November 27 Update: The deadline to submit feedback has been extended from December 2 to January 6, 2026.
In October 2025, a private member’s bill (Bill M 216, Professional Reliance Act) was introduced. If passed, the legislation would require local governments to accept submissions from qualified professionals (such as architects and engineers, and other registered professionals under the authority of the Professional Governance Act), as meeting development permit requirements, without “peer review”. The bill creates exceptions for accepting certified submissions if the submission was incomplete, or where a complaint about the submission had been made to the Superintendent of Professional Governance.
Provide Feedback on Bill M 216 – Professional Reliance Act
The bill has passed second reading and is now proceeding to committee stage, which includes an invitation for feedback from the public. Access to information about the bill and the public consultation is available on the committee website: consultation-portal.leg.bc.ca/consultations/154
All feedback must be submitted by 3 p.m. PT on January 6, 2026.
The AIBC is aware of the bill and the potential impact on registered professionals and local communities. The Institute has provided initial policy feedback to the government. We continue to monitor the progress of the bill, and will update Registrants via the website as more information becomes available.
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