.ca" … "Detailed Description of Complaint"
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, FAQ](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement)
  - Official wording: "To file a complaint, please submit a Request for Service or email Bylaw Enforcement"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What happens next:** A Bylaw Enforcement Officer may issue a Compliance Notice giving a date to fix the problem. The owner may ask the Corporate Officer for a chance to be heard. If not fixed, the City may issue fines, deem the property a nuisance property, or do the work and recover the cost from the owner as a debt or as property taxes.
  - Source: [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2013, No. 2019 (consolidated 2015), ss. 3, 7.2-7.4](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF)
  - Official wording: "a Bylaw Enforcement Officer may issue a Compliance Notice" … "may apply to the Corporate Officer for a chance to be heard" … "remedy the non-compliance at the expense of the" … "owner or occupier"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Nuisance or unsightly conditions: $250. Specific listed conditions (accumulation, unsanitary conditions, overgrowth, infestation, outside storage, vehicle on landscaping, graffiti, unsecured vacant property): $250 each. Nuisance property, or unsightly conditions on a nuisance property: $2,000. Dumping sweepings or rubbish in a public place: $1,000.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B12](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Nuisance or unsightly conditions" … "$250.00" … "Nuisance property" … "$2000.00" … "Placement of sweepings, ashes, refuse, rubbish or" … "$1000.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** White Rock Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw, 2013, No. 2019
  - Source: [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2013, No. 2019 (consolidated 2015), s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as "White Rock Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement" … "Bylaw, 2013, No. 2019.""
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock's [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2019](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF) says an owner or occupier must not allow a nuisance or unsightly conditions. That includes accumulated refuse or discarded materials, unsanitary conditions, trees, weeds or growth that should be cut, graffiti, rodent or insect infestation, outside storage of household items or building materials, and a vehicle, boat or RV stored on any landscaped part. Grass not kept below 30 cm counts as unsightly.

## Steps

1. Submit a Request for Service online (Unsightly Property), email bylaw@whiterockcity.ca, or call 604-541-2146.
2. Give both civic addresses, your contact information and a detailed description. Your identity is kept confidential.
3. A Bylaw Enforcement Officer may issue a Compliance Notice giving the owner a date to fix the problem.

## Good to know

- The owner may ask the Corporate Officer for a chance to be heard.
- If the problem is not fixed, the City may issue fines, deem the property a nuisance property, or do the work and recover the cost from the owner as a debt or as property taxes.
- A nuisance property is one with Compliance Notices on three or more occasions in any twelve-month period, or where a notice was not obeyed.
- Graffiti: the owner must remove or cover it within 48 hours of a City notice.
- Tickets: $250 for nuisance or unsightly conditions, including each listed condition; $2,000 for a nuisance property or unsightly conditions on one; $1,000 for dumping sweepings or rubbish in a public place. A court fine can be $1,000 to $10,000.

## What you'll need

- Both civic addresses, your contact information and a detailed description of the problem

## Official forms and pages

- [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw No. 2019 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF)

## Related questions

- [White Rock bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/bylaw-fines.md)
- [White Rock fence rules: permits and height limits](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/fence-rules.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Unsightly property fines in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/unsightly-property.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/unsightly-property.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/unsightly-property.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/unsightly-property.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/unsightly-property.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/unsightly-property.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/unsightly-property.md)

## Sources

- [Unsightly Premises and Graffiti Abatement Bylaw 2013, No. 2019 (consolidated 2015) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/311/Unsightly-Premises-and-Graffiti-Abatement-Bylaw-2013-Number-2019-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Enforcement, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/unsightly-property/_


---

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

# White Rock backyard fire and burning rules

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

**Short answer:** No. White Rock bans open-air fires of any kind, including wood campfires and fire pits. The only exception is an approved portable appliance fuelled by propane, natural gas or charcoal. Burning yard waste or household waste is never allowed. The ticket is $150.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Ticket $150 for outdoor burning or burning residential waste. No permit is available for ordinary backyard burning.  
**Where:**
- Phone: White Rock Fire Rescue (non-emergency), 604-541-2121
- In person: White Rock Fire Rescue, 15315 Pacific Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1R1
- Phone: Emergency (fire), 9-1-1

