Apply with Cloudpermit

New Permit Application Process

The City of Fernie is excited to announce the launch of Cloudpermit, a new software designed to streamline the building and development permit process for builders, developers, businesses, and residents.

Since June 4, 2025, the building permit process can be completed online from a computer or mobile device.

Starting June 24, 2026, planning and development applications - including variance requests and subdivision applications - will also be available for submission through the portal.

Join us to see a live demonstration, ask questions, and learn how Cloudpermit will make the planning application process more efficient and user-friendly.

Benefits:

  • Apply for permits at any time of day, from any location with an internet connection. Save your work and finish it later.
  • Check the status of your permit online and receive email updates on the progress.
  • Communicate with the review team through a central location.
  • Schedule building permit inspections through an online booking system.

When do I need a Building Permit?

A building permit is required when you plan to construct, renovate, demolish or change the use of a building. Information about building permit requirements is available online: www.fernie.ca/buildingpermits

How to Submit a Building Permit Application

To get started, register for a Cloudpermit account online: https://ca.cloudpermit.com/gov/login

Gather the information and supporting documents required for your submission by following the Building Permit Document Checklist and Design Drawing and Site Plan Specifications guide.

If a development permit is required for your project, you must apply for this permit first. Read more about development permit requirements: www.fernie.ca/developmentpermits

Follow our step-by-step instruction guide on how to submit a building permit application.

Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive an email confirmation. Within 2 business days, the City will email you an invoice with the amount payable for the permit application.

Payments can be made in the following ways:

  • In-person at City Hall front desk by cheque, cash, or debit. 
  • Prepare a cheque made out to 'City of Fernie’. Mail to P.O. Box 190, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 or deposit it in the mail slot at City Hall front door (501 3rd Avenue) with a copy of the completed Permit Application form included in the envelope for reference.
  • VISA or Mastercard through the online payment service OptionPay. This is a third-party payment system with a tiered range of fees to use the service. Fees associated with this service are not received by the City of Fernie.

When paying via OptionPay, select the payment type ‘Building/Development Applications & Permit’ and choose the appropriate payment and application category. The civic address field must include the address of the proposed project or development. The payee’s name must be the full name of the property owner or their acting agent. If the payment includes a building permit security deposit, the deposit will be held under the name of the payee and returned to the specified payee upon approval of the Building Official. 

Once paid, your application will enter the queue to be reviewed by the Planners and Building Officials.

How to Request an Inspection

Inspections can be booked by logging into Cloudpermit and sending a request. Read our Inspections Bulletin for more information.

If your building permit was issued before the launch of Cloudpermit, contact the Building Department for your inspection, and we’ll get you set up online - building@fernie.ca. 

How-To Videos

Learn how to navigate Cloudpermit with these helpful tutorial videos:

A full list of training guides can be found on the Cloudpermit Support website.

Watch a recording of the Cloudpermit information session hosted by the City of Fernie on May 21, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I still submit a paper application at City Hall?

Building permit applications are no longer accepted in paper or by email and must be submitted through Cloudpermit.

Planning and development applications will continue to be accepted in paper or by email until Friday, July 17, 2026. During this transition period, applications submitted through Cloudpermit will be processed more quickly. Paper and email submissions require additional time for staff to organize, digitize, and review for completeness during business hours before being uploaded into Cloudpermit.

  • How can I check the status of my application?

Log in to Cloudpermit and view your workspace for the status of your application. You may see the submission progress through the following statuses: Draft, Submitted, Waiting for Payment, In Review, Ready to Issue, Permit Issued, Construction Started, or Finished. You’ll receive an email when your application changes status.

  • Can I use Cloudpermit if I submitted my application before June 4, but I haven't been issued a permit yet?

Yes. The City is working to add your permit data to Cloudpermit during the coming weeks. Once you’re in the system, you’ll receive an email asking you to register for a Cloudpermit account. You can then track your application and book inspections through Cloudpermit.

  • Can I use Cloudpermit if I have been issued a building permit, but my project is still under construction?

Yes. Your permit application data will be added to Cloudpermit when you contact the City for an inspection. From that point onwards, you can track your application and book inspections through Cloudpermit.

  • My invitation to register with Cloudpermit has expired. What do I do?

Go to the Cloudpermit homepage and click ‘Forgot your password’. Enter your email address to receive an email with instructions on how to set up your Cloudpermit password.

  • Can I use Cloudpermit when my existing permit is nearly expired?

If your project isn't ready for a final inspection before the permit expiry date, you can request a one-time Permit Extension through Cloudpermit, up to 30 days before the expiry date.

  • I need a development permit and a building permit. Can I apply for both using Cloudpermit?

Not yet. Development permits will be available in Cloudpermit towards the end of  June 2026. If your project requires a development permit or development variance permit, please complete an application form and apply with the required supporting documents either in person at City Hall or by email: planning@fernie.ca 

For more information about development permits, visit the City's online information page.

Have questions or need assistance with your submission? Send an email to: planning@fernie.ca