Maple Ridge invites builders to forum as city touts faster permit approvals

The City of Maple Ridge is inviting builders and developers to discuss improvements to its permitting process at an upcoming forum, as officials report significant reductions in approval times for new home construction.

The free Builders Forum, titled “Building Better, Together,” will take place Nov. 18 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the ACT Arts Centre, bringing together construction industry professionals and city staff to discuss development challenges, regulatory requirements and efforts to streamline approvals.

The event comes as Maple Ridge continues to overhaul its development approval system, including a reported 77 percent reduction in processing times for new home construction permits over the past two years.

Newly elected Mayor Jerry Kok said improving the predictability and efficiency of the city’s development processes remains a priority for council.

“I’m looking forward to meeting with members of the building industry, hearing about their experiences, and discussing how we can work together to support responsible growth in Maple Ridge,” Kok said. “Making it easier, clearer and more predictable to build in our community is a priority for our council and we are committed to continuing the work to improve city processes and support the delivery of businesses, homes, and community spaces.”

The forum will feature interactive stations where builders, architects, engineers, contractors and consultants can speak directly with city staff about planning, engineering, trade permits and inspections.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m., Kok and city staff will deliver presentations on the Development Services Optimization Program, permit intake procedures, plan reviews and inspections.

The city says it has introduced several measures over the past two years to reduce administrative delays and make the permitting process more accessible.

Among those changes is the expansion of its online permitting portal, which now supports 10 different permit application processes.

Most recently, Maple Ridge launched online applications for Complex New Building Permits on Oct. 28, allowing developers to digitally submit applications for larger residential projects, mixed-use developments, commercial and industrial buildings, and institutional facilities.

The city has also introduced a Certified Professional Program, allowing qualified professionals hired by developers to help navigate the permitting process.

James Stiver, the city’s director of planning and building, said the forum will provide an opportunity to gather feedback from those who regularly work with the city’s development services.

“Taking steps to improve the city’s development approvals isn’t just about introducing new technology or changing procedures, it’s about working collaboratively with the people who use these services every day,” Stiver said. “The Builders Forum gives us an opportunity to directly engage with the city’s customers to provide updates and explore ways to make our processes more effective for everyone.”

The upcoming event follows the city’s Building Maple Ridge summit in May, part of an ongoing effort to strengthen communication between municipal staff and the development industry.

While the city acknowledges that high construction costs, interest rates and broader market conditions continue to influence the pace of development, officials say reducing municipal approval delays can help projects move forward more efficiently.

The Nov. 18 forum is open to building and development professionals from Maple Ridge and across the region.

Admission is free, but advance registration through Eventbrite is required.