26 Mar, 2025
How to Maintain Compliance Under an Electrical Operating Permit
Operating Permits

How to Maintain Compliance Under an Electrical Operating Permit

If your strata holds—or plans to apply for—an Electrical Operating Permit (EOP) in British Columbia, understanding how to stay compliant is just as important as having the permit itself.

An EOP is more than a document—it comes with ongoing responsibilities, recordkeeping, and professional oversight. And with Technical Safety BC (TSBC) increasing its focus on permit compliance, strata corporations need to be proactive, informed, and organized.

In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly how to maintain compliance under an electrical operating permit, including the role of your Field Safety Representative (FSR), what records you need to keep, and what to expect from TSBC.

What Is an Electrical Operating Permit?

An Electrical Operating Permit allows building owners—like strata corporations—to perform ongoing regulated electrical work such as maintenance, equipment replacement, and minor alterations, without needing a separate permit each time.

It’s especially relevant for buildings that operate:

  • Emergency systems (like fire alarms or generators)
  • Electrical service over 250 kVA
  • Elevators, HVAC systems, or high-voltage equipment
  • Electric vehicle charging systems

Unlike installation permits, which cover single projects, an EOP is an annual permit that requires continuous oversight and compliance.

The 3 Pillars of EOP Compliance

To maintain your permit in good standing with TSBC, your strata must actively manage three core areas:

1. Assigned Field Safety Representative (FSR)

You must have a certified Field Safety Representative (FSR) on file at all times.

  • The FSR is responsible for supervising or reviewing all regulated work.
  • They must hold a class of certification appropriate to your building’s systems.
  • If your FSR leaves or changes, you must notify TSBC immediately.

Without an active, qualified FSR, your permit is not valid—even if it’s been paid for.

2. Accurate and Up-to-Date Logbook

An EOP requires a logbook of all electrical work completed under the permit. This includes:

  • Maintenance performed
  • Alterations or equipment replacements
  • Dates, locations, and details of work
  • Who performed the work and their qualifications

This logbook must be kept on site and made available for audit or inspection by TSBC.

🔍 Tip: Use a dedicated binder or digital log with printed backup copies, and make it easy for rotating council members or contractors to update.

3. Annual Declaration

Each year, your strata’s FSR must submit an Annual Operating Permit Declaration to TSBC. This form confirms:

  • That all work performed under the permit was compliant
  • That all required records have been maintained
  • That the permit’s scope is still accurate

Failure to submit this declaration can result in:

  • Suspension of your permit
  • Fines or enforcement action
  • Invalidation of your permit during an insurance or safety incident

Common Compliance Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Many strata councils believe they’re compliant when they’re not. Here are some common missteps—and how to stay clear of them:

Mistake #1: Letting Your FSR Resign Without Replacing Them

✅ Fix: Always have a backup plan. If your FSR is a contractor, ensure your agreement includes notice periods and transition support.

Mistake #2: Skipping the Annual Declaration

✅ Fix: Mark your renewal anniversary in your strata calendar and assign a council member to follow up with the FSR one month prior.

Mistake #3: Forgetting to Log Minor Work

✅ Fix: Small jobs count too. Even changing a parkade fan or light fixture must be logged if it’s regulated.

Mistake #4: Assuming the Electrician Is Handling Everything

✅ Fix: Make sure roles are clear. The strata council holds the permit and is responsible for compliance—even if the work is outsourced.

Responsibilities of the Strata Council

Although your FSR is the technical lead, your strata council holds the permit. This means the council must:

  • Assign and manage the FSR relationship
  • Provide site access and information during inspections
  • Ensure the logbook is kept up to date
  • Follow through on recommendations or compliance notices from TSBC
  • Renew the permit and submit payment annually

It’s smart to appoint a dedicated permit liaison on council, especially in larger buildings or where multiple systems are in play.

Preparing for a TSBC Audit or Inspection

Technical Safety BC conducts random and scheduled audits of buildings with electrical operating permits. You don’t need to panic—but you do need to be ready.

What Inspectors May Ask For:

  • Permit number and proof of renewal
  • FSR certification and contact info
  • Logbook with documented work
  • Access to electrical rooms and equipment
  • Copies of annual declarations

📂 Pro tip: Keep a “compliance binder” with all your electrical permit documents, including past declarations, FSR info, and logbook entries.

Why Compliance Matters

Maintaining compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about risk reduction, operational safety, and protecting owners.

Benefits of Staying Compliant

  • ✅ Smoother insurance claims after electrical failures
  • ✅ Confidence in system safety (elevators, EVs, ventilation)
  • ✅ Better resale values with full documentation on Form B
  • ✅ Fewer emergency repairs due to proactive oversight
  • ✅ Avoiding costly shutdowns or TSBC enforcement

In strata governance, transparency and proactive planning go a long way—and permit compliance is a big part of that.

Summary

If your building holds an Electrical Operating Permit, maintaining compliance is an ongoing responsibility—but with the right systems in place, it’s very manageable.

The three pillars to focus on are:

  1. A qualified and assigned FSR
  2. A complete, accurate logbook
  3. A submitted annual declaration

By keeping these in check, your strata will avoid regulatory issues and help ensure the building’s electrical systems remain safe, legal, and future-ready.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do we know if our building needs an EOP?

If your building has service over 250 kVA, emergency systems, or performs regular electrical maintenance, you likely need one. Consult your FSR or TSBC.

Can we lose our permit for non-compliance?

Yes. TSBC may suspend or revoke permits for failing to assign an FSR, missing declarations, or ignoring safety violations.

Can we assign a new FSR mid-year?

Yes, but you must immediately notify TSBC and update the permit records. There cannot be a gap in coverage.

Is the logbook just a form?

No—it’s a detailed record of all regulated electrical work performed under your permit. It can be a physical binder or digital document, but must be complete and accessible.

Who is ultimately responsible for compliance—the FSR or the strata?

Both have roles, but the strata council holds the permit and is legally responsible for maintaining compliance, even if the FSR manages the technical aspects.