B.C. Increases Potential Fines, Adds Administrative Penalties For Mining Law Violations

Since the 2014 Mount Polley tailings dam breach, the British Columbia government has made numerous changes to its mining regulatory regime. The most recent amendments, some of which came into force late last week, significantly increased the penalties that may be imposed for violation of the Mines Act (Act). The changes heighten the potential exposure of mining companies and their directors, officers and agents in cases of unpermitted environmental impacts, as well as non-compliance with the administrative aspects of the legislation and permits issued under it.

Mine owners and operators throughout British Columbia have faced increased scrutiny over the past two years, a trend which is likely to continue. The government's most recent actions have stemmed largely from the reports and recommendations of the Independent Expert Engineering Investigation and Review Panel and the Chief Inspector of Mines, delivered in January and December 2015 respectively. The government