British Columbia is delaying planned amendments to the Heritage Conservation Act.
The B.C. government had intended to table the changes this spring but said Monday that more time is needed to consult with industry, local governments, and First Nations.
The act governs archaeological assessment and permitting at cultural heritage sites in the province. Construction work must stop if artifacts are discovered, allowing time for an archaeological study and permitting.
The Union of B.C. Municipalities has raised concerns about development costs and delays under the act, particularly for residential construction and renovations. The act has not been significantly updated since 1996.
The province said the proposed amendments are intended to streamline permitting, help communities rebuild more quickly after disasters, and strengthen the role of First Nations in managing and protecting cultural heritage sites.
Forests Minister Ravi Parmar is leading the overhaul. He previously said he hoped the process could allow permits to be approved in as little as one year.
The province said it will meet with industry partners in the coming weeks to discuss the permitting process.
The timeline for engagement was extended last fall after municipalities said they had not been adequately consulted.
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