Services > Building Inspection

Bylaw Enforcement

Bylaws are the rules and regulations through which local governments operate and which permit residents enjoyment of their properties while protecting from negative impacts to and from neighboring properties.  There are bylaws covering zoning, unsightly premises, building, noise, open burning, and firearms, just to name a few.  

In addition, the District participates, through its membership in the North Okanagan Regional District, in a number of regional bylaws.  These bylaws include the  Dog Control Bylaw (including barking dog complaints) and the regulations requiring the control of noxious insects and are enforced by the Regional District or their contractors.  The dog control contractor is currently K‑9 Animal Control and may be reached at  250-545-8070 or 250-558-9294. 

The following services are available at the Building Department:

  • Building permit applications
  • Business licence applications
  • Bylaw enforcement
  • Fire inspection
  • Boat launch parking passes
  • Burning permits

While there are certain areas of enforcement that are safety related and require proactive enforcement, the majority of these bylaws are enforced on a complaint-only basis.  In accordance with District policy, complaints involving private property will only be acted upon if the complaint is made by an individual or individuals residing in the immediate area of an alleged bylaw violation.  The nature of the complaint will dictate which bylaw is used to determine if there is a contravention.  If there is no contravention, the investigation is terminated and the file is closed.  If there is a contravention, then every attempt is made to encourage the property owner/occupier to voluntarily rectify the situation.  Failing this, the District can have staff or contractors correct the contravention with costs being charged to the owner, levy fines through a ticket process, or apply for a court to levy fines, issue an injunction or issue an order to correct the contravention.

This division is also responsible for parking and traffic enforcement.  Over the summer months, the Commissionaires have again been contracted to provide parking enforcement.

Complainant information is considered as confidential and will not be released to the person whose property is under complaint, unless under an order made by the Provincial Freedom of Information Commissioner.

How to make a complaint

Bylaw Enforcement Officer:  Bob Bibby

The Bylaw Enforcement Division will receive complaints in various ways.  Please ensure that all complaints include your name, address, phone number, relationship to the property or individual that you are making the complaint about, and the issue.

Phone:  250-550-1510
Fax:      250-545-4733
Email:   info@districtofcoldstream.ca

On the District website: Click on "Contact Us" in the upper right-hand corner of the screen and fill out the online form

In person:  At the Coldstream Building Department, 9801 Kalamalka Road (clock tower in front), adjacent to the Municipal Hall.  Hours of operation are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, closed between 1:00 and 2:00, Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays.