Species at Risk Act permits and agreements
Information note
The Minister of the Environment has issued the Permits Authorizing an Activity Affecting Listed Wildlife Species Regulations. The regulations have been published in the Canada Gazette, Part II. For additional information, please also consult the Questions and answers.
As part of the Responsible Resource Development plan announced on April 17, 2012, some changes have been made to the Species at Risk Act (SARA) which will reduce regulatory burden while strengthening environmental protection. See Factsheet
Under Section 73 of SARA, the competent minister may enter into an agreement or issue a permit authorizing a person to engage in an activity affecting a listed wildlife species, any part of its critical habitat or its residences. If entered into or issued, the competent minister must include an explanation of why this was entered into or issued in the Public Registry.
Agreements or permits may be entered into or issued for the following purposes:
- The activity is scientific research relating to the conservation of the species and conducted by qualified persons
- The activity benefits the species or is required to enhance its chance of survival in the wild; or
- Affecting the species is incidental to the carrying out of the activity
Visit the general frequently asked questions relating to SARA permitting.
Permit applications
Permits are required by those persons conducting activities that may affect species listed on Schedule 1 of SARA, as extirpated, endangered, or threatened and which contravene the Act's general or critical habitat prohibitions. Depending on the species and its location, applications should be directed to the appropriate authorities.
To apply for a permit for an activity affecting a Schedule 1 species in any national park, national historic site or national marine conservation area administered by Parks Canada (protected heritage areas), please visit the following:
- For research and collection activities, you should submit your application through Parks Canada's on-line research and collection permit system
- For other activities, you should contact the specific protected heritage area directly; their contact details are available on the Parks Canada website
To apply for a permit affecting a Schedule 1 aquatic species, please visit the Department of Fisheries and Oceans website
For all other SARA permit applications, please use the SARA E-permitting System and refer to the guidelines and service standards for more information. Any questions can be and directed to your appropriate Environment and Climate Change Canada regional office.
Additional reference documents:
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