https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mPbyXFehm-6llDV0Ddogm3WscHyEtfqJ/view?usp=sharing

In this episode of Storman Norman Presents, we dive into the complexities of building strata plans that blend new construction with previously occupied conversion units.

Mixing new construction with previously occupied buildings on a single strata plan creates unique legal hurdles. We break down the certification requirements for "Mixed" strata developments and the distinct roles of the land surveyor and the approving authority.

Key Study Points

• Form S (The Surveyor's Certificate): Mandatory for "new" buildings that have never been occupied.

• The Conversion Rule: If any part of the building was previously occupied, it is a "conversion" and requires approval from the local government (Form T).

• Mixed Units: On plans containing both, the surveyor must clearly distinguish which units are new and which are conversions to ensure the correct statutory protections apply.

• Physical Occupation: Definition of occupation in the context of residential vs. commercial strata units.

Infographic:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hg5fnhCR46blqVxeL5X93xjA2cB3qIzp/view?usp=drive_link

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vEWOGw_wV-YM19wpIhqgP4DMf7ddOFS4/view?usp=drive_link

Closing a road changes the very fabric of land ownership. We discuss the process of road closure, the vesting of title in the Crown, and the surveyor's role in creating the new "Closed Road" parcels.

Key Study Points

• Vesting of Title: Under the Land Act, highways are typically vested in the Crown.

• Closure Authorities: Distinguishing between road closures under the Community Charter (municipal) vs. the Land Act (rural/Crown).

• The Closed Road Parcel: Technical requirements for the survey plan defining the area being removed from highway status.

• Public Access: Legal implications of discontinuing a highway that provides the only access to adjacent lands.

Infographic:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NnWQqqQwOVtKi6-h-bKUYeu_Ud2dAxZe/view?usp=drive_link

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VG8Gk34YwGLUVjdky7GO-16z4Wtakhw4/view?usp=sharing

In this episode, we tackle the "judicial function" of the surveyor. When measurements and monuments conflict, which one wins? We explore the legal framework for re-establishing boundaries, moving beyond the math to analyze the footsteps of the original surveyor and the weight of physical evidence.

Key Study Points

• The Hierarchy of Evidence: Learn the order of priority: 1. Natural boundaries, 2. Original monuments, 3. Evidence of possession/occupation, 4. Measurements (bearings and distances).

• The "Footsteps" Principle: Re-establishing a boundary is a search for original intent, not an exercise in modern mathematical perfection.

• Natural Boundaries: Assessing the "visible high water mark" and reconciling it with historical plan evidence.

• Monumental Integrity: Determining if a found marker is "undisturbed" and evaluating the reliability of collateral evidence like old fence lines or tree blazes.

Infographic:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uoQZI5BTg2HrEJo1EkFqA0U-ycfEl06Q/view?usp=drive_link

In this episode of Storman Norman Presents, we break down the bedrock of land ownership and registration in British Columbia: the Land Title Act (LTA).

This massive statute governs how land is described, subdivided, and transferred.

We focus specifically on the sections that empower land surveyors, from the technical requirements of statutory plans to the complexities of Air Space Titles and the critical role of the Surveyor General.

• Part 7 – Descriptions and Plans (Sections 58–120):

  • The Registrar's Power: The Registrar has the authority to require a new survey or a "Reference Plan" if an existing description of land is deemed insufficient for registration.

  • Explanatory Plans (Section 70): These are only acceptable to the Surveyor General under specific conditions, such as when a full survey isn't practical or the boundaries are already sufficiently defined.

  • Statutory Right of Way (Section 113): Detail the unique requirements for these plans, which are used for utilities and public works and have specific status under the Act.

• Part 9 – Air Space Titles (Sections 138–143):

  • Three-Dimensional Containment: Air space parcels must be defined by planes or surfaces and be completely contained within the parent parcel.

  • Mandatory Vertical Datum: All Air Space Plans must show the "Geodetic Elevation" of every corner and boundary, referenced to the official vertical datum (CGVD28).

