About

The Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program helps protect fish, fish habitat and aquatic species at risk in Canada. We:

• administer and ensure compliance with the fish and fish habitat protection provisions of the Fisheries Act and certain provisions of the Species at Risk Act
• enable development projects in or near water to move forward in a manner that respects the constitutionally protected rights of Indigenous Peoples and supports sustainable development
• assess risks to fish and fish habitat from proposed development projects located in or near water
• issue authorizations and permits when harmful impacts are likely to occur, where conditions can be met

Our work includes:

• regulating projects in and near water to ensure that development is sustainable and fish and fish habitat are protected and conserved
• providing information and guidance on how to avoid, mitigate and offset risks to fish and fish habitat
• providing grant and contribution funding to support aquatic habitat restoration and Indigenous participation in the conservation and protection of fish and fish habitat
• supporting Canada's commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and respecting Indigenous rights
• engaging with partners and stakeholders to identify priorities and objectives for the conservation, protection and restoration of fish and fish habitat and encourage and support good stewardship
• gathering, analyzing, reporting on and providing access to information about the performance of the program and its benefit to Canadians
• operating in all Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) regions
• through the concierge service, helping major project proponents understand and navigate regulatory requirements early in the planning process
• working closely with other departments such as the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Major Projects Office to ensure federal review of development projects is efficient and coordinated

Engagement and resources

Engage with us

Find opportunities to participate in engagement activities and learn how your input helps inform decisions and program priorities.

Publications

Access policies, guidance documents, reports and other resources to support project planning, decision-making and the protection of fish and fish habitat.

Contact us

For more information or support, contact your regional Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program office.

Related links

• Apply for project authorization
• Project Submission Tool
• Fisheries Act Registry