Natural resource permitting in B.C.
Last updated on February 3, 2026To work with British Columbia’s natural resources, you need the proper authorizations. The Province offers guidance and services to help you through the application process, whether you are applying for a routine permit or planning a major project.
Use this page to find detailed information on licences, permits, and registrations, and learn who can assist you with your application.
On this page
- Application services
- Provincial initiatives
- Natural resource applications and permits
- Popular activities
Application services
FrontCounter BC
FrontCounter BC is your one-stop service for natural resource authorizations. We can assist with applications for Crown land use, water licences, and many other permits listed in the Natural Resource Applications and Permits section on this page.
Not sure which service you need? We’ll help you find the right resources and guide you through the process.
Contact FrontCounter BC
Permit Connect Navigator Service
The Navigator Service is a team of dedicated staff who work with you to coordinate natural resource authorizations for larger provincial initiatives, such as housing, connectivity, and electrification projects. Navigators help identify the permits you need and guide you through the process from start to finish.
For more details, see the Provincial Initiatives section on this page.
Contact Navigator Service
Provincial initiatives
Connectivity
Find guidance for Internet Service Providers on preparing strong permit applications and navigating provincial processes for connectivity projects.
Electrification
Get guidance for Independent Power Projects on navigating the permitting process and accessing provincial services that support clean energy in B.C.
Housing
Learn how B.C. is streamlining permitting processes to speed up approvals for housing projects and improve service for homebuilders.
Natural resource applications and permits
Use the links below to learn more about the permits and authorizations you’ll need.
If you already know the authorization you want to apply for, you may select it from our list of applications.
Archaeology
Find requirements for archaeological permits or how to obtain authorization to collect fossils.
Crown land
Crown land is available to the public for many purposes, from industry to recreation and research.
Energy and mining
Apply for mine permits, submit a Notice of Work, and learn about Free Miner Certificates and mineral titles.
Fish and wildlife
Apply for fishing, hunting, and trapping licences, a permit to import animals, or other fish and wildlife permits.
Food and agriculture
Find out what you need to apply for a farmgate licence, aquaculture or seafood processor licence.
Forestry
Submit an application for cutting permits, timbermarks or forest road use permits and amendments.
Parks
View B.C. Parks reports or apply for a variety of park use permits, such as commercial filming and research.
Transportation
Learn about B.C.'s transit-oriented development program or apply for a transportation permit.
Water
Register your well, apply for a water licence or learn about authorized changes in and about a stream.
Popular activities
Find out what you need to consider before applying for permits and authorizations for popular activities:
Related Links
Contact information
Permit Connect Navigator Service
For help with housing-related natural resource permits, contact the Navigator Service. We can help you determine which applications are needed for your project.
1-844-687-4644
housing.authorizations@gov.bc.ca
Contact information
FrontCounter BC
Get help with natural resource permits and authorizations.
We have offices in 30 communities across British Columbia. Find the office closest to you.
1-877-855-3222
1-778-372-1729
FrontCounterBC@gov.bc.ca