City of Maple Ridge Launches Streamlined Online Home Improvement Permits

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Home Improvement Permits are now online.

Maple Ridge, B.C., May 7, 2026 – The City of Maple Ridge is making it easier, faster and more flexible for homeowners to start renovation projects with the launch of online applications for home improvements permits through the City's building permit portal.

The online intake system allows homeowners and contractors to begin an application before all documents are ready. Applicants can save their progress and upload plans, drawings, specifications, and other documents as they become available. Permit review will begin once a complete application is submitted and City staff will follow up if additional documents are required.

This new process will reduce delays at the outset, helping applicants better understand the requirements for supporting information. Processing timelines will depend on how quickly all required documents are submitted.

"These improvements are part of the City's broader work to modernize City services and meet people where they're at," said Mayor Dan Ruimy. "Our step-by-step online system makes it easier for residents and smaller contractors to move projects forward while still maintaining the safety and quality standards our community expects. By improving access and reducing delays we're creating a more responsive process that supports housing growth and investment in Maple Ridge."

Home Improvement Permits are the latest permit type added through the City's Development Services Optimization (DSO) program, which has already reduced permit processing times for six other permit types to date.

"We've heard from homeowners and builders that timing and processes can be a challenge—especially for smaller projects," said James Stiver, Director of Planning and Building for the City of Maple Ridge. "This new online intake model removes friction early on, so people can get things started while taking the time they need to complete their documentation."

The home improvement permit category includes projects, such as interior renovations, structural updates and other improvements that require permits to ensure compliance with building and safety regulations.

Applicants will continue to receive guidance throughout the process, with clear prompts on what documents are required and when they need to be submitted. 

Learn more and apply at: MapleRidge.ca/Build

Online Only Applications Now in Effect for Activated Building Permit Types

As of May 1, 2026, the City is no longer be accepting paper applications for the building permit types currently available through the online portal. Home improvement permits will transition to fully online by June 1, 2026. Current online permit applications include:

By enabling online submissions and coordinated internal reviews, the City has created a more consistent, efficient, and transparent process while reducing administrative delays.

The City will continue expanding digital services and streamlining processes to improve turnaround times and increase online capabilities. Upcoming work will include planning application processes, including Official Community Plan amendments, rezonings, development permits, development variance permits, and subdivision applications.

Applicants can learn more about the requirements for construction projects and access the online building portal at MapleRidge.ca/Build.

Supporting Housing Growth and Community Investment

These modernization efforts are helping Maple Ridge keep pace with its rapidly growing population and exceed its year one provincial housing targets. The City has surpassed its 2025 target by 23 per cent, with 751 net new homes built.

The streamlined permit portal is a key tool to accelerate approvals and help Maple Ridge meet its 2029 provincial target of 3,954 new homes.

More than 150 rezoning applications and 450 building permit applications are currently in process, supported by strategic initiatives such as the Maple Ridge Moves plan, which guides investments in road, transportation and infrastructure projects including the Abernethy extension, the 240 Street bridge, and future bus rapid transit on Lougheed Highway.

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Media contact: 

Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319   C 778 955 4249
E Media@MapleRidge.ca