Surrey Council eases stormwater drainage requirements to spur development

Surrey, BC – During its Regular Council Meeting on Monday, Surrey City Council approved changes that relax Residential Storm Pump requirements for single-family properties. These changes remove barriers to development, allowing for the redevelopment of hard-to-service properties and increasing the supply of housing options in Surrey. The new policy permits private pumping of stormwater from foundation drains into the City's existing stormwater sewers in certain circumstances. Additionally, the City will allow basements where they would otherwise be precluded by the local hydraulic grade line, with support for variance applications to certain definitions and height restrictions.

"We are pleased to take this step towards increasing housing density and affordability in Surrey while also ensuring that our stormwater management systems are protected," said Mayor Brenda Locke. "This change will allow home builders to construct more homes with basements, which is a highly desirable feature for many residents, ultimately providing more options for families and individuals looking to call Surrey home."

This decision comes after Council directed staff to consider options to deal with drainage issues that previously restricted development of single-family homes.

The new policy will allow for the private pumping of stormwater from foundation drains in cases where no emergency gravity overflow is available, subject to certain conditions and approvals. Additionally, home builders will be able to apply for variances to certain definitions and height restrictions to construct basements where they would otherwise be precluded by the local hydraulic grade line.

The City's Planning and Development Department will work with the Engineering Department to develop policy and procedures to support these changes.