## Key facts

- **Backyard campfires:** No wood campfires or fire pits: open-air fires of any kind are banned. The only exception is a fire in an approved portable appliance designed to be fuelled by propane, natural gas or charcoal. No size rules are given.
  - Source: [Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw 2014, No. 2057, s. 5.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/288/Fire-Protection-and-Safety-Bylaw-2014-Number-2057-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No person shall at any time start, light, ignite or burn" … "any fire of any kind in" … "the open air" … "specifically designed to be fueled by propane, natural gas or charcoal." … "open air, except where such fire is contained within an approved portable appliance or" … "device that has been specifically designed to be fueled by propane, natural gas or"
  - Source: [Beach Fires and Open-Air Burning, Beach Fires & Open-Air Burning](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/923/Beach-Fires-Open-Air-Burning)
  - Official wording: "White Rock has a bylaw that prohibits open-air burning, including beach fires."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Burning yard waste:** Not allowed. No one may burn residential waste, including household waste and yard materials, indoors or in the open air under any circumstances.
  - Source: [Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw 2014, No. 2057, s. 5.2(a)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/288/Fire-Protection-and-Safety-Bylaw-2014-Number-2057-PDF)
  - Official wording: "A person must not burn residential waste, including. without limitations," … "household waste and yard materials, indoors or in the open air under an" … "circumstances."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permit:** No burning permit for ordinary backyard burning. Only fires for special circumstances approved in advance in writing by the Fire Chief are excluded from the ban.
  - Source: [Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw 2014, No. 2057, s. 5.1(c)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/288/Fire-Protection-and-Safety-Bylaw-2014-Number-2057-PDF)
  - Official wording: "fires for special circumstances and approved in advance in writing by the" … "Fire Chief"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fire bans:** The City bans open-air burning all year, so no seasonal ban notice applies; up to $1,150 fine during a Provincial fire ban. Provincial bans are posted on the BC Wildfire Service Fire Prohibitions and Restrictions page (gov.bc.ca).
  - Source: [Beach Fires and Open-Air Burning, Beach Fires & Open-Air Burning](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/923/Beach-Fires-Open-Air-Burning)
  - Official wording: "a minimum fine of $150, and a fine of up to $1,150 during a Provincial fire ban."
  - Source: [Fire Bans and Restrictions, BC Wildfire Service, Current prohibitions and restrictions](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/fire-bans-and-restrictions)
  - Official wording: "Even if there are no provincial open fire prohibitions in place, always check with local government authorities for any other open fire restrictions."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Instead of burning:** Yard trimmings go in the weekly curbside organics collection (Green Can, kraft paper bags, or tied bundles of twigs and branches up to 75 mm thick). Excess can go to Central Surrey Recycling and Waste Centre, 6711 154 Street, Surrey (604-681-5600) or Revolution Resource Recovery, 19500 56th Avenue, Surrey (604-539-1900).
  - Source: [Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084, s. 25, s. 27](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF)
  - Official wording: "organic waste containers, comprised of either compostable paper yard waste bags," … "bundles of twigs, or plastic or metal garbage cans with lids." … "Twigs and small branches up to 3 inches (75 mm) in diameter each can be tied in bundles"
  - Source: [Organics and Food Scraps, Alternate Recycling Facilities](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1270/Organics-Food-Scraps)
  - Official wording: "Central Surrey Recycling and Waste Centre, 6711 – 154 Street, Surrey, BC V3S 7C6, 604-681-5600" … "Revolution Resource Recovery, 19500 56th Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 6K4, 604-539-1900"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Outdoor burning: $150. Burning residential waste: $150. Under the Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw general penalty: $150 first offence, $500 second, $1,000 third and later.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B16](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Conduct of Persons 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5 $150.00 Outdoor Burning 5.1 $150.00 Residential Burning 5.2 (a) and (b) $150.00" … "Outdoor Burning 5.1 $150.00 Residential Burning 5.2 (a) and (b) $150.00 Accumulation of 5.3 (a), (b) or (c) $150.00" … "Securing Fire Damaged or 5.9.1 $150.00 Vacant Buildings Offences and Penalties 8.1 $150.00, first offence, $500.00, second offence, $1000.00, third or subsequent" … "Vacant Buildings Offences and Penalties 8.1 $150.00, first offence, $500.00, second offence, $1000.00, third or subsequent offence"
  - Source: [Beach Fires and Open-Air Burning, Beach Fires & Open-Air Burning](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/923/Beach-Fires-Open-Air-Burning)
  - Official wording: "Open-air burning can result is a minimum fine of $150"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw, 2014, No. 2057
  - Source: [Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw 2014, No. 2057, s. 12](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/288/Fire-Protection-and-Safety-Bylaw-2014-Number-2057-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw," … "2014, No. 2057."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw 2057](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/288/Fire-Protection-and-Safety-Bylaw-2014-Number-2057-PDF) bans open-air fires of any kind in White Rock. That covers wood campfires and fire pits. The one exception is a fire in an approved portable appliance designed to be fuelled by propane, natural gas or charcoal. No size rules are given. Fire training, fires needed for public safety, and fires approved in advance in writing by the Fire Chief are not counted as open-air fires. There is no permit for ordinary backyard burning.

No one may burn residential waste, including household waste and yard materials, indoors or in the open air under any circumstances.

## Good to know

- Yard trimmings go in the weekly curbside organics collection: Green Can, kraft paper bags, or tied bundles of twigs and branches up to 75 mm thick. Curbside service only reaches properties zoned One, Two or Three Unit Residential. The City's organics page lists Green Cans and kraft paper bags and does not mention bundles, while the bylaw allows them.
- Extra yard waste can go to Central Surrey Recycling and Waste Centre, 6711 154 Street, Surrey (604-681-5600) or Revolution Resource Recovery, 19500 56th Avenue, Surrey (604-539-1900).
- Tickets: $150 for outdoor burning and $150 for burning residential waste. Under the bylaw's general penalty the amounts are $150, $500, then $1,000. The City's burning page says up to $1,150 during a Provincial fire ban. Confirm with Fire Rescue.
- The City bans open-air burning all year, so no seasonal notice applies. Provincial bans are posted on the BC Wildfire Service fire prohibitions page at gov.bc.ca.

