Regulation of Sand and Gravel Operations

Sand and gravel pits and quarries are regulated as mines under the Mines Act. Permits are required for these operations and the permitting process includes referrals to other government agencies, such as the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks, and allows for public input. The Mines Act regulates worker and public safety and environmental impacts. Land use concerns are not addressed in the Mines Act permitting process and must be clarified by the local government rather than by the Ministry of Employment and Investment.

The Ministry is working with local governments and with the Union of British Columbia Municipalities to identify means to reduce the conflicts that develop when gravel pits and quarries are proposed in populated rural areas.