Businesses continue to spend significant time navigating government requirements, preparing documentation, and waiting for decisions, according to the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade’s (SWRBOT) 2026 Red Tape Survey.
The survey found that 41% of respondents were unsure whether they had to report the same information to multiple government departments or agencies, highlighting the need for better coordination and clearer processes.
Businesses understand the importance of necessary regulations, but complying with them shouldn’t create unnecessary work, costs or uncertainty. Government processes should be clear, coordinated and predictable, allowing businesses to focus on productivity, investment and growth.
Joslyn Young, CEO
Key findings include:
- 68% reported a moderate or major impact from regulatory compliance.
- 46% spend at least six hours per week on compliance, including 16% who spend more than 20 hours.
- 60% identified understanding requirements as a leading compliance burden, followed by completing forms (58%) and gathering documents (56%).
- 75% identified faster municipal approval timelines as a priority for improving how government works with businesses.
- 72% want consolidated forms across provincial and federal government, while 69% want fewer duplicate reporting requirements and 67% want better communication between departments.
In Surrey, building permits (50%), development and amenity cost charges (48%), and engineering services and development applications (46% each) were among the most frequently identified municipal red tape concerns. In White Rock, building permits ranked highest at 46%.
Based on the findings, SWRBOT is calling for clearer guidance, faster and more predictable approvals, simplified online services, fewer duplicate reporting requirements and better coordination across departments and governments.
SWRBOT will continue to bring these findings to municipal, provincial, and federal decision makers as part of its ongoing advocacy for a more competitive business environment.
Access the full 2026 Red Tape Report.
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Media Contact:
Aman Parmar
Policy & Media Advisor
aman@swrbot.com
