Permits
Annual State of Safety 2024
Permits
Contractors and asset owners are connected to BC’s safety system each time they take out an installation or operating permit. We issue these permits to validate whether work is being done correctly by tracking the type of regulated work, where it’s being done, and by whom. We also share our data repository of potential risks and trends with the appropriate asset owners so they can identify potential hazards tied to equipment or systems.
Unfortunately, there are many individuals and organizations performing regulated work in BC that choose not to engage, or selectively engage, in the safety system. We refer to them as the “grey market.” Not only does illegal work increase safety risk, but it also causes frustration for those who are compliant. In 2024, we revitalized efforts to find, engage, and if necessary, enforce against the “grey market.”
129,595
installation permits issued
113,472
active operating permits in 2024
Installation Permits
In 2024, a total of 129,595 installation permits were issued, a 9% decrease compared to 2023.
Gas installation permits decreased by 21% in 2024 compared to the previous year. The decrease may become a trending shift as BC moves towards using electrical equipment over gas equipment to heat and cool residential homes. The installation of heat pumps is gaining popularity, for example, as it can potentially replace furnaces, boilers and air conditioners.
Installation permits in the amusement devices technology and passenger ropeways technology also decreased by 49% and 29%, respectively. This may be due to stabilizing market conditions since the amusement industry’s strong growth from 2023.
Installation Permits by Technology (2020-2024)
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Operating Permits
There were 113,472 active operating permits in 2024, a decrease of 2% compared to 2023.
In general, operating permits volume in 2024 remained consistent with the previous year, with incremental increases or decreases of less than 5% across all technologies. This may be reflective of stable market conditions as existing businesses continue to operate; however, the lack of increase may indicate that businesses are finding it challenging to launch or invest in more equipment during these economic times.
Operating Permits by Technology (2020-2024)
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