The Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) is a provincial zone in which agriculture is recognized as a priority use. Farming is encouraged, and non-farm uses are controlled.
In all, the ALR covers approximately 4.7 million hectares. It includes private and public lands that may be farmed, forested or vacant land. Some ALR blocks cover thousands of hectares while others are small pockets of only a few hectares. Only 5% of the land area in BC is within the ALR and it is an extremely finite and vulnerable resource. In total, the ALR comprises those lands within BC that have the potential for agricultural production.
The Agricultural Land Reserve Use, Subdivision, and Procedure regulation does not replace other legislation and bylaws that may apply to the land. The ALC Act and Local Government Act have concurrent jurisdiction. Property owners, tenants, users, and land uses must comply with both sets of legislation. Local governments are partners with the ALC in agricultural land preservation.
Local and regional governments, as well as other provincial agencies, are expected to plan in accordance with the provincial policy and regulations regarding the preservation of agricultural land.
The Agricultural Land Commission Act sets the legislative framework for the establishment and administration of the agricultural land preservation program.
Do I need to apply to the ALC?
If you wish to alter ALR boundaries, subdivide, or develop for non-farm use, you are required to apply to the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) for approval.
- Check the SLRD Web Map to see if your property is in the ALR.
Additional Resources
- Agricultural Land Commission - Presentation to SLRD Board - September 20, 2017
- Agricultural Land Reserve information
- Agricultural Land Commission Act - What you need to know