Legislation

Regulating Aquaculture in Canada

All aspects of aquaculture in Canada are regulated, either federally, provincially, or both. We work together to ensure that Canadian aquaculture operations are managed sustainably.

Key Acts & Regulations

The Fisheries Act

The Fisheries Act is one of the strongest pieces of environmental legislation in Canada. Fisheries and Oceans Canada uses the Fisheries Act to regulate the aquaculture industry in order to protect fish and fish habitat. Violators of the Fisheries Act may face fines up to $500,000 and, for subsequent offences, up to two years in prison.
The aquaculture industry is also governed by several other key federal regulations including:

• Fish Health Protection Regulations
• Fishery (General) Regulations
• Management of Contaminated Fisheries Regulations
• Maritime Provinces Fishery Regulations
• Pacific Aquaculture Regulations

Provincial and Territorial Acts
& Regulations:

With the exception of British Columbia, Canada’s provinces and territories play an essential role in approving site applications, regulating operations and fostering industry development. The provinces have major powers and responsibilities related to aquaculture management and development.

Learn more about how provinces and the Yukon manage aquaculture by referring to the links in the box to the right.