Does the City of Vancouver require a demolition permit before tearing down an old deck to build a new one?

The City of Vancouver does not typically require a separate demolition permit for residential deck removal when you're replacing it with a new deck under the same building permit. However, if you're only demolishing without rebuilding, or if the existing deck is over a certain size, a demolition permit may be required.

When you apply for a building permit to construct a new deck in Vancouver, the demolition and removal of the existing deck is generally included as part of the overall project scope. The city understands that deck replacement projects inherently involve removing the old structure first. Your building permit application should clearly indicate that you're replacing an existing deck, and the permit drawings should show both the existing conditions and the proposed new construction.

However, there are specific situations where Vancouver may require a separate demolition permit. If you're removing a large deck (over 100 square metres), a deck that's part of a heritage building, or if you're demolishing without immediate reconstruction plans, you'll likely need to apply for a demolition permit through the city's development services. Additionally, if the existing deck has structural connections to the house that require significant modification to the building envelope, the city may require additional documentation.

The key is timing and scope. If you're planning to remove an old deck and build a new one as a single project, apply for your building permit first and clearly indicate the replacement nature of the work. The permit will cover both demolition and construction. If you're removing a deck without immediate replacement plans, or if there's a significant time gap between demolition and construction, you'll need a separate demolition permit.

Before starting any demolition work in Vancouver, you must also call BC One Call (1-800-474-6886) at least three business days in advance to locate underground utilities. This is mandatory for any excavation work, including removing deck footings. The city also requires that you check for hazardous materials like asbestos in older deck structures before demolition begins.

Strata properties have additional requirements. If you live in a townhouse or condo, your strata corporation may require written approval before demolishing any deck, even if the city doesn't require a separate permit. Most strata bylaws consider deck removal an alteration that needs approval regardless of municipal permit requirements.

For the most current requirements specific to your project, call Vancouver's development services at 604-873-7611 or visit vancouver.ca/permits. Each situation can have unique factors, and it's always better to confirm requirements before starting demolition work.