Model Plan Review Program
The Model Plan Review Program pilot introduces a streamlined approach for reviewing residential building plans that are used repeatedly by builders. During the pilot phase, participation will be limited to a selected group of builders. The program allows pre‑approved model home plans to be reused across multiple sites which helps reduce review times, limit duplicate submissions and improve consistency while maintaining safety and code compliance.
Following the pilot, full participation is expected to be available for the 2027 construction season pending program evaluation and refinement.
Why This Program Is Being Introduced
- Responds to feedback from the building industry requesting faster approvals and fewer re‑reviews for identical plans
- Improves efficiency in the residential permitting process
- Supports timely housing delivery while maintaining regulatory oversight
How the Program Works
- Builders submit model home plans once per year for a full technical review
- Once approved models can be referenced in future building permit applications
- Permits using approved models follow a simplified review process
- Approved plans are stored by the City and identified using a model reference number
What Is Included in the Pilot
- Greenfield development only
- Ground‑oriented residential buildings such as:
- Single‑detached homes
- Semi‑detached homes
- Townhouses and stacked townhouses
- Models designed using either prescriptive or performance‑based energy compliance
- Minor interior changes are permitted provided they do not affect structure or the building envelope
What Is Not Included
- Infill development
- Changes to building envelope structure size or orientation
- Significant plan changes which require a separate permit or alteration review
Benefits of the Pilot
- Faster initial approval of model plans with a target of five to seven business days
- Reduced review timelines for permits using approved models
- Improved consistency in code interpretation across identical designs
- Fewer re‑reviews and clarification requests
- Improved customer experience for permit applicants
Safety and Compliance
- All model plans undergo a full technical review
- Plans must meet applicable code requirements
- Drawings must be signed and sealed by qualified design professionals where required
- The program maintains regulatory confidence while improving efficiency
Measuring Success
The pilot will be evaluated based on:
- Reduced review times
- No increase in compliance or enforcement issues
- Higher first‑time approval rates for model‑based permits
- Improved consistency and predictability in permitting outcomes
What’s Next
Building Standards will evaluate the pilot based on service levels, compliance outcomes and user experience. Subject to results, a full Model Plan Review Program is expected to launch for the 2027 construction season.