Review of Remote Sensing Space Systems Regulations – SOR/2007-66 

Title of the statutory instrument

Remote Sensing Space Systems Regulations– SOR/2007-66

Enabling Act

Remote Sensing Space Systems Act (RSSSA)

Rationale

The department is actively reviewing the legal framework applicable to remote sensing space systems to assess its effectiveness and ensure it remains relevant and aligned with industry trends, policy objectives and international approaches.

Narrative

The RSSSA and its regulations establish the legal framework applicable to remote sensing space system activities, including the space segment, the ground segment and the associated data. The RSSSA applies to commercial remote sensing operators based in Canada, foreign operators conducting controlled activities in Canada as well as some Canadian government remote sensing activities.

Both the statutory instrument and the enabling act have been independently reviewed three times, as is required by s. 45.1 of the RSSSA: in 2012, 2017 and 2022. These independent reviews have identified areas for improvement and provided relevant recommendations. Based on these recommendations, the department has improved its internal administrative processes. The department is now reviewing the legal framework, in consultation with key stakeholders, to identify further improvements. This work will continue throughout 2025.

Date of last review or amendment

Neither the statutory instrument nor the enabling act have been amended since coming into force in 2007. The last independent review of the legal framework was completed in 2022, and the next one will be completed in 2027.

Targeted start for review

Medium term

Status

Completed. Following consultations, the department may decide to make changes to the regulations. The next independent review will be completed and tabled in Parliament in 2027.

Result

To be amended

Further information 

As per s. 45(1) of the RSSSA, the law is to be independently reviewed every five (5) years. Link to the most recent Independent Review report can be found below:  

2022 Independent Review of the Remote Sensing Space Systems Act (RSSSA)

Departmental contact

Aram Kerkonian 
Non-proliferation, Disarmament and Space Division  
Global Affairs Canada
Email:Aram.Kerkonian@international.gc.ca