The Floodplain Mapping Program is a joint initiative by the federal and B.C. governments to provide information which will help minimize flood damage in British Columbia. The program identifies and maps areas that are highly susceptible to flooding. These areas may be designated as floodplains by the federal and provincial Environment Ministers.
Designated floodplains are subject to development restrictions.
Subdivisions within a floodplain require the approval of the regional water manager . Crown agencies such as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation do not support development on designated floodplains unless adequate floodproofing measures are taken. Local governments may impose further restrictions. Signed in December 1987, the agreement marked an acceleration of a provincial mapping program which commenced in 1974. Following is a summary of the objectives of the agreement.