Article Overview

This seven-part article provides a detailed exploration of the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (CTFA). Each part stands on its own but is structured to build a coherent understanding of how the CTFA works, its legal foundations, technical definitions, structure, international alignment, practical applications, adaptation to emerging technologies, and the processes by which it is updated. The information is drawn primarily from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) official sources and the ITU Radio Regulations, with references to key documents, policy statements, and tables. Diagrams and tables are included to enhance clarity.

Part 1: Legal and Regulatory Framework under ISED

Canada’s management of the radiofrequency spectrum is grounded in a strong legal and regulatory framework. At the apex is the Radiocommunication Act, which mandates federal authority over radio communications. Under the Act, the Minister of ISED (formerly Industry Canada) is empowered to “plan the allocation and use of the spectrum” (Radiocommunication Act), issue radio and spectrum licenses, and take any necessary actions to ensure the orderly development of radiocommunications in Canada. This means that ISED has the legal authority to define how every part of the electromagnetic spectrum can be used nationally, consistent with domestic needs and international obligations.

• ISED’s Mandate and Authority: The Radiocommunication Act and related regulations give ISED (through the Minister) broad powers over spectrum management, including allocating frequency bands to services and making spectrum available for various applications. For example, Section 5(1)(e) of the Act explicitly tasks the Minister with spectrum planning (Radiocommunication Act). This authority is exercised through instruments like the CTFA, which is the official table that assigns frequency bands to specific radio services in Canada (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)). The CTFA covers frequencies from 9 kHz up to 275 GHz (frequencies above 275 GHz up to 400 GHz are currently unallocated). It is through the CTFA that Canada implements its spectrum allocation decisions in line with the Act.
• National Regulations and Policies: Alongside the Act, the Radiocommunication Regulations and various spectrum policies support ISED’s spectrum management. A notable high-level policy is the Spectrum Policy Framework for Canada (2007), which set an overarching objective: “to maximize the economic and social benefits that Canadians derive from the use of the radio frequency spectrum resource.” (HE8679_.C2_S64_2007_c.2_Spectrum_policy_framework_for_Canada). This policy objective guides ISED in making allocation decisions that benefit Canadians, balancing commercial, public safety, and other needs. The Framework also emphasizes principles like reliance on market forces where feasible and ensuring spectrum is available for public interest uses not driven by the market. Crucially, it calls for harmonizing spectrum use with international allocations and standards, except where Canadian interests require deviation. This principle is reflected in how the CTFA aligns with the ITU Radio Regulations while incorporating domestic modifications.
• CTFA within the Framework: The CTFA is nested within this legal-regulatory hierarchy as the primary reference for what services can operate in each frequency band in Canada. It is not a statute or formal regulation by itself; rather, it is an authoritative document published by ISED under the Minister’s powers in the Act. Changes to the CTFA are typically enacted through Ministerial decisions and Gazette notices under the Radiocommunication Act (often with designations like SMSE – Spectrum, Management and Telecommunications bulletin series). For example, ISED periodically issues public consultations on proposed revisions to the CTFA and then publishes decisions (via the Canada Gazette) to bring updates into effect (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) . This ensures that the CTFA has legal force as the Minister’s plan for spectrum use.
• Collaboration and Oversight: ISED works in concert with other bodies when managing spectrum. For instance, for broadcasting frequencies, technical spectrum allocation is handled by ISED (under the Radiocommunication Act) while the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC, under the Broadcasting Act) regulates broadcasting content and licensing of broadcasters. ISED’s spectrum decisions (e.g. allocating a band for broadcasting service) provide the foundation on which CRTC can assign channels to broadcasters. In all cases, ISED’s spectrum allocations in the CTFA must comply with international treaties (like the ITU Radio Regulations) and advance Canada’s interests. The Radiocommunication Act even directs the Minister to secure Canada’s rights internationally and to coordinate with bodies like the ITU (Radiocommunication Act).

In summary, the CTFA is an expression of ISED’s legal authority to manage spectrum: it is grounded in the Radiocommunication Act, shaped by national policy objectives, and serves as the bridge between international regulations and domestic spectrum needs. It is through this framework that the CTFA can ensure the orderly and efficient use of Canada’s airwaves.

