APPI Professional Code of Practice
The Institute’s Professional Code of Practice, as set out in the Professional Planning Regulation, frames and underpins the ethics and professionalism of practicing professional members of APPI. All regulated members must follow and adhere to the Professional Code of Practice as a condition of membership. It provides both the overarching ethical principles for the profession, as well as more specific expectations with respect to professional members’ conduct and professional practice. Individuals with any interest regarding ethics and professionalism in the planning profession in Alberta and the Northwest Territories are encouraged to review the Code.
National Model of Ethical Standards for the Planning Profession in Canada
The Provincial and Territorial Institutes and Associations (PTIAs) and the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) are pleased to confirm the adoption of updated National Model of Ethical Standards, effective January 1, 2027. The new Ethical Standards include both a Code of Ethics and a Code of Professional Conduct for the planning profession.
The Professional Standards Board (PSB), established by the PTIAs and CIP to oversee the accreditation and certification process for the planning profession in Canada, developed recommendations to update the model standards. These new national standards modernize and clarify the principles and professional expectations that guide ethical planning practice in Canada.
Updates to the National Model of Ethical Standards and Code of Conduct include:
- A broader responsibility to the public
- Specific expectations around engaging with Indigenous communities
- Greater emphasis on professional judgment and independence
- Clearer expectations around conflicts of interest and improper influence
- Responsibility and transparency around technology like artificial intelligence
Please note that each PTIA may adopt minor variances to the national model to align with provincial legislation, and/or regulatory requirements.
How These Changes Impact APPI’s Regulated Members
APPI Candidate Members: The PSB’s coursework and professional exam will use the new national model ethical standards effective January 1, 2027. These updates will be reflected in the next Spring Examination, which is scheduled for March 15, 2027.
APPI Candidate & Registered Professional Planner (RPP) Members: In their professional practice, Candidate and RPP members should continue to follow APPI’s Professional Code of Practice which is a Schedule of the existing Professional Planner Regulation of the Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act (POARA) of Alberta. APPI will continue to evaluate complaints and disciplinary cases under the APPI’s Professional Code of Practice.
As APPI continues through its transition under the Government of Alberta’s Professional Governance Act (PGA), and pending Alberta legislation that pertains to the regulation of professional in the jurisdiction, the Institute will pursue opportunities to align the Institute’s Ethical Standards, including the Professional Code of Practice, with the National Model of Ethical Standards for the planning profession in Canada.