Planning a new home in Vancouver can seem overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Between zoning regulations, permits, engineering requirements, inspections, and City approvals, it’s helpful to know where to start.
This guide provides a simple overview of the home building process together with direct links to official City of Vancouver resources. If you’re looking for detailed information about custom home construction, timelines, and working with a builder, we invite you to visit our Custom Home Builder in Vancouver page.
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Building Process (Keep it simple)
Instead of a long explanation, use something visual.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Planning Your Project |
| 2 | Design & Engineering |
| 3 | Development & Building Permits |
| 4 | Construction |
| 5 | Inspections |
| 6 | Occupancy |
Official Resources for Homeowners, Builders & Developers
Planning a custom home, laneway house, duplex or multiplex in Vancouver? This page brings together the most commonly used City of Vancouver departments, permits and online resources in one convenient location.
Whether you’re researching your property, applying for permits, checking zoning, or booking inspections, the links below will take you directly to the appropriate City department.
Development & Building Services
Development and Building Services Centre
515 West 10th Avenue
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4A8
General Information
☎ 3-1-1 (within Vancouver)
☎ 604-873-7000 (outside Vancouver)
Official Website
Development & Building Services
Planning Your Project
Building Permits
Apply for building permits, view permit requirements, submission checklists, inspections and application status.
Development Permits
Find out whether your project requires a Development Permit before applying for a Building Permit.
Building & Renovating
General information for new homes, laneway houses, duplexes, renovations and secondary suites.
Apply & Manage Permits
Submit applications, pay permit fees and manage active permits online.
Property Information
Find Your Property Zoning
Determine your property’s zoning designation before beginning the design process.
Zoning & Development By-law
Review zoning regulations, permitted uses, setbacks, height restrictions and development requirements.
Property Records & Building Plans
Request copies of building plans, permits and property records.
🔗 Property Research & Building Plans
Inspections
Book or cancel inspections for:
- Building
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Gas
- Fire Sprinkler
- Sidewalk
Forms & Checklists
Download official City forms including:
- Building Permit Applications
- Development Permit Applications
- Submission Checklists
- Bulletins
- Engineering Requirements
🔗 Forms, Checklists & Bulletins
Need Professional Advice?
Every property is different. While the City provides regulations and permit information, interpreting those requirements and planning an efficient construction project often benefits from professional guidance.
If you’re planning to build a custom home, laneway house, duplex or multiplex in Vancouver, Xerox Builders would be happy to discuss your project and help you understand the process before you invest in plans or permits.
Complimentary Consultation
Mandeep Singh
Xerox Builders Ltd.
📞 604-786-7000