Part 2: Detailed Definitions of Terms and Terminologies

Understanding the CTFA requires familiarity with numerous technical terms defined by the ITU Radio Regulations and adopted by ISED. This part clarifies key terminologies and concepts:

• Allocation, Allotment, Assignment: In spectrum management, an allocation is the entry of a frequency band in a frequency allocation table (like the CTFA) for use by one or more radio services (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition)). For example, the CTFA allocates the band 88–108 MHz to the Broadcasting service. An allotment is a designation of a frequency or channel in an agreed plan (often international) for use by certain countries or regions (e.g. allotment of channels for broadcasting or satellite plans). An assignment is the authorization given by an administration (ISED in Canada) for a radio station to use a specific frequency or channel. In simpler terms, the CTFA provides allocations (what services can use a band), while regulators assign specific frequencies to individual users or stations through licenses.
• Primary vs. Secondary Allocation: Each frequency band may have one or multiple services allocated. Services can be classified as primary or secondary. A primary service has priority use of the band, and is typically printed in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS in the CTFA (e.g. FIXED, MOBILE) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). A secondary service is one that must operate without causing interference to primary services and cannot claim protection from interference by primary services; secondary services are shown in lowercase (normal characters) (e.g. Amateur). The ITU Radio Regulations spell out the relationship: stations of a secondary service “shall not cause harmful interference” to primary-service stations (either existing or future) and cannot claim protection from interference caused by primary services. However, secondary stations are protected from interference from other secondary stations (i.e. they stand on equal footing with each other). For example, if a band is allocated on a primary basis to Fixed service and on a secondary basis to Mobile service, any mobile transmitters must not interfere with fixed service receivers and must accept any interference from fixed service users. The CTFA lists services in a band in order: all primary services first (alphabetically by their French names in the Canadian table, which is an administrative detail), followed by secondary services. Importantly, the order of listing within primary or within secondary does not imply any priority among services of the same category – they are co-equal if they share the same status.
• Exclusive vs. Shared Use: These terms refer to whether a frequency band is allocated to a single service or multiple services. An exclusive allocation means only one service (or one category of use) has rights in that band (typically on a primary basis). A shared allocation means multiple services are authorized to use the band, either on an equal primary basis or with primary/secondary status. For instance, the band 88–108 MHz is exclusively allocated to the Broadcasting service in Canada (no other services are listed in that range (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ), reflecting its use for FM radio). In contrast, the band 698–806 MHz is shared by the Fixed, Mobile, and Broadcasting services in the CTFA (all three are listed as primary). Shared bands often require coordination to prevent interference, especially if services are of different types (e.g. mobile versus broadcasting) – sometimes a band is shared geographically or on other criteria between services. The CTFA uses footnotes to clarify conditions in shared bands (for example, limiting where one service can operate or giving priority to one service in part of the band, as discussed later).
• Radio Services (Fixed, Mobile, etc.): The CTFA uses standard service definitions from the ITU Radio Regulations for different categories of radio communication. Key services include: Fixed service: A radiocommunication service between fixed stations (i.e. stationary transmitters and receivers at specified locations). This typically includes point-to-point microwave links or fixed wireless access systems. Mobile service: A service between mobile and land stations, where at least one of the terminals is mobile. This broad category includes land mobile (e.g. cellular networks), aeronautical mobile (for aircraft communications), and maritime mobile (ship communications). Mobile service is further subdivided in definitions: for example, Aeronautical mobile (R) is reserved for communications related to the safety and regularity of flight along routes, whereas Aeronautical mobile (OR) is for “off-route” communications, etc., as defined in the CTFA’s glossary (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). These distinctions are usually indicated by suffixes like (R) or (OR) in the CTFA. Satellite services: There are parallel “fixed-satellite service (FSS)” and “mobile-satellite service (MSS)” definitions, which involve communications between earth stations and space stations. For example, FSS involves satellite links where earth stations are at fixed locations (used for TV broadcast distribution, etc.), and MSS involves mobile terminals communicating via satellites (like satellite phones or certain Internet of Things satellites). Other satellite services include broadcasting-satellite service (BSS) for direct-to-home broadcasting, and radiodetermination-satellite services for positioning. Broadcasting service: Any radiocommunication service in which transmissions are intended for direct reception by the general public (Radiocommunication Act). This includes FM/AM radio, terrestrial TV, etc. In the CTFA, Broadcasting is typically a primary service in bands used for TV and radio broadcasting. Radiolocation service: A radiodetermination service for the purpose of locating or detecting objects, typically using radar technology. Radiolocation is a form of radiodetermination, which the CTFA defines as determining the position, velocity or other characteristics of an object via radio wave propagation properties (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). Radiolocation includes radar systems such as weather radars, police speed radars, and military or maritime radars. A related service is radionavigation, which is radiodetermination for the purpose of navigation (e.g. radio beacons, instrument landing systems); radionavigation is critical for aviation and marine safety. Often, radiolocation and radionavigation services are allocated in specific bands (e.g. radionavigation in 108–117.975 MHz for aeronautical navigation aids, radiolocation in parts of the 3 GHz and 9 GHz bands for radar).

There are many other services defined (maritime mobile, aeronautical mobile, amateur, meteorological aids, radio astronomy, etc.), each with precise meanings. The CTFA begins with a “Definitions” section listing terms and service definitions extracted from the ITU Radio Regulations (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition). Readers of the CTFA can refer to those definitions for clarity on any service category or term.

• Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) Bands: Not all use of radio waves is for communication. Certain bands are set aside internationally for ISM applications – these are frequencies for industrial, scientific, and medical devices that use RF energy for purposes other than communications (for example, microwave ovens, medical diathermy machines, industrial heaters, etc.). The presence of ISM devices can create radio frequency noise that could interfere with communications. The ITU Radio Regulations (RR No. 5.150) designate specific frequency bands for ISM use, such as 13.56 MHz, 27.12 MHz, 40.68 MHz, 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, 5.8 GHz, and 24.125 GHz (to name the major ones) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). In these bands, any radiocommunication services operating must accept any harmful interference caused by ISM equipment. Conversely, ISM equipment is subject to certain emission limits (RR 15.13) to limit how much they interfere outside their band (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). In practice, some of these ISM bands have become extremely important for communications that tolerate interference – notably the 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz ISM bands are used by Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other license-exempt devices. The CTFA includes footnotes referencing RR 5.150 to indicate these bands. For example, the band 2400–2500 MHz is allocated in Canada to mobile and fixed services, but also carries the international footnote 5.150 indicating it’s an ISM band. This means Wi-Fi devices can operate there under certain technical rules, but licensed services (if any) in the band cannot claim protection from interference by ISM devices. We will see in Part 5 how ISM bands enable unlicensed technologies.
• Footnotes (International and Canadian): The CTFA contains numerous footnotes which are crucial for understanding the conditions of frequency allocations. There are two types: international footnotes, which come from the ITU Radio Regulations (these are numbered, e.g. 5.57, 5.317A, 5.150, etc., corresponding to provisions in Article 5 of the ITU Regulations), and Canadian footnotes, which are specific to Canada (prefixed with “C” and usually accompanied by a reference number/year, e.g. C7 (CAN-12)). Footnotes serve multiple purposes: they may limit how a service is used in a band, add an additional allocation, indicate a change or exception to the international table, or reference policy decisions. For example, international footnote 5.57 (as seen in the CTFA) limits maritime mobile use in certain low-frequency bands (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)); footnote 5.317A is an important one that, in many countries, allows mobile service (IMT – International Mobile Telecommunications) in the 694–790 MHz band. Canadian footnote C7 in the CTFA explicitly references 5.317A and states that it provides administrations flexibility to implement IMT in parts of certain bands (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). This effectively signals that Canada can use the 700 MHz band for mobile broadband (which it has, for 4G/5G services). Another example: footnote C15 in the CTFA notes that in certain areas, radiolocation service has priority over other services in the 3450–3500 MHz range – this relates to military radar use in the lower 3.5 GHz band, impacting how 5G services roll out in those frequencies. Footnotes appearing below the listed services in the table apply to the whole band or multiple services, whereas footnotes appearing immediately to the right of a specific service name apply only to that service in that band. Mastering the footnotes is key to fully understanding the CTFA’s provisions; parts of later articles will highlight important footnotes in context.
• Station Types: In radiocommunication terms, a station is a transmitter or receiver (or a combination) with a defined role. The CTFA’s main focus is on services and allocations rather than individual station definitions, but it is useful to know some terms: for example, land station (a station in a fixed location on land in a mobile service), mobile station (a station in the mobile service intended to be used while in motion or during halts at unspecified points), base station (a land station in the land mobile service, serving as a hub), earth station (a station located on Earth for communication with space stations – satellites), and various others like coast station (land station in maritime service), aircraft station, etc. These definitions are found in the ITU Radio Regulations Article 1. While the CTFA doesn’t list all station types, it uses some of these terms within footnotes or service descriptions. For instance, an international footnote might restrict a band to earth stations of the fixed-satellite service (implying downlink use), or limit an aeronautical mobile allocation to aircraft stations only. Understanding these station types helps interpret such provisions. (In Canada’s regulatory context, station licensing and technical standards are handled through other ISED documents like Radio Standards Specifications, but they all tie back to the service allocations in the CTFA.)

In summary, the CTFA is accompanied by a rigorous set of definitions (closely aligned with ITU terminology) to ensure precision. Primary vs secondary status dictates interference protection, footnotes add necessary detail or deviations, and terms like fixed, mobile, broadcasting, etc., delineate the kinds of communications each band supports. With these definitions in hand, we can proceed to examine how the CTFA is organized and how it divides the spectrum into bands for these services.

Part 3: Structure, Division, and Assignment of Frequency Bands in the CTFA

The radio frequency spectrum is an extremely broad range (from kHz to hundreds of GHz) and the CTFA provides a structured way to segment this continuum into bands with defined uses. Understanding the structure of the CTFA tables and how frequency bands are divided is essential to reading it properly.

