If you’re going through a separation or divorce in British Columbia, one of the most important issues you’ll face is parenting time in BC.
In British Columbia, parenting time refers to the time a guardian spends with their child. If someone who is not a guardian spends time with the child, it’s legally known as contact. Parenting time is governed by the BC Family Law Act, while married couples may also be subject to the federal Divorce Act.
At Dhanu Dhaliwal Law Group (DDLaw), we’ve helped hundreds of parents in Surrey, Abbotsford, and across the Fraser Valley understand their rights and protect their parenting relationships through clear, enforceable court orders.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about parenting time in BC, including how it works under the law, how it’s decided, and what you can do if your ex is violating your parenting time.
What is Parenting Time in BC?
Parenting time refers to the time a child spends in the care of a parent or guardian, as defined under British Columbia’s Family Law Act.
During parenting time, that parent has the legal authority to make day-to-day decisions about the child’s care and well-being.
Parenting Time vs. Parental Responsibilities
These are not the same:
- Parenting time = when the child is physically with you
- Parental responsibilities = major decisions about the child’s life (school, health care, religion, etc.)
You can have parenting time without full parental responsibilities, and vice versa.
FAQs on Parenting Time in BC
Parenting time is usually decided in one of three ways:
- Mutual Agreement — parents agree on a schedule and file it with the court
- Court Order — if parents can’t agree, a judge decides based on the child’s best interests
- Parenting Coordinator or Mediator — used in high-conflict or complex cases
The primary consideration is always the best interests of the child — not the preferences or convenience of either parent.
Parenting time can include:
- Overnight visits
- Weekends and holidays
- Shared summer vacation time
- Alternate weeks or 50/50 schedules
- Pickups and drop-offs from school
- Virtual contact (FaceTime, phone, etc.)
The goal is to maintain a meaningful relationship between the child and both parents, when safe and appropriate.
Common violations include:
- Denying access
- Late or missed pickups/drop-offs
- Not returning the child on time
- Interfering with communication
In BC, you can take legal steps to enforce the parenting order. See our full guide on parenting order enforcement for more info.
Yes. Parenting time arrangements can be modified if there’s a material change in circumstances, such as:
- A parent moves
- Changes in the child’s needs
- A parent becomes unavailable due to work or health
You can negotiate new terms with your ex or apply to the court for a variation order.
No. BC no longer uses the term “custody.” Parenting time and parental responsibilities have replaced it.
No. Parenting time and child support are separate legal issues. You must comply with the order.
This can be complex. Courts may consider a child’s wishes depending on their age and maturity, but the order still stands unless modified.
Yes. You can apply to enforce the order or add a police enforcement clause. Learn more at the
BC Government: Parenting Time Enforcement Options
Not always. The Divorce Act applies to married couples and uses similar terms like “parenting time” and “decision-making responsibility,” while the Family Law Act applies to all parents in BC and defines parental responsibilities in more detail.
No. Parenting time and child support are legally independent. A parent cannot be denied parenting time because they’re behind on support, and vice versa.
Speak With a Family Lawyer Today
At DDLaw, we understand how emotionally charged parenting disputes can be. We offer:
- Tailored legal advice based on your parenting situation
- Court representation in Surrey, Abbotsford, and beyond
- Experience handling complex, high-conflict cases
Call 604.746.3330 or contact us online to book a consultation.
We don’t offer free consultations — and that’s a good thing. You’re not here for a sales pitch. You’re here for real answers.
Related Reading
- How To Protect Your Child With Court Orders
- How to Win a Child Custody Case in BC
- Get a Protection Order in BC
Dhanu Dhaliwal Law Group – Your Surrey and Abbotsford Family Lawyers
