Vacant and Unoccupied Buildings

Vacant and Unoccupied Building Permit

In 2024, City Council passed the Vacant and Unoccupied Buildings Bylaw (2024-19).

If you’re planning to leave a building empty or unoccupied in Whitehorse for more than six months, you will need a Vacant and Unoccupied Building Permit.

Here is a simple breakdown of what’s required:

  • Secure and maintain the vacant/unoccupied building in compliance with all Government of Yukon building and fire code requirements, municipal bylaws and any other standards and requirements deemed necessary for public safety and fire prevention as directed by an Inspector.
  • Submit your permit application at least 30 days before the building becomes vacant (see below). Fees apply.
  • Provide accurate contact information for the owner of the building. If anything changes, notify Building Services immediately.
  • Provide Proof of Insurance for the building. The building owner must carry at least $3 million in liability insurance and submit your insurance certificate.
  • Remove anything combustible inside the building to reduce the fire hazard.
  • Follow any other requirements of the Inspector.

For additional questions, please contact Bylaw Services at 867-668-8317 or [email protected].

Fees

As outlined in the Fees & Charges Bylaw, the fees for Vacant and Unoccupied Buildings are:

 Department  Fee   Type  Description  Additional
Details		 Unit Bylaw 2025-03 Fee if GST   applicable  Effective  date
Bylaw Services/
Building Services		  Vacant & Unoccupied   Building  Permit  Permit  1st Year  Each   $1,500  No GST  January 1, 2025
Bylaw Services/
Building Services		  Vacant & Unoccupied   Building  Permit  Permit  2nd Year  Each  $3,500  No GST  January 1, 2025
Bylaw Services/
Building Services		  Vacant & Unoccupied   Building  Permit  Permit  3rd Year  Each  $5,500  No GST  January 1, 2025
Bylaw Services/
Building Services		  Vacant & Unoccupied   Building Permit  Permit  4th Year  Each  $8,000  No GST  January 1, 2025
Bylaw Services/
Building Services		  Vacant & Unoccupied   Building Permit  Permit  5th and subsequent   years  Each  $8,000  plus 1%  of the assessed   property  value  No GST  January 1, 2025

Apply for a Vacant and Unoccupied Building Permit

Complete this form to apply for a Vacant and Unoccupied Building Permit. Please return the completed form to Building Services, 6-151 Industrial Road, or by mail to City of Whitehorse, Building Services, 2121 2nd Avenue, Whitehorse YT Y1A 1C2.

Report an Unoccupied Building

To report a vacant and unoccupied building, contact Bylaw Services at [email protected] or call 867-667-8317.