• Spectrum Segmentation: The CTFA covers frequencies from 9 kHz up to 275 GHz (beyond 275 GHz up to 400 GHz is noted as currently unallocated) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). This range is typically segmented into bands that are defined either by convention (for example, the MF/HF/VHF/UHF designations) or by the boundaries established in the international allocation table. The CTFA follows the structure of the ITU’s Table of Frequency Allocations (found in Article 5 of the ITU Radio Regulations) which divides the spectrum into numerous contiguous frequency blocks. Each block is listed with the services allocated to it.

The table is usually presented in rows (frequency ranges) and columns (allocations). In Canada’s table format, one finds for each band: the lower and upper frequency boundary (in MHz or kHz), followed by the allocated services (with primary services in caps, secondary in lowercase) and any footnote references. The CTFA also incorporates the international allocations for ITU Region 2 (the Americas) alongside the Canadian allocations. In printed or PDF form, these might be shown in separate columns or combined with notations. The Foreword of the CTFA indicates that it is based on the provisions of the ITU Final Acts of World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRCs) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)), meaning the international baseline is embedded in it.

For example, an entry from the CTFA (2018 edition) for the 700 MHz band reads in part:

“698–806 MHz: FIXED, MOBILE 5.317A C7 – BROADCASTING” (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ).

This indicates that between 698 MHz and 806 MHz, the services Fixed, Mobile, and Broadcasting are allocated (in this case all are primary). The footnote numbers 5.317A (international) and C7 (Canadian) that follow “MOBILE” provide additional context (5.317A, as noted, relates to mobile service in the 700 MHz band and IMT; C7 is Canada’s note on implementing IMT). In the CTFA document layout, broadcasting might be listed on a separate line or column but within that same frequency range. This example highlights how multiple services share a band and how the table indicates it.

• Band Structure and Notation: The CTFA uses a few notational conventions: If a band is allocated to multiple services, they will be separated by semicolons or listed on separate lines in that frequency range entry. Primary services are in capital letters; secondary in lowercase (as explained in Part 2) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition)). If there is a restriction or exception, it might be noted in parentheses. For instance, you might see “MOBILE except aeronautical mobile” in a band, meaning the Mobile service is allowed except for aeronautical mobile applications. This kind of additional remark is printed in normal characters (neither all-caps nor lowercase) in the CTFA. The frequency ranges are often given with decimals if needed (to kHz precision for lower frequencies, or to kHz in VHF/UHF if needed). Bands may align with traditional service bands (like 87.5–108 MHz for FM radio, 406.1–430 MHz for certain mobile/radio-location uses, etc.) or with WRC-specified breakpoints. The footnote indicators appear either below the service names or to their right. A footnote symbol that is placed below the allocated services (often spanning the entire cell in a printed table) means that note applies to the whole band or to multiple services in that band. If the footnote appears immediately after a service name, it means the note pertains only to that service in that band. For example, in “FIXED, MOBILE 5.317A… – BROADCASTING” the 5.317A appearing after MOBILE suggests that footnote concerns the mobile service specifically (indeed 5.317A is about mobile service). Meanwhile, a footnote number listed at the bottom of that entry (if any) would apply broadly.
• National vs. International Allocations: Canada is in ITU Region 2, and the CTFA largely mirrors the Region 2 international allocation table, but with important national adaptations. In the CTFA entries, typically the international allocation (for Region 2) is identical to the Canadian allocation unless a divergence is noted. Divergences are noted through Canadian footnotes or sometimes by omissions/additions of services. For instance, internationally a band might be allocated to several services, but Canada might not implement one of those services domestically – in such a case a Canadian footnote might say that use of that service in Canada is subject to certain restrictions or is not applied. Conversely, Canada might have an additional allocation not present in the broader Region 2 table, marked by a footnote indicating “Additional allocation (Canada): …”.

An example of a national addition: The international table might not allocate a certain HF frequency to the fixed service, but Canadian footnote C3 could say “Additional allocation: In the frequency band 2065–2107 kHz, the fixed service is also allocated on a primary basis provided that no harmful interference is caused to the [primary service]…” (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). This means Canada allows fixed service in 2065–2107 kHz, even if the ITU Region 2 table perhaps only lists mobile service there, with the condition that it protects the primary service (likely maritime mobile in that band). Similarly, national footnotes can suppress an allocation: e.g., a footnote might effectively state that a certain service will not be implemented in Canada in a band, or that usage is limited to certain applications.

The CTFA’s Foreword explicitly notes that while it is based on the ITU table from the WRC Final Acts, “the Canadian Table differs, where necessary, from the ITU Table” (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)) to reflect domestic requirements. These differences are usually captured by the Canadian footnotes listed in the table and the annex of footnotes.

