What is the approval process for a secondary suite in Burnaby?

Secondary suites in Burnaby require both a development permit and a building permit, with the process typically taking 8-12 weeks for straightforward applications.

The approval process in Burnaby involves two main stages. First, you'll need to apply for a development permit through Burnaby's Planning Department, which ensures your suite complies with zoning requirements including parking, unit size, and neighbourhood compatibility. This stage typically takes 4-6 weeks and costs around $1,200-$1,500 in application fees.

Once your development permit is approved, you'll proceed to the building permit stage with Burnaby's Building Department. This involves submitting detailed construction drawings showing fire separation, egress windows, ceiling heights, plumbing rough-in, electrical systems, and mechanical ventilation. The building permit review takes another 4-6 weeks and costs approximately $800-$2,000 depending on the scope of work. All construction must comply with the BC Building Code (BCBC 2024) and meet current Energy Step Code requirements.

Key Burnaby-specific requirements include: minimum 6.5-foot ceiling height in habitable rooms, separate entrance (can share a common hallway), one parking space for the suite, maximum 90 square meters (968 sq ft) floor area, and compliance with lot coverage and setback requirements. The suite must have proper fire separation from the main dwelling, interconnected smoke alarms throughout both units, and bedroom egress windows meeting BCBC standards.

Professional requirements are significant for this work. All electrical and gas work must be performed by contractors licensed with Technical Safety BC (TSBC) - not ESA as in Ontario. Plumbing rough-in requires a licensed plumber, and any structural modifications need engineering review. Most contractors will need WorkSafeBC coverage and liability insurance. While homeowners can do some finishing work like painting and flooring, the core systems require licensed professionals.

Contact Burnaby's Planning Department at 604-294-7130 or visit burnaby.ca to download the secondary suite application package.

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