The City of Fernie has introduced new online tracking for building permits, a resource designed to improve transparency and communication around building permit processing times. As of this week, residents, builders, and developers can now view the number of building permit applications in the queue and see which applications are actively under review by the City’s Building Officials.

The new webpage, which the City has committed to updating weekly, is intended to provide an estimated snapshot of current permit processing timelines. As of the most recent update on July 14, 2025, the City reports 56 building permit applications in the queue, with Building Officials currently reviewing applications submitted in mid-March—indicating an approximate four-month processing lag. bnv

This step follows months of public concern over delays in the building and development approval process. The City has acknowledged the challenge and has been working with local builders and developers to address the issue, as previously reported on Fernie.com.

City officials emphasize that the posted timelines are only estimates, and actual processing times can vary significantly. Factors influencing timelines include the complexity and completeness of applications in the queue, the volume of inspection requests for permitted work, the speed of applicant responses to inquiries, and the workload generated by stop-work orders, occupancy changes, and business and liquor license referrals.

In addition to building permits, the City’s permit queue includes plumbing permit applications, demolition permit applications, and solid fuel burning appliance (wood stove) permit applications. The City notes that before Building Officials assess applications for new construction or alterations that change the height or footprint of a structure, the Planning team must first review them for compliance with Fernie’s Zoning Bylaw.

Building Officials review all applications to ensure they meet the requirements of the BC Building Code, the City’s Building and Plumbing Bylaw, and other related legislation. Applicants can expect to be contacted with questions or required changes following this review.

The City says the new online status page is part of its commitment to greater transparency and accountability as it works to reduce permit delays. For more details or to view the permit application status, residents can visit the City’s Building Permits & Inspection information page on the municipal website.

For more information about building permits, visit the City’s Building Permits & Inspection information page.