Land Identification Program

The Land Identification Program (LIP) prevents the development of land that is identified for non-development use. The general intent of the (LIP) is to protect and to preserve resource land from being sub-divided or developed for commercial or industrial use, and to protect it against land speculation.

What does “non-development use” mean?

Non-development use means for the purposes of forestry, wildlife, agriculture, recreation, permanent or seasonal residence, etc., and does not involve commercial or industrial development or subdivision.

Land may be identified for non-development use where:

  • it is acquired by a non-resident of PEI;
  • it is acquired by a corporation regardless of residency;
  • in certain circumstances, where it is acquired by a resident person through the acquisition of shares in a corporation; or
  • it is transferred by the Crown or one of its agencies to a person or corporation.

How do I find out if land has been identified for non-development use?

Search the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission database [external link] to find out if a parcel of land has been identified for non-development use. You will need the parcel number to complete this search.

How do I cancel, suspend, or amend the non-development use identification from my land?

You can find the Guidelines on the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission website here

https://irac.pe.ca/lands/land/amending-a-condition-identification-for-non-development-etc/

The Application Form can be found here

https://irac.pe.ca/lands/land/forms/

Can land be identified for non-development use within a municipality?

The Land Identification Program does not apply for the following where the land:

  • is within the boundaries of a municipality that has an official plan approved by the Minister; or
  • is not located within the boundaries of a municipality referred to above; and
    • consists of a parcel of less than five acres; or
    • has a shore frontage of less than 165 feet; or
    • has received approval for the development of the entire parcel of land.

Will Land Identification expire?

A recent amendment to the Lands Protection Act Land Identification Regulations, effective January 1, 2015, states that all existing Land Identification Agreements will expire, automatically and retroactively, ten years from the original date of issue.

Are there laws that govern the identification of land in PEI?

Published date: 
July 22, 2024
Housing, Land and Communities

General Inquiries

Land Division
J. Elmer Blanchard Building
31 Gordon Drive
PO Box 2000
Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8

Phone: 902-368-5590
Fax: 902-368-5526

landsdivision@gov.pe.ca