ISED Proposes Major Changes to Antenna Tower Policy: What Canadian Amateurs Need to Know

NEW -- Download examples of RAC/RAQI response - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zB8e... Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has opened a consultation (DGSO-001-26) on sweeping changes to its antenna tower siting process — changes that could meaningfully reshape how Canadian amateur radio operators install and maintain their stations. I recently sat down with Dave Goodwin, VE3KG, Regulatory Affairs Officer for Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC), to unpack what's on the table and what it means for hams from coast to coast. The Current Landscape As Dave explained, ISED holds federal jurisdiction over antenna structures in Canada. Under the existing framework, proponents — including amateurs — are generally expected to consult with their Local Land Use Authority (LUA) and neighbours within a radius of three times the proposed tower's height. Importantly, structures 15 metres or shorter are exempt from this consultation process, a threshold that has long given many amateurs the flexibility to erect modest towers without bureaucratic hurdles. The Amateur Radio Position Dave was clear that RAC, along with Radio Amateurs du Québec (RAQI), is advocating for two key amateur-specific positions in its response: Raising the height exemption from 15 m to 20 m. This modest increase would meaningfully expand the practical antenna options available to amateurs without triggering the full consultation process — particularly important for HF operators needing height for effective propagation. Addressing private restrictions on antennas. RAC is pushing ISED to take a stand on restrictive covenants, condominium rules, and rental restrictions that currently prevent many amateurs — especially those in newer subdivisions, condos, and apartments — from erecting any antennas at all. This is a long-standing pain point in the Canadian amateur community, and the consultation is a rare opportunity to put it on the federal agenda. What RAC and RAQI Are Proposing ISED is seeking feedback on 11 questions aimed at modernizing and streamlining the tower siting process. The major proposals from RAC/RAQI include: A new online portal replacing the current paper-based notification system. Shrinking the consultation zone from three times to two times the tower height. A physical sign requirement displaying a QR code at the proposed site — although ISED is also floating the alternative of delivering letters directly to neighbours, which would avoid drawing unnecessary public attention to a private installation. Narrowing LUA objection grounds to only matters of consultation process, notification process, or safety. A 45-day deadline for LUAs to concur; if they don't respond, the proposal is deemed approved. Call to Action: Comments Due July 16 Dave emphasized that this consultation is one of the most important opportunities Canadian amateurs have had in years to influence federal antenna policy. Hams are strongly encouraged to: Submit their own comments, or endorse the RAC/RAQI position in their submission. All submissions should reference consultation number DGSO-001-26, and the deadline is July 16, 2026. The full consultation document is available on the ISED website at https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/spec... As Dave put it, regulators count submissions — and silence from the amateur community could mean our interests get lost among those of commercial carriers. If you've ever struggled with a tower approval, a condo board, or a restrictive covenant, now is the time to make your voice heard. 73, and get those comments in. #ISEDConsultation, #AntennaRules, #HamRadioCanada