Articles related to provincial and federal legislation that affects local governments.
The Province has introduced legislation that will substantially change the framework used by local governments to pay for infrastructure and community amenities related to new development. The legislation is largely in alignment with UBCM resolutions and policy, but also creates a funding gap for affordable housing.
The Province has introduced legislation that will bring about sweeping changes to the local planning framework through new requirements to allow increased density in areas currently zoned for single-family or duplex use. The legislation will also change housing needs reporting and public hearing requirements, and require more frequent updating of Official Community Plans together with pre-zoning that accommodates a 20-year housing supply.
The new Emergency and Disaster Management Act includes many new and enhanced responsibilities for local governments, with further details to be outlined in associated regulations.
The provincial government has introduced amendments to the Police Act (Bill 36) that will impact the policing transition process, and broader municipal authority for providing policing and law enforcement services in communities over 5,000 in population. Additional amendments relate specifically to policing in the City of Surrey.
The Province has introduced legislation that will support local government regulation of short-term rentals, increase allowable fines, and establish a provincial registry and enforcement unit. Key elements of the legislation supporting local government regulation respond directly to recommendations made in a 2021 Joint UBCM-Province Advisory Group report.
The provincial government has introduced legislation to regulate the use of illicit drugs in public areas. The legislation responds to concerns raised by BC local governments at the 2023 UBCM convention and throughout the decriminalization pilot from its inception.
With the new provincial legislation, a person may not consume illegal substances:
Yesterday, the Province introduced new emergency management legislation: the Emergency and Disaster Management Act. Once brought into force, it will replace the current Emergency Program Act. UBCM has previously summarized some of the key changes that will impact local governments.
The BC government has announced amendments to its decriminalization policy. As of Monday, September 18, the possession of illicit drugs within 15 metres of any play structure in a playground, a spray or wading pool, or a skate park will be prohibited. The Province also advised they are planning to introduce provincial legislation to further regulate public drug use in Fall 2023.
Local governments who wish to provide feedback to the Province on potential provincial legislation to regulate the use of drugs in public spaces must submit comments by July 31. Download then email the written feedback form to Ministry staff. If possible, please send a copy of your comments in the form to UBCM staff.