Now that you've got your application filled out and compiled all the necessary documents, you're ready to submit!

What is the price of a Variance Permit?

Every City is different, but generally a Variance is a flat rate.

For example,

• An application under $100,000 construction value is $200. 

• Any application greater than $100,000 construction value is $500, except tenant improvements (non-residential) and accessory dwelling units. 

• An application above $1,000,000 in construction value is $1,000, and

• An application above $5,000,000 in construction value is $3,000.

You pay a permit issuance fee when you drop off the application and a deposit either at time of permit application or when you collect your approved BP. Building permit fees are paid in cash or cheque, and likely debit and/or credit but there may be a limit to what they can accept (ex. up to $1,000). Visit their website or contact your City to find out what forms of payment they accept.

Where do I submit?

At your local City's Building and/or Planning Department or Municipal Hall.

How do I submit?

You will submit by dropping off your hard copies in person. Yep, that easy.

But if your City accepts electronic applications and/or that's what you prefer, then buckle up! A hybrid of hard copy/electronic applications are not accepted and it's not a simple process. Get your Architect/ural Designer or team member who is tech-savvy to help you get set up.

For information, please visit your City's website. For an example of the process, see below.

How long does it take?

During submission, make sure to ask what their wait time currently is looking like or roughly when you should be expecting your approval. Take it with a grain of salt but this will give you a rough idea of how much time you have until construction may begin.