FAQ

Geologic hazards are natural earth processes, such as landslides and floods which can disrupt and potentially result in loss of life, environmental damage and economic impacts. Climate change will enhance local extreme weather conditions, which in turn affect the frequency and severity of geohazards.

As a homeowner, you are responsible for managing and maintaining your lot, including steep slopes. Signs of instability on your slope may include:

• Cracks along your yard near the slope
• Extensive saturation, i.e. after continuous periods of heavy rains
• Increase in water levels at the bottom of the ravine (when debris fills the channel bed)
• Leaning trees, retaining walls or fences
• Soil separating (moving) from foundations or structures

If you see signs of slope instability, contact a qualified professional such as a geotechnical engineer to assess your property. 

To report landslide indicators contact your local fire, police or public works department or the 24-hour provincial toll-free number at 1-800-663-3456.

Across the region there are land use zoning and building regulations in place to reduce the risk of slope hazards. Since areas vary it's best to consult the RDN webpage for information and speck with a local government planner and other professionals (i.e., Land Surveyor, Geotechnical Engineer, etc) when planning your project.