Property information request

Need copies of building permit records or property file information?

The City maintains building records for properties in Courtenay. Some records are publicly accessible under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA).

This page explains how to request access.

Before you submit a request

Some property information may be available through other sources, such as the Land Title and Survey Authority (Land Titles Office).

Review where to find property information before submitting a request to ensure the City holds the records you need.

How to request property file information

To request building records for a specific property:

Complete the agent authorization form.
Email the completed form to building@courtenay.ca.

Staff will review your request and contact you with next steps.

Requests are typically processed within 48 to 72 hours (excluding weekends).

Fees

As of January 1, 2024, a minimum fee of $75 applies to all archive file access requests.

Additional fees may apply if you request digital copies or printed documents.

Copy fees are listed in the Fees and Charges Bylaw. [PDF/757KB]

Please note:

Copyrighted materials and surveys cannot be reproduced.
Payment options will be provided once your request is reviewed.

Accessing files

When your request is ready:

Staff will notify you that the file is available for viewing.
Non-digital files will be available for 30 days before being returned to the archive.

What records are available?

Under FIPPA, certain building department records are public and may be viewed or copied.

If you are unsure whether a record is accessible, contact building services before submitting your request.

Contact

Email: building@courtenay.ca
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Information that can be released

Under section 22(4)(i) of the FIPPA, a disclosure of personal information is not an unreasonable invasion of a third party's personal privacy if it reveals details about a licence, permit or other discretionary benefit, including:

the name of the third party to whom the item applies
what the item grants or authorizes the third party to do
the status of the item
the date the item was conferred or granted
the period of time the item is valid
the date the item expires

Information that cannot be released

Under Section 15(1)(l) of FIPPA, the head of a public body may refuse to disclose information to an applicant if the disclosure could reasonably be expected to harm the security of any property or system, including a building. This includes, but is not limited to:

property owners’ names
personal contact information (addresses, phone numbers, etc.)
financial information
correspondence documents
file comments and notes