How long does it take to get a building permit approved in Surrey?

Building permit approval times in Surrey typically range from 4-8 weeks for simple projects like decks or single-family additions, while complex commercial or multi-family projects can take 3-6 months or longer. Surrey generally processes permits faster than Vancouver, but timelines depend heavily on project complexity, completeness of your application, and current workload.

Simple residential permits (decks, fences, single-family renovations, garages) usually take 4-6 weeks once you submit a complete application. More complex residential work like secondary suites, additions with structural changes, or new single-family homes typically require 6-12 weeks. Commercial and multi-family projects often take 3-6 months due to additional review requirements for fire safety, accessibility compliance, and coordination with other departments.

Application completeness is critical — incomplete submissions get rejected and restart the clock. Surrey's building department requires detailed drawings, structural calculations (when applicable), energy compliance documentation, and proof that your contractor is properly licensed with Technical Safety BC for electrical/gas work and carries WorkSafeBC coverage. Missing any required documents adds 2-4 weeks to your timeline.

How Surrey differs include coordination with their Engineering Department for projects affecting drainage, utilities, or road access. If your project requires a development permit (common for properties near streams, slopes, or in certain zones), add another 6-8 weeks before you can even apply for the building permit. Surrey also has specific requirements for secondary suites and coach houses that differ from Vancouver's rules.

Current processing reality shows Surrey's building department handling moderate volume compared to Vancouver's notorious backlogs. However, BC's construction boom and new BCBC 2024 requirements (effective March 10, 2025) are creating delays across all Metro Vancouver municipalities. Projects requiring seismic upgrades under the new code may face additional review time.

To minimize delays, work with an experienced contractor who knows Surrey's specific requirements and can submit complete applications the first time. Consider hiring a permit expediter for complex projects — they understand Surrey's processes and can navigate issues quickly.

Contact Surrey Building Department at 604-591-4086 or visit surrey.ca/renovating-building-development/building for current processing times and application requirements. They offer pre-application meetings for complex projects, which can save significant time by identifying issues before formal submission.

For anything beyond simple renovations, work with contractors experienced in Surrey's permit process.