Before you start an appeal, it is a good idea to ensure that the decision you want to appeal can be appealed to the ERAT. ERAT has the authority to consider only certain decisions made by the British Columbia Energy Regulator. To see if a decision can be appealed to the ERAT, click here.
To file your appeal, you need to provide the ERAT with a signed document containing:
- your name and contact information (including address, phone number, and email);
- the name and contact information (including address, phone number, and email) of anyone who will represent you in the appeal;
- details of the decision (the date it was made – if known, who made it, and how and when you received the decision);
- the reasons(s) you think the decision is wrong; and
- what you would like the ERAT to do about the decision you are appealing.
The ERAT has created Notice of Appeal forms. You do not have to use one, but they provide space to fill in all the details you have to provide, in order to start an appeal with the ERAT. The Notice of Appeal can be sent in by mail, fax, or email, or it can be delivered to the ERAT’s office in person. All of that contact information can be found here. Be aware, there are timeframes within which appeals must be filed under the Oil and Gas Activities Act, as short as 15 days. More information can be found here. If you do not have all the information you need to provide, send in what you have before your time limit is up; the ERAT will give a reasonable time for you to complete your Notice of Appeal, once it is filed.
If possible, include a copy of the decision you are appealing with the Notice of Appeal. If you do not, the ERAT will likely contact you to ask for a copy of the decision.
After you have submitted a Notice of Appeal, the ERAT will contact you to confirm receipt. If the ERAT has any questions or concerns, they will let you know.