Neighbours Sue RCMP, CFIA Over Alleged Trespassing at B.C. Ostrich Farm

Residents claim authorities entered their property without permission during inspection of nearby farm

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Three residents of Edgewood, British Columbia have filed a civil lawsuit against the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), alleging that the authorities trespassed on their private property during an inspection of the neighboring Universal Ostrich Farm.

Why it matters

The case highlights ongoing tensions between rural residents and government agencies over property rights and the scope of regulatory inspections, especially in sensitive agricultural settings. It also raises questions about the appropriate use of law enforcement resources and the balance between public safety and individual privacy.

The details

According to the notice of civil claim, the CFIA and RCMP entered the plaintiffs' property without permission during an inspection of the Universal Ostrich Farm in February 2026. The residents allege that the authorities exceeded the scope of their inspection and violated their rights by accessing their land.

  • The alleged trespassing incident occurred in February 2026.

The players

Universal Ostrich Farm

A commercial ostrich farm located near Edgewood, British Columbia.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

The federal agency responsible for regulating and inspecting agricultural operations in Canada.

Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)

Canada's national police force, which assisted the CFIA in the inspection of the ostrich farm.

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What they’re saying

“We have a right to privacy on our own property, and the authorities overstepped their bounds by entering without permission.”

— Resident of Edgewood

What’s next

The case is currently working its way through the British Columbia court system, with the plaintiffs seeking damages and a ruling that the authorities violated their rights.

The takeaway

This dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between rural residents, agricultural operations, and government regulators over the boundaries of property rights and the scope of regulatory oversight, especially in sensitive industries like livestock farming.