Select from the following list to view the frequently asked questions that pertain to each department.
Corporate Services Development and Community Services
For questions related to the Municipal Hall, For questions related to zoning, bylaw
Council meetings, elections and general enforcement, business licencing and building
information. inspections.
Infrastructure Services Parks and Trails
For questions related to engineering, public For questions related to municipal parks,
works and utilities. trails and beach accesses.
Financial Services Emergency and Fire Services
For questions related to property taxes, For questions related to burning, and the
Home Owner Grants and water bills. volunteer fire department.
Corporate Services back to top
How do I get an item on a Council agenda?
If you would like Council to address an issue, please write a letter to the Mayor and Councillors, 1620 Mills Road, North Saanich, BC V8L 5S9 outlining your issue. Staff will then determine if the item should be considered at a Council meeting or if it can be handled administratively. The deadline for submissions is noon on the Wednesday prior to the Monday Council meeting. For more information on Council meetings, please see the Municipal Hall Meetings section of our website.
Are copies of reports which appear on a Council or Committee of the Whole agenda available to the public?
All reports and supporting documents which appear on open Council meeting or Committee of the Whole agendas are available on the District's website under Municipal Hall - Council and Committee of the Whole meetings. You may also obtain hard copies of all documentation at the Municipal Hall (photocopying charges will apply). Please contact the Corporate Services Department for further information regarding agenda items.
What are the hours of operation for the Municipal Hall?
The North Saanich Municipal Hall is open for business from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays, excluding Statutory Holidays. The Municipal Yard is operational from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. weekdays, excluding Statutory Holidays.
Is my mailing address Sidney or North Saanich?
For some time now, Canada Post has established North Saanich as a postal area so please, if you reside within the North Saanich municipal boundaries, ensure that your address includes North Saanich, BC when you give it out. That way it is clear to everyone, especially in the event of an emergency, that you live in North Saanich.
What is the population of North Saanich?
The 2001 census indicated that the population of North Saanich at that time was 10,436.
Is there a list of beach accesses and boat launches in North Saanich?
Please consult the North Saanich 2009 Guide to Parks, Trails and Beach Accesses Brochure available online or in booklet form at Municipal Hall.
Does the District of North Saanich provide a household garbage and recycling collection service?
No, the District does not provide garbage or recycling collection services. Please refer to the Yellow Pages under “Garbage Collection” for information regarding such services. All recycling collection service is coordinated through the Capital Regional District. Please consult the online schedule on the CRD website or call 360-3030 for more information.
Are water restrictions currently in effect and if so, what are they?
The Capital Regional District (CRD) implements Stage 1 water restrictions every year from May 1 through September 30. During this time, lawn watering is only permitted twice per week within defined time periods under the following schedule:
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an even numbered address may water Wednesday and Saturday from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
and from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
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an odd numbered address may water Thursday and Sunday from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
and from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
For further information on Stage 1 water restrictions, please consult the CRD website.
When is the next municipal election?
The next municipal election will take place in November 2011. More details about the election will be forthcoming in 2011.
How do I ensure that my name is on the North Saanich list of electors (voters list)?
To check to see if your name is on the list of electors, or to ensure that the information we have is correct, please either drop in to the Municipal Hall and check with the Receptionist, or contact the Corporate Administration Department at 656-0781.
Development and Community Services back to top
How do I know if I need a Business Licence?
Every person owning or operating any business carried on within the Municipality is required to have a Business Licence.
How much does a Business Licence cost?
The cost of a Business Licence varies with the type of business. Refer to the Bylaws section to Business Licence Bylaw - 898 or call 655-5470 for clarification.
What is an "Intermunicipal Business Licence"?
An intermunicipal Business Licence is issued to mobile businesses such as repair and service oriented businesses whose work takes them into several different municipal jurisdictions. A standardized fee of $100 is required and the licence is issued by the municipality in which the business is based. This licence is honoured in all thirteen municipalities in the Capital Regional District and allows the owner to operate in all the municipalities with one licence. For more information call 655-5470.
Do I need a building permit?
Please refer to the attached brochure.
How much does a Building Permit cost?
The cost of a building permit is 1.25% of the total cost of construction not including landscaping.
What information do I need to provide when I apply for a Building Permit?
Please refer to the Building Permit Application Checklist.
Can you tell me what zone my property is in and the allowable uses within that zone?
Please refer to the District of North Saanich Zoning Bylaw No.750 as amended and consolidated for convenience. Check the mapping sections near the end of the bylaw. The electronic version is for research purposes only and is not the official version. Please refer to the printed version for complete accuracy.
Who should I contact if I have Bylaw questions?
Read through the Bylaws section and if more information is required, call 655-5470.
What are the "Engineering Schedules" referred to on the Residential Building Permit Checklist?
These schedules are copied from the current B.C. Building Code and are available from our website from the Printable Forms section. Schedules are required for virtually all new single family dwellings and many additions and detached accessory buildings. They must be filled out and signed by a Professional Engineer and /or Architect.
Am I allowed to have a suite in my house?
