Maple Ridge has launched a one-year pilot program designed to speed up approvals for eligible triplex and fourplex developments in select west Maple Ridge neighbourhoods.
The city says applications that qualify for its new Expedited Processing Program (EPP) could move through the development permit process an estimated six to eight months faster than applications using the standard process.
This pilot is intended to support more "missing middle" housing, including triplexes and fourplexes, in neighbourhoods close to transit, schools, shops, and other services.
For REALTORS® working with clients considering redevelopment opportunities in Maple Ridge, the program could be an important part of early conversations about a property's potential.
GVR supports more housing choice
GVR welcomes practical municipal steps that make housing approvals clearer, faster, and more predictable while maintaining appropriate professional review and regulatory compliance.
Maple Ridge's one-year EPP for eligible triplex and fourplex applications is a useful example of local process innovation supporting more housing choice and missing-middle homes.
The initiative is part of Maple Ridge's Housing Action Plan and its Housing Accelerator Fund commitments with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
At the end of the one-year pilot, city staff will report to council with results and recommendations on whether to continue, change, or expand the program.
How the expedited process works
The optional program applies to eligible properties designated Urban Residential in Maple Ridge's Official Community Plan. The properties are in areas where triplexes and fourplexes are permitted under BC's small-scale multi-unit housing legislation.
To qualify, an application must be submitted by a qualified professional, such as an architect, building designer, or engineer. That professional must confirm the proposed development meets all City requirements.
Applications that require variances aren't eligible.
The city says this approach allows staff to focus on confirming that an application complies with municipal requirements rather than completing the standard full referral process.
Not every property in the designated neighbourhoods will qualify. Properties in environmentally sensitive areas, provincially designated Transit-Oriented Areas, and the Lougheed Transit Corridor, Town Centre, and Hammond area plans aren't eligible.
Some otherwise eligible properties may also require upgrades to water, sewer, drainage, or roads before redevelopment can proceed.
What members should know
Members advising clients in Maple Ridge should review the city's eligibility criteria, Urban Infill Residential Unit Locator, and application requirements before relying on the expedited stream.
Check whether a property is eligible: Visit the city's Urban Infill Residential Unit Locator.
Review program requirements: Visit the city's EPP page.