A centralized property file search (CPFS) is a search of City records on a building.
A CPFS may include:
- Notification of active permits from:
- commercial & housing inspections (building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical)
- occupancy
- Records of Residential Buildings Fire Safety By-law compliance
- Orders and violations from:
- Planning, Property & Development enforcement services
- Fire prevention
- Licensing & Bylaw Enforcement
- Zoning
- More zoning information, including if a proposed use is permissible
Inspections are not included in this search. You can submit a separate application to request a fire prevention inspection. Extra fees apply.
Apply for a search
To apply for a CPFS, a Permits Online account is needed.
Applications must include:
- Letter of owner authorization
- Tenant list (if applicable)
Search results are provided within 15 business days after the City confirms the application is complete and accepts payment.
A letter of owner authorization is needed for a CPFS application. The letter must:
- For commercial properties – be on the registered property owner’s company letterhead, including:
- Business name
- Mailing address
- Company contact information (phone number, email)
- Include current date
- Be addressed to:
- City of Winnipeg, Centralized Property File Search
Unit 18 - 30 Fort Street, Winnipeg, MB
- City of Winnipeg, Centralized Property File Search
- Reference the address(es) of the search application
- Include the registered property owner’s signature and date signed. Owner signature cannot be electronically generated.
- Contain the following wording:
"I, [registered owner’s name], of [registered owner’s company], am the registered owner of the above noted property and hereby provide authorization to [applicant name] of [applicant company] to apply for and obtain results of a centralized property file search."
The applicant’s name and company must match the CPFS application.
Letters that do not meet these requirements will not be accepted.
For multi-tenant commercial buildings, a detailed tenant list is needed. The list must include unit numbers, tenant names and their existing uses.
Fees & payment
Fees for CPFS applications are found in the Planning, Development & Building Fees and Charges schedule. GST will be added. Payment can be made through Permits Online.
Services available without a CPFS application
- View issued construction-related permits
- View issued occupancy permits
- Request a Zoning Verification of Use Letter (PDF, 98KB)
Questions?
Email: centralizedpropertyfilesearch@winnipeg.ca
Phone: 204-986-5189