## Official forms and pages

- [White Rock Fire Rescue](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/235/White-Rock-Fire-Rescue)
- [Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw No. 2057 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/288/Fire-Protection-and-Safety-Bylaw-2014-Number-2057-PDF)
- [Beach Fires and Open-Air Burning](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/923/Beach-Fires-Open-Air-Burning)

## Related questions

- [White Rock yard waste collection and drop-off](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/yard-waste.md)
- [White Rock fireworks rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/fireworks.md)
- [White Rock bylaw fines and how tickets work](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/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)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/backyard-fire.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/backyard-fire.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/backyard-fire.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/backyard-fire.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/backyard-fire.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/backyard-fire.md)

## Sources

- [Fire Protection and Safety Bylaw 2014, No. 2057 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/288/Fire-Protection-and-Safety-Bylaw-2014-Number-2057-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Beach Fires and Open-Air Burning, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/923/Beach-Fires-Open-Air-Burning) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Fire Bans and Restrictions, BC Wildfire Service](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/fire-bans-and-restrictions) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Solid Waste Bylaw 2015, No. 2084 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/270/Collection-Removal-Disposal-and-Recycling-of-Solid-Waste-Bylaw-2015-Number-2084-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Organics and Food Scraps, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1270/Organics-Food-Scraps) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/backyard-fire/_


---

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

# White Rock fireworks rules

**Question:** Are fireworks allowed in White Rock?

**Short answer:** No, not for residents. In White Rock only a certified Fireworks Supervisor holding a permit from the Fire Chief may set off fireworks, for special events or festivals. Selling fireworks is banned. The ticket for setting them off without a permit is $100.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Permit application fee $57 (2026). Ticket $100 for fireworks without a permit; $200 for breaking permit terms or for selling or distributing.  
**Where:**
- Phone: White Rock Fire Rescue (non-emergency), 604-541-2121
- In person: White Rock Fire Rescue, 15315 Pacific Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1R1

## Key facts

- **Setting off fireworks:** No, not for residents. Only a certified Fireworks Supervisor holding a permit from the Fire Chief may transport, ignite or set off fireworks in White Rock. Permits are for special events or festivals.
  - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2005, No. 1776, ss. 5, 6, 7](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No person shall transport, ignite, discharge, set-off or explode any Fireworks in the City" … "unless the person is a Fireworks Supervisor and the holder of a valid permit issued by the" … "Fire Chief" … "A person or organization wishing to celebrate a special event or festival may apply in writing"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Selling fireworks:** Not allowed. The sale of fireworks of every nature is prohibited in White Rock, and no one may give or distribute fireworks unless the recipient is a Fireworks Supervisor.
  - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2005, No. 1776, ss. 3, 4](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF)
  - Official wording: "The sale of Fireworks of every nature is prohibited in the City of White Rock." … "No person shall sell, dispose of, give or otherwise distribute Fireworks to another person"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **What counts as fireworks:** Any substance made or used to produce an explosion, detonation or visible pyrotechnic display, including firecrackers, cannon crackers, fireballs, mines, roman candles, skyrockets, squibs, torpedoes and manufactured fireworks as defined in the federal Explosives Act and the BC Fireworks Act.
  - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2005, No. 1776, s. 2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF)
  - Official wording: ""Fireworks" means a substance that is made, manufactured, or used to produce an" … "includes" … "firecrackers, cannon crackers, fireballs, mines, roman candles, skyrockets, squibs, torpedoes,"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Permit:** A person or organization holding a special event or festival may apply in writing to the Fire Chief. Conditions include the property owner's written consent, third-party liability insurance of at least $5,000,000, and a certified Event Fireworks Supervisor present. Application fee $57 (2026). (Sources differ: The Fireworks Regulation Bylaw says a $50 processing fee; the 2026 Fees and Charges Bylaw 2554 (Schedule M) sets $57. Value follows the later fees bylaw.)
  - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2005, No. 1776, ss. 7, 10](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF)
  - Official wording: "may apply in writing to the Fire Chief for a permit" … "The written consent of the property owner or an agent of the owner of the" … "in an amount not less than $5,000,000.00." … "Every applicant for a permit shall pay a processing fee of $50.00"
  - Source: [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2026, No. 2554, Schedule M](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw)
  - Official wording: "Fireworks Discharge Permit Application Fee $57.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Ticket under Bylaw 1929: $100 for setting off fireworks without a permit; $200 for breaking permit terms; $200 for selling or distributing. The fireworks bylaw also allows a $200 violation notice with surrender of the fireworks. Court fine: $100 to $5,000.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B4](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Ignite, discharge, set-off or explode fireworks" … "without a permit" … "$100" … "$200" … "Sale or distribution of fireworks"
  - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2005, No. 1776, ss. 15, 17](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF)
  - Official wording: "a minimum penalty of $100.00 and a maximum penalty of $5,000.00." … "permitted to pay a penalty in the amount of $200.00" … "penalty in the amount of $200.00 and voluntarily surrender to the City of White Rock any" … "conviction to a minimum penalty of $100.00 and a maximum penalty of $5,000.00."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** City of White Rock Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2005, No. 1776
  - Source: [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2005, No. 1776, s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF)
  - Official wording: "City of White Rock Fireworks regulation By-" … "law 2005 No. 1776"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 1776](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF) lets only a certified Fireworks Supervisor holding a permit from the Fire Chief transport, ignite or set off fireworks in White Rock. Permits are for special events or festivals. The bylaw sets no dates or hours, such as for Halloween, so residents have no day on which fireworks are allowed.

"Fireworks" means any substance made or used to produce an explosion, detonation or visible pyrotechnic display, including firecrackers, roman candles, skyrockets and manufactured fireworks. Sparklers are not named or excluded.

