GDS-018 - Antenna System Siting Policy_2026
Title: Antenna System Siting Policy
Subject: Antenna System Siting Policy Category: Growth and Community Services
Policy No.: GDS-018 M&C Report No.: 2026-003
Effective Date: January 12, 2026 Next Review Date: January 2029
Area(s) this policy applies to: Office Responsible for review of this Policy:
Community Planning and Housing
Related Instruments: Policy Sponsor:
Commissioner of Growth and Community
Services
Document Pages: This document consists of 27
pages.
Policy approved by Common Council: January 12, 2026
Revision History:
City Clerk's Annotation for Official Record
Date of Passage of Current document: January 12, 2026
I certify that this Policy was adopted by Common Council resolution as
indicated immediately above.
City Clerk Date: January 14, 2026
For information Contact:
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 OBJECTIVES
2.0 JURISTICTIONS & ROLES
2.1 Industry Canada
2.2 Municipality
2.3 Proponent
2.4 Other Relevant Federal Legislation
3.0 DEFINITIONS
4.0 EXCLUDED STRUCTURES
4.1 Exemptions from Antenna System Siting Proposal Review
and Public Consultation
4.2 Notification and Municipal Review of Exempt Telecommunications Structures
4.3 Exemptions from Public Consultation Only
4.4 Siting on Municipal-Owned Properties
5.0 PRE-CONSULTATION WITH THE MUNICIPALITY
5.1 Notification
5.2 Site Investigation Meeting with Municipality
5.3 Confirmation of Municipal Preferences and Requirements
6.0 DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES
6.1 Location
6.2 Development and Design Preferences
7.0 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION
7.1 Proposal Submission Requirements
7.2 Fees
8.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION PROCESS
8.1 Notice Recipients
8.2 Notice Requirements
8.3 Written Consultation Process
8.4 Public Information Session
8.5 Post Consultation Review
9.0 STATEMENT OF CONCURRENCE OR NON-CONCURRENCE
9.1 Concurrence and Concurrence with Conditions
9.2 Non-Concurrence
9.3 Duration of Concurrence
9.4 Transfer of Concurrence
10.0 CONSULTATION PROCESS TIMEFRAME
11.0 MUNICIPAL PERMITS AND SUBDIVISIONS
12.0 REDUNDANT TELECOMMUNICATIONS STRUCTURES
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1.0 OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this Policy are as follows:
a) To establish a siting and consultation process that is in keeping with Industry Canada’s Radio
Communication and Broadcasting Antenna Systems Client Procedures Circular (CPC-2-0-03) and
Guide to Assist Land-use Authorities in Developing Antenna Siting Policys for reviewing land use
issues associated with Antenna Systems siting proposals;
b) To set out an objective process, criteria and guidelines that are transparent, consistent and
predictable for the evaluation of Antenna System siting proposals that:
i. Minimize the number of newer antenna system sites by encouraging co-location;
ii. Encourage designs that integrate with the surrounding land use and public realm;
iii. Establish when local public consultation is required; and
iv. Allow Industry Canada and the communications industry to identify and resolve any
potential land use, siting or design concerns with the City at an early stage in the process.
c) To provide an expeditious review process for Antenna System siting proposals;
d) To establish a local land use consultation framework that ensures the City of Saint John and
members of the public contribute local knowledge that facilitates and influences the siting-
location, development and design (including aesthetics) – of an antenna system within
municipal boundaries;
e) To contribute to the orderly development and efficient operation of a reliable, strong
radiocommunication network within the City of Saint John; and
f) To provide the City of Saint John 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.
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2.0 JURISTICTIONS & ROLES
2.1 Industry Canada
The Minister overseeing Industry Canada, under the Radiocommunication Act, has sole jurisdiction over
inter-provincial and international communication facilities. The final decision to approve and license
the location of Antenna Systems is made only by Industry Canada. In June, 2007, Industry Canada issued
an update to its Radiocommunication and Broadcasting Antenna Systems Client Procedures Circular
(CPC-2-0-03) which outlined the process that must be followed by Proponents seeking to install or
modify Antenna Systems, effective January 1, 2008.
Industry Canada requires that Proponents intending to install or modify an Antenna System notify and
consult with Municipalities (Land-use Authority) and the local community within an established
distance from the proposed structure. Industry Canada also published a Guide to Assist Land-use
Authorities in Developing Antenna Siting Policys in January, 2008, stating that it “considers that the
Municipality’s and local resident’s questions, comments, and concerns are important elements to be
considered by a Proponent seeking to install, or make modifications to, an Antenna System.” The CPC
also established a dispute resolution process to be used where the Proponent and Municipality have
reached an impasse.
