One of the most common questions we hear from BC builders and developers is: “Does my project actually need a construction fire safety plan?” The short answer is: if your project requires a building permit, it almost certainly needs one.
The General Rule
The BC Fire Code requires a construction fire safety plan for any construction or demolition project where a building permit is required. This covers the vast majority of construction activity in BC, from residential additions and tenant improvements to high-rise towers and industrial facilities.
Projects That Typically Require a Construction Fire Safety Plan
New Building Construction
Any new building construction requiring a building permit needs a fire safety plan. This includes single-family homes where the project is large enough to meet the permit threshold, multifamily residential buildings, commercial and office buildings, industrial and warehouse facilities, and mixed-use developments.
Major Renovations and Alterations
Substantial alterations to existing buildings require a fire safety plan, particularly when the work involves structural changes, fire protection system modifications (such as taking sprinklers offline), or creating construction zones within occupied buildings.
Tenant Improvements (TI)
Tenant improvement projects in commercial buildings typically require a construction fire safety plan, especially when the work is taking place in an occupied building. These plans must address how the construction zone is separated from occupied areas and what procedures are in place to protect building occupants.
Demolition Projects
Demolition — whether full or partial — requires a fire safety plan. Demolition sites have unique fire hazards, including combustible debris, residual flammable materials, and impaired fire suppression systems. Plans for demolition must also address adjacent properties and the public right-of-way.
Projects That May Not Require a Formal Fire Safety Plan
Minor work that doesn’t require a building permit — such as small cosmetic renovations, painting, or minor repairs — may not require a construction fire safety plan under the BC Fire Code. However:
- Even permit-exempt work may trigger fire safety plan requirements if it involves hot work (welding, cutting, grinding)
- Some municipalities have requirements beyond the minimum BC Fire Code thresholds
- Property owners and general contractors remain responsible for fire safety on any construction site
If you’re unsure whether your project requires a fire safety plan, the safest approach is to contact your local fire prevention office — or call us for a quick assessment.
Municipal Requirements in Metro Vancouver
While all BC municipalities follow the same BC Fire Code, local fire departments have varying submission requirements and review processes:
- City of Vancouver: Fire safety plan approval is typically required before a building permit is issued. Submit to Vancouver Fire Rescue Services.
- Surrey: Required as part of the building permit process. Submit to Surrey Fire Service.
- Burnaby: Submit to Burnaby Fire Department as part of the building permit application.
- Richmond, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, Langley: Similar requirements — check with the local fire prevention office for current submission procedures.
The Bottom Line
If your project requires a building permit anywhere in BC, plan for a construction fire safety plan from day one. Starting early — ideally at the same time as your building permit application — prevents delays and keeps your project on schedule.
Get Fire Plan provides a free assessment to determine whether your specific project requires a plan. Contact us — we respond within 1 business day with a firm price if a plan is needed.
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Guides: BC Fire Code requirements · What a CFSP costs · How long it takes · What a plan must include