Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has issued a notice under the Radiocommunication Act concerning proposed amendments to antenna system siting procedures. The consultation focuses on revising regulatory requirements governing the construction and deployment of antenna systems across Canada. Key areas under review include updated rules for tower construction notification, tower sharing arrangements, roaming provisions, and annual reporting obligations for terrestrial licence holders.

A central feature of the proposed amendments is the increased transparency in the antenna siting process. This includes stronger requirements for public notification when new antenna installations are planned, as well as consideration of an online tower information system that would improve access to data on existing and proposed telecommunications infrastructure. These measures are intended to increase visibility, reduce information asymmetries, and support better-informed participation by affected communities and stakeholders.

The policy objectives is to improve regulatory efficiency, modernize Canada’s antenna siting framework, and ensure equitable access to telecommunications infrastructure in response to evolving wireless network demands. Stakeholders, including telecommunications operators, municipalities, Indigenous communities, and members of the public, are encouraged to participate and provide evidence-based feedback. The proposed changes respond to ongoing concerns related to inconsistent tower deployment timelines, lack of standardized public notification practices, and limited visibility into existing infrastructure locations.

In addition, the amendments aim to improve administrative processes by reducing reporting burdens on terrestrial licence holders while maintaining effective regulatory oversight through improved digital reporting systems and improved data collection practices. The consultation also seeks input on potential policy directions such as mandatory infrastructure sharing requirements, expanded roaming access conditions, and the establishment of consistent national standards for antenna system approvals across jurisdictions.

Industry stakeholders are expected to assess the operational implications of the proposed changes, including potential impacts on deployment timelines, compliance costs, and infrastructure planning. At the same time, the consultation reflects a broader government initiative to modernize spectrum management practices and strengthen telecommunications governance through more centralized and transparent infrastructure data systems. This may include improved digital mapping tools and improved information-sharing mechanisms between regulators and industry participants.

Canada (Draft) May 26, 2026
Disclaimer: Insights are for informational purposes only and does not reflect RRI’s official position or constitute legal opinion.