Cell Tower Protocol

Telecommunication (cell) tower/antenna systems are regulated exclusively by Federal Legislation under the Federal Radiocommunication Act and administered by the department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), formerly Industry Canada. Provincial legislation such as the Planning Act, including zoning by-laws, do not apply to these telecommunication facilities.

While the federal government is the exclusive jurisdiction to approve cell tower installations, ISED requires that applicants follow the land-use consultation protocol established by the local municipality.

Learn more about Cell Towers in your community

Telecommunications Tower Protocol

In November, 2024, Council adopted the Municipality's Telecommunications Tower Protocol. The purpose of the Protocol is to maintain policies and procedures that are reflective of the ISED Canada procedures and protocols for the installation of new telecommunication antennas systems which will achieve the following:

Outline the Municipality’s site selection, design guidelines and consultation process for the installation and modification of cell towers and other antenna installations covered by this protocol for telecommunications facilities;
Encourage designs that integrate with existing and planned surrounding land use and public realm and minimize visual impacts;
Outline a municipal consultation process for the installation and modification of cell towers and other antenna installations covered by this protocol for telecommunications facilities; and,
Provide a straight-forward, objective process for the installation of antenna systems for wireline telecommunications service within the Municipality of Port Hope to ensure all residents are connected.
To assist in ensuring that the process and ultimate decision-making protects the interests of the Port Hope community.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ's
Question	Answer
What is the Municipality’s role in the telecommunication tower approval process?	Telecommunication tower/antenna systems are regulated exclusively by Federal Legislation under the Federal Radiocommunication Act and administered by the department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), formerly Industry Canada. Provincial legislation such as the Planning Act, including zoning by-laws, does not apply to these facilities. Notwithstanding the federal government’s exclusive jurisdiction, ISED’s Radiocommunication and Broadcasting Antenna Systems Client Procedures Circular (CPC-2-0-03), Issue 5 requires cell tower applicants address comments and concerns through the public consultation process.
Does the Municipality have a Telecommunication Tower Protocol?	Yes. Council approved a Telecommunication Tower Protocol on November 5, 2024. This Protocol protects the interests of the Port Hope community while maintaining the mandatory requirements of the Radiocommunication Act. Telecommunications Tower Protocol
How can members of the public get involved?	Port Hope's Telecommunication Tower Protocol requires applicants to follow guidelines for public consultation, in cases where it is required. These requirements include a minimum notification area greater than the federal requirements, a prescribed method of delivery for notices, and signage, and public information sessions. Public consultation gives people an opportunity to ask questions, provide comments and share their concerns. The applicant is required to provide responses to the public and to submit a summary of the results of the public consultation.
Can the Municipality deny the acceptance of a telecommunication tower application?	No. Staff cannot refuse to accept a telecommunication tower application submitted under the Radiocommunication Act. However, the Municipality can issue of Letter of Non-Concurrence if the requirements of the Telecommunication Tower Protocol are not adhered to. This Letter of Non-Concurrence would be sent to the applicant and ISED for their consideration.
Who has the final authority to decide where telecommunications towers are located?	Applications to Telecommunication Towers are subject to a public consultation process, followed by a request from the proponent for a Letter of Concurrence from the Director of Development Services. In the case of a dispute between the applicant and the Municipality, a final decision may be made by ISED. This would only occur after the required consultation period is completed, and a Letter of Non-Concurrence has been provided to ISED.
Can I appeal the proposed installation of an antenna system to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT)?	No. Antenna systems are federally regulated and licensed, therefore there is no appeal procedure to OLT.
Does the Municipality consider environmental concerns?	Yes. The Municipality may require submission of additional studies to evaluate the suitability of proposals on lands identified as environmentally sensitive.
Who can I contact at the Municipality if I have more questions about the Telecommunication Tower Protocol?	All applications for Telecommunication Towers are processed through the Municipality’s Development Services department. Please direct your questions to the Development Services at (905) 885-2431 or by email.

Active Telecommunications Submissions

1564 Oak Hill Road

Proposal

The proposal is for a 60 metre self-support communications tower with associated radio equipment cabinet. The installation would occupy a ground compound area of 20.9 square metres.

Subject lands/Site Location/Property

The municipal address of the subject lands is 1564 Oak Hill Road.

Applicant

Spectra Point Inc. on behalf of Rogers Communication Inc.

Notice of Application

Studies and Reports

Site Selection Report prepared by Spectra Point Inc. dated April 17, 2025

Natural Heritage Evaluation prepared by Stantec Consulting Ltd. dated November 22, 2024

Survey / Site Plan prepared by Alex Marton Limited dated October 4, 2024

Contact

Applicant:

Robert Huras, Spectra Point Inc.

Phone : 416-418-1588
Email: rhuras@spectrapoint.ca

Note: If you require any of the following documents in an accessible format, please contact the Planning Division at 905-885-2431.

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