CRTC gives flexibility to help radio stations better serve their communities

October 10, 2025—Gatineau—Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)

The CRTC is reducing the administrative burden on radio stations so that they have more time to focus on serving their listeners.

Radio plays an important role in the daily lives of Canadians. Through radio, Canadians connect with their communities, stay informed through local news, discover artists, and access essential information during emergencies.

As part of its work implementing the modernized Broadcasting Act (the Act), the CRTC held a public consultation to update rules for radio stations. Broadcasters, music industry associations, other groups, and individuals shared their views.

Based on the public record, the CRTC is giving more flexibility to radio stations. Licences will now be open-ended with no expiry dates, which will save stations time and money on renewals. The CRTC is also making it easier for new stations to launch and for existing ones to operate. The CRTC will continue to ensure that radio stations are following the rules by conducting regular simplified audits.

This decision follows a number of actions the CRTC has taken to implement the modernized Act. To find out more, check out the CRTC’s regulatory plan.

Quote

“Radio helps keep communities informed, entertained, and connected. The CRTC is reducing the administrative burden on radio stations so that they have more time to deliver news and music to their communities.”

- Vicky Eatrides, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, CRTC

Quick facts

• The CRTC is an independent quasi-judicial tribunal that regulates the Canadian communications sector in the public interest. The CRTC holds public consultations on telecommunications and broadcasting matters and makes decisions based on the public record.
• The CRTC is fulfilling the mandate given to it by Parliament to modernize Canada’s broadcasting framework. To date, the CRTC has launched 16 public consultations and made 8 decisions to implement the modernized Act.

Associated links

• Broadcasting Regulatory Policy CRTC 2025-265: Modernization of radio processes
• Information Bulletin: Guidance on the requirements for the addition of rebroadcasting transmitters
• Call for comments on proposed amendments to existing exemption orders for various types of radio programming undertakings
• Broadcasting Notice of Consultation CRTC 2024-290: Modernization of radio processes
• CRTC Red Tape Reduction Progress Report
• Broadcasting Regulatory Policy CRTC 2024-121: The Path Forward – Supporting Canadian and Indigenous content through base contributions
• CRTC requires online streaming services to contribute to Canada’s broadcasting system
• Modernizing Canada’s broadcasting framework