Major Project Stakeholders & First Nations

The coordinated authorization process includes getting input from stakeholders — anyone with authority or interest in how B.C.'s natural resources are used. This input helps to:

• identify significant environmental or social values impacted
• make sure that best practices are used
• enforce legislation, policies, and standards

On this page:

• Provincial Government
• Crown Corporations
• Local Governments
• First Nations
• Federal Government
• Public

Provincial Government

Natural Resource Sector ministries provide leadership and guidance related to the sustainability of natural resources in part through the authorization and permitting processes. Applications for natural resource development projects start with FrontCounter BC. After an application has been accepted, it is assigned to a major project representative who will help connect proponents with each ministry that needs to be involved.

Crown Corporations

As experts in the sector, Crown corporations ensure industry best practices are adhered to and are responsible for protecting environmental and social values.

• BC Oil & Gas Commission
• BC Hydro

Local Governments

Major projects must align with local government Official Community Plans. This includes consideration of zoning bylaws, especially as these relate to water, sewer, sanitation, transportation, public safety, local economic development, and parks and recreation enhancements. Dialogue and coordination with officials will help determine local requirements for approval.

• Find a local government

First Nations

The Province is legally obligated to consult with First Nations, and accommodate where required, on land and resource decisions that could impact their Indigenous Interests. While the Province is responsible for ensuring adequate and appropriate consultation and accommodation, it may involve the proponent in the procedural aspects of consultation.

Proponents are also generally encouraged to engage with First Nations as early as possible in the planning stages to build relationships and for information sharing purposes that may support consultation processes.

Federal Government

Depending on the project, some federal authorizations may also be required from various departments and ministries:

• Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
• Department of Fisheries and Oceans
• Major Projects Management Office
• Canadian Energy Regulator
• Transport Canada

Public

As part of the project planning phase, public engagement helps to identify potential problems and ensure community development goals are considered. Public consultation also gives developers an overview of the social and political make-up of surrounding communities. There are various requirements for public consultation from each agency and authorization process. The Province’s major projects representatives can help identify where these requirements are for each project.