Burnaby Sewer Connection Rules and Fees

Environmental Protection British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of British Columbia · By Daniel Roy

This guide explains sewer connection rules, permitting steps and fee guidance for homeowners in Burnaby, British Columbia. For the authoritative legal text, consult the City of Burnaby bylaws and engineering services pages for permitting requirements and standards[1].

Overview of Requirements

Most residential sewer connections in Burnaby require review by Engineering Services and a building or plumbing permit when work affects the public right-of-way or the property plumbing system. Requirements typically cover connection points, backflow prevention, inspection access and compliance with municipal standards and bylaws. Specific technical standards and inspections are managed by the City’s Engineering and Building departments.

Confirm permit types with the City before hiring contractors.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sewer connection rules is conducted by the City of Burnaby through its bylaws and enforcement officers. Details below summarize enforcement pathways and penalties as set out or referenced by City pages cited in this article.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence treatment is not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to stop work, remedial orders, and court action may be used; specific statutory remedies are referenced by the City of Burnaby.
  • Enforcer and inspection: Enforcement typically involves Engineering Services, Building Inspections and Bylaw Enforcement; complaints and inspection requests are handled via official City contact channels.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are handled per City bylaws and administrative processes and are not fully detailed on the cited page.
Failure to obtain required permits may lead to orders or prosecution.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes permit applications and forms for building, plumbing and works in the right-of-way; however, a specific consolidated "Sewer Connection Application" form is not specified on the cited page. Applicants should contact Engineering Services or Building Permits to confirm required forms, fees and submission method.

Submit permit applications before starting any connection work.

Typical Process and Action Steps

  • Determine permit type required by contacting Building Permits or Engineering Services.
  • Prepare site plans and plumbing drawings stamped as required.
  • Confirm applicable fees with the City prior to application; fees are published by the City when available.
  • Hire licensed contractors and schedule required inspections through the City.
  • Arrange final inspection and obtain sign-off before backfilling or restoring the right-of-way.

FAQ

Do homeowners need a permit for sewer connections?
Yes; permit requirements depend on the scope of work and whether the public right-of-way or building plumbing is affected. Contact City departments to confirm.
How much are sewer connection fees?
Specific fee amounts are not specified on the cited page; applicants must check current fee schedules with the City.
Who inspects new connections?
Inspections are performed by City Building Inspectors or Engineering staff according to the applicable permit terms.

How-To

  1. Contact Burnaby Building Permits or Engineering Services to determine the required permit and standards.
  2. Assemble required drawings, plans and any contractor credentials.
  3. Submit the permit application and pay applicable fees as directed by the City.
  4. Schedule and pass required inspections during construction and connection.
  5. Obtain final approval and retain all records of permits and inspections.

Key Takeaways

  • Always confirm permit requirements with Burnaby before starting sewer work.
  • Do not assume fee amounts; consult current City fee schedules.
  • Contact Engineering Services or Building Permits early to avoid delays.

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] City of Burnaby Bylaws
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.