• Part 24 – Surveys and Plans (Sections 385–393):

  • Statutory Obligations: This part outlines the technical standards for plan preparation and the electronic filing rules that every BCLS must follow.

• Surveyor General & Registrar Roles:

  • Be prepared for exam questions regarding where the Surveyor General’s approval is required (e.g., Block Outline postings under Section 69 or Explanatory Plans under Section 70) versus the Registrar’s discretion in accepting documents for the register.

Infographic:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jB8sg9ch88v-on4XFgxsvqiqexPvgkEl/view?usp=drive_link

Source:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T7c8POkUB6V1R8pEaOqN3s9u9CGZWBZk/view?usp=drive_link

In this episode of Storman Norman Presents, we break down the legislative engine behind one of the most common development types in British Columbia: the Strata Property Act.

We focus on the surveyor’s pivotal role in defining the horizontal and vertical limits of ownership, the technical nuances of phased developments, and the high stakes of certifying previously occupied buildings.

• Delineation of Boundaries (Section 244):

  • The strata plan must show a "heavy outline" for the perimeter of the land and must clearly distinguish between strata lots and common property.

  • Exam Note: Nothing outside the parent parcel can be designated as a strata lot or common property.

• The Certification Process (Sections 241 & 242):

  • New Construction: Requires a surveyor to certify that the building has not been previously occupied (Form S).

  • Conversions: Requires approval from the municipal council or regional district (Form T) if the building was previously occupied.

• Phased Strata Developments (Sections 221–225):

  • A developer must file a "Phased Strata Plan Declaration" (Form P) with the first phase.

  • Surveyor’s Duty: Each phase must be a separate strata plan and must be integrated into the existing strata corporation upon registration.

• Limited Common Property (LCP):

  • LCP must be designated on the plan and measured by the land surveyor. It is not defined by the physical improvements (like a patio), but by the dimensions shown on the plan.

Infographic:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dGCceJWJqFNIIjV7MIVqwZeYktdbsiG9/view?usp=drive_link

Source:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SevHmKBka_Iihlr_FPXJwS8Wnh04F1KU/view?usp=drive_link

In this episode of Storman Norman Presents, we break down the legislation that defines and regulates our profession: the Land Surveyors Act.

We explore the legal "fence" around the practice of land surveying, the governance structure of the ABCLS, and the high-stakes disciplinary process that ensures public protection.

Understanding this Act is the foundation of professional responsibility for every LST and commissioned surveyor in BC.

• Definition of Practice (Section 1):

  • The Scope: The "practice of land surveying" includes the measurement of land or airspace to determine, define, or re-establish boundaries, and any advice or reporting related to those activities.

  • Certification: It specifically covers the determination of features relative to a boundary for the purpose of certifying their location in writing.

• Professional Discipline (Sections 56–60):

  • The Inquiry: The board or a committee can investigate a member for "unprofessional conduct," "incompetence," or "misconduct in the performance of their duties".

  • Penalties: If found guilty, penalties can range from a formal reprimand and fines to the suspension or permanent cancellation of a member's commission.

• Rule-Making Authority (Section 75):

  • The Mandate: The Association has the power to make rules for surveys and plans, including those in electronic format, for various provincial acts (Land Act, Land Title Act, etc.).

  • Surveyor General Oversight: Crucially, these rules do not have effect until they are approved by the Surveyor General.

• Unauthorized Practice (Section 45):

  • Legal Protections: Only a practising land surveyor in good standing may engage in the practice of land surveying. Any unauthorized person doing so is guilty of an offence and liable to a fine.

Infographic:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/13SvKcj6iBrEaiobl0IyYxAeK1xSTVZkj/view?usp=drive_link

Source: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GcKhD3EfZDkTtNf7b6SvVV7g7It67dWO/view?usp=drive_link

In this episode of Storman Norman Presents, we explore the statutory framework for the administration and disposition of Crown land in British Columbia: the Land Act.

