By-law Administration and Records Services

Occupancy Permits

The occupancy clerk is responsible for obtaining all of the required permit clearances and related approvals prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit.

The staff works closely with the following branches:

• Building Inspections
• Electrical Inspections
• Plumbing, Fire Sprinkler & Gas Inspections
• Property Use Inspections
• Licence Office
• Fire Prevention
• Environmental Protection
• Waterworks Engineering
• Landscape Review
• Building Code Review
• Law Department
• Sewers Inspection

FAQs

When is an occupancy permit required?

• All new commercial and multiple dwelling buildings in the city require an occupancy permit.
• Single family and two family homes do not require occupancy permits, however an application will be processed upon request and if the applicable fees (16kb) are paid.
• Building permits and special inspection permits issued for tenant improvements and/or changes of use, will require occupancy permits.

How do I apply for an occupancy permit for commercial and multiple dwelling buildings?

An application (25kb) may be completed and submitted to the occupancy clerk via mail, fax, e-mail or over the counter.

City of Vancouver
Second Floor – East Wing
2675 Yukon Street
Vancouver, BC V5Y 3P9

E-mail: OccupancyPermit.Approval@vancouver.ca

Phone Number: 604.873.7539

Fax Number: 604.873.7100

How do I apply for an occupancy permit for one or two family dwellings?

• An application (25kb) may be completed and submitted with the payment in person to the occupancy clerk.

When should I apply for an occupancy permit?

• Upon issuance of your building permit or special inspection permit you may submit your application for an occupancy permit.

Is there a fee charged for an occupancy permit?

• There is no fee when processing applications for new commercial buildings, new multiple dwelling buildings, tenant improvement and changes of occupancy.
• The fee for single family and two family homes is subject to change. Please refer to the Fee Schedule (16kb).

How long does it take to issue an occupancy permit?

• This will depend on many factors including but not limited to:

  - The scope of the repairs/alterations required;
  - How quickly the necessary permits are obtained;
  - Receipt of required approvals and clearances;
  - Volume of applications received.

[top]