How much should I set aside for permit fees in the City of Vancouver?

Vancouver uses a value-based fee structure, meaning your permit cost is calculated as a percentage of your project's construction value. The base building permit fee is approximately 0.65% of construction value for most residential projects, with additional fees for plan review, inspections, and various surcharges.

Permit fees in the City of Vancouver typically range from $500 for simple projects up to $8,000+ for complex renovations, with most homeowner projects falling in the $1,500-$4,000 range.

For common renovation projects, here's what you can expect: A $30,000 kitchen renovation will cost roughly $1,200-$1,500 in permits, while a $60,000 bathroom and kitchen combo might run $2,500-$3,200. Secondary suite conversions typically cost $2,000-$4,000 in permit fees, and laneway house permits can reach $6,000-$12,000 depending on size and complexity. Simple projects like deck replacements or minor interior work often fall in the $500-$1,200 range.

Vancouver-specific additions to your permit costs include the Development Cost Levy (DCL) for projects that add floor area — currently $31.61 per square meter for most residential areas. You'll also pay plan review fees (typically 65% of the base permit fee), inspection fees (included but additional inspections cost extra), and various utility connection fees if you're adding electrical or plumbing capacity.

The permit process in Vancouver is notoriously slow, taking 4-8 weeks for simple permits and 3-6+ months for complex projects. This delay can add carrying costs to your project, so factor that into your timeline and budget.

Your contractor should provide a permit cost estimate during the quoting process, as they'll know the specific requirements for your project. For exact fees, use Vancouver's online fee calculator at vancouver.ca or call 311. Don't forget that permit fees are just the start — you'll also need professionally stamped drawings for most projects ($1,500-$5,000+) and potentially additional consultants for complex work.