• Frequency Band Numbering and Grouping: The CTFA is typically published in sections that group ranges of frequencies (often by decades of MHz or by traditionally related bands). For readability, some publications of the CTFA include charts or figures. For example, older editions included a figure showing the ITU Regions world map (we will see this in Part 4) and possibly broad band uses. But the core of the document is the tabular listing. In modern online versions (such as the HTML version on ISED’s site), you might see the table split into multiple parts for LF, MF, HF, VHF, UHF, SHF, EHF ranges, or simply a continuous table with interactive footnotes.
• Band Plans vs. Allocations: It’s important to distinguish allocations (which is what CTFA provides at a high level) from more granular band plans or channel plans. The CTFA does not specify channelization or detailed technical band plans for specific services – those are found in other documents (such as Standard Radio System Plans (SRSPs) or international plans for broadcasting, etc.). For example, CTFA may allocate 174–216 MHz to broadcasting; the actual TV channel plan (Channel 7 to 13 in that band) is detailed in other planning documents and regulations, not in the CTFA itself. Similarly, CTFA will allocate a band to Mobile service, but the duplex arrangements (uplink/downlink splits for cellular) are defined in standards or policy decisions outside of CTFA. However, CTFA sometimes references such usage via footnotes or spectrum utilization policies. The Foreword of the CTFA mentions that spectrum policies designate certain applications in bands (public safety, point-to-multipoint, etc.) and if no such policy or footnote restricting use exists, then new applications may be authorized case-by-case (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition)). This implies CTFA and separate policy documents work together: CTFA sets what could be done, and specific policies decide how it is done.
• Example of CTFA Entry Structure: To illustrate, consider the FM radio broadcasting band. In CTFA, one will find an entry approximately covering 88–108 MHz (in the 2018 edition excerpt: “76–108 MHz: BROADCASTING” (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition)). This indicates an exclusive allocation to Broadcasting in that range. The next entry, “108–117.975 MHz: AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION”, shows how the table moves to the next band. In this case, there is also a footnote (5.197A) which allocates 108–112 MHz additionally to aeronautical mobile (R) in certain conditions (for ground-based VHF navigation data link, per ITU WRC-07). The CTFA thus captures both the broad allocation (aeronautical radionavigation as primary) and the specific conditional allocation via footnote. On the other hand, a more complex band like 3500 MHz (3450–3650 MHz) will show multiple services: for instance, Fixed and Mobile as co-primary, possibly Radiolocation in part via a footnote, etc., reflecting that in Canada this band is used for both terrestrial 5G services and incumbent radar systems (hence footnote C15 giving radiolocation priority in part of the band).
• National and International Columns: In some formats, the CTFA is presented in three columns: one for International allocations (Region 1/2/3), one for Canadian allocations, and one for footnotes. However, ISED’s published table usually integrates Region 2 and Canada (since they are mostly the same) and highlights differences via footnotes. Readers comparing the CTFA with the ITU’s global table should be aware that Canada’s table omits allocations that are not relevant in Region 2 or not adopted in Canada, and adds any that Canada has extra. An example: the ITU Region 2 table might list a secondary allocation to the Amateur service in a certain band that Canada chooses not to allow – the CTFA would then either not list Amateur or explicitly note via a Canadian footnote if there’s a deviation. Conversely, Canada might allow an Amateur allocation where the ITU only had it secondary; CTFA might elevate its status via a footnote or include it if not originally in Region 2 table (with an “Additional allocation” note).

In essence, the CTFA’s structure is a harmonized matrix of frequencies and services, annotated with footnotes for fine details. It provides the “big picture map” of the spectrum. Once one is comfortable with reading the entries and footnotes, the CTFA serves as a foundation for understanding which parts of the spectrum are available for which kinds of radio services in Canada. Next, we will discuss how this national table aligns with the International Telecommunication Union’s global regulations and what being in ITU Region 2 entails for Canada.

Part 4: Alignment with International Standards – ITU Radio Regulations and Region 2 Considerations

Radio waves know no national borders, so international coordination is critical. Canada’s CTFA is deeply aligned with the ITU Radio Regulations, which contain the international Table of Frequency Allocations agreed upon by all ITU member states. In this part, we examine how Canada’s allocations fit within the global framework, especially Region 2, and how decisions from ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRCs) influence the CTFA.

The world divided into the three ITU Regions for frequency allocations, with ITU 

• ITU Regions and Global Table: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has divided the world into three Regions for the purposes of frequency allocations (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). Region 1 covers Europe, Africa, the Middle East and former USSR; Region 2 covers the Americas (North and South America and Greenland); Region 3 covers Asia-Pacific. This regional division is reflected in the global allocation table (in ITU Radio Regulations Article 5) – some frequency allocations differ by region to accommodate regional needs. Canada, being in Region 2, generally adheres to the Region 2 allocations. For example, broadcasting in the FM band (87.5–108 MHz) is a primary service in Region 2 (and the CTFA accordingly has Broadcasting there) whereas in some parts of Region 1, that band is used for other services below 100 MHz. The CTFA’s text explicitly notes the ITU Region definitions, and typically Canada’s allocations mirror the Region 2 column of the ITU Table.
• Conformance and Differences: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) participates in ITU conferences and generally adopts the international agreements. The CTFA is updated after major ITU conferences to incorporate changes. For instance, the Foreword of the CTFA (2022 edition) states it is based on the Final Acts of WRC-2019. After each WRC, ISED reviews the international allocation changes and proposals to implement them domestically. According to ISED, “such revisions occur when changes to the ITU Table are made as a result of World Radiocommunication Conferences or particular Canadian radio service requirements” (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)). This means that while international changes are the baseline, Canada will also consider if it has unique needs that warrant a variation.

