Commercial Solar Permits - Burnaby Bylaws Guide

Utilities and Infrastructure British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of British Columbia

Burnaby, British Columbia requires commercial solar installations to comply with municipal bylaws, zoning, and building regulations before work begins. This guide explains the approvals you typically need, who enforces the rules, how to submit applications, and the common steps for interconnection with utilities. Follow the municipal permit workflow to reduce delays, ensure inspections are scheduled, and meet safety and siting requirements for rooftop and ground-mounted commercial photovoltaic systems. Read the sections below for practical steps, enforcement information, and official contacts.

Confirm zoning and roof/structural suitability before applying.

Permits & Approvals

Commercial solar projects usually involve multiple approvals: zoning confirmation, development or variance permits (if required), building permits for structural and roofing works, and electrical permits for installation and connection. Coordinate early with Burnaby Planning and the Building Division to confirm requirements for your site and project scope.

  • Confirm zoning and allowable uses with Planning and Development.
  • Apply for a Building Permit for structural, roofing and fire-safety works.
  • Obtain electrical permits and inspections for PV wiring and utility interconnection.
  • Schedule required inspections during and after installation.
  • Pay applicable fees when you submit applications.
Starting permit conversations early reduces review cycles and site delays.

For official building permit requirements and how to submit a Building Permit application, consult the City of Burnaby Building Permits page (Building Permits)[1]. For bylaw text, definitions and enforcement framework see the City of Burnaby bylaws index (Bylaws)[2].

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of building, zoning and bylaw compliance for commercial solar installations is handled by City of Burnaby departments empowered under municipal bylaws. Specific monetary fines and penalty schedules for unauthorized work or bylaw breaches are not specified on the cited city pages; see the footnotes for the official sources cited above.[2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat or continuing offences - not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, orders to remedy, permit revocation, or court action may be used by the municipality.
  • Enforcing departments: Building Division and Bylaw Enforcement; complaints and inspection requests are handled through the City of Burnaby permit and bylaw contacts.
If work starts without permits you may be required to remove or redesign installations.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes a Building Permit application and supporting checklist and requires drawings, structural calculations and other documentation for commercial PV systems. If a development permit or variance is needed, separate application forms apply. The cited Burnaby pages list submission channels and contact points but do not list every form fee or a single consolidated fee schedule on the same page; check the Building Permits page and contact the Building Division for current fees and forms.[1]

  • Building Permit Application - purpose: structural and construction approvals; fee: not specified on the cited page.
  • Development Permit or variance applications - purpose: siting or zoning exceptions; fee: not specified on the cited page.
  • Submission: online or in-person per City instructions on the Building Permits page.
Deliver complete drawings and an electrical single-line diagram with your application.

How the Review Works

After submission the City reviews plans for zoning compliance, structural safety, fire access and setbacks. The Building Division issues the permit when plans comply and fees are paid. Electrical inspections and final approvals are required before energizing the system.

FAQ

Do I need both a building permit and an electrical permit?
Yes. Building permits cover structure and roof works; electrical permits and inspections are required for PV wiring and interconnection.
How long does plan review take?
Review time varies by project complexity and completeness of the submission; contact the Building Division for current timelines.
Can I start work before permits are issued?
No. Starting work without required permits risks stop-work orders and other enforcement actions.

How-To

  1. Confirm site zoning and any development permit needs with Planning.
  2. Prepare construction drawings, structural reports and electrical diagrams.
  3. Submit Building Permit and any Development Permit or variance applications per the City instructions.
  4. Pay fees and respond to reviewer requests; schedule inspections as required.
  5. Complete inspections and obtain final approval before energizing the system.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with zoning and structural checks to avoid redesigns.
  • Permit packages must include drawings, calculations and electrical diagrams.
  • Contact Burnaby Building Division early to confirm fees and timelines.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burnaby - Building Permits
  2. [2] City of Burnaby - Bylaws

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