Transcript for Permits: Building Occupancy Video

Welcome to the City of Winnipeg’s Overview of Building Occupancy Permits. A Building Occupancy Permit is used to help regulate building code requirements and other applicable codes and standards. It identifies how a space can be used and is required before occupancy.

For example, let’s look at a restaurant.

A building occupancy permit is required for the construction, substantial alteration or change of use of buildings or portions of buildings, except for single family dwellings, two family dwellings, and multi-family dwellings without shared exits.

Building occupancy permits are required for new or existing occupants or tenants where permit-related construction work is occurring, or when there is a change of use or change of major occupancy group.

For example, if a retail space changes to a restaurant, or a manufacturing facility changes from low hazard to high hazard.

Some examples of spaces that require a Building Occupancy Permit include:

• Theatres and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Healthcare facilities
• Hotels
• Offices
• Personal service businesses, such as hair salons and dental clinics
• Retail stores
• Industrial and manufacturing facilities

Some temporary buildings and events, such as weddings with large tents also require a Building Occupancy Permit.

A Building Occupancy Permit is required before occupying a space.

To get a building occupancy permit, you must first apply for a building permit.

Once the building permit is issued, you can start your project.

You will need to arrange mandatory audit inspections throughout the stages of construction.

These inspections must be completed to the final stages, and all required occupancy documentation must be submitted, before requesting a building occupancy permit.

Once submitted, your request will be reviewed and processed. If more inspections are needed, you will be notified.

Once compliance is established, the building occupancy permit will be issued.

If you are not sure if you have a building occupancy permit, visit our website to complete a Building Occupancy Permit search at winnipeg.ca/occupancypermits.

When considering a building project, Make a Permit Part of Your Plans.