Written by Gurjit Ghai, REALTOR®
Rexara Realty Inc.·Published: September 29, 2026·ALR & Zoning
An ALR exclusion is the process of removing land from the Agricultural Land Reserve, and it requires a formal application to the Agricultural Land Commission, which assesses whether the land should no longer be protected for farming. Exclusion is not routine, and the ALC's starting point is to keep land in the ALR, so an application has to overcome a strong presumption against removal.
Exclusion is more likely to be considered where the land has limited agricultural capability, where it is already surrounded by non-agricultural use, or where specific provincial criteria are met, but each application is decided on its merits and many are rejected. Local government also weighs in, and some municipalities will not support an exclusion regardless of the ALC's view.
I tell buyers never to pay ALR land prices on the assumption that it can be excluded and developed, because that assumption is one of the most expensive mistakes in farmland purchasing. If exclusion is part of your plan, confirm the realistic likelihood with the ALC and the local government before you commit. Read our ALR guide for the framework.
Important: This answer is general professional guidance for educational purposes and is not legal, tax, financial or regulatory advice. ALR rules, water licensing, zoning and farm-classification requirements can change and depend on your specific property. Always verify with the relevant BC authorities and qualified professionals before making decisions.
Gurjit Ghai, REALTOR®
Personal Real Estate Corporation
Brokerage: Rexara Realty Inc.
Gurjit Ghai is a BC real estate professional specializing in agricultural land, ALR properties, and farm operations across British Columbia. He helps buyers and sellers navigate water rights, soil capability, farm classification, and the unique due diligence that farmland transactions require.