Deputy Premier and Minister of Natural Gas Development Rich Coleman today announced the B.C. Oil and Gas Commission (OGC) has implemented an exclusion zone policy that will prohibit drilling activity within one-kilometre of schools in British Columbia.

For the past four years, any well permits located within two kilometres of a school have been subject to an enhanced review process by the OGC. These procedures started in 2010 with the introduction of the Oil and Gas Activities Act and the establishment of setbacks and management areas around schools. Presently, there is no new drilling activity currently within one kilometre of a school.

Exclusion zones are part of B.C.'s commitment to safely manage the industry while supporting economic growth.

Ensuring this policy is implemented ensures no wells will be drilled within one kilometre of a school moving forward.

Quotes:

Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development -

“We are putting exclusion zones into policy to maintain a responsible natural gas and oil sector. Through strict regulations and policy procedures, the BC Oil and Gas Commission is upholding the health and safety of the public while overseeing the development of our energy future.”

MLA for Peace River South Mike Bernier -

"I fully support this policy of implementing mandatory setbacks of one-kilometre from schools. Working together with the natural gas industry, we can achieve a balance between energy development, environmental protection, and quality of life for residents in my region.”

Quick Facts:

• The BC Oil and Gas Commission is the Province’s regulatory agency responsible for overseeing oil and gas operations in British Columbia, including exploration, development, pipeline transportation and reclamation.
• British Columbia’s regulations start with the Oil and Gas Activities Act, which was released in 2010. These regulations are responsive to modern industry practices, such as hydraulic fracturing.

Learn More:

BC Oil and Gas Commission: www.bcogc.ca

The Oil and Gas Activities Act: http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/08036_01

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Natural Gas Development
250 213-3334