Builders in Maple Ridge can use a new permitting process designed to speed approvals.
Builders and developers have access to the city’s new Certified Professional (CP) Program, which offers an alternative route for obtaining building and occupancy permits for new, complex builds.
City council gave the green light for the program in November.
“Launching the Certified Professional Program is a key milestone in our efforts to modernize our building permit approval process to help meet the housing needs of our community,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “We’ve received many inquiries about the program, demonstrating this is a tangible way to support builders and help projects move forward more efficiently while maintaining the highest safety standards.”
The CP Program allows building permit applicants to work with a certified professional, such as a registered architect or engineer with specialized training in fire safety, life safety, and accessibility. CPs act as independent experts who guide applicants through the city’s building permitting process, helping ensure compliance with the building code and reducing review times for eligible projects.
To help applicants navigate the program, the city has published a Maple Ridge Certified Professional Program Supplement Guide, with information on the application process, building permit submission requirements, and other program elements.
The city lists benefits of the program:
• Accelerated Approvals: By assisting with code interpretation and coordination, CPs help streamline the permit process, particularly for new, complex buildings that require extensive review.
• Specialized Expertise: CPs bring advanced knowledge of the BC Building Code’s safety-related provisions, helping applicants navigate and achieve code compliance in cases involving unique or innovative building designs.
• Resource Optimization: CPs augment the city’s review team and provide increased capacity, improving the efficiency of the permit process and potentially reducing project timelines.
• Collaboration and Safety: CPs work alongside city officials to ensure adherence to safety standards, ultimately enhancing public safety in Maple Ridge.
Developers and builders can hire a CP by contacting registered architects or engineers certified with the AIBC – Architectural Institute of British Columbia or Engineers and Geoscientists BC.
To learn more about the program, visit MapleRidge.ca/CPP or contact the city by emailing BuildingEnquiries@MapleRidge.ca.