## Steps

To hold a permitted display:

1. Apply in writing to the Fire Chief as a person or organization holding a special event or festival.
2. Provide the property owner's written consent and third-party liability insurance of at least $5,000,000.
3. Have a certified Event Fireworks Supervisor present.
4. Pay the $57 application fee.

## Good to know

- The sale of fireworks of every nature is prohibited, and no one may give or distribute fireworks unless the recipient is a Fireworks Supervisor.
- Tickets: $100 for setting off fireworks without a permit; $200 for breaking permit terms; $200 for selling or distributing. The bylaw also allows a $200 violation notice with surrender of the fireworks. A court fine can be $100 to $5,000.
- The bylaw itself still says a $50 processing fee; the City's 2026 fees bylaw says $57. Confirm with Fire Rescue.

## Official forms and pages

- [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw No. 1776 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF)
- [Prevention and Education (White Rock Fire Rescue)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1189/Prevention-Education)

## Related questions

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

## The same question elsewhere

- [Fireworks rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/fireworks.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/fireworks.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/fireworks.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/fireworks.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/fireworks.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/fireworks.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/fireworks.md)

## Sources

- [Fireworks Regulation Bylaw 2005, No. 1776 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/290/Fireworks-Regulation-Bylaw-2005-Number-1776-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Fees and Charges Bylaw 2026, No. 2554 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/12092/Bylaw-2554---2026-Fees-and-Charges-Bylaw) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

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


---

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

# White Rock bylaw fines and how tickets work

**Question:** What are the common bylaw fines in White Rock?

**Short answer:** White Rock enforces its bylaws with municipal tickets under its Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929; it does not use bylaw notices. A first ticket is $150 for a dog at large, $200 for disturbing noise, $250 for unsightly property and $300 for an unlicensed dog. Repeat offences cost more.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** See each bylaw's schedule in Bylaw 1929 for the full list. Parking tickets are reduced if paid within 7 days (for example $35 instead of $60).  
**Where:**
- Online: Pay a bylaw ticket (MyWhiteRock), https://my.whiterockcity.ca/TempestApps/ecom/PayableItems/TICKETING/Search.aspx?s=TicketNumber&pid=62738C180301152036645569
- Online: Appeal a bylaw violation notice, https://whiterockcity.jotform.com/240314935627962
- In person: City Hall reception, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
- Email: Bylaw Enforcement, bylaw@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **How tickets work:** The City uses bylaw tickets under its Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw. Council designates which bylaws can be enforced by ticket, names the officers who may issue them (such as Bylaw Enforcement Officers, RCMP and the Fire Chief), and sets each penalty in a schedule. Tickets are paid at City Hall reception or online at MyWhiteRock.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), ss. 2-5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "may be enforced by means of a ticket in the form" … "prescribed by Regulation." … "designate the fines prescribed pursuant to Section 265 of the Community Charter"
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, FAQ](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement)
  - Official wording: "All bylaw tickets can be paid in person at reception in City Hall."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Common fines:** Dog running at large $150 (first), $250, $500; unlicensed dog $300; disturbing noise $200 (first), $350, $500; nuisance or unsightly property $250; parking where prohibited $60 ($35 if paid within 7 days).
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedules B3, B5, B12, B10](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Dog running at large" … "Failure to license a dog" … "Disturbing Noise" … "Nuisance or unsightly conditions" … "Stopping or parking where prohibited or restricted"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Paying early:** Parking and traffic tickets: reduced amount if paid within 7 days (for example $35 instead of $60). Other schedules list no early-payment amount.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), Schedule B10](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Stopping or parking where prohibited or restricted" … "$60 or $35 if paid"
  - Source: [Parking Tickets, Payment](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/326/Parking-Tickets)
  - Official wording: "Payments may also be made at the reduced rate as shown on front of ticket, if paid within 7 days."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Paying late:** No late-payment increase is stated. For parking meter tickets, if the penalty is not paid within 7 days a Summons may be issued.
  - Source: [Parking Meter Bylaw 1990, No. 1216 (consolidated), s. 17.B (as amended by Bylaw 2333)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/277/Consolidated---Parking-Meter-Bylaw-1990-Number-1216-PDF)
  - Official wording: "If the penalty indicated on the Violation Notice is not paid within seven (7) days of" … "the issuance, a Summons may be issued in respect to the violation. (Added by Bylaw"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Disputing a ticket:** Bylaw tickets: submit an appeal form online, in person at City Hall, or by email to bylaw@whiterockcity.ca. Parking tickets: appeal within seven days of the ticket issue date; if received in that time the early payment amount is honoured. No adjudication fee is stated.
  - Source: [Bylaw Enforcement, FAQ](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement)
  - Official wording: "Submit an appeal form online" … "In person at White Rock City Hall or by email to Bylaw Enforcement at"
  - Source: [Parking Tickets, Parking Ticket Appeals](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/326/Parking-Tickets)
  - Official wording: "Appeals must be made within seven days of your Notice of By-Law Violation (ticket) issue date."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw, 2011, No. 1929
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated), s. 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "This Bylaw may be cited as the "Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw, 2011, No." … "1929.""
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The City of White Rock uses municipal tickets under the [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF). Council designates which bylaws can be enforced by ticket, names the officers who may issue them (such as Bylaw Enforcement Officers, the RCMP and the Fire Chief), and sets each penalty in a schedule. The bylaw cites the Community Charter ticket regime. We found no separate bylaw notice (adjudication) bylaw in the City's bylaw list.

