September 24, 2013 - 4:47 PM
There’s been a marked increase in the number of illegal building projects underway in the Central Okanagan East and Central Okanagan West Electoral Areas.
So far this year, the Regional District has placed Stop Work Orders on 27 construction projects it has found underway in the two electoral areas.
Communications Officer Bruce Smith says, “Even though we were down to one Inspector for six months in 2012, that’s more than three times the number of Stop Work Orders issued during the same time last year. In many cases, it’s simply the oversight by the property owner, who has undertaken the work themselves. Our staff proactively enforces the Building Bylaw and administers the BC Building Code. They also respond to complaints from residents about unpermitted construction and renovation projects.”
Smith adds, “Basically, building permits are required for construction and renovations of any structure, including fireplace installations, sewer systems, fences and outbuildings and Inspections are required to approve various stages of construction. The fees for building permits range according to the size and type of structure.”
“Ensuring compliance with the BC Building Code and Regional District Building Bylaw” Smith says, “is in everyone’s best interest. It makes sure that all structures, construction and renovations are done in a safe manner. Homeowners that don’t follow the permitting process could find themselves facing insurance and other issues down the road.”
Any property owner in either electoral area that has questions about building permits, new construction or renovations and inspections, should contact the Regional District Fire and Inspection Services staff at 250-469-6211 who will guide them through the process or visit regionaldistrict.com for information and links to the Building Bylaw and related information including a detailed checklist of items that will be reviewed during building inspections.
News from © iNFOnews, 2013