How to Apply to the Agricultural Land Commission in BC
Last updated: March 2026 · By Tishtaar Titina, P.Ag., MSc. · 3 min read
If you own or are developing land within British Columbia's Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), there are a number of activities that require formal approval from the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC). This guide walks through the application process based on the ALC's published procedures.
When Do You Need an ALC Application?
Under the Agricultural Land Commission Act, you need an application for activities such as:
- Exclusion — removing land from the ALR
- Non-farm use — using ALR land for purposes not related to farming
- Subdivision — dividing ALR parcels
- Soil or fill use — depositing or removing soil beyond permitted thresholds
- Non-adhering residential use — additional residences beyond what's permitted
- Transportation and utility uses — infrastructure projects on ALR land
Inclusion applications (adding land to the ALR) can only be initiated by local governments or First Nations governments and are free of charge.
Application Fees
The ALC publishes the following fee schedule, split between the local government and the ALC:
| Application Type | Local Gov't | ALC | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Adhering Residential Use | $450 | $450 | $900 |
| Non-Farm Use | $750 | $750 | $1,500 |
| Subdivision | $750 | $750 | $1,500 |
| Soil / Fill Use | $750 | $750 | $1,500 |
| Transportation & Utility | — | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Inclusion | — | — | Free |
For soil/fill applications, a $150 deduction may apply if a Notice of Intent was previously submitted.
The Application Process: Step by Step
Step 1: Preparation
Before applying, identify the correct application type and gather supporting documents. These typically include a Certificate of Title, authorization forms, and sketch plans. Contact your local government to understand zoning requirements and any additional approvals needed.
Step 2: Create Your Application Online
All applications are submitted through the ALC Portal (portal.alc.gov.bc.ca). You will need a Basic or Business BCeID to log in. Complete the online form and upload all required and supporting documents.
Step 3: Submit to Local Government
When you submit through the portal, the application goes to your local government first — not directly to the ALC. You pay the local government's portion of the fee at this stage.
Step 4: Local Government Review
Your local government will:
- Verify the application information is sufficient
- Refer it to their Board or Council for recommendations
- Consult relevant committees (e.g., Agricultural Advisory Committee)
- Complete a local government report
- Decide whether to authorize forwarding to the ALC
Important: If the local government decides not to forward your application, the process ends and the ALC portion of the fee is refunded to you.
Step 5: ALC Review and Decision
Once forwarded, you will be notified to pay the ALC's portion of the fee. The ALC then reviews the application and may:
- Hold meetings with the applicant
- Conduct property site visits
- Request agency comments and recommendations
- Request additional information (which pauses the timeline)
Processing Timelines
According to the ALC's published targets:
- 5 business days — to acknowledge applications as complete or incomplete
- 60 business days — to communicate most decisions in writing
- 90 business days — for the majority of decisions to be finalized
These timelines may be paused if the ALC requires a meeting, site visit, or additional information. The ALC has also noted that staffing shortages may cause additional delays.
Possible Outcomes
The ALC may:
- Approve the proposal as submitted
- Approve with conditions
- Refuse the proposal
- Refuse but allow an alternate proposal
All decisions are communicated in writing. ALC staff cannot discuss a decision prior to its formal release.
How a Professional Agrologist Can Help
The ALC application process involves technical assessments, regulatory coordination, and detailed documentation. A Professional Agrologist (P.Ag.) can prepare agricultural rationale memos, coordinate with local government staff, compile submission packages, and represent you through the review process — reducing the risk of delays and refusals.
Need help with an ALC application?
Book a free consultation — we respond within one business day.
Related Guides
Sources
- Provincial Agricultural Land Commission — Application Process
- Provincial Agricultural Land Commission — Applications Overview
- Agricultural Land Commission Act, RSBC 2002
- Agricultural Land Reserve Use Regulation, BC Reg. 30/2019