Flooding is the most common and costly disaster in Canada.

Flooding is the most common and costly disaster in Canada. In British Columbia, floods have been a recurring phenomenon along rivers, lakes, and coasts since time immemorial, however the risks of flooding to people living in British Columbia are substantial and continue to grow due to ongoing floodplain development and climate change. 

Under Section 524 of the Local Government Act (LGA), local governments may adopt bylaws to regulate development in floodplain areas. If they do, they must consider Provincial guidelines—such as the Flood Hazard Area Land Use Management Guidelines—in setting flood construction levels, setbacks, and land use policies. Despite their central role in local planning, these Guidelines haven’t seen a full revision since 2004 (with only limited updates in 2011 and 2018 regarding sea level rise).

This comprehensive new guidance will: 

  • Align with the B.C. Flood Strategy and current regulations and legislation, best practices and standards
  • Improve guidance for land use, zoning, and development regulations
  • Prepare B.C. communities for the increasing impacts of flooding 
  • Integrate current climate science and hazard mapping
  • Reflect Indigenous knowledge and legal rights

Two virtual engagement sessions are planned for early 2027. The draft guidance remains available for review and comment on the Canadian Standards Association website.

The first engagement will bring together First Nations and local governments to identify gaps, priorities, and opportunities to support the development of new, modernized guidance informed by B.C.’s Flood Hazard Area Land Use Management Guidelines.

The second engagement is designed for subject matter and technical experts. This discussion will focus on sharing current, modern, and technically sound approaches to land use planning that can reduce flood risks within and across communities in B.C.

First Nations and local government representatives who wish to participate are welcome to join the conversation in early 2027.

First Nations and local governments are welcome to join the conversation in early 2027.