For all new and renovated establishments serving liquor, the Liquor Control & Licensing regulations requires an occupant load calculation confirmed by the local authority (Building department). The occupant load will be determined based on the requirements of the BC Building Code for health and life safety.
An occupant load establishment will ensure liquor license requirements as per the applicable Zoning Bylaw are met.
Questions concerning Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) processing fees and regulations should be confirmed with the LCRB prior to submittal. Visit the LCRB website regarding processing fees, regulations, questions and contact information.
Step 1: Complete a building permit application form and specify: Occupant load calculation
Provide a to-scale floor plan of the area, including:
- Room dimensions
- Available washroom facilities, including all water closets and urinals
- Fixed tables and chairs, and or
- Non-fixed tables and chairs
- Exits (doors that provide direct access to outside – provide width of door opening and total)
- Previous occupant load if known
Occupant load calculations – sample floor plan
If you do not have a copy of the building floor plan, the property owner or authorized agent (owner may complete an Agent Authorization form) may request a copy by sending an email to building@northcowichan.ca. Staff will conduct a file search and provide a copy of the floor plan if there is one on file. There is no charge for digital copies. A $6 fee per page plus GST applies to full size paper prints. Please allow 5 to 10 business days for plans to be retrieved and scanned or copied.
Once your application and completed floor plan is received, either digitally to building@northcowichan.ca, or paper copy at the Building department front counter, the Building Inspector will complete the calculation and apply a signature and date. Please allow 5 to 10 business days to complete this process.
Step 2: Submit your application online
Step 3: Building permit fees
Contact the Building department to confirm amount owed.
Important information about permits
Inspections may be required at various stages of your project. Your building permit conditions will indicate when you need to request inspections. Some projects may require both a development permit and a building permit. If you are unsure, contact the Building department to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork before proceeding.
Building industry newsletters
Subscribe to the Building industry newsletter to receive email updates.