Surrey approves over 10,500 new homes in two years, hitting 80% of its federal housing target while cutting permit times by 75%.
Surrey Surpasses 10,500 New Homes in Two Years
Big changes are happening in Surrey.
Two years into its Housing Action Plan, the city has approved 10,508 new homes. That means more than 80% of its three-year goal under the federal Housing Accelerator Fund has already been reached.
And with one year left, momentum is only building.
Federal Funding Fuels Fast Progress
The Housing Action Plan launched in 2023 with $100.7 million in support from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The goal was clear: boost housing supply, speed up approvals, and create more affordable options.
Mayor Brenda Locke said every approved home moves residents closer to finding the housing they need. She also thanked the federal government for backing Surrey’s efforts to deliver a wider range of housing choices.
Meanwhile, Randeep Sarai praised the city’s progress. He said the federal government remains focused on helping communities increase supply and ease housing costs. Surrey’s results, he noted, show how the program delivers real impact.
Permits Faster Than Ever
Here’s where things get even more impressive.
In 2025 alone, Surrey added 4,280 housing units. At the same time, the city slashed permitting timelines by 75%.
How? Staff rolled out more than 20 process improvements. Reviews moved quicker. Bottlenecks disappeared. Applications flowed faster.
As a result, builders can now get shovels in the ground sooner.
Millions Invested in Housing and Land
Surrey didn’t just approve homes. The city also invested heavily in the future.
In 2025, $35.1 million went toward housing initiatives and infrastructure. Notably, grants covered the full amount, so local taxpayers did not carry the cost.
On top of that, the city spent $18 million on land purchases. That land will support future affordable housing projects.
Seven out of nine major initiatives under the plan are either complete or on track. Therefore, the city remains well positioned to meet its full target by next year.
What Happens Next?
With the final year of the Housing Accelerator Fund ahead, Surrey is not slowing down.
Key projects are still to come. The Official Community Plan update will help shape long-term growth. Amenity Cost Charges and bonus density rules will also be introduced to support sustainable development.
In addition, online permitting will expand. Digital plan reviews will be added. More permit types will move to the online portal. The review process will be simplified even further.
Consequently, turnaround times should improve again.
A City Building for the Future
Surrey is growing fast. However, growth without housing creates pressure. That’s why these approvals matter.
More homes mean more options. More options mean greater affordability. And greater affordability helps families, workers, and businesses thrive.
Two years in, Surrey’s Housing Action Plan is delivering results. One year remains. Yet if the pace continues, the city may not just meet its target — it could surpass it.
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