## Steps

1. Pay at City Hall reception, or online at MyWhiteRock.
2. To dispute a bylaw ticket, submit the appeal form online, in person at City Hall, or by email to bylaw@whiterockcity.ca.
3. For a parking ticket, appeal within seven days of the issue date. If the appeal arrives in that time, the early payment amount is honoured.

## Good to know

- Examples: dog running at large $150, then $250, then $500; unlicensed dog $300; disturbing noise $200, then $350, then $500; nuisance or unsightly property $250; parking where prohibited $60 ($35 if paid within 7 days).
- Early payment: parking and traffic tickets are reduced if paid within 7 days. The other schedules list no early-payment amount.
- No late-payment increase is stated. For parking meter tickets, if the penalty is not paid within 7 days a Summons may be issued.
- No adjudication fee is stated, and no dispute deadline is stated for non-parking tickets. Ask Bylaw Enforcement.
- City Hall reception is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

## Official forms and pages

- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)

## 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)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/bylaw-fines.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/bylaw-fines.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/bylaw-fines.md)

## Sources

- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 2011, No. 1929 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaw Enforcement, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/176/Bylaw-Enforcement) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Parking Tickets, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/326/Parking-Tickets) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Parking Meter Bylaw 1990, No. 1216 (consolidated) (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/277/Consolidated---Parking-Meter-Bylaw-1990-Number-1216-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

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


---

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

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

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

**Short answer:** Yes. Anyone carrying on a business in the City of White Rock needs a valid City business licence: any activity for gain or profit, including professional or personal services, registered not-for-profits and residential rentals. Apply online through the MyWhiteRock portal; the licence is emailed once approved.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** Set by group in Schedule A of Business Licence Bylaw 1510, per licence period: Group 1 $320 plus $25 per employee; Group 2 $150 plus $25; Group 3 $105 plus $25; Group 5 (any business not named elsewhere) $150 plus $25 per employee; Group 4 has flat fees. These are from the April 2020 consolidation; no newer schedule was found.  
**How long:** The City does not state a processing time. A licence lasts one year and expires on the anniversary of the day it was issued.  
**Where:**
- Online: MyWhiteRock business licence portal, https://my.whiterockcity.ca/TempestApps/LoginManager/
- Phone: Business Licence, 604-541-2139
- Email: Business Licence (also books inspections), licences@whiterockcity.ca
- In person: City Hall, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue, White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

## Key facts

- **Who needs one:** Anyone carrying on a business in White Rock needs a valid licence: any activity for gain or profit, including professional or personal services, registered not-for-profits and residential rentals. Exempt: letting a room where not more than two rooms are available, and some non-resident businesses (such as commercial travellers selling to merchants for resale).
  - Source: [Business Licences and Permits, When do you need](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits)
  - Official wording: "If you are doing an activity of any kind or nature that is for the purpose of gain or profit" … "including but not limited to: providing professional, personal or other services, registered not for profits, or residential rentals"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), s. 2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No person shall carry on a business within the City of White Rock without holding a"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), s. 5(b)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "No licence is required for the business of letting or renting a room where not"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), s. 4(a)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Bona Fide, Commercial travelers offering for sale or selling goods, wares or"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fee:** Set by group in Schedule A of the Business Licence Bylaw, per licence period: Group 1 (e.g. professionals) $320 plus $25 per employee; Group 2 $150 plus $25; Group 3 $105 plus $25; Group 5 (any business not named elsewhere) $150 plus $25 per employee. Group 4 has flat fees. 10% discount if paid before the licence period starts.
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Sch. A Group 1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "the fee for each licence period shall be $320.00 plus $25.00 for each"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Sch. A Group 2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "For the following, the fee for each licence period shall be $150.00 plus $25.00 for each employee."
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Sch. A Group 3](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "the fee for each licence shall be $105.00 plus $25.00 for each employee."
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Sch. A Group 5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "The fee for each licence period shall be: $150.00 plus $25.00 for each employee."
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), s. 9(b)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "they will receive a 10% discount on that business licence"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **How to apply:** Apply online through the MyWhiteRock portal. First check that the Zoning Bylaw allows your business at the location; a building permit may be needed first. Staff review the application, and a Fire Department and Building Official inspection may be required. Once approved, the licence is emailed.
  - Source: [Business Licences and Permits, How do you obtain](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits)
  - Official wording: "The City of White Rock, through the MyWhiteRock has an online portal for submitting your business licence application." … "an inspection may be required from White Rock Fire Department and a City Building Official" … "Once your business licence has been approved, it will be emailed directly to you."
  - Source: [Inspections - Business Licence](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1050/Inspections---Business-Licence)
  - Official wording: "If you have submitted a completed business licence application and are looking to book an inspection, please email licences@whiterockcity.ca"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Renewal:** Licences last one year and expire on the anniversary of the day issued. Renew annually through MyWhiteRock; notices go out a month before. Renewing before the anniversary gives a 10% discount. A licence not renewed by the anniversary expires.
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), s. 8(a)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "are valid for one (1) year and will expire on the same day"
  - Source: [Business Licences and Permits, Renewals](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits)
  - Official wording: "Notices for renewals are sent out a month in advance of your anniversary date" … "If you do not renew your business licence on or before the anniversary date the business licence will expire."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Inter-community licence:** Only for transportation network services (ride-hailing): White Rock has an intermunicipal TNS business licence bylaw, and a TNS business holding an Inter-Municipal Business Licence for the Region 1 area is exempt from White Rock's licence. No general inter-community licence found.
  - Source: [Bylaws, Bylaws list](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/177/Bylaws)
  - Official wording: "Intermunicipal Transportation Network Service (TNS) Business Licence Bylaw 2473"
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), s. 4(b)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Any Transportation Network Services business that is in receipt of an Inter-"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** $200 per day for operating without a business licence; $150 for failing to display the licence; $500 per day for operating while the licence is suspended (ticket under the Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw).
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), Schedule B2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Operate without a business licence Sec. 2 $200 per day" … "Failure to display business licence Sec. 10 $150.00" … "Operate business while licence is under suspension Sec 16 $500.00 per day"
  - Source: [Business Licences and Permits, Renewals](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits)
  - Official wording: "Operating a business without a valid licence may result in a fine of $200 per day."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** White Rock Business Licence Bylaw, 1997, No. 1510
  - Source: [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "White Rock Business Licence By-law, 1997, No. 1510" … "Consolidated as of April 2020"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