In practice, Canada’s table harmonizes strongly with international allocations – this has benefits such as equipment compatibility and interference mitigation with neighboring countries (especially the United States, which has a very similar allocation table, managed by the FCC). The Spectrum Policy Framework guidelines emphasize harmonization: “harmonizing spectrum use with international allocations and standards, except where Canadian interests warrant a different determination” (HE8679_.C2_S64_2007_c.2_Spectrum_policy_framework_for_Canada). So differences exist only when necessary for national reasons.

• Examples of Alignment: Many allocations in the CTFA carry the ITU’s international footnotes directly. For example, ITU footnote 5.150 (designating ISM bands globally) is present in Canada’s table for the relevant bands (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ), indicating Canada honors those designations. Another example: the bands for maritime and aeronautical communications are kept consistent worldwide so that ships and planes can use the same frequencies – Canada’s allocations for those services match the ITU allocations exactly (with perhaps a Canadian footnote if any special case). The CTFA includes a section listing all International Footnotes (with their full text) and all Canadian Footnotes. A quick scan shows Canada retains most ITU footnotes and adds a set of “C” footnotes for national matters. This format itself evidences alignment: it quotes ITU Radio Regulation provisions so that CTFA users don’t need to cross-reference the ITU documents separately for common rules.
• Examples of Necessary Differences: Where might Canada differ? One scenario is when Canada has a legacy system or a unique service not common elsewhere. For instance, if ITU Region 2 allows a certain service, but Canada has decided not to deploy it (perhaps to avoid conflict with a more important domestic service), the CTFA will reflect that choice. A concrete example is the allocation of certain radar bands: ITU might allow radiolocation in a band that Canada chooses to give exclusively to mobile service except for a few protected radar sites. Canada could then include a footnote giving those radars priority (as with C15 for radiolocation in 3450–3500 MHz in specific areas) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). Another example is government exclusive uses – footnote C16A, C16C, etc., list portions of bands (like parts of 4.5 GHz or certain Ku-/Ka-band frequencies) that are for Government of Canada use with priority. These reflect domestic policy choices not explicitly found in the ITU table.

In some cases, differences arise from regional variations: ITU allocations that are optional by country. For instance, the ITU Radio Regulations may list a service as “optional” or as “secondary in Region 2” – Canada can elevate or implement it via a national decision. The CTFA’s Canadian footnotes often include wording like “In Canada, [service] is allocated…” or “In Canada, this band is designated for…”, which are precisely how national differences are captured.

