Resource roads

Resource roads are found on Crown land but are not part of the provincial highway system. They are frequently used by industrial vehicles involved in forestry, mining, oil and gas, clean energy, or agriculture operations. They also provide access to communities and high value recreation in remote areas.

Types of resource roads and maintenance

In B.C. there are different types of resource roads. The majority of them are Forest Service Roads and road permit roads that are used to access natural resources. Many of these roads are managed using permits. The B.C. government maintains most resource roads that are not under a permit. Available resources are prioritized to resources roads that supply access to rural communities, residents and high value recreation sites.

Some resource roads are maintained only to protect the environment.  Resource Roads may be deactivated when no longer needed or where it is cost prohibitive to continue to maintain. There are also non-status roads (NSRs) on Crown land. These roads may be found on maps but have no permit status. These roads are not maintained or inspected and may be deactivated if significant safety or environmental issues become known.

The following are not considered resource roads:

• Roads on private land
• Roads on federal land
• Roads on municipal land
• B.C. Ministry of Transportation side roads