The 2025 Order 2025-0001, issued by the Minister of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks of Québec, enacts the Regulation respecting an outfitter’s licence under the Act respecting the conservation and development of wildlife. This regulation establishes guidelines regarding the issuance, modification, and transfer of outfitter’s licences, as well as the classes of licences available, fees, and standards for service quality. The regulation is framed under the authority of section 78.6 and section 163 of the Act, which provides the Minister with the ability to regulate outfitting operations.

The regulation categorizes outfitting operations into specific types of licences, including hunting, fishing for Arctic char or Atlantic salmon, and trapping. It outlines that the outfitter’s licence is valid for 12 months, from April 1 to March 31, and contains various details such as the identification of the licensee, the operation’s geographical boundaries, and the types of services provided. It also specifies the responsibilities of the licence holder, including ensuring compliance with land-use regulations and obtaining necessary permits for the operation.

Furthermore, the regulation defines different types of lodging units that may be offered as part of an outfitting operation. These include rough shelters, inns, cabins, houseboats, camps, and hotel-like accommodations. The lodging units are subject to specific guidelines regarding capacity, location, and facilities, such as kitchen services or proximity to food providers. The regulation also addresses scenarios where an outfitting operation may operate without an outfitter’s licence, outlining circumstances under which this is permissible.

In terms of the process for obtaining or modifying a licence, applicants must submit an application form and various supporting documents, such as maps, proof of land ownership or lease, and evidence of compliance with urban planning regulations. Additionally, applicants are required to pay the necessary fees for processing their applications. The Minister evaluates these applications and, upon meeting all requirements, issues the licence, which includes detailed information about the outfitter’s operations, including the operating territory, the type of services provided, and specific legal rights concerning the land and resources involved.

Additionally, if a licence holder wishes to modify their operation, such as adding or removing lodging units or altering the boundaries of the operating territory, they must submit an application to the Minister for approval. Any changes to the content of the licence, including modifications to the location or size of the operation, require the submission of a new application and compliance with specific conditions.

The Regulation respecting an outfitter’s licence, through this detailed framework, ensures that outfitting operations in Québec are properly regulated and that the rights and responsibilities of operators are clearly defined.

Quebec (Order 2025-0001) January 29, 2025