You’ll need a Commercial Building Permit to build a new building, complete tenant improvements, renovate an existing space or change the use of a space (for example, from a retail store to a restaurant). The same form can be used for Multi-family projects.
Let's Get Started
Before you get started, please contact our Building and Planning department to book your free pre-application meeting. We’ll take a look at your concept plans and guide you toward which steps may be required. This also helps expedite the application process. Also view the Commercial Building Permit Checklist for further information.
We do not currently have the capacity to accept applications online. All applicable forms must be filled out and submitted with the Building Permit application package.
While there are no guaranteed timelines for building permits, we strive to issue permits in a timely manner. The timeline for all building permits depends on the completeness of the application, how quickly the City's comments are responded to, and volume of applications to be reviewed by each review group.
Use MyCity to check on the status of your building permit, find out who the permit it has been assigned to, see any fees and charges and schedule inspections once permit is issued.
Upon receiving a completed permit application, the building department endeavours to provide confirmation that a permit can be issued, or a written deficiency list provided within the noted timeframes.
Fast Track Your Application
Your project may qualify for a Residential Xpress (RXp) Building Permit, with the City's goal to review eligible applications within 1-14 business days. To learn more, contact our Building Department at 250-490-2571 or Xpresspermit@penticton.ca.
Xpress Permits: Emergency Plumbing Repairs 24 hours Xpress Permits (including demolition permits): Other Residential and Commercial Xpress 5-14 days Major Renovations: Residential and Commercial Xpress (Simple Part 9) 21 days Major Renovations: Complex Multifamily and Commercial Projects 45 days Major Renovations: Complex Multi-family and Commercial Projects 45 days Emergency Repairs and Restoration Permits are given priority.
Some projects requiring multi-department reviews may take longer. Please contact our office if you are making a large project application to arrange for a pre-application meeting.
All permit applications need a non-refundable fee. You can by debit, cheque, cash, or credit card (with service fee). For a full list of fees, see the Building Permit Fee page.
Site Disclosure Statement (Ministry of Environment) - Ministry change effective February 1, 2021
Rezoning, Development Permits, Subdivision, and Building Permits (where soil disturbance is likely to occur) are triggers for a Site Disclosure Statement. Properties with current, or a history of, specified industrial and commercial uses are required to submit the Site Disclosure Statement.Site Disclosure Waiver
The City of Penticton requires applicants who are not submitting a Site Disclosure Statement under the Environmental Management Act to submit a Site Disclosure Waiver.For further information on Site Disclosure Statements and Schedule 2 Uses, please go to the Ministry of Environment's website.
Due to the new Ministry of Environments new requirements, we are working on updating all the application packages to reflect this change. Thank you for your patience.
See Also: Application Packages
Plumbing and Trade Permits
A permit will be required to build, extend or repair any plumbing system, or to make a connection to any sewer system. If you’re installing or modifying a heating system, permits are also required. Visit our Plumbing page for further details and complete the Plumbing and Trades Application available on the Building Permits Applications and Forms page.
Life Safety Permits
A Fire Sprinkler Permit is required in Penticton for any new installation or alteration of a fire alarm system where the scope of work does not include other construction. To apply, complete the Plumbing and Trades Application, available on the Building Permits Applications & Forms page.
A Fire Alarm Permit is required in Penticton for any new installation, replacement or alteration of a fire alarm system where the scope of work does not include other construction. Visit our Building Bulletins page for more information.
Commercial Kitchens
Commercial kitchens require ventilation control and fire protection for food service operations. Our Commercial Kitchen Exhaust bulletin outlines information on when permits are required and emphasizes owner/user responsibilities for the design, installation and maintenance of kitchen ventilation system in the City of Penticton.
Although some smaller operations may not require full commercial ventilation and fire suppression systems, consideration for the health of the workers and patrons must be taken into consideration under Part 6 of the BC Building Code.
For more information, review our Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Bulletin.
Have Questions?
Building Department
Phone: 250-490-2571
Email: buildinginfo@penticton.ca