🌾 Your Guide to Buying Land in BC’s Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)

What Surrey, South Surrey & Langley Farm Buyers Need to Know — with Realtor Jared Gibbons

Navigating BC’s Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) can feel overwhelming for buyers who are new to agricultural zoning, but understanding how the ALR works is essential for making confident, long-term investment decisions. Whether you’re considering farmland in Surrey, South Surrey, or Langley, the ALR plays a major role in determining what you can build, grow, or operate on your property. Buyers who take the time to understand ALR policies gain a clear advantage, especially in high-demand farming communities where land value and permitted uses vary significantly.

If you’re considering buying a farm, hobby acreage, or land for agricultural use in British Columbia, understanding the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) is crucial. As a Top South Surrey & Langley Realtor, I help clients navigate ALR rules, evaluate land, and make confident decisions when investing in farmland.

🌱 What Is the ALR?

The Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) is BC’s protected agricultural zone managed by the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC). Its purpose is to preserve farmland for long-term food production and restrict non-farm development.

Learn more: https://www.alc.gov.bc.ca/

🌾 Buying Land in the ALR: What You Need to Know

✔ Confirm the Property’s ALR Status

Use the ALC’s official mapping tool to verify boundaries.

(Tip: I verify ALR boundaries for all my farm clients.)

✔ Understand Permitted Uses

Agriculture, livestock, greenhouses, orchards, farm retail, and specific agritourism uses are generally permitted.

Full details: https://www.alc.gov.bc.ca/

✔ Know the Restrictions

Some activities require approval, including:

• Subdivision

• Non-farm use

• Fill removal

• Additional dwellings

This is where working with an ALR-experienced realtor is essential.

🧭 Why ALR Land Is a Strong Investment

ALR land often provides:

• Large acreage at competitive pricing

• Long-term zoning stability

• Farming income opportunities

• Privacy and generational land value

Explore farms and acreages here:

https://jaredgibbons.ca/fraser-valley-acreages-for-sale.html

💼 How I Help ALR Land Buyers

As a dedicated South Surrey, Langley & Fraser Valley Realtor, I guide clients through:

• ALR mapping & zoning verification

• Soil, irrigation & land-use assessments

• Municipality bylaw understanding

• Building rules & secondary dwelling rules

• Access, drainage & farm infrastructure review

• Offer strategy unique to ALR properties

Ready to view ALR farms?

👉 https://jaredgibbons.ca/contact.html

🚜 Popular ALR Areas I Help Buyers In

• Campbell Valley

• South Surrey (Hazelmere)

• North Otter / Glen Valley

• Aldergrove

• Cloverdale ALR pockets

• Bradner & Mt. Lehman (Abbotsford)

Search properties in these areas:

👉 https://jaredgibbons.ca/recip.html

🔗 Helpful ALC Resources for Buyers

• ALR Maps & Boundaries

• Permitted Uses

• Policies & Bulletins

• Buying & Owning Land in the ALR

  https://www.alc.gov.bc.ca/

📩 Thinking About Buying Farm or ALR Land?

Working with a real estate professional who understands ALR rules and municipal planning requirements can make the process much smoother. From verifying boundaries and permitted uses to understanding farm tax benefits and potential agritourism opportunities, expert guidance ensures you avoid costly mistakes. With accurate information and the right support, buyers can make informed decisions and secure agricultural properties that align with their goals—whether that’s hobby farming, long-term investment, or operating a full-scale agricultural business.

Let’s connect — I’ll guide you through the process and help you find the right agricultural property.

👉 Contact Jared Gibbons