The Village of Nakusp is committed to supporting a safe and vibrant business community. As a courtesy to local businesses and to help ensure businesses are operating in spaces that meet current safety standards, we are writing to share a recent amendment to the Village's Business Licence Bylaw that clarifies existing requirements related to building occupancy and the British Columbia (BC) Building Code.
Please note that this amendment does not introduce a new requirement. Approval from the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Building Department, where a change of occupancy is identified, was already required. The Village has only updated its bylaw to make this requirement more explicit and help prevent misunderstandings moving forward.
The BC Building Code establishes different safety requirements depending on how a building is used. For example, a retail store, restaurant, office, or fitness facility may each have different building code requirements. When a business moves into a new location, takes over an existing commercial space, or changes the way a premises is used, occupancy requirements may also change.
To ensure these requirements are met, the RDCK Building Department reviews proposed occupancy changes and identifies any building or safety upgrades that may be required before the change of occupancy can be approved.
When an application is submitted for a new business licence involving a new location, a change in business use, or the takeover of an existing commercial space, Village staff will work with the RDCK Building Department to determine whether occupancy approval is required. Where RDCK approval is necessary, it must be obtained before a business licence can be issued.
If you have questions regarding the Village’s Business Licence Bylaw, please contact the Village Office at 250-265-3689 or info@nakusp.com.
For questions related to occupancy requirements or building code compliance, please contact the RDCK Building Department in Nakusp at 250.265.4111 or nakuspbuilding@rdck.bc.ca.
