The British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Parks Site Remediation Program has made some recent updates in 2025. These developments aim to improve clarity, accessibility, and effectiveness in managing contaminated sites across the province.
These updates are:
- Metes and Bounds Requirements
- Site Remediation Services (SRS) Web App
- Restructured Web Content for Site Remediation
- Policy Initiatives and Reviews
Read below for detailed information.
Metes and Bounds Requirements
If you’re applying for certification of part of a legal parcel based on metes and bounds, make sure to include a stamped drawing from a licenced BC Land Surveyor, which is a new added cost.
By law, only a Land Surveyor can certify boundaries. The Detailed Screening Committee of the Society of Contaminated Sites Approved Professionals will check for this in the review process.
If you’ve applied without a stamped drawing, the Ministry will review and provide guidance on what’s needed to the recommending Approved Professional.
Site Remediation Services (SRS) Web App
The Ministry has been developing a new digital system to streamline the site identification and remediation processes for contaminated sites in BC. The Site Remediation Services (SRS) Web App, which is expected to launch in June, is designed to simplify the submission of forms, such as site disclosure statements and applications for contaminated site services. Benefits of the new system include:
- Seamless Processing: All components of site disclosure statements will be contained within the system, facilitating smoother processing.
- Efficient Communication: The system will enable direct communication between the Ministry and applicants, leading to quicker responses.
- Real-Time Updates: Applicants will be able to track the status of their submissions in real time.
Restructured Web Content for Site Remediation
The Ministry undertook a comprehensive redesign of its site remediation web pages to eliminate redundancies and enhance user experience. This initiative was done to ensure that both property owners and qualified professionals can easily access pertinent guidance and information. Key updates include:
- Remediate a Contaminated Site: A streamlined guide outlining the remediation process, tailored to various stakeholders.
- Performance Verification Plans: Detailed requirements and expectations for verifying remediation effectiveness.
- Apply for a Certification: Clear instructions on obtaining necessary certifications, formerly listed under ‘Certifications’.
- Preapprovals: Examples highlighting scenarios where site investigation or remediation may not be technically feasible or safe.
- Guidance for Risk Assessment: Comprehensive information on conducting risk assessments within the provincial contaminated sites framework.
Additionally, two new pages have been introduced:
- Considering Climate Change in Remediation: Guidance for professionals on integrating climate change considerations into remediation efforts.
- Information for First Nations Governments: Resources and tools to support First Nations Governments in understanding and managing contaminated sites within their territories.
Policy Initiatives and Reviews
Prior to 2025, the Ministry has also been proactive in reviewing and updating policies to enhance the effectiveness of site remediation services:
- Site Remediation Service Enhancement Review: A discussion paper released in December 2023 sought feedback on existing fee structures and potential improvements. The goal is to ensure that fees are proportionate to the services provided and to align site information requests with the new Digital Site Remediation Services Project.
- Making Contaminated Sites Climate Ready: In October 2022, the Ministry published a discussion paper focusing on incorporating climate change adaptation and sustainability into the contaminated sites framework. This initiative aims to prepare for the impacts of climate change and supports B.C.’s Climate Preparedness and Adaptation Strategy.
Need More Information?
Keystone Environmental can help you navigate these changes and help support your project needs. We can recognize issues, evaluate risks, and effectively apply professional judgement to support you in achieving your project objectives. Contact us for more information and we can connect you with one of our Contaminated Sites experts.
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Summary reviewed by: Michael Geraghty, M.Sc., P.Geo., CSAP, Senior Technical Manager
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Source & Related Links:
Site remediation news – Province of British Columbia