The Expedited Processing Program (EPP) is an optional process for development applications in which a Qualified Professional submits the Development Permit application and certifies that it complies with applicable City regulations.
As part of a pilot program beginning September 1, 2026, the EPP will be available for Ground-Oriented Residential Infill (GORI) Development Permit applications for triplex and fourplex developments within specified areas in west Maple Ridge.
EPP development applications are reviewed and certified by a Qualified Professional before submission. This allows the City to use a streamlined review process focused on regulatory compliance, eliminating the need for detailed review and shortening application processing timelines.
Faster approvals can help reduce project costs and support housing delivery. The program also aims to increase housing choice and supply, encourage development that aligns with established Development Permit guidelines, support the rejuvenation of established neighbourhoods, and improve administrative efficiency through reduced processing requirements.
Properties eligible for the EPP are shown by selecting the “Expedited Processing Program” option under the “Layers” tab.
Applications that require an additional, supporting permit, such as an Environmental Development Permit for environmentally sensitive areas or a Development Variance Permit for a variance to a municipal bylaw, are not eligible for the EPP. These applications must be processed through the standard Development Permit process.
All Urban Infill Residential use applications proposing two or more principal units must start by obtaining an Engineering Servicing Review. The review identifies key infrastructure requirements that may affect the project design, including possible road dedication, water and sewer servicing, stormwater management, access and/or offsite servicing requirements to support the proposal.
A Stormwater Management Plan that addresses the requirements identified in the Engineering Servicing Review must be submitted prior to submitting an EPP Development Permit application.
Engineering staff will review the plan and provide comments that must be addressed into the Stormwater Management Plan submitted as part of the Development Permit application.
Under the EPP, a Qualified Professional is required to submit the Ground-Oriented Residential Infill (GORI) Development Permit application. A simplified EPP Checklist is submitted in place of the standard GORI Development Permit Guidelines Checklist. The EPP Checklist has been designed to provide expanded regulatory guidance to applicants and incorporates OCP Guidelines, Zoning Bylaw, Parking Bylaw, and Tree Bylaw requirements.
The Qualified Professional is required to use their professional integrity and assurance to demonstrate compliance with all City regulations by completing a statement of assurance which forms part of the Expedited Processing Program Checklist.
EPP applications that include proposed variances to City Bylaws will not be accepted and will be processed as a standard Development Permit application.
Applications with minor deficiencies will be provided with one opportunity to submit revisions within two weeks of receiving comments from the City.
If the identified deficiencies are not addressed, or if significant revisions are required, the application will be transferred to the standard Development Permit application process. Transferring the application to the standard application stream will allow additional staff guidance and allow the applicant additional time to revise their submission and address the identified deficiencies.
Under the provisions of the Development Approval Procedures Bylaw No. 8081-2025, the approval of Minor Development Permit applications (which include triplexes and fourplexes under the EPP) are delegated to the Director of Building and Planning for approval and therefore do not require Council’s approval.
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The identified areas were selected due to their proximity to transit, schools and commercial services and offer larger lot sizes and site configurations, making the properties well-suited for infill residential redevelopment. Properties within known environmentally sensitive areas have been excluded from eligibility as they require additional specific review and to potentially meet environmental requirements.
Following the one-year pilot period beginning September 1, 2026, staff will report back to Council with the program results and recommendations regarding continuation, implementation refinements, and a potential expansion of the Program.
