Federal regulators are proposing to update the approval process for new telecom tower sites to reduce paperwork and impose a more structured framework for how local planning authorities can intercede. A newly launched public consultation seeks input on various proposed rule revisions, including shifting some of the required steps to a digital platform and scoping the opportunities for outside parties to participate.
The move responds to a trio of the Canadian government’s stated goals: to promote competition in the telecom sector; to improve access to wireless communication services; and to reduce administrative burden that could stifle innovation, investment and/or productivity. Regulatory overseers at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) note that current rules date back to 2008 and enshrine what are now archaic requirements for tower proponents to send printed correspondence to designated affected parties.
Alternatively, ISED now suggests much of the mandated notification and sharing of documents can occur through a new online portal. Proponents seeking the federal ministry’s approval for tower sites would still be required to communicate those plans with the local planning authority, businesses surrounding the site and the general public. However, it’s proposed they would do so by posting a sign at the potential site to indicate their intentions and direct interested parties to a website where all required details would be posted.
As part of that communication process, proponents would be required to address prescribed questions covering: how the new tower will improve service; why they chose the site and what alternatives were considered; how health, safety, environmental and aesthetic impacts have been considered; and what resulting controls will be in place.
The public would then have 30 days from the time the notification is posted online or the signage is erected at the site, whichever is later, to convey “reasonable and relevant concerns” about the proposed tower site. However, proponents would be required to respond only to the concerns of those who live or operate businesses within a defined radius of the site, measuring out to a distance equivalent to three times the height of the proposed tower.
Meanwhile, ISED proposes a new timeline of 45 calendar days for local planning authorities to concur with or dispute a proposed tower site, and additionally identifies three “valid concerns” that would justify withholding of concurrence. Local planning authorities would have to notify ISED and provide supporting documentation of their valid concerns before the 45-day period expires in order to trigger a dispute resolution process. Otherwise, it would automatically be deemed that they have concurred.
Stakeholders and the general public have until July 16, 2026 to submit comments on the proposals. As well, ISED is soliciting opinions on “gaps and/or opportunities” related to facilitating sites for small cell antennas, even though they are typically not captured in the rules that apply to tower structures.
