Burnaby Encroachment Permit for Sidewalk Work
In Burnaby, British Columbia, any work that occupies or alters the public sidewalk, boulevard or road allowance may require an encroachment permit from the City. This guide explains the municipal permitting pathway, typical application steps, enforcement and appeal routes, and practical actions you can take to comply when planning sidewalk repairs, new driveway crossings, construction scaffolding, or temporary access works.
Who needs an encroachment permit
Property owners, contractors and developers planning to place materials, equipment, scaffolding, signs, or make permanent changes to the sidewalk or boulevard should check permit requirements before starting work. Activities commonly requiring permits include: obstruction of pedestrian access, permanent structures within the boulevard, and excavation near utilities.
How to apply
Applications are typically submitted to the City engineering or permits office; requirements usually include site plans, a description of works, insurance and indemnity, traffic protection plans if applicable, and payment of fees where required.
- Prepare a site plan showing the sidewalk, curb, and location of proposed works.
- Provide contractor details, proof of insurance and contact information.
- Propose dates and times for the works and any traffic control measures.
- Pay applicable application or occupation fees if required.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement for unpermitted encroachments is handled by the City of Burnaby through its bylaw and engineering enforcement units. Specific monetary penalties, daily fines, or fee schedules for sidewalk encroachments are not specified on the cited page in this guide; consult the City for the controlling bylaw or fee schedule.
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence measures are not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions may include orders to remove structures, restoration directions, stop-work notices and prosecution through municipal court.
- Enforcer and inspection: the City of Burnaby Bylaw Enforcement and Engineering Permits office administer compliance and respond to complaints.
- Appeals and reviews: time limits and appeal routes are determined by the specific bylaw or order and are not specified on the cited page.
Applications & Forms
The City publishes specific permit application forms and requirements for boulevard, sidewalk and street occupation permits when available; if a named form or fee is required for your project, it will be listed on the City permits page or provided by the Engineering/Permits office. If no form is published for a particular activity, the City may accept a written application with required attachments.
Common violations
- Placing materials or storage on the sidewalk without a permit.
- Installing permanent structures in the boulevard without approval.
- Failing to provide approved pedestrian protection or traffic control.
- Excavating or disturbing boulevard surfaces without authorization.
How-To
- Confirm whether your planned work affects public property and likely needs an encroachment permit.
- Gather required documents: site plan, contractor insurance, traffic protection plan, and photos.
- Contact the City engineering or permits office to request the application form or submission instructions.
- Submit the application with payment if applicable and await written approval before starting works.
- Comply with any conditions, inspections and restore the area as required after completion.
FAQ
- Do I need an encroachment permit to repair my driveway crossing?
- Generally yes—work that alters the sidewalk, curb or boulevard usually requires an encroachment or boulevard permit; confirm with the City engineering office.
- How long does approval take?
- Processing times vary by project complexity and are not specified on the cited page; contact the City for current timelines.
- What if I start work without a permit?
- You may receive a stop-work order, be required to remove the encroachment and could face fines or restoration orders.
Key Takeaways
- Check permit requirements before starting sidewalk or boulevard works.
- Prepare clear site plans, insurance and traffic control details for application.
- Contact City engineering or bylaw enforcement early to avoid enforcement actions.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Burnaby - Bylaws
- City of Burnaby - Permits & Inspections
- City of Burnaby - Roads and Traffic