Owners & guests
Living off-grid at Queest
No power lines, no pavement, no services nearby. Here’s what to know before you come.
Getting here
Queest Village is reached by boat on Shuswap Lake, or by a rough 4x4 logging road above Anstey Arm. Conditions on the road change with the weather and the season. A high-clearance 4x4 is a must, and check the latest road status before you set out.
Power
There’s no grid power at Queest. Owners rely on their own solar, batteries, generators and propane. Run generators considerately and keep quiet hours in mind for your neighbours.
Emergencies
Help is a long way off and phone coverage can be patchy. Call 911 in an emergency and know your lot number. Keep a first-aid kit, and let someone know your travel plans.
Water
Untreated creek water. Boil before use
The Queest water system supplies non-disinfected, untreated surface water from Queest Creek. It isn’t safe to drink without further treatment, and the cartridge filters at service connections do not protect against bacteria and parasites.
Boil Water Advisory in effect
For drinking, food preparation and brushing teeth, bring water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute, or use another safe source of drinking water. Please make sure your guests know.
The system runs from April 15 to October 31. Outside that season, let the water coordinator know before using it.
Look after the place
Good neighbour basics
Garbage & bears
Only non-food waste goes in the village garbage dump. Pack food waste out with you, and store food and garbage securely so you don’t draw bears and other wildlife.
Fire safety
We live in the forest. Check BC Wildfire Service for current campfire bans, keep fires small and attended, and drown them completely. Report a wildfire at 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone.
Slow down on the roads
Keep to 20 km/h or slower to avoid raising dust, and follow the BC Motor Vehicle Act. Watch for kids, pets and walkers.
Common property
The beach, docks and parks belong to everyone. Please ask council before using undesignated common property for anything.
Building
An RV or trailer can be your main dwelling for up to three years before you build. Building exteriors must be finished within three years of starting. See the bylaws.
Leave no trace
Respect the creek, the shoreline and the wildlife. Take only photos and leave the place better than you found it.