2.2 Municipality
The ultimate role of the Municipality is to issue a statement of concurrence or non-concurrence to the
Proponent and to Industry Canada. The statement considers the land use compatibility of the Antenna
System, the responses of the affected residents and the Proponent’s adherence to this Policy. The
Municipality also guides and facilitates the siting process by:
a) Communicating to the Proponents the particular amenities, sensitivities, planning
priorities and other relevant characteristics of the area;
b) Developing and design guidelines for Antenna Systems contained in Section 6 of this Policy;
and
c) Establishing a community consultation process, where warranted.
By working with Proponents throughout the siting process, beginning with preliminary notification and
the site investigation meeting, the Municipality seeks to facilitate Antenna System installations that are
sensitive to the needs of the local community.
2.3 Proponent
Proponents need to strategically locate Antenna Systems to satisfy technical criteria and operational
requirements in response to public demand. Throughout the siting process, Proponents must adhere to
the antenna siting guidelines in the CPC, including:
a) Investigating sharing or using existing infrastructure before proposing new antenna-
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supporting structures (consistent with CPC-2-0-17 Conditions of License for Mandatory
Roaming and Antenna Tower and Site Sharing and to Prohibit Exclusive Site Arrangements);
b) Contacting the Municipality to determine local requirements regarding Antenna Systems;
and
c) Undertaking public notification and addressing relevant concerns as is required and
appropriate.
2.4 Other Relevant Federal Legislation
Proponents additionally must comply with the following federal legislation and/or regulations, where
warranted:
a) Health Canada’s Safety Code 6 – Limits of Human Exposure to Radiofrequency
Electromagnetic Fields in the Frequency Range from 3KHZ to 300 GHZ – Safety Code 6
(2009);
b) The Canadian Environmental Assessment Act; and
c) NAV Canada and Transport Canada’s painting and lighting requirements for aeronautical
safety.
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3.0 DEFINITIONS
Antenna System: an exterior transmitting device, or group of devices, used to receive and/or transmit
radio-frequency (RF) signals, microwave signals, or other federally-licensed communication energy
transmitted from, or to be received by, other antennas. Antenna Systems include the antenna, and may
include a supporting tower, mast or other supporting structure, and an equipment shelter. This Policy
most commonly refers to the following types of Antenna Systems.
a) Freestanding Antenna Systems: a structure (e.g. tower or mast) built from the ground for the
expressed purpose of hosting an Antenna System or Antenna Systems.
b) Building/Structure Mounted Antenna System: an Antenna System mounted on an existing
structure, which could include a building wall or rooftop, a light standard, water tower, utility
pole or other.
Co-location: the placement of antennas and equipment operated by one or more Proponents on a
telecommunication Antenna System operated by a different Proponent, thereby creating a shared
facility.
Community Sensitive Areas: land on which the siting of new Antenna Systems is discouraged or
requested to be subject to greater consultation than otherwise dictated by the standard Policy. Such
locations include land used for a cemetery, park or playground, community use (community centre,
community garden, cultural establishment, municipal recreation use, recreation facility, recreational
use), day care (day, neighbourhood, centre), school (K-8) and school (9-12).
CPC: Client Procedure Circulars issued by Industry Canada.
Designated Municipal Officer or Designate: the municipal staff member tasked with receiving,
evaluating and processing submissions for telecommunication Antenna Systems. The Designated
Municipal Officer’s name and contact information is provided in the Antenna System Siting Flowchart
provided in this Policy. This position is normally held by the Development Officer or designate and will
be responsible for issuing the final letter of concurrence or non-concurrence.
Environmentally Sensitive Areas: areas such, but not limited to, the City of Saint John drinking water
watersheds, the shore of a lake, river, stream, sea or other body of water, flood plains, marshlands,
wetlands, and steep slopes.
Heritage Conservation Area: a defined area that identifies specific lots for heritage protection through
the City of Saint John’s Heritage Conservation Areas By-Law.
Municipal Departments: branches of municipal government that administer public services and area
operated by City staff.
Municipality: refers to the City of Saint John body corporate.
Other Agencies: bodies that administer public services but are not operated or staffed by the
Municipality (i.e. applicable Provincial/Federal Departments)
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Prescribed Distance – Discouraged Locations: a minimum of 300 metres from all property lines of the
location for the proposed Freestanding or Building/Structure-Mounted Antenna System.
