FAQs

Telecommunication towers are structures that support antennas for transmitting and receiving communication signals. They are used for mobile phones, radio, television, and other communication services.

Telecommunication towers are federally regulated by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) under the Radiocommunication Act.

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
Spectrum and Telecommunications Sector
Southwestern Ontario District Office
Telephone (toll free in Canada): 1-855-465-6307
E: spectrumswodo-spectrebdsoo@ised-isde.gc.ca 

ISED Citizen Services Centre
Telephone (toll-free in Canada): 1-800-328-6189
Telephone (Ottawa): 613-954-5031
TTY (for hearing-impaired): 1-866-694-8389
Business hours: 8:30 am to 5 pm (Eastern Time)
E: ISED-ISDE@ised-isde.gc.ca 

No, telecommunication towers are exempt from the Planning Act, Heritage Act, and municipal Building Codes. The approval of the location of new telecommunication towers is the responsibility of Industry Canada.  

Proponents must comply with Health Canada’s Safety Code 6 guidelines, radio frequency immunity criteria, environmental considerations, and Transport Canada’s aeronautical safety responsibilities, among others.

If you have health questions or concerns regarding Communication Towers, please contact Health Canada at:

• Email: hcinfo.infosc@canada.ca 
• Telephone: 613-957-2991
• Toll free: 1-866-225-0709
• Facsimile: 613-941-5366
• Teletypewriter: 1-800-465-7735 (Service Canada)

1. Share Existing Infrastructure: Explore using existing towers.
2. Consult Land Use Authorities: Discuss local preferences and consultation requirements.
3. Public Notification and Consultation: Notify the public and address their concerns.
4. Meet Safety Requirements: Comply with all federal safety and technical standards.
5. Construction: Start building once all requirements are met and agreements reached.

More information is available on the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) website.