Building Board of Appeal

The Building Board of Appeal hears appeals about decisions made by the Chief Building Official related to:

Interpretation of the by-law
Use of new construction methods of or materials
Upgrading existing buildings
Permitting alternative proposals

Committee meetings

Meeting frequency and quorum

Who we are

Members
Terms end December 1, 2026

Architectural Institute of British Columbia

Maura Gatensby

Architectural Institute of British Columbia

Maura Gatensby

Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia
- Robert Heikkila
- Leonard Pianalto
- Nima Tafazzoli
Law Society of British Columbia

Sara Dubinsky
Committee terms and membership composition
Composition of the committee

The board consists of 5 members appointed by Council, from each of the these societies or associations:
- 1 member of the Law Society of British Columbia
- 1 member of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia
- 1 member of Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia who is a consultant in Fire and Life Safety
- 2 members of Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia who are qualified by virtue of their training and experience to provide expertise in the areas of:
  - Structural
  - Mechanical
  - Electrical
  - Building Enclosure
  - Geotechnical
Members are appointed for a term of 4 years.

Any member may be removed by a Council resolution passed with at least 2/3 of all its members.

Remuneration

Council may establish remuneration for the Board members.

Terms of reference

The Building Board of Appeal By-law sets out the board's appointment, membership, scope and operation, procedures, and duties. Review the Building Board of Appeal By-law

Resources for civic agency members

Accessible events checklist and resources
Helps for planning events that are equally accessible and inclusive, including for people with disabilities, seniors, and people who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+.
Code of Conduct By-law (225 KB)
Sets minimum expectations for the behaviour of Council officials and advisory body members in carrying out their functions.
Guidelines for Civic Agencies (382 KB)
Explains the roles and responsibilities of members and liaisons and provides an overview of procedures.
Diversity on Civic Agencies Policy (30 KB)
Establishes targets to achieve diverse demographic composition on advisory bodies.
Procedure By-law (206 KB)
Regulates the procedures of Council and its committees and other bodies.

Apply to appeal a decision

Send application and enquiries to:

Secretary of the Building Board of Appeal

c/o Building Policy Branch

Email: [email protected]

City of Vancouver virtual assistant

Tell us how you found your conversation today