Prescribed Distance – Preferred Locations: a minimum of 100 metres from all property lines of the
location for the proposed Freestanding or Building/Structure-Mounted Antenna System.
Proponent: a company or organization proposing to site an Antenna System (including contractors
undertaking work for telecommunications carriers) for the purpose of providing commercial or private
telecommunications services, exclusive of personal or household users.
Residential Area: land used or zoned to permit residential uses, including mixed uses.
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4.0 EXCLUDED STRUCTURES
4.1 Exemptions from Antenna System Siting Proposal Review and Public Consultation
For the following types of installations, Proponents are generally excluded by Industry Canada from the
requirement to consult with the Municipality and the public, but must still fulfill the General
Requirements outlined in Section 7.0 of this Policy:
a) New Antenna Systems, including masts, towers or other antenna-supporting structure with a
height of less than 15m above ground level except where required by the Municipality as per
Section 4.2.2;
b) Maintenance of existing radio apparatus including the Antenna System, transmission line,
mast, tower or other antenna-supporting structure.
c) Addition or modification of an Antenna System (including improving the structural integrity of
its integral mast to facilitate sharing), the transmission line, antenna- supporting structure or
other radio apparatus to existing infrastructure, a building, water tower, etc., including
additions to rooftops or support pillars, provided:
i. The addition or modification does not result in an overall height increase above the
existing structure of 25% of the original structure’s height;
ii. The existing Antenna System is at least 15 metres (15m) in height;
iii. The existing Antenna System has not previously been modified to increase its original
height by 25%;
d) Maintenance of an Antenna System’s painting or lighting in order to comply with Transport
Canada’s requirements; and
e) Installation, for a limited duration (typically not more than 3 months), of an Antenna System
that is used for a special event, or one that is used to support local, provincial, territorial or
national emergency operations during an emergency, and is removed within 3 months after
the emergency or special event.
The CPC also states that: Individual circumstances vary with each Antenna System installation and
modification, and the exclusion criteria above should be applied in consideration of local circumstances.
Consequently, it may be prudent for the Proponents to consult the Municipality and the public even
though the proposal meets the exclusion noted above. Therefore, when applying the criteria for
exclusion, Proponents should consider such things as:
The Antenna System’s physical dimensions, including the antenna, mast and tower,
compared to the local surroundings;
The location of the proposed Antenna System on the property and its proximity to
neighbouring residents;
The likelihood of an area being a Community-Sensitive Area; and
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Transport Canada marking and lighting requirements for the proposed structure.
4.2 Notification and Municipal Review of Exempt Antenna Systems
Notwithstanding Industry Canada’s exemption criteria for certain Antenna Systems, Municipalities should
be informed of all new Antenna System Installations/Modifications within their boundaries so they can:
Be prepared to respond to public inquiries once construction/installation has begun;
Be aware of site co-location within the Municipality;
Maintain records to refer to in the event of future modifications and additions; and
Engage in meaningful dialogue with the Proponent with respect to the appearance of the
Antenna System and structure prior to the Proponent investing in full design.
However, Proponents are required to undertake the following steps for all exempt Antenna System
Installations before commencing construction/modification.
4.2.1 Building/Structure - Mounted Antenna Systems
The Proponent will in all cases provide the following information for all new Antenna Systems or
modifications to existing Antenna Systems that are mounted to an existing structure, including, but not
limited to, a building/rooftop, water tower, utility pole or light standard:
a) The location of the Antenna System (address, name of building, rooftop or wall mounted, etc.)
b) Description of proposed screening or stealth design measures with respect to the measures
used by existing systems on that site and/or the preferences expressed in Section 6;
c) The height of the Antenna System;
d) The height of any modifications to existing systems.
The Municipality may notify the Proponent of any inconsistency with the preferences and sensitivities
expressed in Section 6.0 and the parties will work towards mutually agreeable solution.
4.2.2 Freestanding Antenna Systems and Additions to Freestanding Antenna Systems
The Proponent will confirm to the Municipality that the Freestanding Antenna System to be erected, or
an addition to an existing Freestanding Antenna System as defined in Section 4.1(c), meets the exclusion
criteria in Section 4.1 by providing the following:
a) The proposed location, including its address and location on the lot or structure;
b) A short summary of the proposed Antenna System including a preliminary set of drawings
or visual rendering of the proposed system; and
c) A description of how the proposal meets one of the Section 4.1 exclusion criteria.
