Environmental Sustainability and Strategic Policy Division

Water Rights and Legislation

British Columbia’s water resource is one of our most precious and important assets. From a crucial supply of drinking water to energy to recreation to irrigation, B.C. water meets many needs for many people.

Government is considering modernizing the Water Act to help make our water laws simpler to understand, communicate, administer and enforce to respond to current and future challenges. A discussion paper has been developed to encourage dialogue on ways to modernize the Water Act.  The Discussion Paper proposes principles to underpin a modernized Water Act and presents goals, supporting objectives and possible solutions. 

This section is designed to assist you in learning more about the many Acts, Guidelines and Safety Measures established by the Provincial Government help to ensure responsible and sustainable use of B.C.’s water.

Topic Areas in this Section

• Expropriation
• Legislation (Overview for Water)
• Legislation (Acts and Regulations)
• Licence Applications and Information
  • Licence Amendment
• Surface Water Allocation
• Water Allocation Plans
• Water Application Fees ( 33kb)
  • Miscellaneous Fees
  • Refunds
• Water Protection Act Information
• Water Rental Rates
• Water Reserves and Restrictions
• Water Rights Information
• Water Users' Communities Information
• Water Utilities and Regulation
• Waterpower Projects