Apply for Online Building Permits in Burnaby

Technology and Data British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of British Columbia · By Daniel Roy

In Burnaby, British Columbia, most building permit applications can be started online through the City of Burnaby’s permitting system. This guide explains the online application flow, required documents, review and payment steps, how enforcement works under city bylaws, and where to get official help. Use the city pages linked below to submit plans, check status and contact the building office directly. Follow municipal requirements closely to avoid delays during review and inspection.

Apply early to allow time for plan review and revisions.

What to prepare before you apply

Prepare a full set of drawings, a completed application form, owner authorization if required, and any specialist reports (geotechnical, structural, energy compliance). File formats and scale requirements are specified on the City site where you submit your application.[1]

Applications & Forms

The City publishes the online application portal and instructions. If a specific downloadable permit form is required, it will be linked on the portal; fees and submission methods are listed on the permits and inspections pages.[1][2]

Incomplete submissions delay approval.

How to apply online

  1. Gather drawings and reports in the required file formats.
  2. Create an online account and start a new building permit application on the city portal.[1]
  3. Pay application and plan-review fees as required by the portal; fee details are listed on the permits page.[2]
  4. Respond to reviewer requests and upload revisions until plan approval is granted.
  5. Schedule inspections online once the permit is issued and proceed with construction in compliance with approved drawings.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of building and construction standards in Burnaby is carried out by the City’s Building Department and Bylaw Enforcement. Typical enforcement actions include stop-work orders, orders to remedy non-compliant work, permit refusal or revocation, and prosecution in court for persistent contraventions.[3]

  • Monetary fines: specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited page; see the city enforcement pages for details.[3]
  • Continuing offences and escalation: ranges or per-day continuing penalties are not specified on the cited page.[3]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, remedial orders and potential prosecution are available enforcement tools per the City’s enforcement practices.[3]
  • Appeals and review: specific appeal routes and statutory time limits are not specified on the cited page; contact the Building Department for appeal procedures.[3]

Common violations

  • Starting construction without a permit — enforcement action applicable.
  • Working contrary to approved plans (unauthorized alterations).
  • Failure to schedule required inspections.

FAQ

How long does an online building permit take?
Processing times vary by project complexity and completeness of the submission; specific timelines are not specified on the cited page.[1]
What documents are mandatory for an online submission?
Mandatory documents generally include drawings, site plans, and any specialist reports; exact requirements are listed on the City application portal.[1]
Who do I contact about inspections or enforcement?
Contact the City of Burnaby Building Department or Bylaw Enforcement through the official contact page.[3]

How-To

  1. Review the City of Burnaby online building permit instructions and ensure your project type is eligible for online submission.[1]
  2. Assemble drawings and reports to the City’s required standards.
  3. Submit the application and upload documents via the online portal; pay fees as prompted.[2]
  4. Monitor reviewer comments, upload revisions, and respond promptly until approval.
  5. After issuance, print or retain your permit and schedule required inspections online.

Key Takeaways

  • Start online early and provide complete documentation to reduce review time.
  • Contact the Building Department for questions about forms, fees and appeals.[3]
  • Respond to reviewer requests promptly to avoid delays.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burnaby - Apply for a building permit
  2. [2] City of Burnaby - Building permits and inspections
  3. [3] Contact the Building Department - City of Burnaby

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Daniel Roy

Daniel Roy

Municipal Bylaw Analyst

Daniel analyses municipal bylaws across Canadian provinces and territories. He checks every guide against official municipal and provincial sources.