Building Safety
Updated December 5, 2023
The BC Building Code (BCBC) is a provincial regulation that governs how new construction, building alterations, repairs and demolitions are completed. This code establishes minimum requirements for safety, health, accessibility, fire and structural protection of buildings and energy and water efficiency. In Sooke, it is administered by local building officials (BC Building Code). A building permit is required before constructing, repairing, altering, moving or demolishing a building or structure.
We are working hard to improve the current processes while maintaining the safety and sustainability for you, your neighbours and future property owners and residents. Times to process applications may vary depending on the number of applications under review and related staffing resources.
The resources on this page are available to assist you with this process.
Building Bylaw No. 780
Adopted: February 8, 2021.
Intent: A bylaw for the administration of the BC Building Code and regulation of construction within the District of Sooke.
Important Information
- BC Code Changes – On December 10, 2018, a new Building Code, Plumbing Code, and Fire Code were introduced in British Columbia. The province has provided free access to the new codes here.
- National Energy Code – In 2017, a federal energy code was introduced to set out technical requirements for the energy-efficient design and construction of new buildings. When applying for a building permit, you will need to submit an application for the building, the plumbing, and if applicable woodstove and/or oil tank.
- Seismic Bracing Requirements – Click Here
- Photo and video inspections may be accommodated, depending on the type of inspection. Email photos to building[at]sooke.ca and include your permit number.
- Further details about inspections can be found at the Homeowner Protection Office or Building Safety and Standards Branch websites.
Permit Types
Every property owner shall obtain all required permits or approvals, pay all fees, and provide all deposits prior to the commencement of work.
A building permit is required before constructing, repairing, altering, moving, or demolishing a building or structure.
If the applicant is not the owner of the property, an Owner’s Authorization form (see page 5 of building/plumbing permit application form) must be submitted. All property owners registered on the Certificate of Title must provide written approval to allow the applicant to act on their behalf.
The Municipality does not issue the following permits:
- Electrical and Gas Permits
Contact Technical Safety BC at 1-866-566-7233 - Septic Field Information and Potable Water Supply
Contact Vancouver Island Health Authority at 250-519-3401 - Highway Access Permit for access to Highway 14
Contact Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
A demolition permit is required when demolishing a building or structure. The owner must ensure:
- services for the building being demolished are sealed at the property line;
- measures are taken to protect the safety of the public while the demolition is in progress, including the erecting of barricades or fencing to prevent unauthorized or inadvertent entry to the site, and posting security personnel at the site when appropriate;
- notify the Sooke Fire Department when commencing demolition;
- complete demolition within 3 days for a building less than 185.8 m², and within 6 days for a building greater than 185.8 m²; and
- liability insurance of $2 million, naming the District of Sooke as insured, for structures greater than 185.8 m².
Permission to construct an access over Municipal property to the homeowner property requires the following:
- Highway Use Permit Application
- Owner Authorization Form (if not the owner)
- Site plan
- Deposit of $500
Contact the Engineering Department for more information regarding Highway use permits
A plumbing permit is required when installing, altering and repairing plumbing, including sewer connections and heating, ventilating and air-conditioning, appliances and accessories. The bylaw does not apply to plumbing repair or replacement which does not require a change in piping.
Resources
A Request for Property Information form must be submitted and signed by the property owner or an authorized registered agent. An Owner’s Authorization form or documents indicating the agent is authorized is required when submitting your request.
Examples of information that may be available are:
- Building Permits
- Occupancy Certificates
- Site Surveys
- Woodstove/Oil Tank Permits
Inquire with the Fire Department (250-642-5422) for:
- Oil Tanks
- Structure Fires
Speak to the Planning Department with regards to:
- Zoning inquires
- Riparian Area Regulations
- Archeological Sites
- Development Permits
- Variance Permits
We have some information available through our GIS Map on our website:
- Property Info Report
- Zoning Bylaw Information