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The Municipality will review the documentation and will contact the Proponent where there is a site-
specific basis for modifying the exemption criteria based on the preferences and sensitivities expressed in
Section 6.0 of this Policy. In such cases, the Municipality and the Proponent will work toward a mutually
agreeable solution, which may include the Municipality requesting the proposal be subject to all or part
of the pre-consultation, proposal submission and public consultation process defined in Section 5.0, 7.0
and 8.0 of this Policy, as applicable, concluding with a letter of concurrence or non-concurrence.
4.3 Exemptions From Public Consultation Only
In addition to Industry Canada’s basic exemptions listed in Subsection 4.1, the following types of
Antenna Systems are exempt from the public consultation requirement by the Municipality:
a) New Antenna Systems which will be located on an industrial zoned property, as identified in
Section 6.1 Preferred Locations. The Public Consultation requirement shall be waived if there
are no existing dwelling units located within 100m of the lot.
4.4 Siting on Municipal Owned Properties
Any request to install an Antenna System on lands owned by the Municipality shall be made to the
Designated Municipal Officer described within this Policy. Requests will be reviewed and
coordinated by the City’s Real Estate Service Area.
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5.0 PRE-CONSULTATION
5.1 Notification
Proponents will notify the Designated Municipal Officer that locations in the community are being assessed
for potential Antenna System Siting.
5.2 Site Investigation Meeting with Municipality
Prior to submitting an Antenna System siting proposal, the Proponent will initiate a site investigation
meeting with the City of Saint John.
The purpose of the site investigation meeting is to:
a) Identify preliminary issues of concern;
b) Identify requirements for public consultation (including the need for additional forms of
notice and a public information session);
c) Guide the content of the proposal submission; and
d) Identify the need for discussions with any Municipal Departments and Other Agencies
as deemed necessary by the Designated Municipal Officer.
Where the City of Saint John has an initial concern with the proposed siting of the proposal they will
make known to the Proponent alternative locations within the Proponent’s search area for
consideration.
The Proponent will bring the following information to the site investigation meeting:
a) The proposed location;
b) Potential alternatives;
c) The type and height of the proposed Antenna System;
d) Preliminary drawings or visual renderings of the proposed Antenna System
superimposed to scale; and
e) Documentation regarding the investigation of co-location potentials on existing or proposed
Antenna Systems within 500 metres (500m) of the subject proposal.
If desired by both the Proponent and the City of Saint John, multiple Antenna System siting proposals
may be reviewed at a site investigation meeting.
5.3 Confirmation of Municipal Preferences and Requirements
Following the site investigation meeting, municipal staff will provide the Proponent with an information
package that includes:
a) This Policy, which outlines the approval process, excluded structures, requirements for public
consultation and guidelines regarding site selection, co-location, installation, design and
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landscaping;
b) Proposal submission requirements;
c) A list of plans and studies that may be required (i.e. EIA, WAWA);
d) A list of Municipal Departments and Other Agencies to be consulted; and
e) An indication of the City of Saint John’s preferences regarding co-location for the site(s) under
discussion.
To expedite the review of the proposal, the Proponent will review this information package before the
proposal is submitted so that the interests of the City are taken into account. The Proponent is
encouraged to consult with the Designated Municipal Officer before submitting the proposal.
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6.0 DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES
Antenna Systems should be sited and designed to respect local sensitivities and preferences as identified by
the Municipality.
The City of Saint John has set out guidelines for the selection of sites and construction of new Antenna
Systems.
a) Location, including co-locations; and
b) Development & Design Preferences
The Proponent should review the guidelines identified below as early as possible and should attempt to
resolve any outstanding issues prior to submitting its Antenna System siting proposal and undertaking
the public consultation, where required by the City. The Proponent is encouraged to discuss the
guidelines fully with the City at the site investigation meeting.
Proponents are also required to obtain all applicable building permits for new structures, as well as
additions and modifications.
6.1 Location
Co-location
Prior to submitting a proposal for an Antenna System on a new site, the Proponent must explore the
following options:
a) Sharing an existing Antenna System, modifying or replacing a structure if necessary;
b) Locate, analyze and attempt to use any feasible existing infrastructure, including, but not
limited to, rooftops, water towers, utility poles or light standards.
Where co-location on an existing Antenna System or structure is not possible, a new Antenna System
should be designed with co-location capacity, including in Residential Areas, where deemed appropriate
by the City.