Under [Business Licence Bylaw 1510](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF), anyone carrying on a business in White Rock needs a valid licence. Exempt: letting a room where not more than two rooms are available, and some non-resident businesses, such as commercial travellers selling to merchants for resale. The bylaw has further exemptions (sections 4 and 5).

## Steps

1. Check that the Zoning Bylaw allows your business at the location. A building permit may be needed first.
2. Apply online through the MyWhiteRock portal.
3. Staff review the application. A Fire Department and Building Official inspection may be required. Email licences@whiterockcity.ca to book one. Inspections are scheduled Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings, and the business must be set up first.
4. Once approved, the licence is emailed to you.
5. Renew each year through MyWhiteRock. Notices go out a month before.

## Good to know

- Renewing before the anniversary, or paying before the licence period starts, earns a 10% discount. A licence not renewed by the anniversary expires.
- The fee schedule is from the April 2020 consolidation of Bylaw 1510 and may be out of date. Ask the Business Licence office, 604-541-2139, for current fees.
- Inter-community licence: the only one found covers transportation network services (ride-hailing). A business holding an Inter-Municipal Business Licence for the Region 1 area is exempt from White Rock's licence. No general inter-community licence was found.
- Tickets under Bylaw 1929: operating without a licence is $200 per day; failing to display the licence is $150; operating while the licence is suspended is $500 per day. Bylaw 1510 still shows an older $75 notice, so confirm the current amount.

## What you'll need

- A floor plan of the business
- A trade qualification ticket, if you are a licensed contractor

## Official forms and pages

- [Business Licences and Permits page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits)
- [Business Licence Inspections](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1050/Inspections---Business-Licence)
- [Business License Bylaw 1510 (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)

## Related questions

- [White Rock home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/home-based-business.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Business licence fees in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/business-licence.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/business-licence.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/business-licence.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/business-licence.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/business-licence.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/business-licence.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/business-licence.md)

## Sources

- [Business Licences and Permits, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Inspections - Business Licence, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/1050/Inspections---Business-Licence) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Bylaws, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/177/Bylaws) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Business License Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)

_Checked by script, not yet by a person: the official wording behind 7 of 7 facts was matched to the official text. Gov Handbook is an independent guide, not affiliated with City of White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/business-licence/_


---

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

# White Rock home-based business rules

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

**Short answer:** Yes. In White Rock an accessory home occupation is permitted in all zones that allow a residential use, if it meets the Zoning Bylaw's section 5.3 conditions and has a City business licence. It must be fully inside the home, use no more than 40% of the floor area, and sell no goods from the dwelling.

**Who handles it:** Municipal (City of White Rock, https://www.whiterockcity.ca)  
**Cost:** No home-occupation fee is named in the Business Licence Bylaw. A business not named in any group pays $150 plus $25 per employee, but that schedule is from April 2020 and the City does not say whether it applies to home businesses.  
**Where:**
- Online: MyWhiteRock business licence portal, https://my.whiterockcity.ca/TempestApps/LoginManager/
- Phone: Business Licence, 604-541-2139
- Email: Business Licence, licences@whiterockcity.ca

