The Gas Protection Act Regulations (R-061-2025) introduce several key amendments to the existing Gas Protection Regulations (RRNWT 1990, c.G-1). These amendments aim to update definitions, clarify permit requirements, adopt modern safety codes, and ensure consistency between English and French versions of the regulations, reflecting evolving standards in gas safety and installation practices in the Northwest Territories.

Changes to permit requirements are notable. Subsection 5(2) is replaced to clarify that a permit is not required for installing or replacing propane tanks or containers on residential premises if the tank’s volume is less than 435 liters (115 US gallons). This eases regulatory burdens for smaller-scale residential propane installations. Further, certified gas fitters do not require permits for minor gas fitting work that does not involve disconnecting the gas supply and where an inspector has given prior approval. This provision allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in routine, low-risk tasks while maintaining safety oversight.

New provisions govern permits issued for gas fitting work. Section 13.1 requires that permits specify the type of gas equipment or installation the authorized work pertains to, promoting transparency and clear scope of work. Section 13.2 introduces that permits are valid for one year, with possible extensions of up to six months granted by inspectors at no additional fee, facilitating project flexibility while ensuring timely completion.

The regulations expand the conditions under which owners of residential premises may perform gas fitting work on their property without requiring a certified gas fitter. This allowance applies when the residence is a single-family detached dwelling, the owner or an immediate family member resides or plans to reside there for at least one year after the work, and the owner assumes full responsibility for safety and compliance. Furthermore, owners performing such work must ensure no other persons besides themselves or immediate family reside or rent the premises for at least one year after work completion.

In areas of the Northwest Territories where no qualified gas fitter is available, inspectors may issue permits for gas fitting work limited to single-family detached residential premises, ensuring essential work is not impeded by workforce shortages. Additional linguistic corrections in French versions improve clarity and legal consistency, such as substituting terms like “émettre” with “délivrer” (issue) and refining phrases related to inspection and fees.

Several sections address reinspection fees and regulatory fee terminology, harmonizing the language used and updating references to the fee schedule. These technical amendments aim to streamline fee collection and inspection processes in line with modern administrative practices.

Northwest Territories (61/2025) August 1, 2025
Disclaimer: Insights are for informational purposes only and do not reflect RRI’s official position or constitute legal opinion.