A Certificate of Possession (CP) is an official document that confirms a Leq’á:mel First Nation Citizen’s legal right to occupy and use a defined parcel of reserve land, referred to as an Allotment. Under the authority of the Leq’á:mel Land Code, which was developed and approved by our community, Leq’á:mel First Nation exercises full jurisdiction over its reserve lands. This means that, instead of relying on the Indian Act, we govern our lands through our own laws, policies, and procedures. An Interest in land refers to any legal right held by a person or entity in relation to Leq’á:mel Lands—this may include a CP, lease, right-of-way, or mortgage. Holding an Interest comes with specific rights and responsibilities, and all such Interests must comply with the Land Code and be registered with the Leq’á:mel Lands Office. Ongoing Work: CP & Allotment Law Leq’á:mel First Nation is currently developing a CP & Allotment Law to strengthen how landholdings are managed and recorded under our Land Code. This new law will set out clear rules and processes for: Reviewing and issuing new Certificates of Possession Managing transfers, leases, and other Interests in land Resolving historical or administrative issues Ensuring transparency and fairness in how CP lands are held and used Community engagement on this law is underway. Lands staff and the Family Advisory Committee (FAC) are working together to gather feedback, clarify existing records, and ensure that the new law reflects the needs and values of our Members. Note: Work on the CP & Allotment Law is currently underway. Community engagement is anticipated in 2026.