Make or respond to a farm practices complaint
The B.C. Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB) resolves complaints about disturbances from farm operations, under the Farm Practices Protection (Right to Farm) Act (FPPA).
Complaints often involve noise, odour, dust or other disturbances.
BCFIRB may invite both parties to a tribunal hearing to decide whether the activity causing the disturbance is protected as a normal farm practice. If it’s not, the activity may not be protected and the farm may be required to change it.
- To file a complaint, follow the process below
- If you received a complaint against your farm, learn how to respond
Follow the complaint process
Find out which farm practices are protected by law and what kinds of complaints BCFIRB can review.
Discover how to resolve common farm practices complaints. Starting with a conversation can lead to a faster and easier resolution.
Neighbours: Submit your complaint and pay the $100 filing fee.
Farmers: You will have the opportunity to respond to the complaint.
Learn about the next steps, including alternative dispute resolution and engaging knowledgeable persons.
Before the hearing, make sure you understand the rules about evidence, witnesses and expert testimony. You’ll find information about how to build a strong case after filing and how to build a strong case when responding.
Learn what to expect at the hearing and how hearings are run.
Find out when you’ll get the decision and how to enforce or challenge it.
Current and past complaints
View past complaint decisions
Explore the outcome of past farm practice complaints.
View the status of active complaints
View the status of ongoing farm practice complaints.
Resources
Guides and resources
- Farm Practices in B.C. − Reference guide
- How to participate in a farm practices complaint (PDF, 225KB)
- Enforcement and farm practices − Fact sheet (PDF, 54KB)
- Knowledgeable Person Guide (PDF, 230KB)
- Early dispute resolution checklist (PDF, 226KB)
- Admin Law BC
- Justice Education Society
- Lawyer Referral Service
Legislation
Find an answer
Learning about the process
Managing a complaint or response
Sending documents and making requests
If you’re responding to the complaint
If you need help
If you have any concerns or are unsure about any part of the process, contact BCFIRB. Our staff can guide you.