

After a prolonged shutdown, your building's plumbing system (cold and hot water) and mechanical systems may not be safe. Guidance is available from WorkSafe BC External website, opens in new tab, The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) External website, opens in new tab, American Water Works Association External website, opens in new tab, Province of Ontario External website, opens in new tab, Province of Quebec External website, opens in new tab, Europe External website, opens in new tab, and Public Services and Procurement Canada PDF file (188 KB).
To more effectively respond to incidents, mitigate health risks by pathogens (such as Legionella pneumophila), and ensure compliance with updated standards, operating permits help us and health authorities track new and existing:
- Cooling towers
- Decorative water features
- Non-potable water systems and other building water systems
Get background details
- Review HealthLinkBC's information on Legionella External website, opens in new tab
- Review Vancouver Coastal Health's guide on Legionnaires’ disease at temporary events or trade shows PDF file (155 KB)
Get by-law details
Looking for an electrical annual permit? Review the steps and get an electrical annual permit
Ready to get your permit?
- Review what systems require an operating permit
- Review our guide on how to use the online permit system for operating permits PDF file (1.4 MB)
- Register for an online account (If you don't have an account.)
- Submit your application
- Report water quality results as required. For Legionella pneumophila and E. coli, review laboratory requirements and sampling guidelines.
Types of operating permits
For additional information, contact: operatingpermit@vancouver.ca
As of January 1, 2022, all operating permits must be associated with someone holding the EOCP “Building Water System Operator” certification. Get additional information from the Environmental Operators Certification Program External website, opens in new tab