Development and Building Services Centre – Vancouver, BC

Development and Building Services Centre Overview

The Development and Building Services Centre is a key municipal department operated by the City of Vancouver. Located at 515 West 10th Avenue, within the City Hall precinct, this facility serves as the primary hub for property development inquiries, building permits, and the management of municipal records. It functions separately from the main City Hall building, providing specialized services to homeowners, contractors, developers, and architects. The centre is responsible for enforcing the Vancouver Building By-law and ensuring that all construction projects align with the city’s zoning and safety regulations.

Records and Copies Services

A core function of the centre is the maintenance and provision of historical building records. The Records Department assists the public in obtaining copies of building plans, permits, and inspection reports for properties within Vancouver. Due to privacy and security regulations under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPPA), access to these documents is strictly regulated:

• Restricted Access: Only the current registered property owner or an authorized agent with written consent can access detailed building plans.
• Scope of Records: The archive typically includes plans for commercial buildings, condominiums, and single-family dwellings constructed since 1979. Older records may require extensive archival research.
• Fees: Non-refundable application fees and search fees apply to all records requests.

Permitting and Development

The centre processes a high volume of development and building permit applications. It offers an Online Permit Center (ePlans) to streamline the submission and review process, allowing applicants to upload digital drawings and track the status of their files remotely. For complex inquiries, staff at the physical counter provide guidance on:

• Zoning Reviews: Determining permissible land uses and density for specific sites.
• Building Permits: Reviewing structural, fire, and safety compliance for new construction and renovations.
• Trade Permits: Issuing permits for electrical, plumbing, and gas work.

Visit and Accessibility Information

The Development and Building Services Centre is open to the public on weekdays, with specific hours for in-person payments and appointments. It is recommended to book appointments in advance for complex technical inquiries. The facility is fully accessible, featuring wheelchair ramps and elevators. Visitors should be aware that paid parking is available in the underground garage and on surrounding streets, and the location is highly accessible via public transit, being steps away from the Broadway-City Hall SkyTrain station.