PRRD Building Bylaw Update
Consultation has concluded. The Regional Board adopted the updated bylaw on May 30, 2024 at the Regular Board Meeting in Dawson Creek.
The new bylaw follows the Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia template, and staff have worked hard to make it more accessible to the general public.
Following public engagement in October 2023 to February 2024, the Peace River Regional District has updated the Building Bylaw to simplify the application process, and to remain compliant with the provincial legislation and the BC Building Code.
The Regional Board adopted the updated bylaw on May 30, 2024 at the Regular Board Meeting in Dawson Creek.
The new bylaw follows the Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia template, and staff have worked hard to make it more accessible to the general public.
The changes include:
- New processes and applications for simple, complex and temporary building permits;
- New process for final inspection and issuance of occupancy permit;
- New fee structure.
Review the 'What you need to know' newsfeed post for a quick summary of the Building Bylaw Updates.
Consultation has concluded. The Regional Board adopted the updated bylaw on May 30, 2024 at the Regular Board Meeting in Dawson Creek.
The new bylaw follows the Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia template, and staff have worked hard to make it more accessible to the general public.
What is the building bylaw?
- Sets out the areas where people must apply for a building permit (mandatory building permit areas)
- Outlines the process applicants must follow to get a building permit
- Outlines the process the PRRD must follow to issue a building permit
- Outlines specific situations where alternatives to the BC Building Code may be considered
- Outlines the enforcement process for when the bylaw is not followed, ie. someone begins construction without first getting a building permit
Where are the mandatory building permit areas?
The mandatory building permit areas are around the City of Fort St. John, District of Taylor, City of Dawson Creek, District of Hudson's Hope, District of Chetwynd, Moberly Lake, Swan Lake, Tomslake, and the Village of Pouce Coupe.
To find out if your property is in the mandatory building permit area go to the PRRD's Interactive Web Map.
When do I need a building permit?
A building permit is required prior to any construction occurring on your property.
Exceptions to this requirement are:
- If your property is not within a mandatory building permit area
- If your property is within the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) and the building you are constructing is for farm use only
- If the building is less than 11m2
- If you are doing renovations that don't include structural alterations, electrical work or plumbing, such as replacing cabinets or flooring
What if my property is not in the mandatory building permit area?
If your property is not within the mandatory building permit area you do not have to apply for a building permit prior to beginning construction.
You can still apply for a building permit even if you are outside of the mandatory building permit area. In some cases your mortgage provider or insurer may require confirmation of a building permit.
How was my feedback that I gave in 2023 used? you receive through this public engagement be used?
The feedback we collected during the public engagement in 2023 was summarized for the Regional Board's information in February 2024, and is reflected in the new Building Bylaw and application forms.
