Railways

Railway Safety

Our Railway Safety Program regulates railways that operate solely within BC and have a certificate issued by the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.

When a railway car is moved on provincial land, it is subject to the Railway Act of British Columbia. Companies with operations that move railway equipment are required under provincial legislation to become certified railways. Failure to do so may lead to actions and penalties as described within the provincial railway legislation.

Railway Regulations

The Canadian rail system includes both federal and provincial railways. Railways that cross provincial boundaries are governed by federal legislation, while railways that operate strictly within the boundaries of the province are governed by provincial legislation.

The Railway Act provides authority for the establishment and statutory governance of railways operating solely within the province of British Columbia and falling under provincial jurisdiction, including common carrier, industrial, heritage, and commuter railways.

The Railway Safety Act (British Columbia) provides authority for British Columbia to adopt the technical regulations, rules, and standards of the Railway Safety Act (Canada). With the Railway Safety Adopted Provisions Regulation, British Columbia’s rail safety legislation is harmonized with federal legislation.

New Grade Crossing Regulations

BC’s regulatory framework for railways has changed to adopt the same Grade Crossing Regulations and Standards that are in place federally. This means that road authorities and railways responsible for level grade crossings may need to perform upgrades to enhance public safety.