Maple Ridge, B.C., Nov. 27, 2024 – Maple Ridge City Council has given the green light for the Certified Professional (CP) Program to move forward, approving amendments to the Maple Ridge Building Bylaw that will enable its implementation.

 

Set to launch on January 1, 2025, this program offers an alternative route for obtaining building and occupancy permits for new, complex builds, helping to streamline the approval process while ensuring the highest safety standards and conformity with the BC Building Code.

 

“The Certified Professional Program is a valuable addition to the broader suite of actions we’re taking to modernize and streamline development approval processes in Maple Ridge,” said Mayor Ruimy. “By leveraging the expertise of CPs, we’re making it easier and more efficient to build homes that meet our community's diverse and growing housing needs.”

 

About the Program

 

The CP Program allows building permit applicants to hire a Certified Professional (CP) to support processing building permit applications. A CP is an independent third-party expert who is either a registered architect or engineer with advanced training in fire safety, life safety, and accessibility provisions of the BC Building Code.

CPs will assist applicants by providing expert guidance and navigating the City’s building permit process, ensuring compliance with safety standards and potentially reducing review times.

 

Role of a Certified Professional

 

• Interpret and advise on relevant sections of the BC Building Code
• Provide coordination support for applicants to meet Code requirements
• Assist the City with plan review and site inspections

 

Enhancing City Development Goals

 

The CP Program aligns with Maple Ridge’s broader development process improvement strategies, including the development services optimization, the Development Concierge Service, digital plan submissions and the City’s Housing Strategy. These initiatives aim to shorten timelines, increase housing availability, and support diverse, attainable housing options in Maple Ridge.

 

Benefits of the Certified Professional Program

 

The CP Program brings significant benefits to building permit applicants and City officials, including:

• 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.

 

How to Hire a CP

 

Developers and builders can hire a CP by contacting registered architects or engineers certified with AIBC – Architectural Institute of British Columbia or Engineers and Geoscientists BC.

 

The Certified Professional Program will be fully operational on January 1, 2025.

 

Developers and builders interested in learning more about the program can visit MapleRidge.ca/CPP or contact the City by emailing BuildingEnquiries@MapleRidge.ca.

 

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Media Contact

Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 467-4319 C 778-955-4249
E PPurewal@MapleRidge.ca