• Region 2 Considerations: Being in Region 2 also means Canada often collaborates with other Region 2 countries (notably through the Inter-American Telecommunication Commission, CITEL) to develop common proposals for WRCs. The outcomes of WRCs sometimes have region-specific results. For example, WRC-19 (2019) globally identified new frequency bands for IMT (5G), but the particular bands differed in Region 2 versus Region 1 (Europe, etc.). In Region 2, 26 GHz (24.25–27.5 GHz) was identified for IMT, whereas 50 GHz range was not, etc. Canada’s CTFA 2022 edition includes those WRC-19 results: the band 24.25–27.5 GHz now has a mobile allocation (to support 5G) aligned with the WRC-19 decision, and carries the associated footnotes about technical conditions. Meanwhile, an example of a Region 1 vs Region 2 difference: in Region 1 the 694–790 MHz band was allocated to mobile (digital dividend for 4G) earlier (WRC-12), whereas Region 2 (including Canada) historically used 698–806 MHz for mobile after analog TV. The CTFA in 2014–2015 period would have reflected that Canada followed its own timeline and the Region 2 decisions. By 2018, CTFA fully listed mobile in 698–806 MHz with footnotes referencing international provisions (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ).
• World Radiocommunication Conferences’ Impact: WRCs are held about every four years. Canada’s CTFA has a track record of being updated following each major WRC to incorporate changes. For example: WRC-07 (2007) led to changes such as the identification of the 700 MHz band for mobile in Region 2 and new satellite allocations. Canada’s CTFA was updated accordingly (the 2014 edition, if any, or via a series of footnotes and policy decisions). WRC-15 (2015) introduced global flight tracking frequencies, additional mobile broadband IDs (e.g., 600 MHz band in Region 2), and others. Canada’s CTFA 2018 Edition explicitly states it includes changes up to WRC-15 (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)). Indeed, ISED held a consultation in 2017 (SMSE-005-17) to implement WRC-15 results, resulting in the 2018 revised table (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES). WRC-19 (2019) was significant for 5G (mmWave bands like 26, 40 GHz), small satellite constellations, and Wi-Fi (6 GHz band discussions). ISED launched a consultation (SMSE-006-22) to incorporate WRC-19 results and other domestic needs (SMSE-006-22 – Proposed Revisions to the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – RABC-CCCR). The outcome was the CTFA 2022 Edition, which now includes, for example, a mobile allocation at 26 GHz and new footnotes for satellite earth stations, etc. The Canada Gazette Notice SMSE-017-22 announced the release of the updated 2022 CTFA. According to ISED, the CTFA was last modified in 2018 for WRC-15 results and now updated for WRC-19. This illustrates the cadence: every WRC cycle, Canada evaluates changes.
• International Footnotes and Treaty Obligations: Some footnotes in the CTFA carry the suffix of a WRC year, e.g., (WRC-15) or (WRC-19), which indicates they were adopted or modified at that conference. These are directly taken from the ITU Radio Regulations. As a treaty signatory, Canada is expected to abide by certain footnotes that have international implications (such as power limits to protect services in other countries, or rules for satellite coordination). By including them in the CTFA, ISED ensures that domestic spectrum users are aware of these obligations. For example, an international footnote may say that a band is allocated to the Mobile service only after a certain date, or that usage in border regions must consider another country’s allocations – those appear verbatim in CTFA (often in the International Footnotes section). This is a direct alignment with ITU rules.
• Cross-Border Coordination (US and others): While not explicitly a part of CTFA text, it’s worth noting that aligning with ITU and Region 2 also facilitates US-Canada coordination. Canada and the US have numerous bilateral agreements for sharing frequencies along the border for various services (TV, mobile, public safety, etc.). Having similar allocation tables (the US FCC’s Table of Frequency Allocations is very similar to Canada’s, with some differences in footnotes) makes coordination easier. For instance, both countries have agreed to allocate 600 MHz and 700 MHz to mobile and to relocate TV broadcasting elsewhere, which allowed a harmonized North American band plan for LTE and 5G. In contrast, if Canada’s CTFA diverged significantly from ITU/US, Canadian operators might face challenges with equipment availability or interference at the border. Hence, Canada tends to only diverge when there’s a compelling reason.

In summary, Canada’s CTFA is in lockstep with international standards to a large extent. Being part of ITU Region 2 shapes the baseline allocations in the table. World Radiocommunication Conferences act as triggers for updates to the CTFA, ensuring Canada stays up-to-date with global spectrum use trends, while Canadian-specific footnotes ensure national interests (economic, security, or policy-driven) are addressed. The next part will translate these abstract allocations into concrete use-case examples, illustrating how various services (from cellular networks to satellite communications) are enabled by specific frequency allocations in the CTFA.

Part 5: Use-Case Examples of Frequency Allocations in Action

To make the CTFA’s allocations more tangible, this part presents several real-world use cases. We will see how certain frequency ranges, as allocated in the CTFA, support key wireless services such as cellular networks, broadcasting, satellite links, Wi-Fi, and more. For each example, we’ll mention the frequency range and how the CTFA designates it for particular services (often with footnotes), enabling the described use.

