Big changes to water licencing and well registry

Representatives from the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations presented an overview of changes for water licensing and well registration, as a result of the new Water Sustainability Act, to the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George board Thursday.

For the first time, those who use groundwater for non-domestic purposes such as irrigation, industrial use, water bottling or municipal water systems will require a water license and pay fees and annual water rentals just like surface water users.

For existing groundwater users, the regulations provide a three-year transition period in which to apply for a license; application fees will be waived during the first year. Domestic users of groundwater (private wells, etc) are not required to apply for a license, but are asked to register their well to protect essential household use in times of shortage.

For more information about the Water Sustainability Act and licensing and registration requirements, visit the Front Counter Office in Prince George or email FrontCounterBC@gov.bc.ca. Information is also available through the Government of BC website