## Key facts

- **Allowed:** Yes. An accessory home occupation is permitted in all zones that allow a residential use, under the s. 5.3 conditions. In multi-unit and mixed commercial/residential zones, and on SSMUH lots with a bed and breakfast or short term rental, no clients may come to the building. Where an SSMUH lot has more than 2 units including a suite or detached unit, only a home office is allowed.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.3), s. 5.3.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "An accessory home occupation use is permitted in all zones permitting a residential use," … "no home occupation shall be permitted which involves clients directly" … "to a home office only."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Business licence:** Yes. Every home occupation needs a valid business licence, and none is issued without the owner's written consent. Fees are set by business type in Schedule A of the Business Licence Bylaw; a business not named in any group pays $150 plus $25 per employee. No home-occupation fee is named.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.3), s. 5.3.1(10)-(11)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "all home occupation uses will be required to possess a valid business license;" … "written consent by the Owner or the Owner"
  - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Sch. A, Group 5](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "The fee for each licence period shall be: $150.00 plus $25.00 for each employee."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Limits:** Fully inside the home and no more than 40% of the residential floor area. One non-illuminated sign under the Sign Bylaw. No outdoor storage or display. Only residents plus at most one resident or non-resident employee. Parking on site, with no more than one extra space. No noise, dust, odours or extra traffic beyond a normal home.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.3), s. 5.3.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "shall not occupy more than 40% of the residential gross" … "there shall be no exterior storage or display of goods or materials;" … "one non-illuminated sign in" … "and not more than one resident or non-resident employee;" … "No more than one additional off-street" … "vehicular traffic other than that normally associated with a residential dwelling;"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Businesses not allowed:** No wholesale or retail sale of goods or materials from the dwelling. No assembly uses, and nothing that generates noise, vibration, dust, odours, vapours, heat, on-street parking or traffic beyond a normal home. Client visits are barred in the zones and lots noted above.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.3), s. 5.3.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "the wholesale or retail sale of any goods or materials from the dwelling unit is not" … "permitted;" … "used for any assembly related uses or occupancies, or for any"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** White Rock Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506 (s. 5.3); Business Licence Bylaw, 1997, No. 1510
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.3), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "WHITE ROCK ZONING BYLAW, 2024, No. 2506"
  - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "White Rock Business Licence By-law, 1997, No. 1510"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

[Zoning Bylaw 2506](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (section 5.3) permits an accessory home occupation in all zones that allow a residential use. Every home occupation needs a valid business licence under [Business Licence Bylaw 1510](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF), and none is issued without the owner's written consent.

## Steps

1. Check your plan against section 5.3 (see below).
2. If you rent, get the owner's written consent.
3. Apply for a business licence through MyWhiteRock, or call 604-541-2139.

## Good to know

- The business must be fully inside the home and use no more than 40% of the residential floor area.
- One non-illuminated sign under the Sign Bylaw. No outdoor storage or display.
- Only residents plus at most one resident or non-resident employee.
- Parking must be on site, with no more than one extra space, additional to the home's required parking.
- No wholesale or retail sale of goods or materials from the dwelling, no assembly uses, and nothing that creates noise, vibration, dust, odours, vapours, heat, on-street parking or traffic beyond a normal home. The bylaw does not list banned business types by name.
- In multi-unit and mixed commercial/residential zones, and on SSMUH lots with a bed and breakfast or short-term rental, no clients may come to the building. Where an SSMUH lot has more than 2 units including a suite or detached unit, only a home office is allowed.
- A ticket for failing to comply with the home occupation requirements is $500, then $1,000, then $2,000 for a third and later offence (Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929).

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw 2506, section 5.3 Accessory Home Occupation Use (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
- [Business Licences and Permits page](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits)

## Related questions

- [White Rock business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/business-licence.md)
- [White Rock short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/short-term-rental.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Home-based business rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/home-based-business.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/home-based-business.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/home-based-business.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/home-based-business.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/home-based-business.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/home-based-business.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/home-based-business.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.3), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Business Licence Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Business Licences and Permits, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits) (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 White Rock. How answers are checked: https://govhandbook.com/methods/ · Canonical page: https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/home-based-business/_


---

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

# White Rock short-term rental rules (Airbnb, Vrbo)

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

**Short answer:** In White Rock a short-term rental (90 days or less) is allowed only from a registered secondary suite that meets the Building Code, run by the owner or an immediate family member who lives full-time in the home. It needs a City business licence and registration with the Province.

**Who handles it:** More than one level of government  
**Cost:** The Business Licence Bylaw fee schedule lists "Accessory Vacation Rental" at $150. That schedule is from the April 2020 consolidation and may be out of date. The Province also charges an annual registration fee.  
**Where:**
- Phone: Business Licence, 604-541-2139
- Email: Business Licence, licences@whiterockcity.ca
- Online: Business licence applications (MyWhiteRock), https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits
- Phone: Province of BC short-term rental help (ServiceBC), 1-833-828-2240
- Email: Province of BC short-term rental registry, STRregistry@sbc.gov.bc.ca

