The B.C. government announced a new online "hub" which they say will speed up the building permit process, with Nanaimo selected as one of 14 pilot project communities. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

speed up development

Nanaimo named in building permit processing hub pilot project

May 28, 2024 | 3:08 PM

NANAIMO — The province has introduced an online hub they say will speed up the permitting process to get homes built faster.

Nanaimo was one of the 14 communities named for the new online building permit hub pilot project, a digitized process for homeowners and developers to submit relevant applications and permits.

Premier David Eby said the current permitting process can be slow and complicated, which leads to construction delays for urgently needed housing.

“This new one-stop shop for local building permits will reduce red tape for homebuilders, local governments and First Nations, and ultimately save money, speed up construction and help people get into homes faster.”

The hub will include standardized permit submission requirements, ensure the permit complies with the BC Building Code and informs the user when the application process is complete, according to the province.

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While the new building permit hub went live on Monday, May 27, communities in the pilot are still finalizing local requirements, and most are expected to be online by August.

Other Island communities included in phase one are Qualicum Beach, Campbell River, Victoria, and the District of Saanich.

Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon says the new system is unique in North America and aims to cut wait times for builders by standardizing requirements that suffer from inconsistencies in different communities.

The provincial government said in a release they heard from industry and local communities about how the often complicated approval process is slowing down development, due to incomplete applications, and inconsistent and varied submission requirements across municipalities.

They said this new housing tool will evolve as the pilot program is rolled out based on user feedback and will eventually include additional features like secondary suites and accessory dwelling units.

The City of Nanaimo told NaniamoNewsNOW the new provincial regulations align with the current City direction.

— with files from The Canadian Press.

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