British Columbia has been at the forefront of beneficial ownership transparency requirements in Canada. Both property owners and businesses operating in BC should understand their disclosure obligations.
Land Owner Transparency Registry (LOTR)
The BC Land Owner Transparency Registry (LOTR) requires certain entities that hold interests in land — including corporations, trustees, and partners in a partnership — to file a transparency report disclosing their beneficial owners (the individuals who ultimately own or control the entity).
The registry is searchable by the public, allowing anyone to look up who beneficially owns property in BC.
Who must file: Corporations (excluding public corporations), trustees of trusts, and partners of partnerships that hold an interest in residential property in BC.
What must be disclosed: The names, addresses, and other identifying information of the individual beneficial owners and their ownership interests.
Penalties for non-compliance: Failure to file or filing false information can result in significant financial penalties.
BC Business Corporations Act — Transparency Register
BC corporations are also required to maintain a transparency register listing individuals with significant control over the corporation. This applies to privately held BC companies.
Practical Implications for Real Estate Transactions
When purchasing property through a corporation, trust, or partnership, or when selling such an entity’s property, LOTR disclosure obligations must be addressed at closing. Our real estate lawyers confirm compliance with LOTR requirements as part of the closing process.
Working With MV Law
Our real estate and business law teams assist clients with understanding and complying with BC’s beneficial ownership transparency requirements. Contact us to discuss your obligations.
Reviewed by: Ernest Pravilionis on January 15, 2026
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
