Do I need a building permit to renovate my bathroom in Vancouver?

Most bathroom renovations in Vancouver DO require a building permit, especially if you're moving plumbing, electrical, or making structural changes. The City of Vancouver requires permits for any work that goes beyond simple cosmetic updates like painting or replacing fixtures in the same locations.

What typically requires a permit includes moving or adding plumbing fixtures (toilet, shower, bathtub), relocating walls, installing new electrical circuits, adding ventilation fans, waterproofing work, and any structural modifications. Even seemingly minor changes like converting a bathtub to a walk-in shower often require permits because they involve plumbing and waterproofing modifications that must meet current BC Building Code (BCBC 2024) standards.

What generally doesn't require a permit includes replacing toilets, sinks, or fixtures in the same locations without moving plumbing, painting, installing new flooring over existing subfloor, replacing vanity cabinets, and updating light fixtures on existing circuits. However, the line between permitted and non-permitted work can be gray, so when in doubt, check with the City of Vancouver building department.

Vancouver's permit process typically takes 4-8 weeks for standard bathroom renovations, though complex projects can take longer due to the city's permitting backlog. You'll need to submit detailed drawings showing existing and proposed layouts, plumbing and electrical plans, and ventilation details. Building permit fees range from $500-$2,000 depending on the scope of work.

Special considerations for Vancouver include ensuring proper ventilation (crucial in our wet climate), meeting current seismic bracing requirements under BCBC 2024, and addressing any heritage considerations if your home is character-designated. All electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician and inspected by Technical Safety BC (TSBC), and plumbing work requires a licensed plumber for anything beyond simple fixture swaps.

If you're in a strata (condo or townhouse), you'll also need written approval from your strata council before starting any renovation work, regardless of permit requirements. Most stratas require proof of contractor insurance and may charge a damage deposit.

Contact the City of Vancouver building department at 311 or visit vancouver.ca/home-property-development/building-permits to discuss your specific project.