If we had a system where we could get permits in a reasonable amount of time then a lot more people would be following the rules, but as it is it takes months to get permits sometimes over a year, which is unreasonable.

Strata's have rules for renovations usually to deal with noise, contractors damaging or making a mess of the common property and to ensure other units are not inadvertently damaged in the process of renovating.

Townhouses are a bit different, you don't have to worry about water leaking into the unit below you and there is a separate entrance so really only have to worry about noise bothering your neighbor to the left or right, Strata's I have dealt with don't take this into account and treat all units the same.

My advice would be to go ahead with the work and if asked about it just say you are getting some drywall patched and the unit re-painted.