What Is a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) and Why It Matters

A Guide for Developers, Planners, and Property Owners in BC

If you’re applying for a development permit, working near a stream, or preparing an environmental report in British Columbia, you’ve likely been told you need a QEP. But what exactly is a Qualified Environmental Professional, and why is their involvement required?

At ENKON Environmental Ltd., our team of QEPs helps clients navigate BC’s complex environmental regulations—ensuring their projects move forward safely, responsibly, and legally.

Here’s what you need to know about what a QEP does, when you need one, and why working with a trusted firm matters.

What Is a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP)?

A Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) is a certified specialist authorized under BC’s Riparian Areas Protection Regulation (RAPR) and other environmental legislation to assess, report on, and advise on environmental conditions related to land development.

To qualify as a QEP in BC, a person must:

• Be a member in good standing with a recognized professional organization (e.g., RPBio, P.Eng, P.Ag, P.Geo, or P.Eng with experience in environmental fields)

• Have demonstrated experience and training in biological or environmental sciences

• Act with professional accountability and adhere to regulatory standards

In simple terms, a QEP is the only person allowed to conduct or sign off on certain types of environmental assessments required by municipalities, the Province, or the federal government.

What Does a QEP Do?

Depending on your project type and location, a QEP may be responsible for:

1. Riparian Area Assessments (RAPR Reports)

If you’re building within 30 metres of a stream or ditch, a QEP must:

• Assess habitat sensitivity

• Identify setback distances

• Submit a RAPR report via the provincial portal

2. Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) Monitoring

QEPs conduct field inspections to ensure ESC measures are:

• Installed properly

• Functioning during rain events

• Compliant with local bylaws

3. Wildlife and Habitat Surveys

From bird nest surveys to species-at-risk assessments, a QEP can:

• Identify sensitive species and habitat features

• Recommend mitigation strategies

• Ensure development complies with the Wildlife Act and Migratory Birds Convention Act

4. Permit Support and Regulatory Liaison

QEPs work directly with:

• Municipal planning departments

• The BC Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO)

…to ensure your permits are complete and defensible.

Check out our QEP monitoring instream works!

When Do You Need a QEP?

You typically need a QEP if your project:

• Is near a stream, wetland, ditch, or waterbody

• Involves land clearing, tree removal, or soil disturbance

• Requires an ESC plan, habitat report, or environmental monitoring

• Is subject to conditions under the Riparian Areas Protection Regulation (RAPR) or local bylaws

Municipalities like Surrey, Coquitlam, Langley, Burnaby, and Vancouver often require QEP reports before issuing development permits.

Why Hiring the Right QEP Matters

Not all QEPs are created equal. Choosing the right firm makes a huge difference in:

• Getting your permits approved quickly

• Avoiding rework due to poor-quality assessments

• Staying compliant and avoiding costly delays or penalties

At ENKON Environmental Ltd., our QEPs are:

• Recognized across BC for high-quality reporting

• Experienced in development, engineering, and ecology

• Trusted by municipalities, consultants, and private developers alike

How ENKON Supports Your Project

Our QEP-led services include but are not limited to:

• RAPR assessments and setbacks

• ESC plan development and inspections

• Wildlife and nesting bird surveys

• Habitat mapping and restoration planning

• Construction Environment Monitoring

• Environmental Development Permit Area (DPA) Applications

• Regulatory submissions and follow-up

• And Many More…

From small-lot developments to large municipal infrastructure projects, we tailor our support to fit your goals, timelines, and site conditions.

Need a QEP in BC?

Whether you're applying for a permit in Surrey, developing land in Langley, or breaking ground in Chilliwack, ENKON has the QEP experience to support your success.

Contact us today to speak with a Qualified Environmental Professional.

📧enkon@enkonenv.com | 📞 604-574-4477 |📍 Serving Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island & Interior BC