Important notices

The new BC Building and Plumbing Code became effective December 10, 2018, and applies to building permits applied for on or after the effective date.

Free online access to BC Codes | The province is now offering the BC Building, Plumbing and Fire Codes online at no charge. This aligns with the Federal Government of Canada's recently announced changes to the National Model Codes. Visit the link below to get free online access.

Mechanical permits include plumbing, drainage, hot water heating and fire sprinklers. The District of West Vancouver does not issue gas permits.

All plumbing permits must be taken out on your behalf by a provincially-qualified contractor unless you can satisfy the plumbing inspector that you have the knowledge and skills appropriate to do the work.

Applications for commercial, multi-family and tenant improvements require two sets of drawings.

Schedule an Inspection

Mechanical Permit

Mechanical Permit Application

Mechanical Permit Fees
 

Required Mechanical Inspections

Drainage

An inspection of damp-proofing, drain-tile and rainwater leaders with all joints primed and glued and the pipe bedded in gravel with the top of the pipe showing (see Drainage Notes ). (See WorkSafeBC Policy re Excavation Construction Site Safety).  Note: Drainage Permit required for installation and inspection of drain tile, foundation damp-proofing, sanitary and storm sewers, and on-site water service lines.

Sewers

An inspection of the sewer pipe firmly bedded in the trench, test on, and before any backfill. (See WorkSafeBC Policy re Excavation Construction Site Safety)

Water Service

An inspection of the pipe in the trench, sand bedding or sleeve, and the water turned on.

DWV and Water Pipes

All DWV and water pipes must be tested and visible for inspection. This inspection must pass before framing inspection can be called.

Heating

All pipes tested with air and visible for inspection. Permanent waterproof labels to be in place on all loops showing: zone number, exact footage, the room served, and sub-area for multiple loops in one room. Home runs and headers will be inspected at random times and do not require a separate inspection. Heating pipe inspections must be passed before framing inspection can be called. Design and installation to be by the current TECA standards. See Hot Water Heating Inspection Requirements - Installation Guide

Sprinkler

All pipes to be tested to 200 PSI and inspected before covering any pipe. No piping permitted to touch electrical wires of any kind. Maintain clearances from pot lights. Frost protection inspection required by the plumbing inspector.  Sprinkler rough-in and frost protection must be passed by the plumbing inspector before calling for the framing inspection.

Bathtubs and showers

Bathtubs and showers to be properly supported, filled with water, and inspected before drywall.
 

More Information

West Vancouver does not issue or inspect gas installations. For details, please visit:

Technical Safety BC