Longtime inhabitants have been promised a less onerous process to claim squatter’s rights and gain legal title to Crown lands in Newfoundland and Labrador. Pending proposed amendments to the provincial Lands Act would shave 10 years off the minimum time period for continuous occupancy, resetting the start-date to January 1, 1967, and introduce quitclaim deeds to certify that the Province has relinquished its right to applicable lands.

In announcing the measures, Gerry Byrne, Newfoundland and Labrador’s Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, noted that eligible claimants include those who can prove long-term possession of their primary residence, but lack good title to easily demonstrate it. A dedicated on-line portal is also promised to support the process, allowing claimants to upload documentation and submit fees digitally.

“Securing Crown land title or proving long-term land possession can be challenging, especially during times when difficult decisions and major life changes are at hand. The measures aim to lessen some of the emotional and financial burdens so often associated with real estate transactions, estate management and other legal concerns,” Byrne says.

The legislation is to be introduced when the provincial legislative assembly begins its fall sitting in November.