The City recognizes that the objective of promoting co-location and the objective of making Antenna
Systems less noticeable may sometimes come into conflict; however, the City intends to review each
submission on its merits with a view to promoting both objectives and where necessary, will determine
the appropriate balance between them. The Proponent should, in all cases verify, with the City, site-
specific design preferences during the pre-submission consultation process before investing in a final
design or site location.
Preferred Locations
When new Antenna Systems must be constructed, where technically feasible, the following locations
and criteria are preferred:
a) Sites on industrially zoned lands as defined within the City of Saint John’s Zoning By-Law.
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b) Sites on commercially zoned lands within the City of Saint John’s Zoning By-Law, which do not
permit the inclusion of dwelling units.
c) Locations that contain existing Antenna Systems, provided setbacks can be met;
d) Existing Transportation/Utility Corridors;
e) As near as possible to similarly scaled structures;
f) Located in a manner that does not adversely impact view corridors; and
g) Other non-Residential Areas where deemed appropriate.
Discouraged Locations
New Antenna Systems should avoid the following areas. Proposals, however, will be evaluated on a
case-by-case basis and concurrence may be granted dependent on the proposed design of the system
and the results of the public consultation:
a) A location within one of the City’s Heritage Conservation Areas;
b) A location in or near an area zoned for residential or mixed-use residential land uses;
c) A location that would interfere with a locally popular view corridors, landmarks, or public
areas;
d) Environmentally Sensitive Areas; and
e) Community Sensitive Areas.
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6.2 Development and Design Preferences
Antenna Systems should be designed in terms of appearance and aesthetics to respect their immediate
surroundings, including being un-obtrusive and inconspicuous, minimizing visual impact, avoiding
disturbance to natural features, and reduce the need for future facilities in the same area, where
appropriate. The City’s preferred design and development preferences are described below.
Site Placement – Vacant Lots
When determining the placement of the Antenna System on a vacant lot, the Proponent shall:
• Ensure the placement does not impede the future development of the site.
• Shall not be located within the required front, side, flankage or rear yards of the zone as
established in the City’s Zoning By-Law.
• When possible, shall be placed to the rear of the site to minimize visibility from the street.
Site Placement – Developed Lots
When determining the placement of the Antenna System on a developed lot, the Proponent shall:
• Prioritize the incorporation of the Antenna System into the main structure, as an addition (eg.
steeple on a place of worship, clock tower, etc);
• Freestanding Antenna Systems shall not impede future development of the site.
• Proposed site placement shall align with the site development standards established within
the City’s Zoning By-Law including:
o The Antenna System shall not be located within the required front, side, flankage or rear
yard.
o The placement of the Antenna System shall not result in the loss of required parking,
landscaping, amenity space, site design or any other site requirements.
Style & Colour
The architectural style of the Antenna System should be compatible with the
surrounding neighbourhood and adjacent uses;
In all instances, the Proponent should mitigate negative visual impacts through the use of
appropriate landscaping, screening, stealth design techniques etc.; and
Towers and Communication equipment shall have a non-reflective surface.
Buffering & Screening
Antenna Systems and associated equipment shelters should be attractively designed or
screened and concealed from ground level or other public views to mitigate visual impacts.
Screening could involve existing vegetation, landscaping, fencing, or other means in order to
blend with the built and natural environments;
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A mix of deciduous and coniferous trees is preferred to provide year-round coverage; and
Where adjacent to a principal building, equipment shelters should be constructed of a
material similar in appearance to at least one of the materials used in the facades of the
principal building and one of the same colours used in the principal building.
Structure
The appropriate type of telecommunication antenna structure for each situation should be
selected based upon the goal of making best efforts to blend with the nearby surroundings
and minimize the visual aesthetic impacts of the telecommunication antenna structure on the
community;
New Structures should consider multi-use design (i.e. street lighting, electric vehicle charging
stations, wifi etc.); and
The use of guy wires and cables to steady, support or reinforce a tower is discouraged;
structures shall be designed for self support.
Height
The City prefers that Freestanding Antenna Systems be a maximum of forty-five metres
(45m) in height;
Height of Freestanding Antenna Systems must be measured from grade to the highest point
on the structure, including lighting and supporting structures; and
Where Building/Structure Mounted Antenna Systems will exceed 25% of the height of the
existing building to which the structure will be attached, the City prefers that the height of the
tower and building/structure not exceed forty-five metres (45m) measured from grade to the
highest point on the structure.
Yards, Parking & Access
Adequate yards, to be determined on a site-by-site basis and align with the minimum setback
requirements of the City’s Zoning By-Law, shall separate Antenna Systems from adjacent
development without unduly affecting the development potential of the lot over the lease
period; and
Parking spaces, where provided at each new Antenna System site, should have direct access
to a public right-of-way at a private approach that does not unduly interfere with traffic flow
or create safety hazards.
