Winnipeg Antenna Systems Policy
Introduction
The City of Winnipeg is not the approving authority for wireless telecommunication facilities. Innovation Science and Economic Development (ISED) Canada is the approval and licensing authority for radiocommunication/telecommunication and encourages municipalities to develop protocols or policies to seek meaningful local input on antenna and tower siting as part of the federal licensing process. The purpose of the Winnipeg Antenna System Policy (the Policy) document is to outline the local consultation process for applicants to follow, as well as guidelines the City will consider in evaluating antenna system proposals.
The goal of the Winnipeg Antenna System Policy is to ensure there is a reliable communications network in the city while at the same time protecting the safety of residents and minimizing adverse visual impacts on the community. The Policy outlines the City's recommended public consultation process, design and other development standards for the siting and placement of telecommunication towers and antennae. The Policy also provides guidance to the telecommunications industry, ISED Canada, City Council, all City of Winnipeg departments, and Winnipeg residents to manage the introduction of antenna systems in the city.
A communication facility proposal review is required to approve the location and siting of all communication antennae or towers that are 15 metres or higher regardless of whoever operates it; and antennae or towers that are less than 15 metres in height that are operated by telecommunications carriers, broadcasting undertakings, or third party tower owners.
View the submission requirements for the communications facility proposal review.
The objectives of the Policy are:
- To establish a siting and consultation process that is harmonized with ISED Canada's Radiocommunication and Broadcasting Antenna Systems Client Procedures Circular (CPC-2-0-03) and Guide to Assist Land use Authorities in Developing Antenna Siting Proposals
- To set out an objective process, criteria and guidelines that are transparent, consistent and predictable for the evaluation of communication facility proposals
- To provide an expeditious review process for Antenna System siting proposals
- To establish a local land use consultation framework that ensures the City, and members of the public, contribute local knowledge that facilitates and influences the siting – location, development and design (including aesthetics) – of Antenna Systems within City boundaries
- To contribute to the orderly development and efficient operation of a reliable, strong radiocommunication network in the city
- To provide the City with the information required to satisfy the requirements of Industry Canada regarding local land use consultation, resulting in an informed statement of concurrence, concurrence with conditions, or non-concurrence from the City to Industry Canada at the end of the process
The Winnipeg Antenna Systems Policy was adopted by City Council, as amended on May 27, 2015.