Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has announced amendments to the Authorizations Concerning Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Regulations that will take effect on October 15, 2026. Local governments with public works projects that may require Fisheries Act approvals should review these changes.
These regulatory changes are intended to simplify and streamline the authorization process for projects that may affect fish and fish habitat, while maintaining environmental protections. This is relevant to local governments undertaking infrastructure, drainage, flood mitigation, water, transportation, and other public works projects that may require Fisheries Act approvals.
Key changes include simplified application requirements, a risk-based approach to project reviews, faster authorization timelines for certain lower-risk projects, and exemptions from financial guarantee requirements for municipalities and Indigenous governing bodies.
DFO will be releasing additional guidance and implementation materials over the coming months to help local governments, Indigenous communities, and other proponents understand the new requirements before they come into force.
For questions, concerns, or clarifications, please contact DFO.FFHPP-PPPH.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca