News release

For immediate release

Saanich asks residents to pay taxes by mail or online

Saanich, BC – Property tax notices are in the mail, but payment methods are restricted in the District of Saanich this year with the closure of the municipal hall due to COVID-19.

Saanich recognizes that many taxpayers are used to visiting the municipal hall in person to pay their taxes and claim their homeowner grant. Given the volume of transactions that occur over a short time frame and the configuration of public spaces at the municipal hall, the District is not able to provide a safe environment and appropriate physical distance for staff and the public as required by the provincial health officer at this time.

“In particular, we know there are many seniors who prefer to come in to pay their taxes in person. As some of our most valued yet COVID-vulnerable community members, while we will miss seeing you this year, we need you to take advantage of the mail, drop off or online methods for the sake of safety,” said Mayor Fred Haynes. “These simple restrictive measures we are taking are to protect you and keep you safe. We look forward to seeing you again safe and healthy in 2021.”

Saanich revised its 2020 property tax collection processes in accordance with WorkSafeBC protocols for offices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Saanich will minimize all non-essential in-person interaction between staff and visitors.

As the payment of property taxes and claiming home owner grants have no requirement for in person interaction, Saanich asks residents to use the following methods to pay their taxes this year:

• Online banking: Pay through your financial institution’s online banking system. Check their local cut-off time to ensure payment is received by the due date.
• By mail: Mail your cheque and the bottom portion of your tax notice to 770 Vernon Avenue, Victoria, BC V8X 2W7. Payment must be received by July 31 to avoid penalty.
• Through your mortgage company: Contact your financial institution to set this up.
• Through your financial institution: Contact your financial institution for their rules for paying bills in person.
• Drop box: There’s a secure slot at the entrance of the municipal hall near the parking lot. The slot is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please practice safe physical distancing when using the drop box.
• Drive through drop off: A secure drive through drop off will be available at the parking lot entrance to the municipal hall at anticipated peak times. Check the Saanich website for details.

Although a limited number of services at the municipal hall are available by appointment only, appointments are not available for property tax payments or home owner grant claims. Staff will be available by phone and email during business hours to answer questions and assist taxpayers with the non-contact methods of payment.

The property tax deferment program is now fully administered by the provincial government. Saanich staff are no longer able to accept or process applications and renewals or answer any detailed questions about the program.

Learn more

If you have questions about payment methods or late penalties or have not received your property tax notice, please contact Saanich’s property tax staff at 250-475-5454 or propertytax@saanich.ca.

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Media contact:
Valla Tinney
Director of Finance
250-475-5521
valla.tinney@saanich.ca