New bylaw regulating soil removal and deposit on Electoral Area lands
The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) Board has adopted a new Soil Removal and Deposit Bylaw for Electoral Areas East and West. The bylaw regulates the removal and placement of soil on rural properties. It will help protect public safety and the environment while providing landowners and developers with a clear and predictable process.
All municipalities in the Central Okanagan already have soil management bylaws. The new bylaw brings the electoral areas up to a similar regulatory standard as neighboring municipalities. In developing the bylaw, RDCO staff sought a balanced approach that aligns with Agricultural Land Commission regulations, reflects regional best practices and sets clear permit requirements.
The bylaw requires greater professional oversight of larger soil removal and placement projects to help ensure environmental and safety standards are met. Most routine activities will not require a permit. Common exemptions include:
- Removal or deposit of less than 100 m³
- Moving soil within the same property boundary
- Farm-related work on land in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)
- Work authorized by an issued RDCO building permit
- Government or public infrastructure work
“The new bylaw responds to an increase in large-scale soil placement activities in rural areas,” says Brad Dollevoet, RDCO Manager of Development Services. “In recent years, some projects have occurred without professional oversight or government review, raising concerns about environmental impacts, public safety, drainage and neighbourhood nuisances.”
For more information about the Soil Removal and Deposit Bylaw, visit rdco.com/soilbylaw.