This legislation is the primary authority for how the province manages its vast land resources.

We dive into the specific powers of the Surveyor General regarding Crown land surveys, the legal definition of natural boundaries, and the critical processes for confirming and correcting the cadastral record on behalf of the Crown.

• Natural Boundaries (Section 18):

  • Statutory Definition: The Act defines the "natural boundary" as the visible high water mark of any lake, river, stream, or other body of water.

  • Title Restrictions: Unless specifically authorized, no person is entitled to a grant of land below the natural boundary. This is a frequent exam topic regarding the limits of Crown grants and the ambulatory nature of water boundaries.

• Part 7 – Surveys (Sections 72–73):

  • Survey Authority: All surveys of Crown land must be performed by a British Columbia Land Surveyor and must comply with the specific instructions provided by the Surveyor General.

  • Confirmation of Survey: A survey is not considered official until the plan has been confirmed by the signature of the Surveyor General. This differs from the Land Title Act, where the Registrar has primary authority over plan acceptance.

• Part 8 – Cancellations and Re-surveys (Section 81):

  • Correction of Errors: If the Surveyor General finds that a survey is incorrect or has been made in a manner that would lead to confusion, they have the statutory power to cancel the plan and order a re-survey.

• Roads and Trails (Section 13):

  • Crown Ownership: Except where otherwise provided, all roads, trails, and streets on Crown land are the property of the Crown and are excluded from any disposition unless otherwise specified.

• Dispositions (Section 11):

  • Ministerial Power: The Minister has the broad authority to dispose of Crown land via grant, lease, license, or permit. Surveyors are essential in accurately defining these areas before a disposition can be finalized.

Infographic:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Qm3NiqZbvgIiSCd9jujk_FtJ9mq541-B/view?usp=drive_link

Source:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JTRWCmw5xIMOHP7Hs09_IFa_FJjIHuhn/view?usp=drive_link

In Episode 5 (1860–1867), we examine how political deadlock, economic upheaval, and strategic uncertainty pushed British North America toward Confederation.

• The Crisis: We explore the internal deadlock in the Province of Canada and the external pressures from the American Civil War and British military withdrawal.

• The Conferences: From Charlottetown to Quebec and London, we track how a federal union gained traction over other options like a Maritime Union.

• The Deal: We analyze the BNA Act (1867)—who joined (Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick), who stayed out (PEI, Newfoundland), and the balance of federal powers.

• The Exclusion: Crucially, we discuss the exclusion of Indigenous nations and Métis communities from these talks, marking the beginning of a new era of challenge despite existing treaties.

🗺️ VISUAL COMPANION:History happens on a map. Download the custom infographics and artwork for this episode to follow along with the story:

• Download Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ef63YgPpCiU1Mds7UPETmKO1Q_QRGRcK/view?usp=sharing

• Download Map of Events: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SER0v8OJvciV9FQcTPCXsPnwKyJk_67J/view?usp=sharing

Welcome to Storman Norman Presents

History isn't just dates—it's the story of survival, conflict, and the people who forged a nation.Join us for this special 5-part series, Time Immemorial to Confederation, as we uncover the gritty, complex origins of Canada.

Series Release Schedule:

• Mon, Jan 12 | Episode 1: Before Canada

• Tue, Jan 13 | Episode 2: First Contacts (c. 1497-1763)

• Wed, Jan 14 | Episode 3: Revolutions & Redrawing the Map (1763-1815)

• Thu, Jan 15 | Episode 4: Furs, Frontiers & Rebellions (1815-1860)

• Fri, Jan 16 | Episode 5: On the Edge of a New Dominion (1860-1867)

Episode 5 Sources & Recommended Reading:

Books

• Federalism and the Constitution of Canada by David E. Smith

  Background on how the 1867 federal system is structured and interpreted. https://amzn.to/4500Dku

• Rise to Greatness: The History of Canada From the Vikings to the Present by Conrad Black

  Chapters covering Baldwin, LaFontaine, and the Confederation generation. https://amzn.to/4qDUW42

Open Educational Resources (Read Free Online)

• Canadian History: Pre‑Confederation by John Douglas Belshaw

  See Chapter 11 (Politics to 1860) and Chapter 14 (The 1860s: Confederation and Its Discontents).

