CSRD issues first dozen building permits for Bush Creek East rebuilds in North Shuswap

SALMON ARM, B.C. — The Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) has issued its first set of building permits to property owners affected by last year’s devastating Bush Creek East wildfire.

In a post to its website, the district says permits have been issued for 12 projects, with 10 more in the process of coming forward.

Additionally, the CSRD has issued 11 development permits, with another 11 in progress. The district estimates about 109 (47 per cent) of the 233 properties scorched by the fire will require development permits before they receive building permits.

“We are thrilled to have issued these building permits and see these residents move forward with their projects following the devastation caused by the Bush Creek East wildfire,” said Gerald Christie, the district’s general manager of development services. “Rebuilding is happening now in the North Shuswap, and we are committed to working through the necessary processes with property owners as quickly as possible.”

Christie notes the district has seconded some of its development services staff to work directly with the property owners affected by the Bush Creek East fire.

The blaze rampaged through the North Shuswap, including parts of Celista, Scotch Creek and Lee Creek, on August 18, 2023.