Agricultural Planning
Agriculture is an important part of Chilliwack’s landscape and economy; it accounts for 67% of the City’s total land base and 29% of economic activity. The City works with many partners to implement Official Community Plan (OCP) goals and policies, including the Agricultural Area Plan, to strengthen and protect local agriculture.
Properties in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) are subject to the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) Act and ALR regulations. ALC approval may be required before the City can approve related development applications.
Use the City Webmap to check if a property is in the ALR.
ALC Applications
If a property is in the ALR, an ALC application may be required for:
- A new house, coach house, or suite
- Placing fill (e.g., gravel, building foundations) or removing soil
- Non-farm uses
- Subdivision or a boundary adjustment
Visit the Agricultural Land Commission website to learn about the ALC Act and applications.
ALC applications are referred to the City for review. Please include the City’s Letter of Authorization in ALC application submissions.
City Guides and Policies
The City developed the following guides and policies to assist with applications for land in the ALR:
Farm Home Plate
The Official Community Plan includes Development Permit Area 4 – Farm Home Plate to reduce the long-term impact of residential uses on agricultural land. A Development Permit is required when Farm Home Plate regulations in the Zoning Bylaw are not met.
Resources
Agricultural Area Plan
The Agricultural Area Plan (AAP) was created as part of the Official Community Plan in 2012, in partnership with the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission. The Agricultural and Rural Advisory Committee (ARAC) monitors its implementation through reviewing agricultural development applications.
Urban Beekeeping
To support the local agricultural industry, beekeeping is permitted in urban residential areas. The Urban Beekeeping Bylaw includes regulations to ensure healthy beekeeping practices.
