What can I build on my single family residential lot?
Information about what you can build on your lot is specified in the Zoning Bylaw. We encourage you to come down to City Hall to verify your building plans, or contact the Planning and Development Department at 604-927-3441.
How big can I build on my lot?
Lot-specific information and regulations are outlined in the Zoning Bylaw. However, due to the highly complex and legal nature of the information in this bylaw, interpretation can be difficult, especially if you're unfamiliar with zoning-related information. To ensure you have accurate information on "how big" you can build on your lot, please visit City Hall and talk to a Plans Examiner.
How do I determine the location of my house in relation to my property lines?
Depending on the age of your house you may be able to obtain a survey certificate from City Hall if one is on record.
Survey certificates can be purchased at the Development Services counter at City Hall for $32.75. Conditions apply as follows:
- Homeowners need to show proof of ownership
- Realtors and prospective buyers need to show purchase agreement.
What is the cost of a building permit?
The cost of building permits depends on the nature and scope of the work being done. Please contact Development Services 604-927-3441 for more information on permit costs.
How high am I allowed to build a fence on my property?
The maximum height for a fence varies depending on the lot, its zoning and where on the lot the proposed fence is to be located. Contact the Development Planning Section at 604-927-3430 for more specfic information.
What restrictions apply for building retaining walls?
Retaining walls require a building permit if they are going to be more than 1.2 metres in height, either as one wall, or in combination with other walls unless they are suitably spaced. Retaining walls over four feet in height are not permitted on residentially zoned properties except those constructed as a condition of Subdivision approval or those approved by a building inspector when specific conditions are met. Retaining walls over 1.2 metres require structural design and review by a professional engineer.
Can I do my own plumbing on my property?
Owners of detached single-family dwellings are permitted to perform work on their own plumbing systems providing they meet the following criteria:
- As the owner, you must live in or intend to live in the dwelling upon completion
- No person other than a member of your immediate family will, with or without compensation, assist with the plumbing work
- You must further certify that there is no other dwelling or premises directly attached to your dwelling
- You are not preparing the building for sale or rent or for occupancy by anyone other than yourself and your household
A signed declaration of these conditions, as well as a schematic of the proposed work, will be required. The owner will be required to satisfy the Inspector of his competency. For more information, please contact the Development Services Division of the Planning and Development Department at 604-927-3451.
How can I find out what my property is zoned?
- Please have your legal description and address information ready and contact Development Planning at 604-927-3430 or come to City Hall at 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC.
What is the RRAP and how can it help me?
The Homeowner Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) offers financial assistance to low-income households who own and occupy substandard housing to enable them to repair their dwellings to a minimum level of health and safety.
More information on the RRAP and other CMHC programs can be found at the CHMC home page. CHMC Programs are available to assist eligible Canadians with repairs to substandard housing, accessibility modifications and adaptations for persons with disabilities and seniors.
Where can I find the size of my lot?
You may view legal lot plans at the Operations counter. These plans may be viewed but not copied. For a copy of the legal plan of your lot, please contact the Provincial Land Titles Office at:
88 - 6th Street, New Westminster
Phone: 604-660-2595
How can I make my driveway larger?
You must fill out an application form at the Operations customer service counter located at City Hall. For more information call 604-927-3500.
How can I find out about rights of way?
Property encumbrances such as rights of way and easements may be viewed at the City Hall Operations counter. Copying is not permitted. If you require a copy of any of these plans, they can be obtained from the Provincial Land Titles Office at:
88- 6th Street, New Westminster, BC.
Phone: 604-660-2595
Where is my water, sanitary, storm connection?
If you need to locate your sanitary, storm or water service at the property line, records are available for viewing at the Operations customer service counter, located in City Hall, 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam. Copies of these records can also be made at City Hall for a fee.
What is a Right of Way?
A Right of Way is an allowance given by a private property owner to the municipality or government to enter onto their private property for a municipal purpose such as water, sewer, road access and other utility services.
What is a covenant?
A Covenant is an agreement between two parties which would normally put restrictions on land and its use.
What is an easement?
An easement is an agreement between two private property owners whose properties adjoin. This agreement gives private property owners with adjoining properties access to each other's property for a predetermined purpose.
How do I arrange for an easement?
If the easement is required due to work being done through the City, they will assist you with the procedure.
If the easement relates to a private arrangement between two neighbours, it is recommended that you acquire the assistance of a private lawyer.
How do I find any legal documents shown on the title on my property?
For title searches and legal document information, please contact the Provincial Land Titles Office at:
88- 6th Street, New Westminster, BC.
Phone: 604-660-2595