City of Surrey to file a Notice on Title for Illegal Construction

Surrey, BC - Council has directed staff to file a notice on title to the property at 7686 125 Street, where the owner has illegally constructed and occupied the buildings without permits and in violation of the City’s Building Bylaw.

"City Council is sending a clear message that there is zero tolerance for illegal construction in Surrey," said Mayor Brenda Locke. “Illegal construction not only poses serious safety risks, but also erodes the integrity of building regulations. The legal measures we have taken will protect neighborhoods, future homeowners and uphold the standards that make Surrey a safe and vibrant place to live for all. I would like to thank the Illegal Construction Enforcement Team for their diligent efforts in this critical work.”

The notice on title is a result of a Special Council Meeting on July 24, 2024, where Surrey City Council voted unanimously in favour of filing the notice on title to the property. The notice will alert potential buyers, lenders, and insurers about the illegal construction and the potential risks associated with the property.

A notice on title under Section 57 of the Community Charter is a legal measure used by a city to inform the public, including potential purchasers, about unauthorized structures on a property that were built without the necessary building permits or inspections. It serves several purposes, including:

• Encouraging Compliance: It encourages owners to bring their property into compliance with the City’s Building Bylaw, to ensure homes are built to the minimum health and safety requirements. The legislation provides that the notice will be removed once compliance is achieved.
• Transparency and Awareness: It acts as a warning about unauthorized structures, protecting prospective buyers and informing the public.
• Enforcement and Accountability: It emphasizes the City's commitment to enforcing its Building Bylaw by holding property owners accountable for illegal construction activities.

The City of Surrey's Illegal Construction Enforcement Team, established in 2022, is dedicated to enforcing the City's bylaws and targeting residential construction that is done without permits, inspections, or compliance with safety standards. The City of Surrey has also increased fines for illegal building activities and sought compliance through court action.

To file a complaint about construction you suspect has been done without permits, email bylawcomplaint@surrey.ca or call 604-591-4370. Complaints can also be submitted online through the Report a Problem application.