No. There is only one dwelling unit allowed in a single family dwelling including one food preparation area.
How high can I (or my neighbour) build a fence and is a permit required?
The maximum height of a fence in a Residential 1, 2 & 3 zones is 1.9 metres (6.2 feet).
No permit is required.
What days of the week (and hours during the day) are contractors allowed to work?
No person shall carry on works in connection with the construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair of any building or structure, or carry on any excavating or other operation, or operate any kind of machine or engine, to the disturbance of the quiet, peace, rest or enjoyment of the public within the District except within the following hours:
Monday to Friday inclusive 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. of each day
Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm
No works or operations referred to in the foregoing may be undertaken on Sundays and Statutory Holidays.
Who should I contact if I have questions regarding the Agricultural Land Reserve?
Call the Development and Community Services Department at 655-5470.
What do I need to do in order to obtain a Blasting Permit?
Blasting permits are only issued to qualified, licensed and insured blasters. Contact a qualified company.
How do I apply for a Variance?
There are two types of variances. One is a Development Variance Permit which may be granted by Council for such variances as setback reductions, oversize and overheight relaxations. The other one is a relaxation through the Board of Variance which is made up of three non-political members. This process is used for minor variances relating to hardship.
To apply for a variance either come to the office for the forms and assistance or download the forms from Printable Forms and submit them with the appropriate fee.
Am I allowed to build a seawall and who should I contact?
Seawalls are regulated by Council. In order to obtain permission to construct a seawall, you must retain the services of a Geotechnical Professional Engineer who will provide a report indicating the necessity for the wall and a design in conjunction with a legal survey to confirm the exact location of the wall. The request is then submitted to Council who may refer the application to the Environmental Advisory Commission who in turn provides Council with a recommendation often with conditions. Please contact the Development and Community Services Department for more information at 655-5470.
What is the process for connecting to the municipal sanitary sewer system?
In order to connect an existing residence to a municipal sewer system you must first complete an application form. Then you should contact a qualified contractor who must acquire a plumbing permit and request the required inspections and approvals. If owners wish to do all the work themselves they may, provided they acquire the necessary plumbing permit and inspections.
When connecting to the municipal system, the old septic system must be decommissioned by pumping out the septic tank and breaking up or removing the tank and filling the void with compacted sand. The new pipe that runs from the old tank to the municipal connection requires cleanouts and water test and must be bedded properly in approved granular material and inspected prior to backfilling.
Infrastructure Services back to top
Who takes care of trees on municipal property?
Infrastructure Services is responsible for trees on municipal property. We request that residents do routine maintenance such as watering during dry periods. If you feel a municipal tree may be a hazard please contact Infrastructure Services.
What must I do if I want to install a driveway?
Before you install a driveway, a driveway permit must be obtained from Infrastructure Services. Please contact us for details.
What should I do if I want to do some work on the municipal land in front of my property?
The planting of grass or ground cover is allowed on the municipal property fronting your property. If you would like to do other work on the municipal boulevard, please contact Infrastructure Services. A Construction Permit may be required.
What should I do if a streetlight is not working?
Davit lights on utility poles are maintained by BC Hydro. Call BC Hydro at 1-888-769-3766 (1-888-POWER ON) if you notice that a davit light is not working. If you notice an ornamental streetlight that is not working call Infrastructure Services.
Can I find out the water pressure on my property?
Yes, contact Infrastructure Services at (250) 655-5460.
What should I do if I want to remove or bring soil on my property?
You must obtain a permit to remove soil or deposit fill on a property in the District of North Saanich. Contact Infrastructure Services for more information.
What should I do if I want to subdivide my property?
Determine the minimum lot size under current zoning for the property by checking the District of North Saanich Zoning Bylaw LINK. There are other requirements for subdivision. Contact Infrastructure Services for more information.
How can I find out about the municipal services to a certain property?
You can obtain information regarding the existence and location of water, storm sewer and sanitary sewer service connections to a property in the District of North Saanich by contacting Infrastructure Services.
How can I find out where my property lines are located?
An owner can have the property lines of their property located by a British Columbia Land Surveyor.
Parks and Trails back to top
Are there volunteer opportunities related to the District's parks and trails?
Please review the Adopt-a-Park page within the Parks and Trails section of this website.
Where can I get a parks and trails map for North Saanich?
Copies are available free of charge at the Municipal Hall (one per household to residents of North Saanich). Additional copies can also be purchased for $2.00. A copy of this publication, "A Guide to Trails, Parks and Beach Accesses in North Saanich" is also available online from the Parks Information section of this website.
What facilities are available in each of the District's parks?
Please see the amenity list within the publication, "A Guide to Trails, Parks and Beach Accesses in North Saanich", which is available online from the Parks Information section of this website.
Financial Services back to top
When are tax notices printed and sent out?
Tax Notices are printed in May and usually sent out at the end of May.
When are property taxes due? What is the penalty for late payment?