## Key facts

- **Allowed:** Yes, in a limited form. A short term rental (90 days or less) may only be run from a registered secondary suite that meets the Building Code, by the owner or an immediate family member who lives full-time in the home. A tenant may not sublet the suite for this. It is a permitted accessory use in the SSMUH residential zones.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.8), s. 5.8.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "only be operated from an accessory registered secondary suite that complies with all" … "full-time resident and occupant of the one-" … "A tenant may not sublet the accessory registered secondary suite for"
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.8), s. 3 Definitions](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "guests for periods not to exceed ninety (90) days."
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.8), s. 6.1.2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "f. a short term rental in accordance with the provisions"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Business licence:** Yes. A valid business licence is required, and its number must appear in all advertising. The Business Licence Bylaw fee schedule lists 'Accessory Vacation Rental' at $150 (a different name from the zoning term).
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.8), s. 5.8.1(l)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "have a valid business license, and display the business licence number in all"
  - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Sch. A, Group 4](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Accessory Vacation Rental (added by 2308) $150.00"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Provincial registration:** Yes. Hosts must register with the Province and pay an annual fee for stays under 90 consecutive days. White Rock is on the Province's list of communities where the provincial principal residence requirement applies (as of June 1, 2026). Contact ServiceBC 1-833-828-2240, STRregistry@sbc.gov.bc.ca.
  - Source: [Short-term rentals, Province of British Columbia, Services and information topics](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." … "Short-term rentals are limited to principal residences in many B.C. communities."
  - Source: [Principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia, List of communities where the principal residence requirement applies](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement)
  - Official wording: "The expandable menu below lists the communities where the principal residence requirement applies (as of June 1, 2026)." … "Provincial registration requirements apply to short-term rentals offered for fewer than 90 consecutive days, regardless of whether a local business licence is required."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Operating rules:** Up to two sleeping units and four adult guests, one booking at a time, stays of 90 days or less, no exterior signage. Business licence number must appear in all advertising. A named responsible person must reach the unit within two hours. Fire extinguishers and interconnected smoke and CO alarms. Parking per s. 4.14.
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.8), s. 5.8.1](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "be limited to a maximum of two (2) sleeping units only;" … "be limited to no more than four (4) adult guests at any given time;" … "not have any exterior signage advertising the short term rental use;" … "term rental premises within two hours of being requested to do so;" … "install fire extinguishers, interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and" … "have a valid business license, and display the business licence number in all"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Fine:** Zoning ticket for failing to comply with the short term rental requirements: $500 first offence, $1,000 second, $2,000 third and later. Operating without a business licence: $200 per day.
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), Schedule B13](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Failure to comply with the short term rental Sec. 5.8 $500.00 1st" … "$2000.00 3rd and"
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), Schedule B2](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Operate without a business licence Sec. 2 $200 per day"
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06
- **Bylaw:** White Rock Zoning Bylaw, 2024, No. 2506 (s. 5.8); Business Licence Bylaw, 1997, No. 1510; Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw, 2011, No. 1929
  - Source: [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.8), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
  - Official wording: "WHITE ROCK ZONING BYLAW, 2024, No. 2506"
  - Source: [Business Licence Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF)
  - Official wording: "White Rock Business Licence By-law, 1997, No. 1510"
  - Source: [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), Title](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF)
  - Official wording: "Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw, 2011, No."
  - Check: wording matched the official text retrieved 2026-11-06

## How it works

The [Zoning Bylaw 2506](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (section 5.8) allows a short-term rental (90 days or less) only from a registered secondary suite that meets the Building Code. The owner or an immediate family member must live full-time in the home, and a tenant may not sublet the suite for this. It is a permitted accessory use in the SSMUH residential zones. Only one accessory use is allowed at a time on a one-unit lot, so a short-term rental and a bed and breakfast cannot run together.

The Province also applies. White Rock is on the Province's list of communities where the principal-residence requirement applies (as of June 1, 2026), and hosts must register with the Province and pay an annual fee.

## Steps

1. Confirm your home has a registered secondary suite that meets the BC Building Code.
2. Get a City business licence (the licence number must appear in all advertising).
3. Register with the Province: ServiceBC, 1-833-828-2240, STRregistry@sbc.gov.bc.ca.
4. Name a responsible person who can reach the unit within two hours, and install fire extinguishers and interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

## Good to know

- Limits: up to two sleeping units and four adult guests, one booking at a time, stays of 90 days or less, no exterior signage, and parking as required by section 4.14. The structure cannot be altered in a way that changes the home's character.
- The designated person must have authority over the rental agreement.
- Tickets under Bylaw 1929: failing to comply with the short-term rental requirements is $500, $1,000, then $2,000 for a third and later offence. Operating without a business licence is $200 per day.
- Whole-home rentals of a second home were not found to be allowed. Ask the Business Licence office, 604-541-2139.

## Official forms and pages

- [Zoning Bylaw No. 2506, section 5.8 Short Term Rental (PDF)](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024)
- [Short-term rentals (Province of BC)](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals)

## Related questions

- [White Rock secondary suite and carriage house rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/secondary-suite.md)
- [White Rock business licences: who needs one, fees and how to apply](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/business-licence.md)
- [White Rock home-based business rules](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/white-rock/home-based-business.md)

## The same question elsewhere

- [Short-term rental rules in British Columbia, by municipality](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/short-term-rental.md)
- [Surrey](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/surrey/short-term-rental.md)
- [Langley City](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley/short-term-rental.md)
- [Township of Langley](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/langley-township/short-term-rental.md)
- [Delta](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/delta/short-term-rental.md)
- [New Westminster](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/new-westminster/short-term-rental.md)
- [Burnaby](https://govhandbook.com/ca/bc/burnaby/short-term-rental.md)

## Sources

- [Zoning Bylaw 2024, No. 2506 (PDF, section 5.8), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/8003/Zoning-Bylaw-2024-No-2506-Adopted-June-27-2024) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Business Licence Bylaw 1997, No. 1510 (PDF, consolidated April 2020), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/272/Consolidated---Business-License-Bylaw-1997-Number-1510-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Ticketing for Bylaw Offences Bylaw 1929 (PDF, consolidated November 2024), City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/DocumentCenter/View/2072/Consolidated---Ticketing-for-Bylaw-Offences-2011-No-1929-PDF) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Short-term rentals, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Principal residence requirement, Province of British Columbia](https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/short-term-rentals/principal-residence-requirement) (read 2026-11-05)
- [Business Licences and Permits, City of White Rock](https://www.whiterockcity.ca/901/Business-Licences-Permits) (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/white-rock/short-term-rental/_