Frequently
Asked Questions About
Denman Island Real Estate
Below you will find answers to common questions we are asked. If
you do not find the information you are looking for please contact
us with your question.
What costs will I have to cover in addition to the price
of the property I purchase?
If you buy real estate on Denman Island, you will have to be prepared
to cover most, if not all, of the following costs:
- Property purchase tax
- GST (goods and services tax)— applies
only to some properties
- Annual property taxes
- Bank appraisal
- Water tests
- Septic inspection
- Fire and liability insurance
- Legal fees
If you would like to know more about these fees, please contact
us.
How many homes can I build on my land?
All land on Denman Island is zoned, and with only a few minor exceptions,
only one dwelling is permitted on each parcel.
Do I need a building permit to begin construction on my
land?
On Denman Island, building permits are not required.
However, Denman land is subject to the land use
bylaws of the Islands Trust. These bylaws regulate
the use of land, and location and size of buildings
and structures. To begin building on your new property,
you will need to obtain siting and use permits from
the Islands Trust (normally a simple and quick process).
It is recommended that you research the land use
bylaws and how they apply to the piece of property
you are considering buying, and have Health Department
approval for a septic field.
What do I need to know about septic systems?
Most buyers want indoor plumbing. This means an
approved sewage and gray water disposal system.
To install a system, you must apply for a permit
and pay an administration fee of $250. The Ministry
of Environmental Health issues these permits. Contact
them in nearby Cumberland, B.C. at (250) 336-3202
if you have any questions about the permits or sewage
systems in general.
What type of water supply will I use on my Denman property?
Your source of water will most likely come from
drilled deep wells, shallow dug wells or a cooperative
water system. Some homes successfully collect rain
water in cisterns as well. Before buying land on
Denman Island, investigate the property’s
current water source and have it tested. We can
recommend a technician to assist you in this process.

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