Equipment Cabinets in Public Spaces
Cabinets shall be designed in a manner which integrates them into their surroundings. This
should include the use of decorative wraps that are graffiti-resistant;
Cabinet dimensions shall be as minimal as possible; and
Cables and wires must be concealed or covered.
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Signage & Lighting
2
Small owner identification signs up to a maximum of 0.5 m, shall be posted on
Antenna Systems with all relevant emergency contact information;
No advertising signage is permitted;
Appropriate signage may also be used as part of screening or disguise;
Unless specifically required by Transport Canada or NAV Canada, the display of any on-
structure lighting is discouraged;
Where Transport Canada or NAV Canada requires a structure to be lit, the lighting should be
limited to the minimum number of lights and the lowest illumination allowable, and any
required strobe lighting should be set to the maximum strobe interval allowed by Transport
Canada; and
The lighting of Antenna Systems and associated equipment shelters for security purposes is
supportable provided it is downcast and shielded from adjacent residential properties, is kept
to a minimum number of lights and illumination intensity, where possible, is provided by a
motion detector or similar system.
Rooftop Equipment
Equipment shelters located on the roof of a building/structure may be supported if:
o The height and scale of the building will result in minimal, or no visibility of the
equipment shelters from the street level or pedestrian realm.
o The equipment shelters shall be setback from the roof edge (of any street facing façade)
to the greatest possible extent.
o The equipment shelter is either painted to match the building/structure or screened
through the introduction or use of architectural features.
Heritage Conservation Areas
Proposals to locate an antenna system on a property within a Heritage Conservation Area will
be subject to design considerations as identified in the National Standards and Guidelines for
Historic Places in Canada, the City of Saint John’s Heritage Conservation Areas By-Law and the
City’s Practical Conservation Guidelines.
The proposals will be subject to the Heritage Permit application process. This process involves
an assessment of the proposal regarding alignment with the above-mentioned guidelines and
policies and the suitability of the proposed design of the system in relation to the architecture
of the site and surrounding area.
Unless otherwise indicated, the application will be reviewed by the Heritage Development
Board and the installation of the antenna system is subject to the successful receipt of a
Heritage Permit for the proposed work.
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7.0 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION
For a proposed Antenna System, the Proponent will submit an Antenna Systems Siting Proposal as described
below, along with the proper application fee (see Section 7.2 – Fees).
7.1 Proposal Submission Requirements
The following must be included when submitting an Antenna System Siting Proposal:
a) A letter or report from the Proponent indicating the need for the proposal, the proposed
site, the rationale for site selection, coverage and capacity of existing Antenna Systems in
the general area and a summary of opportunities for co-location potentials on existing or
proposed Antenna Systems within 500m of the subject proposal, including reasoning for
non-utilization if applicable;
b) Visual rendering(s) of the proposed Antenna System superimposed to scale;
c) A Site Plan showing the proposed development situated on the site, including setbacks to all
property lines;
d) A Map showing the horizontal distance between the property boundary of the proposed site
and
• the nearest property containing or zoned for residential uses;
• Community Sensitive Areas (if applicable);
• Environmentally Sensitive Areas (if applicable); or
• Heritage Conservation Areas (if applicable).
e) For Antenna Systems requiring public consultation, a map depicting all properties located
within the Prescribed Distance from the proposed Antenna System;
f) Confirmation of legal ownership of the lands subject to the proposal, or a signed letter of
authorization from the registered land owner, their agent, or other person(s) having legal or
equitable interest in the land;
g) An attestation that the Antenna System will respect Health Canada’s Safety Code 6 which
sets safe radiofrequency emission levels for these devices; and
h) Any other documentation as identified by the Designated Municipal Officer
following the site investigation meeting (i.e proof of insurance if applicable).
Confirmation of receipt of proposal will be provided within five (5) working days of proposal submission.
Upon receipt of a complete proposal submission, the City will circulate the proposal for review and
comment by all affected City Service Areas.
7.2 Fees
The Proponent is required to pay the following application fee for the processing and review of the
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antenna system siting application.
$2650 for all applications involving Public Consultation as per this Policy.
$1000 for all applications exempt from Public Consultation as per subsections 4.1 and 4.3.
In addition, the Proponent must pay any fees associated with permits required for the construction of
the approved system.
