DATE ISSUED: July 22, 2026

EFFECTIVE DATE: Oct. 1, 2026

Effective Oct. 1, 2026, Section 9 of the Requirements for Consultation and Notification Regulation will expand when applicants for a pipeline permit must consult with the Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MoTT). Applicants currently need to consult with MoTT when proposed pipeline infrastructure is within the right-of-way of an arterial or municipal highway. The updated requirement will apply more broadly to highway rights-of-way, as defined in the Transportation Act.

This change introduces MoTT participation in the consultation and notification process on more applications, providing an opportunity for MoTT to review and provide feedback on them before permitting decisions are issued.

This earlier engagement supports more coordinated project planning and helps reduce the need for later permit amendments. It also supports a more streamlined permitting process by avoiding unnecessary delays, improving permitting efficiency and providing greater certainty and predictability for applicants.

Further guidance is available in the Energy Resource Activity Application Manual on the BCER website.

If you have any questions regarding this Technical Update, please contact:

Shannon Weatherill
Director, Authorizations
BC Energy Regulator
Shannon.Weatherill@bc-er.ca
250-645-2906