Do Strata Buildings in BC Need an Electrical Operating Permit? Everything You Need to Know
Operating PermitsDo Strata Buildings in BC Need an Electrical Operating Permit? Everything You Need to Know
If you’re part of a strata council in British Columbia, you may be wondering whether your building needs an Electrical Operating Permit. It’s a question that’s been popping up more and more—especially as stratas take on bigger responsibilities for shared infrastructure like EV chargers, elevators, and fire alarms.
The short answer? Yes, many strata buildings in BC do require an electrical operating permit, and if you don’t have one yet, it may be time to take a closer look.
In this guide, we’ll break down what an operating permit is, when it’s required, how it works, and why it’s a proactive move for safety, compliance, and smart maintenance.
What Is an Electrical Operating Permit?
An Electrical Operating Permit (EOP) is a type of license issued by Technical Safety BC (TSBC) that allows building owners (including strata corporations) to legally operate and maintain regulated electrical systems on an ongoing basis—without needing to apply for a new permit every time maintenance or small alterations are made.
Unlike a one-time installation permit, which is tied to a specific project, an operating permit is renewed annually and covers regular service, maintenance, and minor upgrades under a single umbrella.
Why It Exists
Electrical systems are complex—and as buildings age or adopt new technologies (like heat pumps or EV chargers), small changes are often needed. Without an operating permit, each change could require a new installation permit. The EOP makes this easier while keeping everything safe and regulated.
When Does a Strata Need an Electrical Operating Permit?
Not all stratas need one, but many do. Here are the key criteria that signal an operating permit is required.
Your Strata Needs an EOP If:
- Your building has electrical service over 250 kVA
- You operate equipment above 750 volts
- You have fire protection systems, such as fire alarms or emergency lighting
- You maintain backup generators or emergency power systems
- You perform regular electrical maintenance or small modifications
- You have elevators, parkade fans, HVAC, or other systems needing regular attention
If your strata checks even one of these boxes, you’re likely required to hold an operating permit under TSBC’s directive.
The Role of a Field Safety Representative (FSR)
Every operating permit must be supervised by a Field Safety Representative (FSR)—a licensed individual who ensures that all regulated work is performed safely and complies with BC’s electrical codes.
What the FSR Is Responsible For
- Reviewing and verifying all electrical work
- Maintaining an Operating Permit Logbook
- Submitting annual declarations to Technical Safety BC
- Communicating with TSBC about changes in scope or safety
This is a critical part of the process—your operating permit is only valid if you have an assigned and active FSR.
How an Electrical Operating Permit Works
Once issued, an electrical operating permit covers all routine maintenance and minor changes for a full year. Here’s how it fits into your building’s electrical management.
Covered Activities
- Replacing or relocating electrical equipment
- Minor alterations to circuits
- Ongoing maintenance of elevators, HVAC, lighting systems
- Maintenance of EV charging stations or other modern additions
What’s Not Covered
- Major renovations or system overhauls
- Load increases that exceed your building’s service capacity
- Any work outside of what your FSR is licensed for
For these types of projects, you’ll still need to apply for an installation permit.
Benefits of Having an Operating Permit
Aside from legal compliance, there are some very real advantages to holding an electrical operating permit for your strata.
Why It’s a Smart Move
- ✅ Simplifies paperwork – No need for repeated installation permits
- ✅ Reduces safety risks – Buildings with EOPs are 4x less likely to have electrical hazards (per TSBC data)
- ✅ Streamlines budgeting – Predictable costs and fewer unexpected inspections
- ✅ Supports preventive maintenance – Encourages regular service instead of emergency fixes
- ✅ Ensures qualified oversight – Work is always supervised by a certified FSR
How to Apply for an Electrical Operating Permit
Getting your EOP is relatively straightforward.
Step-by-Step
- Hire or assign a qualified FSR
- Create a list of your building’s electrical systems and maintenance needs
- Apply online via Technical Safety BC’s permit portal
- Pay the annual fee (based on your electrical service size and scope)
- Keep a logbook of all work performed
- Renew annually, and report any changes to your FSR
Summary
Many strata buildings in BC now require an Electrical Operating Permit—especially as buildings grow more complex and dependent on shared electrical systems.
If your building includes high-voltage service, emergency systems, or any equipment that requires regular maintenance, you likely need an EOP under Technical Safety BC regulations. The permit helps simplify compliance, improve safety, and protect your owners and assets.
Don’t wait until something goes wrong—get ahead of it with the right permit, the right professional (your FSR), and the right systems in place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do all strata buildings need an electrical operating permit?
No, but many do. If your strata has complex systems (like elevators, backup power, or high-capacity service), regular electrical maintenance, or performs small upgrades, then yes—you likely need one.
What’s the difference between an operating permit and an installation permit?
An installation permit is for a specific one-time project (like a panel upgrade). An operating permit covers ongoing maintenance and small alterations over time, under the supervision of an FSR.
How much does an electrical operating permit cost?
Costs vary depending on your building’s electrical service capacity and system complexity. Fees are paid annually and listed on the Technical Safety BC website.
Who is responsible for managing the permit?
Your Field Safety Representative (FSR) oversees all regulated work under the permit. The strata council is ultimately responsible for assigning the FSR and ensuring compliance.
What happens if we don’t get one when required?
Operating without a required permit could lead to:
- Fines or enforcement from Technical Safety BC
- Insurance issues if an incident occurs
- Delays or legal issues when selling units or disclosing safety records