By-law Administration and Records Services

Illegal Marijuana Grow Operations (Re-Occupancy Permit)

Property owners are responsible for obtaining all of the required permit clearances and related approvals prior to the issuance of a Re-Occupancy Permit when an illegal grow operation has been revealed. Staff will assist the property owner or authorized agent through the various stages involved in the Re-Occupancy Permit process.

The staff works closely with the following branches:

• Property Use Inspectors
• Building Inspectors
• Electrical Inspectors
• Plumbing and Gas Inspectors
• Licence Office
• Enquiry Centre

The following are the requirements to allow for re-occupancy of a building that has been vacated and/or had services disconnected due to unsafe conditions such as an illegal marijuana grow operation:

• Must remove all materials used in connection with the grow operation;
• Must not commence work (repairs or painting) prior to inspection by City staff;
• Must attend the Second Floor, East Wing of City Hall, 2675 Yukon Street, and apply for a Co-ordinated Special Inspection Permit [please refer to the Fee Schedule (16kb)]. If the property owner cannot attend, the agent must provide legal documentation to confirm that they are authorized to act on behalf of the owner;
• Must book an appointment for a co-ordinated inspection with the receptionist, Main Floor, East Wing of City Hall at 2675 Yukon Street or call 604.873.7601;
• Must meet the inspectors on site on the pre-arranged date and time. If the inspection date is missed or if any work has started on repairs prior to the inspection, a re-inspection fee will be charged;
• Must wait (approximately 5 working days) for a follow-up letter outlining any deficiencies in the building that must be rectified;
• Must have a licensed electrical contractor and gas fitter apply for re-connection permits for electrical and gas services and for correction of any deficiencies reported. The gas inspector must be provided with a gas installation test certificate that is completed by the gas fitter;
• Must have the building professionally cleaned and inspected by a qualified air quality specialist who must confirm in writing to the city that the building is substantially free of any toxic substances, moulds or fungi;
• Must apply for any additional required permits and carry out all required work as outlined in the follow-up letter;
• Must apply for a Re-Occupancy Permit (18kb) at the property information counter, Second Floor, East Wing of City Hall at 2675 Yukon Street. Please refer to the Fee Schedule (16kb) for applicable fees;
• Must have contractors arrange for inspections (604.873.7061) of all work completed under permits;
• Must arrange for inspections (604.873.7061) of any repair work completed for which a permit is not required;
• Must obtain a business license for rental of the premises unless the building is owner occupied;
• Must not allow re-occupancy of the premises until a Re-Occupancy Permit has been issued by the City of Vancouver;
• Must have contractors arrange for a final inspection (604.873.7059) of the electrical installation after the service has been re-connected by BC Hydro.

FAQs

Who can apply for a Co-ordinated Special Inspection Permit?

• The owner of the property, or an agent presenting legal documentation authorizing them to do so.

Why is a Re-Occupancy Permit required?

• To ensure that the premise complies with all relevant City by-laws, and is safe to occupy.

How long does it take to issue a Re-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.

Re-Occupancy Permit Staff

Gina Bawn
604.871.6231
gina.bawn@vancouver.ca

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