  Read online: https://opentextbc.ca/preconfederation/

• Histories of Indigenous Peoples and Canada by John Douglas Belshaw, Sarah Nickel, and Chelsea Horton

  See chapters on treaty‑making and 19th‑century resistance.

  Read online: https://histindigenouspeoples.pressbooks.tru.ca/

(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)

🎙️ Powered by the Magic of AI

This series is a fully AI-generated experience. The research outlines, scripts, host voices, and artwork were all created by artificial intelligence, curated and managed by Storman Norman Presents.

Streaming on Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube.

Keywords:Canadian History, Confederation, BNA Act, Sir John A. Macdonald, George Brown, Charlottetown Conference, Quebec Conference, Constitution Act 1867, Indigenous History, American Civil War, British North America, Political History, Storman Norman Presents

In Episode 4 (1815–1860), we explore the violent "Fur Trade Wars" and the political rebellions that forced the colonies toward democracy.

• War in the West: We recount the deadly rivalry between the Hudson’s Bay Company and the North West Company, culminating in the Pemmican War and the Battle of Seven Oaks.

• The Métis Nation: The rise of a distinct "New Nation" in the Red River, asserting their rights and identity.

• Rebellions of 1837-38: Frustration with the "Family Compact" and "Château Clique" boils over into armed revolt in Upper and Lower Canada.

• Responsible Government: We analyze Lord Durham’s controversial report, the Act of Union (1840), and the hard-won fight for democratic self-rule.

• Drawing the Line: The Oregon Treaty settles the 49th parallel, defining the western border against American expansion.

🗺️ VISUAL COMPANION:History happens on a map. Download the custom infographics and artwork for this episode to follow along with the story:

• Download Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DTd-ddKW-gKCRfW9BPP3kaqwwKE2eKn0/view?usp=sharing

• Download Map of Events: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ON5383-irQ-7TBQOz3cCoABmWXKxNNuR/view?usp=sharing

Welcome to Storman Norman Presents

History isn't just dates—it's the story of survival, conflict, and the people who forged a nation.Join us for this special 5-part series, Time Immemorial to Confederation, as we uncover the gritty, complex origins of Canada.

Series Release Schedule:

• Mon, Jan 12 | Episode 1: Before Canada

• Tue, Jan 13 | Episode 2: First Contacts (c. 1497-1763)

• Wed, Jan 14 | Episode 3: Revolutions & Redrawing the Map (1763-1815)

• Thu, Jan 15 | Episode 4: Furs, Frontiers & Rebellions (1815-1860)

• Fri, Jan 16 | Episode 5: On the Edge of a New Dominion (1860-1867)

Episode 4 Sources & Recommended Reading:

Books

• The North-West Is Our Mother by Jean TeilletEssential reading for the rise of the Métis Nation and the Battle of Seven Oaks.https://amzn.to/49JfhPL

• The Company: The Rise and Fall of the Hudson’s Bay Empire by Stephen R. BownCovers the NWC/HBC merger and George Simpson's era.https://amzn.to/49J4Njk

• Rise to Greatness by Conrad BlackDetailed coverage of the Rebellions, Lord Durham, and Responsible Government.https://amzn.to/4qDUW42

• Clearing the Plains by James DaschukInsight into the changing ecological and disease landscape of the West.https://amzn.to/4jvvVpr

Open Educational Resources (Read Free Online)

• Canadian History: Pre‑Confederation (2nd ed.) by John Douglas BelshawSee Chapter 11 (Rebellions and Political Reform) and Chapter 8 (The Fur Trade).Read online: https://opentextbc.ca/preconfederation/

• Histories of Indigenous Peoples and CanadaSee sections on the Métis Nation and the Red River Resistance.Read online: https://histindigenouspeoples.pressbooks.tru.ca/

(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)

🎙️ Powered by the Magic of AI

This series is a fully AI-generated experience. The research outlines, scripts, host voices, and artwork were all created by artificial intelligence, curated and managed by Storman Norman Presents.

