The starting point
A development permit concerns the proposed development or use under local planning rules; a building permit concerns the construction proposal. A project can need both. Neither approval automatically establishes the other, and a variance is a separate planning question.
Vancouver: check planning before construction submission#
Vancouver's development-permit guidance explains its planning approval process. Review the proposed use and development with the City before treating the building-permit checklist as the only application needed.
Use the building-permit page separately for construction drawings and application instructions. Ask which planning decision must be resolved before a building permit can be issued; do not infer the sequence from another city's process.
Make an approval sequence for your project#
Illustrative scenario: a proposed addition changes the building's exterior and floor area. Start with property and planning constraints, then prepare the construction package for the permissible design. Trade approvals and completion inspections may follow separate requirements.
Keep a written list of the authority, application, prerequisite and outstanding information for each approval. This helps distinguish a missing planning decision from a missing construction detail when an application stalls.
Before you apply
- Describe the proposed use, area and exterior changes.
- Confirm planning permissions and any variance question.
- Confirm the building application and professional documents.
- Record prerequisites, trade permits and completion approvals.