Should my Vancouver paver contractor pull the permit?

Yes, your paver contractor should handle permit applications when permits are required — they have the technical knowledge, established relationships with municipal building departments, and professional liability insurance to navigate the permit process efficiently.

Most standard paver patios and walkways at grade don't require building permits in Metro Vancouver municipalities. However, retaining walls over 4 feet (1.2 metres) in height absolutely require building permits in all Metro Vancouver communities, and this is where contractor involvement becomes essential. Walls over 4 feet also need engineered drawings from a geotechnical engineer, geogrid reinforcement specifications, and detailed drainage plans — technical requirements that professional hardscape contractors understand and homeowners typically don't.

When contractors pull permits, they take responsibility for code compliance and proper installation according to the approved plans. This protects you as the homeowner because the contractor's WorkSafeBC coverage and liability insurance cover any issues that arise from non-compliant work. If you pull the permit yourself and hire a contractor to build according to your permit, you become responsible for ensuring the design meets code requirements — a significant liability risk for complex retaining wall projects.

Contractors also have established relationships with municipal engineering departments in Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Coquitlam, and other Metro Vancouver communities. They know each municipality's specific requirements, typical review timelines, and common approval conditions. A contractor who regularly works in your municipality can often get permits approved faster and with fewer revisions than a homeowner navigating the process for the first time.

The permit cost should be included in your project quote when permits are required. Contractors typically charge their actual permit fees plus a modest administrative fee ($200-500) for handling the application, responding to municipal comments, and scheduling required inspections. This is much more cost-effective than hiring an engineer independently, learning your municipal requirements, and managing the permit process yourself.

For strata properties, contractors should also handle strata approval processes when required. Most strata corporations require alteration agreements for hardscaping work, and some require engineered drawings even for projects that don't need municipal permits. Experienced Metro Vancouver contractors know which strata management companies require specific documentation and can prepare proper submissions to avoid delays.

The main exception is driveway crossing permits for new or widened driveway access from the street — these are typically pulled by the homeowner directly from the municipal engineering department because they involve your property's connection to municipal infrastructure. Your contractor should advise you if a driveway crossing permit is needed and can provide the technical specifications required for the application.

Always confirm that your contractor will pull required permits before signing a contract. Any contractor who suggests skipping permits for retaining walls over 4 feet, or who wants you to pull permits for complex engineered work, should be avoided. Proper permitting protects your investment, ensures code compliance, and maintains your property's resale value.

Need help finding an interlock contractor who handles permits properly? Vancouver Interlock can match you with experienced professionals who understand Metro Vancouver's permit requirements.