THE City of Surrey has hit a major milestone in its plan to accelerate housing delivery across the city, cutting residential building permit timelines by 75% – from 16 weeks to just four. On Monday, staff updated Council on changes that speed up projects, reduce costs, and reduce the steps and paperwork required for permits. For residential builders, predictable timelines mean projects can start sooner and move forward with confidence. 

“Last year, the City cut permit processing times, lowered costs for the development community, and delivered real results – 4,280 net new dwellings and over $2 billion in construction value,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “As Surrey continues to grow rapidly, we are committed to creating more homes in every neighbourhood and making it easier to build in our city.”

In another major milestone, City staff reported that builders now receive their security deposits back in an average of six weeks, down from six months. A security deposit is money builders give the City to ensure required work – like roads, utilities, and landscaping – is completed and returned after inspections. Shortening the wait helps builders move projects forward faster at a time of rising construction and financing costs.

Other key improvements include faster reviews for minor tenant improvement permits, now typically completed within one day. Also, the Development Approvals Process Improvements Task Force has been made permanent in recognition of its important role in streamlining City approvals.

“I would like to acknowledge the incredible work done by staff to reduce the processing times,” said Ron Gill, General Manager of Planning and Development. “Now that the timelines are below the target, we will continue improving the process to help deliver homes for residents. It’s important that we celebrate the successes of 2025 and look forward to the improvement opportunities of 2026.”

For ongoing development and permitting improvements in Surrey, visit surrey.ca/development.