Yes, you can live in a trailer (or temporary structure) while building your primary dwelling but it requires a temporary building permit. A temporary building may only be erected on a lot if it is in conjunction with the construction of a primary dwelling. A permit for the temporary building may be granted for up to six (6) months, with the option to renew the permit once for an additional six (6) months. Once the temporary building permit has expired, the structure must be removed. A security deposit of $2,000 is required.
Building and Renovating
BC Building Code and Revisions
Changes to the BC Building Code occur periodically. All design and construction of building permit applications received will be required to comply with the 2024 code and its updates.
2024 Building Code Is Now In Effect
For convenience we are providing PDF documents outlining some of the more recent code changes. Please click on the link below to open the documents. This may not be a complete list of updates.
BC ENERGY STEP CODE
As of May 1, 2023, Step 3 of the BC Energy Step Code is in effect throughout the Sunshine Coast.
- Building Code Changes Effective March 8, 2024
- BC Energy Step Code
- BC Building Code 2018 Revision 5 - Information Bulletin
- Energy Modelers and Advisors
- Step Code Timelines for Builders
- List of Available Rebates
For more information on how to obtain the BC Building Codes (Building, Fire, Plumbing) click on the link below. http://www.bccodes.ca/building-code.html
Building Frequent Asked Questions
Q: Can I live in a trailer while building my home?
Q: Can the District of Sechelt identify my property lines or pins?
No, a certified BC Land Surveyor must identify property lines and pins. A list of certified professionals can be found on the following website: https://www.abcls.ca/
Q: Do the drawings for a building permit require an engineering stamp?
An engineering stamp is required if the structure is greater than 55 square metres or if the property is located in a development permit area.
Q: How long does it take to issue a building permit?
A building permit can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks, possibly longer, to issue depending on how many applications are in the queue. We will contact you when your building permit is ready or if more or different information is required.
Q: How tall can I build a fence around my property?
In any residential (R) zone, fences constructed on the front lot line cannot exceed 1.3 metres in height. Fences constructed between the front parcel line and front building line cannot exceed 1.3 metres in height. Fences constructed on a side lot line and rear lot line cannot exceed 2.0 metres in height.
Q: What is the process to install a septic tank on my property or locate the current septic field?
Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) regulates all septic fields and has the files for septic systems installed on the Sunshine Coast. Find information including FAQ here. To contact an Environmental Health Officer, please e-mail environmental.health@vch.ca or call 604-885-5164.
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