On March 11, 2024, British Columbia’s Lieutenant Governor approved B.C. Reg. 57/2024 under the Forest and Range Practices Act, the Forest Practices Code of British Columbia Act, and the Forest Statutes Amendment Act, 2021. It outlines amendments and new provisions that focus on regulatory compliance, financial penalties, and adjustments to stewardship standards in forestry operations.

The regulation brings several sections of the Forest Statutes Amendment Act, 2021 into force, notably sections 63, 70, 72, 77, 78, 79 (with exceptions), 85, 92, 94, and 101, aiming to refine existing regulatory frameworks and strengthen enforcement mechanisms related to forest management. One of the key updates involves amendments to the Administrative Orders and Remedies Regulation (B.C. Reg. 101/2005), which now adjusts penalties for various contraventions of the Forest Act. For serious contraventions, a penalty of $500,000 has been established, while other tiers of penalties are set at $100,000 for medium severity violations, $50,000 for lesser infractions, and $5,000 for minor breaches.

New provisions in the Forest Planning and Practices Regulation grant the Chief Forester the authority to mandate compliance with updated stocking standards in forest stewardship plans based on new ecological information. This flexibility is designed to ensure that forest management practices adapt to evolving environmental challenges, such as wildfire risks and ecological sustainability. Additionally, adjustments to section 96 clarify the processes for applying for relief from obligations in the event of unexpected occurrences, including catastrophic damage, and introduce an application submission plan to accommodate unforeseen circumstances.

Furthermore, the regulation expands the definition of permissible activities on Crown land within provincial forests, allowing for various developments, including infrastructure for public safety, temporary commercial activities, and facilities that support wildlife habitat enhancement. Modifications to the application process for special use permits streamline procedures, ensuring that the issuance of permits does not impair the management and conservation of forest resources. Similar adjustments have been made in the Woodlot Licence Planning and Practices Regulation, reflecting broader trends of streamlining and enforcement across forest management practices.

By updating penalties, enhancing the Chief Forester’s authority, and expanding permissible activities on Crown land, the regulation aims to promote responsible forest practices that align with ecological sustainability. These changes reflect the province’s recognition of the importance of adaptive management in forestry, especially in light of changing environmental conditions and increasing wildfire risks. Ultimately, the regulation strives to balance economic activities in forestry with preserving British Columbia’s natural heritage.

British Columbia (57/2024) March 12, 2024