Streaming on Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube.

Keywords:Rebellions of 1837, Métis Nation, Battle of Seven Oaks, Hudson's Bay Company, North West Company, Lord Durham, Responsible Government, Oregon Treaty, Louis-Joseph Papineau, William Lyon Mackenzie, Storman Norman Presents

In Episode 3 (1763–1815), we explore how revolutions and wars reshaped the political map.

• Revolutions: We discuss the Royal Proclamation (1763) and the Quebec Act (1774), and investigate why Quebec and Nova Scotia did not join the American Revolution.

• The Loyalists: Who were the United Empire Loyalists? We trace how their arrival created Upper and Lower Canada via the Constitutional Act of 1791.

• War of 1812: From Detroit to Queenston Heights, we analyze the war from a borderlands perspective, emphasizing the decisive role of leaders like Brock and Tecumseh.

• The Aftermath: The solidification of a distinct British North America and the catastrophic dispossession of Indigenous nations who fought to hold the line.

🗺️ VISUAL COMPANION:History happens on a map. Download the custom infographics and artwork for this episode to follow along with the story:

• Download Infographic: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fBa9RvOsKkzADqgrtCO3FxkX22T-b4WW/view?usp=sharing

• Download Map of Events: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pLjl7eECwno-LfJ-Q5JbprJZ0wERtltE/view?usp=sharing

Welcome to Storman Norman PresentsHistory isn't just dates—it's the story of survival, conflict, and the people who forged a nation.Join us for this special 5-part series, Time Immemorial to Confederation, as we uncover the gritty, complex origins of Canada.

Series Release Schedule:

• Mon, Jan 12 | Episode 1: Before Canada

• Tue, Jan 13 | Episode 2: First Contacts (c. 1497-1763)

• Wed, Jan 14 | Episode 3: Revolutions & Redrawing the Map (1763-1815)

• Thu, Jan 15 | Episode 4: Furs, Frontiers & Rebellions (1815-1860)

• Fri, Jan 16 | Episode 5: On the Edge of a New Dominion (1860-1867)

Episode 3 Sources & Recommended Reading:

Books

• The Invasion of Canada (1812–1813) by Pierre BertonA classic narrative of the early war years.https://amzn.to/4sxmdab

• The Civil War of 1812 by Alan TaylorRecommended for detailed War of 1812 campaigns and borderlands context.https://amzn.to/4ptqM2k

• Rise to Greatness by Conrad BlackSections on the Seven Years’ War, American Revolution, Loyalists, and War of 1812.https://amzn.to/4qDUW42

Open Educational Resources (Read Free Online)

• Canadian History: Pre‑Confederation (2nd ed.) by John Douglas BelshawSee Chapter 7 (“British North America at Peace and at War, 1763–1818”) and Chapter 8.Read online: https://opentextbc.ca/preconfederation/

• Histories of Indigenous Peoples and Canada by John Douglas Belshaw, Sarah Nickel, and Chelsea HortonSee chapters on “colonial wars in the East” and resistance 1750s–1870s.Read online: https://histindigenouspeoples.pressbooks.tru.ca/

(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)

🎙️ Powered by the Magic of AIThis series is a fully AI-generated experience. The research outlines, scripts, host voices, and artwork were all created by artificial intelligence, curated and managed by Storman Norman Presents.

Streaming on Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube.

Keywords:War of 1812, United Empire Loyalists, Tecumseh, Brock, Queenston Heights, Quebec Act, Royal Proclamation 1763, American Revolution, Upper Canada, British North America, Indigenous Resistance, Storman Norman Presents