The City of Surrey is stepping up its commitment to faster permits and better support for small builders across the region.
During the latest council meeting, officials extended the Development Approval Process Improvement Task Force until December 2025. The task force will now include two small builder representatives and shift its focus from land development to the everyday challenges that small-scale builders face.
Making Room for More Voices in Housing
“Surrey is growing rapidly, and small builders are a key part of our housing landscape,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. She added that expanding the task force ensures these builders have a voice in shaping policies that affect them directly.
This change comes as the city responds to recent provincial zoning changes that allow more small-scale multi-unit housing. Surrey is adapting early by helping builders navigate the new landscape efficiently.
Clearer Rules, Faster Permits
Councillor Pardeep Kooner, who chairs the task force, noted the value of builder feedback. “Hearing directly from those on the ground helps us improve permit timelines and adapt to shifting provincial regulations,” he said. The changes also aim to clarify rules that some say have caused funding uncertainty across the region.
Results Already Showing
Since its formation in October 2024, the task force has made measurable progress. Nearly all of the issues it identified are either resolved, ongoing, or nearing full implementation. With the renewed mandate and fresh input from small builders, the city expects even faster progress in the months ahead.
Stay tuned to Surrey Speak for more updates on how local policies are shaping the city’s growth.
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