2025 will see new updates to the Section 57 authorization process for the construction and maintenance of trails and recreation facilities under the Forest and Range Practices Act. The intent is to make the process clearer and more efficient, and key components include:

  • A user-friendly online application form
  • Streamlined process for low-complexity projects
  • Enhanced tools and guidance for both applicants and decision-makers

 

Authorization to construct or maintain a recreation trail or facility

Authorization is required under Section 57 of FRPA for construction, rehabilitation or maintenance of a trail or recreation facility on Crown land.

This includes:

  • Ground disturbance (i.e. significant, continuous grubbing of the soil or rocks along a linear route to establish a visible, long lasting treadway, significant ground excavation for the purpose of parking vehicles or launching boats, significant ground or root disturbance associated with corralling horses)
  • Clearing or cutting of vegetation (i.e. significant, continuous uprooting of shrubs or under-storey plants along a linear route or over an extended area, cutting of standing trees)
  • Construction of structures (i.e. water bars, stairs, bridges, signs, corrals or other significant structures of a long-term or permanent nature)

Authorization is not required for:

  • Marking a route with ribbons, cairns or other directional indicators
  • Minor clearing of brush or downed trees
  • Emergency repairs to a trail or recreation facility to prevent imminent damage to the environment, the trail or the facility

FrontCounterBC assists RSTBC in processing applications for Section 57 authorization.

More information and the application for Section 57 Authorization agreement can be found here: RSTBC authorizations webpage

Other uses requiring authorization

Under the FRR, authorization is required under Section 16 to:

  • Use a recreation site, recreation trail or interpretive forest site to host a competitive sporting event
  • Use a recreation site, recreation trail or interpretive forest site for a business or industrial activity
  • Use a recreation site for part of a gathering of 15 or more persons
  • Use a recreation site as a place of temporary residence while engaged in a business or industrial activity outside the site

Authorization is not required for:

  • small public gatherings of less than 15 people
  • basic recreational day use such as hiking or overnight camping

Other important links:

 

Contact us

If you require assistance with the Section 57 application, please contact us at [email protected]

For further support you can reach out with the contact us form on the government of BC website to request further information. For questions related to the construction of new recreation trails, please identify the nearest recreation trail.

Use the B.C. Government Directory to find the District Recreation Officer and Recreation District.