Get an occupancy permit

Steps to getting an occupancy permit

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  Step 1:  Determine if you need an occupancy permit

  An occupancy permit must be issued prior to occupying space(s) in any commercial or multi-unit residential building. This includes:

  • Any new space created
  • Major renovations
  • A change to the proposed use of the space

  Not sure if an occupancy permit is required?  Please refer to the requirements listed on your associated building permit or contact the Development and Building Services Centre.

  When you may not need an occupancy permit

  In some cases we do not require an occupancy permit (such as for houses and laneway houses), but the property owner or their contractor may want to get an occupancy permit for other reasons. In these cases, additional fees will apply.

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  Step 2:  Submit your application

  You should only apply for an  occupancy permit:

  • After you have been issued the permit(s) authorizing the work to begin, AND
  • At least 3 weeks prior to the date you plan to occupy your building or space

  A. Fill out application form

  Provide details about your proposed occupancy. Fill out the occupancy permit application form PDF file (757 KB).

  B. Review fees

  When an occupancy permit is not required under a City by-law (such as for houses and laneway houses) and the property owner or their contractor may want to get an occupancy permit for other reasons, a fee of $300 will apply.   

  If an occupancy permit is required under the by-law, you will not be required to pay any additional fees. 

    If you don't already have an online account with us and your project requires a fee, set up an online account prior to applying. The email used should be included in the application form.

  C. Submit your application

  You can submit your application by email to occupancy@vancouver.ca.

  D. Pay fees (if required)

  You can pay your fee:

  • Online (Shortly after we receive your application, we will provide you access to a customer account where you can pay the fee online.)
  • In person at the Development and Building Services Centre 
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  Step 3:  City reviews application and provides next steps if required

  Once your occupancy permit application has been submitted, we will provide you with the actions you will need to take to have your occupancy permit issued.

  Approvals from our other departments and external agencies may also be required, which may include, but is not limited to:

  • Vancouver Coastal Health
  • Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services (for example fire prevention inspection)
  • Environmental Protection Office (for example grease interceptor inspection)

  Note  If no actions are required, we will issue you an occupancy permit. Go to step 4

  Actions you may need to take

  The type of actions you may need to take will depend on the type of space proposed and the requirements outlined in previous permit(s) that were issued to perform the work.

  Is a Fire Safety Plan required as a condition of your occupancy permit? Review how to prepare and submit a Fire Safety Plan

  Do you have a large multi-residential or commercial property where required landscaping cannot be provided prior to the proposed occupancy date? You must arrange for an agreement to complete outstanding landscaping before an occupancy permit can be issued. Email occupancy@vancouver.ca for further details.

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  Step 4:  Occupy your space

  Once your occupancy permit has been issued (subject to the terms listed in the permit) you may occupy the space defined in the permit.

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