Permit Types
Permits are issued to property owners and owner's agents for a variety of projects. Once you know which permit is appropriate for your project, you can access the specific brochures and applications you will need to have issued:
Read through Permit Processing for single/two family residential, multi-family, and commercial projects for an overview of the steps you need to take when processing a permit or completing a specific project.
To access a complete list of City permits, please visit our city-wide Permits page.
Building Permit
Issued for the construction of all structures including new buildings, additions, interior finishing, signs, building moving and building demolitions.
Electrical Permit
Issued to a licenced electrical contractor holding a valid Burnaby business licence or home owner for any electrical work undertaken. A permit can only be issued to the home owner of a single-family dwelling who is living on their own property. Electrical permits are required for all energized signs, movie sets and outdoor live performances.Fire Protection Permit (Sprinkler Permits)
Issued to sprinkler contractors for the installation of sprinkler heads, etc.Gas Permit
Issued to gas contractors (owner may obtain permit in single family dwellings only) for all gas installations. Gas installation over 409,000 BTU to be obtained from the Provincial Safety Authority.Heating Permit
Issued to a heating contractor for the installation of forced air or hydronic heating systems in any self contained residential unit.In-Law Suite Licence
Issued to home owners or to the principal tenant of a dwelling unit who wishes to have an immediate member of his or her family share their home.
Please note that the City is currently reviewing a new Secondary Suite Program to manage the legalization of all existing secondary suites in single family dwellings and allow for the development of suites in new single family residences. This program may include future changes to the current In-law suite licence. To learn more please visit our Secondary Suites webpage.
Plumbing Permit
Issued to plumbing contractors or home owners for plumbing work in new houses, additions, commercial, public and industrial buildings. Permits are also required for any site work. A plumbing permit can be issued to a home owner for single family dwellings only.Preliminary Plan Approval For Signs
Required prior to the issuance of any building or electrical permits for a sign.Swimming Pools
A building permit is required for any swimming pool having a water surface area exceeding 14 m2 (150 sq. ft.) and a depth of more than 500 mm (20 inches).Tree Cutting Permit
Required if trees are to be removed as part of the construction or demolition of a new single or two family home.