Taxes are due the first working day of July every year and there is a 5% penalty on any outstanding amount (including the Home Owner Grant) after the due date. There is an additional 5% penalty added to any outstanding amounts after September 30th.
How do I apply for a Home Owner Grant?
If you qualify, complete the Home Owner Grant on the back of the Tax Notice for the appropriate year and submit it to the District office prior to the due date of property taxes to avoid a penalty on the outstanding Home Owner Grant. This form has to be completed annually.
Why are there parcel taxes on my annual property tax notice?
Water parcel tax is charged on all property that has a water line fronting the property. Sewer Parcel Tax offsets the District's share of debt payments to the Saanich Peninsula Sewage Treatment Plant.
When are water bills sent out?
The North Side water bills (Lands End, Deep Cove area etc.) are read in mid February, June and October (approximately), and due at the end of the month following (March, July and November).
The South Side water bills (Lochside, Dean Park area etc.) are read in mid March, July and November (approximately), and due at the end of the month following (April, August and December).
What do I do if I have a water leak?
It is the responsibility of the property owner to have the water leak repaired. Once the leak has been repaired, immediately advise the District in writing and a special water meter read will be done. You must write a letter requesting an adjustment to you water bill along with proof of repairs.
Who supplies water to the Municipality?
The Capital Regional District supplies water to The District of North Saanich.
When do water restrictions take effect?
They are regulated through Capital Regional District and it is usually from May 1st to September 30th.
Can I pay property taxes and water bills on-line or at the bank?
Utility bills and property taxes can both be paid on-line or at the bank. You may also elect to have payments withdrawn monthly in the form of a pre-authorized payment. Please note when paying at the bank or on-line the Home Owner Grant needs to be completed annually and forwarded to the District.
How do I set up pre-authorized utility and property tax payments?
You may apply for pre-authorized payment by completing a form for either water or tax withdrawals. The forms are available online in our Printable Forms section or at the administration counter at the Municipal hall. A cheque marked VOID must accompany all forms. Water payments will automatically be taken out of your account 3 times a year and tax payments will have a set amount withdrawn from your account monthly August through to May.
What are your dog license rates and when are they due?
Our Dog Licence webpage provides this information.
Where do I pay my business license and when is it due?
You can apply at the Municipal Hall for a Business Licence which runs for the calendar year. Reminder notices are sent out annually by the Development and Community Services Department.
When moving in the District how do I submit a change of address for my property?
If you're moving out of the District and you are hooked up to water, it is necessary to request a final water reading for the day you are moving out. We will then read the water meter on that date and forward the final bill to you at your new address.
If you are moving into the District, you can call the District and advise the date you are taking possession of your new residence, in case the previous owners have not requested a final water reading.
Does the District provide garbage collection?
The District does not provide garbage collection services. It is the responsibility of the home owner to arrange this service through a private company.
Is there a recycling program in the District of North Saanich?
All recycling services are organized and provided by the Capital Regional District. Please contact their offices for further information.
Emergency and Fire Services back to top
What are the current burning regulations?
Current burning regulations are updated by the Fire Department as needed. Information regarding burning regulations is available on the Burning Regulations page of this website.
How do I obtain a burning permit?
Permits are required for all fires in North Saanich including incinerators. An annual fee of $25 is charged for incinerators and fires smaller than 3' x 3' x 3'. For larger fires, a $35 fee is charged. Permits may be obtained by calling the Fire Hall at 656-1931, or by emailing your request to the Fire Department (gwilton@northsaanich.ca or jferrie@northsaanich.ca). An appointment will be scheduled to inspect your proposed burn pile or incinerator.
What is the current fire hazard rating?
The current fire hazard rating is updated by the BC Forest Service as needed and is available on the
Current Conditions page of this website.
What is the current ventilations index?
To determine if the weather conditions are good for burning, please check the current ventilation index on the Environment Canada website.
Does the Fire Department rescue cats from trees?
No, the Fire Department does not rescue cats or other animals from trees as we currently do not have the equipment to enable us to do so safely. Please contact a local tree service company for assistance.
How do I become a volunteer firefighter?
In order to be eligible to become a volunteer you must be 19 years of age and a resident of North Saanich. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please obtain an application form from the Wain Road Fire Hall at 986 Wain Road or at the Municipal Hall at 1620 Mills Road. You can also drop by the Fire Hall any Tuesday evening from 7:00 – 10:00 pm. The application form is also available on the Printable Forms page of this website.
How do I arrange for a wood burning/oil appliance inspection?
Permits are available at the Municipal Hall located at 1620 Mills Road. An interim inspection is required at the framing stage, prior to the drywall and insulation being installed. A final inspection will be done once complete. To arrange for an inspection, please call the Fire Hall at 656-1931.
What are the Fire Hall hours and contact numbers?
The Fire Hall hours and contact numbers are available on the Contact Info page of the Emergency and Fire Services section of this website.
Does the District have an emergency program?
The Peninsula Emergency Measures Organization (PEMO) is jointly run by North Saanich, Sidney, and Central Saanich and managed by the Fire Chiefs. Please see PEMO website for more information.
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