Planning a construction, renovation, or business?
We're making it easier to get the permits and licences you need to build a project or start a business.
Construction-related permits
Faster permit approvals with streamlined processes
Move ahead with your project sooner with new fast-track options for:
Simpler permit applications with new digital tools
- Explore what you need for your project.
- Upload your drawings and get instant feedback.
- Apply and track your progress.
More predictable timelines you can count on
We’ve set clear approval targets.
Check current wait times and plan your next steps with confidence.
How we’re tracking our targets
Business licensing
Simpler licence requirements
You may need fewer licences than you think. We’ve simplified business types and combined categories.
Faster licence approvals online
You can now apply for or renew your business licence online and get approved in less than 7 days.
What's happeningNew streamlined multiplex application stream
If your multiplex project features 3 to 4 units split in 2 buildings, you can now apply for your project’s building permit as soon as your development permit has been approved-in-principle and save time. Learn more about this multiplex process
More projects can now use our project exploration tool
You can now use the online application portal to explore and understand the requirements for:
- Multiplexes with 3 to 4 dwelling units split into 2 buildings
- Duplexes
- Single detached houses
- Laneway houses
We’re working on expanding the types of applications supported. Check back for updates.
Join our instant drawing check pilot
Join the pilot. Upload your drawings for a single detached or a laneway home and get instant feedback if your project is fully compliant or requires changes.
We’re working on expanding the types of applications supported. Check back for updates.
Tesimonials
“During a recent pre-production meeting, I was pleasantly surprised by the significant improvement in turnaround time for our permit submission from the city. I know this improvement is the result of significant effort from multiple individuals along with the city's staff.” – Smallworks (custom home builder)
“…My family and I left Vancouver in 2015 due to the challenges we encountered in acquiring land and navigating the permitting process. At that time, the system was slow, opaque, and burdensome, which created real barriers to growth and development. In 2023, we made the decision to return to Vancouver, and we have been truly impressed with the tangible progress your team has made. The permitting process is now far more efficient and transparent, with faster timelines, proactive approach to development, and clearer communication.” – Dura (developer)
Our vision for permitting and licensing
Permitting and licensing is getting better
The program is not just about speeding up approvals, but it’s about transforming how people interact with us when planning a project or starting a business.
Our goal is a permitting and licensing system that’s:
- Simple – Easy to understand and navigate
- Transparent – Clear timelines and requirements
- Predictable – Consistent reviews and reliable processing
- Efficient – Streamlined steps and faster decisions
- Seamless – A fully digital journey that lets you explore requirements, upload drawings, get real-time feedback, apply, and track your progress in 1 place
Additional permit and licensing improvements
Next steps
Over the next several months, you’ll notice additional improvements, including:
- Being able to use our permitting application portal to explore and check project requirements for more project types
- Receiving 1 notice for all application deficiencies (Note Applicants will no longer need to navigate multiple departments for revisions.)
- Updates to zoning regulations and City-Wide Design Guidelines to make them clearer, more transparent, and predictable
- City-initiated rezonings to reduce reliance on individual applications, which can take up to 24 to 36 months each.
- Streamlined height calculations in Residential Inclusive (R1-1) zones to enable digitization and automation, saving an estimated 600 staff hours annually.
We’ll continue to share updates as new improvements are implemented.