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8.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION
If the proposed Antenna System is not exempt from the public consultation process as per the requirements
in Section 4.0, the Proponent will initiate the following public consultation process, including issuing notices,
undertaking written consultation, hosting a public information session where required and reviewing the
consultation results with the City.
8.1 Notice Recipients
After the Proponent has submitted an Antenna System Siting Proposal, the Proponent will give notice to:
a) All affected properties within the Prescribed Distance – Discouraged Locations or Prescribed
Distance – Preferred Locations;
b) All designated community associations within the Prescribed Distance – Discouraged Locations or
Prescribed Distance – Preferred Locations
c) Any adjacent municipalities/local serviced district(s) within the Prescribed Distance – Discouraged
Locations or Prescribed Distance – Preferred Locations;
d) The Designated Municipal Officer; and
e) The Industry Canada regional office.
The City will assist the Proponent in compiling a mailing list of addresses of the affected properties
within the Prescribed Distance from the proposed Antenna System.
8.2 Notice Requirements
The notice will be sent by regular mail or hand delivered, a minimum of 30 days prior to the public
information session, if required, and shall include the following:
a) Information on the location, height, type, design and color of the proposed Antenna System;
including a 21cm x 29 cm (8” x 11”) size copy of the site plan submitted with the application;
b) The rationale, including height and location requirements, of the proposed Antenna System;
c) The name and contact information of the Proponent or their representative;
d) The name and contact information of the Designated Municipal Officer;
e) An attestation that the Antenna System will respect Health Canada’s Safety Code 6, which
sets safe radiofrequency emission levels for these devices;
f) The date, time and location of the public information session when required; and
g) A deadline date* for receipt by the Proponent of public responses to the proposal.
* where a public information session is required, the deadline date must be no more than
five (5) days before the date of the session; where a public information session is not
required, the deadline must be at least thirty (30) days after the notices are mailed.
The notice shall be sent out in an envelope addressed to “Occupant” and shall clearly show in bold
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type on the face of the envelope the statement:
“NOTICE FOR RESIDENTS WITHIN \[INSERT PRESCRIBED DISTANCE\] OF A NEW PROPOSED CELL
TOWER. INFORMATION IS ENCLOSED.”
The City may also require the Proponent, based on local conditions such as a high proportion of rental
accommodation in the vicinity of the site, to provide such additional forms of notice as deemed
necessary. Additional notification requirements will be identified by the City during or following the
site investigation meeting. Other forms of notification may include, but are not limited to:
a) Publication of the Notice in a local newspaper(s); and
b) Hand delivery of Notices to specific buildings.
8.3 Written Consultation Process
Following the delivery of the notification, the Proponent will allow the public to submit written
comments or concerns about the proposal.
The Proponent shall:
a) Provide the public at least thirty (30) days to submit questions, comments or concerns about
the proposal;
b) Respond to all questions, comments, and concerns in a timely manner (no more than 60
days from the date of receipt);
c) Allow the party to reply to the Proponent’s response (providing at least 21 days for public
reply comments)
d) Keep a record of all correspondence that occurred during the written consultation process.
This includes records of any agreements that may have been reached and any concerns that
remain outstanding; and
e) Provide a copy of all written correspondence to the City and the Regional Industry Canada
office.
8.4 Public Information Session
The City may request that the Proponent host a Public Information Session in cases where there is
anticipated to be significant public interest in the proposed Antenna System or due to the proposal being
situated within a Discouraged Location as per subsection 6.1. The type of Public Information Session to
be conducted (open house or drop in format) shall be at the discretion of the Proponent; however:
An appropriate date, time and location for the Public Information Session will be determined
in consultation with the Designated Municipal Officer; and
The Proponent shall make available at the Public Information Session an appropriate visual
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display of the proposal, including a copy of the site plan submitted with the application and
an aerial photograph of the proposed site.
The Proponent will provide the City with a package summarizing the results of the public information
session containing at a minimum, the following:
a) List of attendees, including names, addresses and phone numbers (where provided
voluntarily);
b) Copies of all letters and other written communications received; and
c) A letter of response from the Proponent outlining how all the concerns and issues raised by
the public were addressed.
NOTE: Statement of Non-Concurrence will result should the above not be provide to the City.
8.5 Post Consultation Review
The City and the Proponent will communicate following the completion of the public consultation
process to discuss the results and next steps in the process.
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9.0 STATEMENT OF CONCURRENCE/NON-CONCURRENCE
9.1 Concurrence and Concurrence with Conditions
The City will provide a letter of concurrence to Industry Canada (copying the Proponent) where the proposal
addresses, to the satisfaction of the Municipality, the requirements as set out within this Policy and the City’s
technical requirements and will include conditions of concurrence if required.
