City of Surrey launches a pilot to streamline pre-applications for development

The City of Surrey has launched a pilot pre-application process as part of the ongoing efforts to streamline development application approvals.

The pilot pre-application process, includes:

• Centralized pre-application submissions

• Reduced target timeline of five weeks

• Targeted and streamlined feedback

The City says, the pilot pre-application process replaces the existing Design Review Group (DRG) as the process to review pre-applications. Pre-applications are not required however, pre-applications lead to improved application submissions that ultimately help reduce project timelines and are strongly encouraged.

The pilot pre-application process will facilitate a coordinated staff review of the following project types:

• Townhouse

• Low-rise (including mixed-use)

• Mid/high-rise (including mixed-use)

• Commercial/industrial

• Significant single-family subdivisions

Features of the pilot pre-application:

• Includes a coordinated meeting between City departments to review your proposal and provide input on key issues. An optional City-applicant meeting will also be made available after comments are provided.

• The pilot pre-application meetings will be held every Wednesday afternoon. Pre-applications are reviewed at a Pre-Application Meeting (PAM) on a first come, first serve basis.

• Pre-application comments are targeted for five weeks after submission of an accepted pre-application submission.

Learn more about the pilot pre-application process, including the scope of review, timelines, and how to apply by visiting City of Surrey's website.

Next steps:

According to City, staff will assess the success of the pilot pre-application program over the next several months, including any applicant feedback, and adjust the program prior to formally launching the modernized pre-application review process later this year.