Why You Need a Builder Who’s Been There

If you’re planning on building on ALR land in BC, you’re probably already familiar with the excitement — and frustration — that comes with it. Owning property in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) offers space, privacy, and the potential for rural living. But it also brings some of the province’s most restrictive and often confusing land use policies.

At Revere Homes, we specialize in navigating ALR regulations in British Columbia. From Langley to Chilliwack to the Sea-to-Sky region, we help landowners turn complex requirements into functional, beautiful homes — without getting stuck in the red tape.

What Is the ALR and Why Is It So Complicated?

The Agricultural Land Reserve was created in 1973 to protect BC’s limited farmland from development. Managed by the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC), the ALR covers over 5 million hectares, including significant parts of the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, and rural BC.

Over the years, ALR regulations have evolved — especially after major 2020 policy updates. Today, the rules governing what you can build on ALR land are more detailed than ever. For example:

Primary residences are now capped at 500 square metres (5,382 sq. ft.)
Secondary dwellings are allowed — one attached (suite) and one detached unit (such as a garden suite, carriage house, or manufactured home) — up to 90 square metres (970 sq. ft.) on properties less than 40 hectares (100 acres), and up to 186 square meters (2000 sq.ft) on properties greater than 40 hectares.

The good news? You can now rent these secondary units or use them for farm help or extended family — no immediate family requirement needed.

The challenge? Even if the ALC permits it, municipal zoning laws still apply — and they can be stricter.

For more information regarding residential uses in the ALR, you can read the ALC Residential Use Bulletin. Or, talk to us, and we can help.

Who Regulates Building on ALR Land in BC?

One of the biggest challenges with building a home in the ALR is that two levels of government are involved:

The ALC sets province-wide rules for land use and allowable structures.
Municipal governments (like Abbotsford, Maple Ridge, or Langley) control zoning, siting, design, and permits.

For example, the ALC might approve a second dwelling on ALR land, but your municipality might not, based on local bylaws.

This layered approach creates confusion — and that’s where experience matters. At Revere Homes, we understand how to coordinate with both levels of government to ensure a smooth build from start to finish.

Why Choose a Builder with ALR Experience?

Navigating ALR building requirements in BC isn’t just about checking boxes — it’s about knowing how to make land work within the system.

At Revere Homes, we’ve worked extensively with:

ALC land use policies and compliance teams
Local planning departments across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley
Zoning and permitting for secondary dwellings on ALR land
Infrastructure and servicing challenges unique to rural construction

We help landowners:

Confirm what’s legally possible on their lot
Design homes that meet both ALC and municipal standards
Apply for non-farm use permits, variances, and siting approvals
Build without compromising comfort, style, or agricultural function

Our team speaks the language of planners, inspectors, and the ALC — so you don’t have to.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building on ALR Land in BC

How big of a house can I build on ALR land?

You can build a primary residence up to 500 sq. m. (5,382 sq. ft.) on ALR property. To go larger, you must prove it supports active farming and apply for a Non-Adhering Residential Use Permit through the ALC.

Do I need to be actively farming to build on ALR land?

Not necessarily. However, your home must be “accessory to the farm use.” That means it should support or preserve the property’s agricultural potential, even if you’re not farming today.

Can I build a second dwelling on my ALR property?

Yes — in most cases. The ALC allows one secondary suite inside your main home and one small detached dwelling. These can be used for rental income, farm help, or multi-generational living. Municipal zoning bylaws still apply, so always check with your local planning office.

Are there restrictions on where I can build my home on ALR land?

Yes. Siting must minimize the impact on agriculture. That often means building near existing access roads, avoiding prime soil, and preserving areas for farm use.

Will I have access to sewer, water, and other municipal services?

Not always. Many ALR properties in BC are not fully serviced. You may need to install a septic system, drill a well, or arrange private utilities — which can affect cost and feasibility.

What permits do I need to build in the ALR?

You’ll need municipal building permits, and sometimes ALC approval if your plans don’t align with default allowances. Because these two systems don’t always sync, it’s important to work with a builder who understands both.

Building on ALR Land in BC? Let’s Talk.

Whether you’re dreaming of a country home with rental potential or designing your farm-based lifestyle from the ground up, don’t let ALR red tape stop you.

At Revere Homes, we bring clarity to Agricultural Land Reserve regulations in BC. We assess your property, explain your options, and design a build that complies with all current rules — while delivering the comfort, beauty, and function you need.

Building on ALR land in BC: What You Need to Know