Soil Deposit and Removal

Moving soil to or from a property—whether for landscaping, site preparation, or construction—can affect drainage, slopes, and the environment. 

To help protect natural areas and manage development responsibly, the District regulates these activities under the Soil Removal and Deposit Bylaw. 

A permit may be required before removing or depositing soil to ensure projects are completed safely and in accordance with municipal and provincial standards. 

When a Permit is Not Required 

You do not need a Soil Deposit or Removal Permit if your project involves: 

  • Less than 10 cubic metres of soil moved within a calendar year, and the activity is not occurring within a restricted area (such as a steep slope, watercourse, or environmentally sensitive zone). 

This exemption covers most small-scale landscaping or gardening projects. Even when a permit isn’t required, be sure to follow erosion control and environmental protection standards. 

When a Permit Is Required 

A Soil Deposit or Removal Permit is required when:

  • More than 10 cubic metres of soil will be moved, deposited, or removed;
  • The work will change the grade or elevation of the property;
  • Soil will be transported to or from another property; or
  • The site is located within a restricted area (near a stream, slope, or protected zone). 

If your property is in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), separate approval from the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) may also be required before starting any soil work. 

Before You Begin

Before starting a soil deposit or removal project, it’s important to understand the permit process, how to protect the environment, and what conditions apply once your permit is issued.

Expand the sections below to learn more about applying, meeting environmental standards, and maintaining compliance.

To apply for a Soil Deposit or Removal Permit, please submit: 

  1. A completed Soil Deposit/Removal Permit Application Form 

  1. A site plan showing the location, volume, and source/destination of the soil 

  1. Details of erosion and sediment control measures 

  1. Proof of property ownership or owner authorization 

  1. Application fee and security deposit, as outlined in the Fees and Charges Bylaw 

Applications can be submitted to Engineering Services at Municipal Hall or by email to engineering@sooke.ca 

Please allow adequate time for staff review before beginning any work. 

Proper soil management helps protect local streams, wetlands, and marine environments.

When moving or storing soil:

  • Cover soil piles during wet weather to prevent runoff
  • Use silt fencing or barriers to protect drainage areas
  • Keep haul routes clean and free of debris
  • Dispose of excess material at approved facilities 

If soil is moved from or to a property with past industrial or commercial activity, you may need to meet provincial Environmental Management Act requirements for soil relocation and testing.

  • Permits are typically valid for one year from the date of issue.
  • Inspections may occur before, during, and after soil movement to confirm compliance.
  • Work carried out without a permit, or not in accordance with permit conditions, may result in fines or stop-work orders. 

Contact Us

District of Sooke
2205 Otter Point Road
Sooke, BC V9Z 1J2 


Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am – 4:30pm
Phone: 250-642-1634

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