Fernie’s Building and Development Community have sent a strong, united message to City Hall this week, calling for clear, accountable, and timely improvements to the City of Fernie’s building permit process. Their petition, which gathered over 390 verified signatures, underscores just how deeply this issue affects not only builders and contractors, but the broader community and local economy.
For years, permit delays and unpredictable processing timelines have been a major frustration in Fernie. Builders have reported average wait times of 12 weeks or longer, risking seasonal construction windows, budget overruns, and workforce instability. The issue also impacts homeowners, new residents, and investors who need reliable timelines to plan projects confidently.
The development community’s petition specifically called on Council to implement the recommendations from the Development Approvals Enhancement Project, ensure transparent public reporting on progress, and set clear, reliable timelines for permit issuance. The message was clear: Fernie needs a permit system that supports, not stifles, local development.
After this strong and coordinated outreach, the City of Fernie has responded. In a joint communication with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Interior (CHBA CI), City officials have acknowledged the urgency of the concerns raised and have committed to working collaboratively on solutions.
Key steps already underway include:
• Authorizing overtime for Building Officials and hiring additional administrative staff to boost capacity.
• Securing surge capacity for peak permit periods.
• Launching Cloudpermit, a new online platform that requires complete applications before review begins and improves transparency.
• Tracking permit processing times to identify bottlenecks and drive improvements.
• Developing clear checklists and bulletins for applicants to reduce incomplete submissions.
• Hosting an in-person builder workshop in Fernie on August 18 to review the process and answer questions.
• Establishing monthly check-ins between the City and CHBA CI to ensure ongoing progress and communication.
These actions show that the City has not only heard the concerns but is prepared to work in partnership with the local building community to address them.
For Fernie, this is an encouraging step forward. A reliable, transparent, and efficient permitting process is vital for a healthy local economy, supporting everything from trades employment to housing supply. It’s also essential for building confidence among investors, families, and professionals who choose to make Fernie their home.
The progress so far highlights the power of respectful, collective advocacy and constructive dialogue. The development community’s petition wasn’t just a complaint—it was a call to work together. And now, with new commitments and practical steps in place, there’s reason to believe that meaningful improvements are on the way.
Download the City of Fernie & CHBA CI Joint Response (PDF)
For those wanting the full details, you can read the City’s June 27 joint communication with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Interior here: Download the PDF
