Encyclopedia
Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)
A provincial zone where agriculture is the priority use and non-farm uses are restricted. The Agricultural Land Commission administers it.
For example: Someone hoping to add recreational vehicle (RV) sites to a farm property in the Fraser Valley checks first whether the land is in the ALR and what the Commission allows. (Illustration only, not a real deal.)
Official source: Agricultural Land Commission Act (BC Laws)
Example only, not a real client. Say you find a large, well-priced lot on the edge of town. A check shows it is in the Agricultural Land Reserve. Non-farm uses are tightly limited, so the low price reflects real restrictions, not a bargain.
What I’d tell a friend
Check whether land is in the ALR before you make plans. Uses beyond farming are limited and need approval.
Why it matters to you
It can wipe out the plan you're paying for. Land in the reserve has tight limits on non-farm use and subdivision, so a buyer who assumes they can build, store or rezone may own something they can't use the way they hoped.
How to use it in your deal
Buyers should check whether any part of a property is in the ALR before making an offer, using the ALC's maps and the local government. If it is, understand the permitted uses under the ALC Act and regulations, and whether your plan needs an application; approvals are discretionary and slow. Don't assume past uses on a site are lawful, since unauthorized uses can lead to orders to remove them.
Owners can apply for exclusion or non-farm use, but expect scrutiny. Tenants leasing ALR land for storage or businesses should confirm the use is permitted, since enforcement can end the business. Lenders and appraisers factor ALR status heavily. Farm buildings, cannabis production and residences all have specific rules, so check current regulations.
Mistakes I see
Assuming municipal zoning is enough. Relying on a seller's past use. Paying industrial prices for ALR land. Placing fill without approval.
In BC and Vancouver
The Agricultural Land Commission Act and its regulations set the rules. The ALC publishes maps and application processes.
Official sources: Agricultural Land Commission · Agricultural Land Commission Act (BC Laws)
What it is
The Agricultural Land Reserve is a provincial zone in BC where farming is the priority and non-farm uses are restricted.
It is managed by the Agricultural Land Commission.
What to check
Confirm ALR status with the commission’s maps and the municipality.
Ask a BC lawyer or planner about what uses may be allowed or need approval.
Been given a hopeful rezone number? See what you can actually do with your lot.
Questions to ask before you sign
- Is the land in the ALR?
- Is my use permitted?
- Do I need ALC approval?
- Are existing uses lawful?
- How long will an application take?
Keep reading
Related terms: ALC, Seasonal campground, Permitted use
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General information for British Columbia only. It isn’t legal, tax, accounting or financial advice, laws and rates change, and reading it doesn’t make you my client. Any numbers or scenarios are hypothetical. Check the linked official source and talk to a lawyer, accountant or other qualified professional before you act or sign anything. See the terms and disclaimer.