Can I build it? Ask us, it’s free.
Planning a new building, a renovation, a storefront, a restaurant or a laneway house in Vancouver? Tell us your idea and we’ll share our thoughts on what the rules allow, which permits are involved and what to watch for.
How it works
Three simple steps from idea to answer.
Tell us your idea
Fill in a short form about your property and what you would like to build. Takes about 5 minutes.
We look into it
We review the zoning and permit requirements using official city and council sources.
We share our thoughts
You get an email with what seems possible, the likely permits, things to watch for and sensible next steps.
Who it’s for
Anyone with a building or space in Vancouver, from a single home to a commercial project.
Homeowners
- Laneway houses and suites
- Multiplexes and townhouses
- Additions and renovations
- Decks and garages
Businesses and tenants
- Retail and office fit-outs
- Restaurants and cafés
- Change of use
- Storefronts and signage
Developers and owners
- New buildings and mixed-use
- Multi-family residential
- Industrial and warehouse
- Rezoning and site potential
Non-profits and institutions
- Schools and daycares
- Churches and community spaces
- Healthcare and clinics
- Expansions and upgrades
What you’ll get
A friendly, plain-language reply to help you decide your next step.
What the rules allow
A summary of the zoning and key limits that apply to your kind of project.
Permits involved
Which permits or approvals are likely to be needed, and roughly how the process works.
Ideas and next steps
Things to watch for, design ideas worth exploring and sensible next steps for your home or business.
Ask your question
Free and no obligation. We usually reply within a few business days.
Frequently asked questions
Is it really free?
Yes. There is no cost and no obligation. We enjoy these questions and they help us keep learning.
How long until I hear back?
Usually within a few business days, depending on how many questions we receive.
Is this a permit or an approval?
No. It is informal planning insight to help you think through your idea. Permits and approvals are issued by the City of Vancouver or your local municipality.
What if my idea doesn’t seem possible?
That is useful to know early. We’ll explain why and, where we can, suggest alternatives that may work on your property.
Can you help with design afterwards?
If you’d like to keep talking about design ideas for your project, just reply to our email or get in touch through our contact page.
Do you help with commercial projects?
Yes. We look at all kinds of projects: homes, retail, offices, restaurants, mixed-use, industrial and institutional buildings.
Which areas do you cover?
The City of Vancouver, plus nearby Metro Vancouver municipalities such as Burnaby, Richmond, North Vancouver and Surrey.
This is free, informal planning insight based on publicly available information and the details you provide. It is not a permit, approval, legal opinion, survey or professional design certification. Always confirm requirements with the City of Vancouver or your local municipality.
