Vancouver FOI: Request Development Records & Plans

Land Use and Zoning British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of British Columbia

This guide explains how to request development records and plans in Vancouver, British Columbia under freedom-of-information rules. It covers which municipal files are commonly available, how to submit a formal request to the City of Vancouver, expected timelines and fees, and where to appeal if information is refused. Use these steps when you need building permit drawings, development application files, or related planning records for research, property transactions, or bylaw compliance.

How to request development records and plans

Start by identifying the specific file type and address or application number. The City of Vancouver publishes instructions and the required request form on its Access to Information page. City of Vancouver Access to Information[1]

  • Identify property address, civic file number or permit number.
  • Search online development and building application pages for file summaries before requesting formal records.
  • Complete the municipal FOI request form and include any authorization if you request personal information about another person.
  • Pay the required application fee and any estimated processing charges as instructed on the City page.
  • Provide contact details and preferred delivery method (electronic or paper).
Requests should be as specific as possible about the documents you want.

Penalties & Enforcement

Access to municipal records is governed by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (BC) and City procedures; enforcement and reviews are handled by the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for British Columbia. Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for BC[3]

  • Monetary fines or specific penalty amounts for withholding records: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation and continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary remedies: orders to disclose, review by the Information and Privacy Commissioner, and judicial review of decisions.
  • Enforcer and review authority: City of Vancouver Information and Privacy Office for initial processing; OIPC BC for reviews and orders.
  • Appeal and review time limits: procedural timelines are governed by BC FOIPPA and OIPC processes; specific statutory time limits are described on provincial and OIPC pages and should be checked when you file a complaint.
If the City refuses records, you may request a review by the provincial Information and Privacy Commissioner.

Applications & Forms

The City provides a formal Access to Information request form and explains applicable fees and delivery options on its Access to Information page. The standard application fee under provincial rules is stated on the City page; consult that page for current payment methods and instructions. Development and building application guidance[2]

Action steps

  • Locate the civic address or permit number and any application file reference.
  • Download and complete the City of Vancouver Access to Information form.
  • Pay the application fee and any estimated processing charges.
  • Submit the request by the method specified on the City page and keep your receipt.
  • If records are refused, apply for a review to the OIPC within the timelines described by that office.
Keep a clear record of correspondence and file numbers to speed processing.

FAQ

What records can I request?
Development permit files, building permit drawings, reports and correspondence held by the City, subject to privacy and third-party business information exceptions.
How long will a request take?
Statutory response timelines are set under BC FOIPPA; check the City and OIPC guidance for current processing timeframes.
Is there a fee?
The City lists an application fee and describes potential processing charges; see the City Access to Information page for current fees and payment methods.

How-To

  1. Identify the property address and any file or permit number you need.
  2. Download the City of Vancouver Access to Information form and fill in your request details.
  3. Submit the form with the application fee by the method specified (email or postal address on the City page).
  4. Wait for the City to acknowledge and process the request; respond promptly to any clarification requests to avoid delays.
  5. If records are refused or redacted, request a review by the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for BC.

Key Takeaways

  • Be specific about addresses and file numbers to speed searches.
  • Expect an application fee and possible processing charges; check the City page for current amounts.
  • Appeals and reviews are handled provincially by the OIPC if the City refuses disclosure.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Vancouver - Access to Information
  2. [2] City of Vancouver - Development and building applications
  3. [3] Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for BC

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