How to Get Original Building Plans from the City of Coquitlam

If you are planning a renovation, addition, or as-built survey in Coquitlam, BC, obtaining the original building drawings on file with the City of Coquitlam can save significant time and cost. The City of Coquitlam Building Division may hold construction records for your property, though availability depends on the age and type of building. This guide walks you through exactly how to access those records.

Official City of Coquitlam Resources

• City of Coquitlam Building & Construction Information Page: The City of Coquitlam's main building information page includes a "Request for Records" section. It explains that the City of Coquitlam Building Division may have original plans on file, depending on when the property was constructed.
• City of Coquitlam Building Division FAQs: The City of Coquitlam FAQ page addresses common questions including "How do I get house plans?" and details the specific entitlement requirements for homeowners, contractors, and realtors.

How to Request Original Building Drawings from the City of Coquitlam — Step by Step

Step 1 — Confirm Records Exist Before You Visit

Not all City of Coquitlam properties have drawings on file — older buildings (pre-1970s) are less likely to have digitized records. Save yourself a trip by contacting the City of Coquitlam Building Permits Division first to verify availability:

• Email: permits@coquitlam.ca
• Phone: 604-927-3441 — Mon–Fri, 8:00am–5:00pm

Step 2 — Provide the Required Proof of Entitlement

The City of Coquitlam requires proof that you are legally entitled to access the building records before releasing any drawings. Requirements vary by applicant type:

• Homeowners: Proof of ownership (e.g., Land Title document or property tax notice).
• Contractors, Designers & Non-Owners: A completed City of Coquitlam Agent Authorization Form signed by the owner.
• Realtors & Prospective Buyers: A valid and current purchase agreement for the property.

Step 3 — Submit Your Records Request

Once you have confirmed records exist and gathered the required documents, submit your request through the City of Coquitlam's online Planning & Development Enquiry Form. This routes your request directly to the City of Coquitlam Building Division and creates a formal paper trail.

Digitization Notice — Possible Delays

The City of Coquitlam is actively digitizing its historical building records. During this project, access to older plans may be temporarily limited or delayed. If your property was built before the 1990s, allow additional processing time and consider following up by phone after submitting your request.

Need Help Reading or Using the Drawings?

Once you have obtained your original building drawings from the City of Coquitlam, a professional designer can help you interpret them, identify any discrepancies with the as-built condition, and prepare updated permit drawings for your renovation or addition. Contact Canadian Blueprint — we work with Coquitlam homeowners and contractors regularly and understand the Coquitlam permit process inside and out.