Building Inspections

Building Inspector
Kim Leibel
250-342-9281 ext. 232
inspections@invermere.net

The goal of the Building Inspection Division is to ensure the health, safety and protection of persons and property by confirming that buildings and their systems generally conform to relevant bylaws, the BC Building Code and other applicable standards.

The Building Inspection Division administers Building Bylaw No. 1319. and through this bylaw, the BC Building Code, and Sign Bylaw No. 1044. A Building Inspection is required when you:

  • construct a new building.
  • add to an existing building.
  • change the occupancy of an existing building, i.e. from office to retail.
  • make interior renovations that may impact the direction of travel to an exit.
  • repair a building envelope.
  • demolish or move a building.
  • enclose your carport or change your garage to living space.
  • add or relocate plumbing, fire alarm or fire sprinklers.
  • pave a parking area where a storm drainage system is required.
  • finish existing basement.
  • install a swimming pool.
  • locate or add to a mobile home.
  • locate a temporary building.

NOTE: A detached accessory building less than 10 m2 (107 sq ft) and 4.5 m (14 ft 9 in) in height and built on properties containing a single family dwelling is exempt from requiring a building permit, but must still meet setback requirements specified in the Zoning Bylaw.

Building Inspection Services and Permits

General Information
The Building Inspection Division provides general information on the Building and Sign bylaws, the BC Building Code and other relevant standards. We can provide practical information on construction, plumbing, woodstove installation and other systems in buildings.

Building Permits/Inspections
The Building Inspection Division reviews building plans, specifications and associated documents (engineers' reports, truss plans, surveys etc.) to confirm compliance with the BC Building Code, Building Bylaw No. 1319 and other applicable standards. We issue building permits, and collect applicable securities and Development Cost Charges. Building and Plumbing Inspectors visit the site at scheduled points during construction to ensure that construction conforms to the approved plans and conditions of the building permit, plus the Building Code. You can download a Building Permit Application Package.

Sign Permits
The Building Inspection Division reviews plans for signs to confirm compliance with the Sign Bylaw No. 1044 We issue sign permits and Building Inspectors visit the site at scheduled points to ensure construction conforms to approved plans and conditions of the sign permit.

Wood-burning Appliance Inspections
The Building Inspection Division provides inspections of wood burning appliances (woodstoves, pellet stoves). Building Inspectors inspect appliances to confirm that they are installed as per the requirements of the manufacturer and CAN/CSA B-365 Installation Code for Solid-Fuel Burning Appliances and Equipment.

Coordination with Other District Divisions and Outside Authorities
The Building Inspection Division coordinates with other Divisions and Departments, and outside authorities when processing a building permit.


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