Building Permits - Commercial

When is a geotechnical report required?

The Community Charter states that "a Building Official may require an engineering report when construction is proposed on land that may be subject to flood, mud flows, debris torrents, erosion, landslip, rock falls and subsidence or avalanche". In Kamloops, we most often encounter a risk of subsidence due to silt bluff and risk of landslip on steep sites.

The report will identify hazards, provide recommendations to address the site conditions, and certify that "the land is safe for the use intended".

The City will rely on the report when making decisions regarding development of the land and the report will be registered on the title of the property with a covenant to advise any future purchasers of the potential risks and the remediation that has taken place.

When is Public Health approval required?

Drawings submitted for a building permit must be first approved by Public Health when they include a public swimming pool or hot tub (including apartment buildings or care facilities), food store, bakery, food processing, water bottling, daycare for more than ten, a group home for more than seven, a community care facility or a slaughter house.

The Interior Health Authority's inspectors can be reached at 250-851-7340 or by fax 250-851-7341.

When do I require an architect?

The Architects Regulation Act in British Columbia provides guidance on when an architect is required for a project based on factors such as occupancy classification, use and building size.  Please refer to the Architects Regulation explanatory guide for specific requirements.

Do I need a building permit for a commercial alteration?

Yes.

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