Question 1

What Do I Need to Know for My BC Groundwater License?

Accepted Answer

From helping you determine what the Water Sustainability Act means to ensuring you meet the regulatory requirements for your water well(s), Waterline has the expertise to ensure that that you remain in compliance.

Question 2

Am I an Existing groundwater user or a New groundwater user?

Accepted Answer

Existing ground water users are determined based on the first data of water use. Did you start using water before March 1, 2016 or after?

Question 3

Is my water for Domestic use? Do I even need to license my water use?

Accepted Answer

Domestic use does not need to be licensed.

Question 4

I am not a Domestic user so how do I license (New or Existing) my groundwater use?

Accepted Answer

You will need to assemble information about your water use specific to the property. You may choose to consult with a professional who can help you find the information you require or complete the process on your own. Either way the resources are out there, and we can help.

Question 5

When is the deadline to apply for a Water Sustainability Act licence?

Accepted Answer

The deadline was extended to March 1, 2022

Question 6

Why does my Date of Precedence matter?

Accepted Answer

When you apply for a groundwater licence in BC, or have a professional apply on your behalf, you’ll need to specify the date of first use of the water. This is known as your “date of precedence” or “priority date”. Groundwater users that began using their water at an earlier date (senior licensees) are given priority by the BC provincial government over more recent users (junior licensees) under the First-in-Time First-in-Right (FITFIR) priority system.

BC Water Sustainability Act Licensing