Southeast False Creek construction

Get a development permit

Development permits ensure the livability and functionality of neighbourhoods by regulating the built form and ensuring land uses are appropriately located.

When you need a separate development permit before getting a building permit

In the case of large scale projects, and/or where zoning relaxations or particular types of land uses are proposed, a separate development permit is required before a building permit application can be submitted.  

Unsure on whether your project requires a separate development permit? Contact the Development and Building Services Centre.

What is development?

In Vancouver, development is "any change in the use of any land or building or the carrying out of any construction, engineering, or other operation in, on, over, or under land or land covered by water". 

Development:

  • Applies to both construction/ renovation and changing the use of a building or part of a building
  • Is regulated by the Zoning and Development By-law 

Find an active development application in your neighbourhood.

Submit your application

Reduce wait times: We are making changes to speed up permitting and reduce wait times. Learn about changes to development

Streamline building permits: To help improve permit processing times, new developments who require excavation and shoring may be eligible to receive their building permit in advance of their development permit. Learn more about the process

Don't follow the steps to getting a development permit if you are:

Steps to getting a development permit

Steps to submitting an amendment to an issued development permit

General permit enquiries

Contact the Development and Building Services Centre online

Permits, inspections, and forms

Apply for and manage permit

Review regulations and apply for the required permits for your construction or renovation project.

Inspections

Book or cancel an electrical, plumbing, building, fire sprinkler, gas, or sidewalk inspection for your construction or renovation project.

Forms, checklists, and bulletins

View and download the building or development permit application forms and submission requirements.

Request a meeting with a planner

All questions are required unless marked optional.