Codes, Laws & Bylaws
Election & Referendum Law
On December 18, 2018, Nexwsxwníw̓ntm ta Úxwumixw (Council) voted to formally approve and accept the decision of Members in the referendum on election reform that took place December 6, 2018. This approval marked the most significant and comprehensive change to the Nation’s elections and governance since 1981, and came into effect at the General Election on September 26, 2021.
- Seven elected Councillors plus one elected Chairperson (instead of sixteen elected Councillors, with two Co-Chairs elected internally by Councillors);
- Designated Councillors to represent the Squamish Valley, the North Shore, and outside of our communities;
- A ban on outside money in candidate campaigns, including a ban on union or corporate donations;
- Candidacy requirements to be eligible to run; and
- A new initiative whereby Members can call a referendum on subjects of their choosing.
Election & Referendum Law (approved by Membership on December 6, 2018)
Election & Referendum Regulation (approved by Membership on November 5, 2019)
Electoral Commission
Drug and Alcohol Free Zones On-Reserve
To promote and support more family-friendly environments on-reserve, in 2016 Nexwsxwníw̓ntm ta Úxwumixw (Council) approved an order to designate certain areas of reserves as drug- and alcohol-free.
Public intoxication or consumption of alcohol in the areas identified in the document below is not permitted. The Liquor Control and Licensing Act is enforceable on-reserve and the Nation has requested the local police enforce it and reinforce community safety in these areas relating to any drug or alcohol use.
View the zonesBylaws
Squamish Nation Fireworks Bylaw
If you would like to submit an appeal, please email the Public Safety Department at public_safety@squamish.net
Bylaw 16 for the Preservation, Protection and Management of Fish
Dog Bylaw Enforcement
Dog bylaw enforcement on-reserve focuses on educating Members about responsible dog ownership. Dogs found running at large, unlicensed dogs, or dogs that have inflicted an unprovoked bite on a person or another animal will be seized and impounded. Fines will be imposed on the owner and unpaid fines will be taken out of Distribution if necessary.
To contact the Animal Control Officer, please call 604-889-3271.
Sen̓áḵw Zoning Bylaw
Financial Administration Law
On October 20, 2022, Nexwsxwníw̓ntm ta Úxwumixw (Council) approved to repeal the Squamish Nation Financial Administration By-Law 2019, and enact a Financial Administration Law (FAL). The FAL is a set of governance and finance practices that informs decision-making by Nexwsxwníw̓ntm ta Úxwumixw and Nation employees with regard to financial matters. It covers administration, financial management, capital projects and asset management, and more.
On December 15, 2022, the First Nations Financial Management Board (FNFMB) reviewed the Nation’s FAL and granted certification. This provides the opportunity to become a member of the First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA). Benefits include being able to apply for New Fiscal Relationship 10-year grants as well as access financial products and services that the FNFA offers at competitive rates.
Nation Updates
Jordan’s Principle Settlement
Claim applications are now being accepted for compensation for First Nations Child & Family Services and Jordan's Principle Settlement
Notice of Referendum
The Squamish Electoral Commission has issued notice of a referendum taking place on May 31, 2025. The referendum will consider amendments to the Election and Referendum Law.
Assistance with Rent Program
Administered by Hiy̓ám̓ Housing, Squamish Nation Assistance with Rent Program provides support to Members paying market rental rates, including those living on- and off-reserve, out of province, or out of country.