Written by Gurjit Ghai, REALTOR®
Rexara Realty Inc.·Published: October 2, 2026·ALR & Zoning
A non-farm use is any use of ALR land that is not directly related to farming, and it generally requires an application and approval from the Agricultural Land Commission before it can proceed. The ALC's default position is that ALR land is for farming, so a non-farm use, whether it is a commercial operation, a large fill, or a utility installation, has to be justified against that purpose.
The application process is formal, and approval is not guaranteed, because the ALC weighs whether the use reduces the agricultural capacity of the land and whether it aligns with provincial agricultural objectives. Local government also has a say, and some non-farm uses need both ALC approval and municipal rezoning.
If your plan for a parcel involves anything beyond farming, confirm whether it is a non-farm use before you buy, because relying on an approval you have not yet secured is a common and costly mistake. Read our ALR guide for the framework, and verify the specific requirements with the ALC and your municipality.
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.