The City will issue a letter of concurrence in the time frame provided in Section 10.0.
9.2 Non-Concurrence
The City will provide a letter of non-concurrence to Industry Canada (copying the Proponent) if the
proposal does not conform to City requirements as set out within this Policy. The City will also forward
Industry Canada any comments on outstanding issues, including those raised during the public
consultation process.
The City will issue a letter of non-concurrence in the time frame provided in Section 10.
9.3 Rescinding a Letter of Concurrence
The City may rescind its concurrence if following the issuance of a concurrence, it is determined by the
City that the proposal contains a misrepresentation or a failure to disclose all the pertinent information
regarding the proposal, or the plans and conditions upon which the concurrence was issued in writing
have not been complied with and a resolution cannot be reached to correct the issue.
In such cases, the City will provide notification in writing to the Proponent and to Industry Canada and
will include the reason(s) for the rescinding of concurrence.
9.4 Duration of Concurrence
A concurrence remains in effect for a maximum period of three (3) years from the date it was issued by
the City. If construction has not commenced within this time period the concurrence expires and a new
submission and review process, including public consultation as applicable, is necessary prior to any
construction occurring.
In addition, if construction has not commenced after two (2) years from the date the concurrence was
issued, the City requires that the Proponent send a written notification of an intent to construct to the
Designated Municipal Officer once the work to erect the structure is about to start. This notification
should be sent sixty (60) days prior to any construction commencing. No further consultation or
notification by the Proponent is required.
9.5 Transfer of Concurrence
Once a concurrence has been issued, the concurrence may be transferred from the original
Proponent to another Proponent without the need for further consultation provided:
a) All information gathered by the original Proponent in support of obtaining the concurrence
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from the City is transferred to the new Proponent;
b) The structure and all other components of the infrastructure for which the
concurrence was issued are the same; and
c) Construction of the structure is commenced within the duration of concurrence period.
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10.0 CONSULTATION PROCESS TIMEFRAME
Consultation with the City is to be completed within sixty (60) days of the proposal being accepted as
complete by the City as explained in Section 7.0 of this Policy.
Where public consultation is required, consultation with the City and public consultation are both to be
completed within one hundred and twenty (120) days of the proposal being accepted as complete by
the City.
The City or Proponent may request an extension to the consultation process timeline. This extension
must be mutually agreed on by both parties.
In the event that the consultation process is not completed in two hundred and seventy (270) days, the
Proponent will be responsible for receiving an extension from the City or reinitiating the consultation
process to the extent requested by the City.
11.0 MUNICIPAL PERMITS AND SUBDIVISIONS
11.1 Municipal Permits
The Proponent will be required to apply for any development or building permits necessary for the
construction of the approved system. The permit, dependent on the system design and placement, may
be subject to conditions, including but not limited to the following:
a) The completion of screening or buffering of the system which may include fencing,
screening, landscaping or architectural features;
b) A commitment to accommodate other communication providers on the Antenna System,
where feasible, subject to the usual commercial terms and Industry Canada Conditions of
License for Mandatory Roaming and Antenna Tower and Site Sharing and to Prohibit
Exclusive Site Arrangements (CPC-2-0-17);
c) The placement and design of the site access and associated parking; and
d) All conditions identified in the letter of concurrence.
11.2 Subdivisions
The Proponent will be required to apply for any subdivisions required to facilitate the placement of the
approved system. Subdivision applications will be subject to review by Municipal and Provincial departments
and external agencies to identify any conditions or notations necessary to facilitate the subdivision. All
subdivision approvals will be subject to any conditions required to provide physical and legal access to the
lot, protect existing municipal or private utilities, and any other conditions applicable to the subject site.
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12.0 REDUNDANT ANTENNA SYSTEMS
The City may issue a request to network operators to clarify that a specific Antenna System is still
required to support communication network activity. The network operator will respond within 30 days
of receiving the request and will provide any available information on the future status or planned
decommissioning of the Antenna System.
Where the network operators concur that the Antenna System is redundant, the network operator and
City will mutually agree on a timeframe to remove the system and all associated buildings and
equipment from the site. Removal will occur no later than two (2) years from when the Antenna
System was deemed redundant.
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REFERENCES
1. Antenna System Siting Protocol Template, by Federation of Canadian Municipalities and Canadian
Wireless Telecommunications Association.
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