• Mobile Cellular Networks (LTE/5G): Modern cellular networks rely on multiple frequency bands allocated to the Mobile service (often shared with Fixed service). In Canada, the CTFA has allocated a number of bands for mobile communication on a primary basis. Notable examples include: The 700 MHz band (698–806 MHz): After the digital TV transition, this band was allocated to Mobile (and Fixed) service. The CTFA lists 698–806 MHz as Fixed and Mobile primary (with Broadcasting also still listed, reflecting that TV broadcasting was the historical use) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). Footnotes (like 5.317A and C7) in that entry enable IMT (International Mobile Telecommunications) deployment. This band is used for LTE and 5G, providing wide coverage and good building penetration for carriers. The AWS band (Advanced Wireless Services, 1700/2100 MHz): 1710–1780 MHz (uplink) paired with 2110–2180 MHz (downlink) is allocated to Mobile (and Fixed) in CTFA, enabling providers like Rogers, Bell, Telus to offer 3G/4G services. These fall under the broader Mobile service allocations in the 1710–2200 MHz range (shared with Fixed and even with Satellite in parts – e.g., 2180–2200 MHz has MSS). Canadian footnotes delineate that some segments (e.g. around 2155–2180) are for mobile service use. The PCS band (Personal Communications Services, 1850–1990 MHz): Similarly allocated to Mobile service in CTFA, used for GSM/HSPA/LTE. The 600 MHz band (614–698 MHz): This was newly allocated to Mobile service after WRC-15 and a repacking of TV channels (U.S. and Canada both auctioned this band for 4G/5G). CTFA reflects this change with mobile allocation and a Canadian footnote (C24A was introduced to comply with international standards for this repurposing (CANADA: ISED Releases New Changes for Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – Entirety – Making compliance simple)). Now operators are deploying 5G in this band for broad coverage, as indicated by the allocation to Mobile service (with broadcasting being cleared). The 3500 MHz band (3450–3650 MHz): A crucial band for 5G capacity (often termed “mid-band” 5G). In CTFA, 3400–3700 MHz is allocated on a primary basis to Fixed and Mobile (and also to radiolocation in parts). A Canadian footnote (C15) gives radiolocation (military radar) priority in 3450–3500 MHz in certain areas (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ), but generally this band was transitioned to flexible use. ISED’s policy allowed existing fixed wireless licensees (WISPs) to be converted to flexible licenses supporting mobile (5G). By allocating the band to both Fixed and Mobile as co-primary, the CTFA allows flexible use licensing – licensees can deploy either fixed broadband or mobile broadband as needed (Understanding Spectrum Management in Canada – HillNotes). This flexibility is specifically mentioned in consultation documents (e.g., developing a flexible use model for 3500 MHz. mmWave bands (24, 28, 38 GHz): New 5G millimeter-wave bands have been allocated to Mobile. For example, 26 GHz (24.25–27.5 GHz) was not previously a mobile band but after WRC-19 it is now Mobile primary in CTFA 2022. Canada also opened 27.5–28.35 GHz for flexible Fixed/Mobile use (even though internationally 28 GHz is allocated to satellite, the U.S. and Canada are allowing 5G there). The CTFA includes mobile allocations and footnotes in these bands to permit 5G. These high frequencies provide ultra-high capacity for 5G in urban hotspots. Summary: The CTFA’s mobile allocations, combined with footnotes for IMT identification, directly support the spectrum needs of cellular networks (from 4G LTE through to 5G). They ensure that carriers have exclusive or primary rights in those bands, which is necessary to deploy nationwide networks. Without the CTFA allocation to Mobile service, ISED could not issue spectrum licenses for cellular use in that band. Thus, the CTFA underpins Canada’s mobile communication infrastructure by dedicating specific bands for it.
• Broadcasting (Radio and TV): The CTFA dedicates several bands to broadcasting services, which facilitate radio and television delivery to the public: AM Radio: In the MF band (535–1605 kHz for AM broadcast), CTFA allocates this range to the Broadcasting service (with Region 2 and worldwide alignment) on a primary basis. This allows amplitude modulation radio stations across Canada to operate. Adjacent to it, 1605–1705 kHz is also allocated to broadcasting in Region 2 (extended AM band). FM Radio: As mentioned, 87.5–108 MHz is allocated exclusively to Broadcasting in Canada (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). This is the FM radio band where hundreds of stations broadcast music and news. The CTFA shows Broadcasting as the only service in 88–108 MHz, reflecting exclusive use. (76–88 MHz is actually not used for broadcasting in Region 2, but Canada allocates 76–88 MHz also to Broadcasting – however, that lower portion is mostly unused in practice or used for TV in some countries. In Canada, analog TV Channel 5 and 6 formerly occupied 76–88 MHz, but after TV repacking, 54–72 MHz and 76–88 MHz are largely not used for TV either. The CTFA simply groups 76–108 MHz as broadcasting, covering both old TV and FM radio spectrum in one line. Television: For over-the-air TV, CTFA allocates 54–72 MHz, 76–88 MHz, 174–216 MHz (VHF TV channels 2-4, 5-6, 7-13) and 470–608 MHz, 614–698 MHz (UHF TV channels 14-36, 38-51) to Broadcasting service as primary. These were the traditional analog TV bands. With digital transition and repacking, in Canada now TV occupies mainly up to channel 36 (608 MHz) since channels 37 (608–614 MHz reserved for radio astronomy) and 38-51 (614–698 MHz) have been repurposed to mobile. The CTFA has been updated to reflect that 614–698 MHz is now mobile, with a footnote protecting radio astronomy at 608–614. Still, 470–608 MHz remains allocated to Broadcasting for digital TV. This allocation allows the operation of digital TV transmitters under the Broadcasting service. (CRTC handles the licensing of TV broadcasters, but ISED’s CTFA and subsequent licensing authorize the transmitter frequencies.) Broadcasting-Satellite: There is also a Broadcasting-Satellite Service (BSS) allocation in parts of the Ku-band (12.2–12.7 GHz for downlink in Region 2). CTFA includes BSS in 12.2–12.7 GHz (with Canada-specific planning via footnotes C16I, etc., for direct-to-home satellite TV). This is how satellite TV (e.g. Bell Satellite TV, Shaw Direct) is possible – the band is allocated to broadcasting-satellite on a primary basis, which allows Canada to use those frequencies for DTH television satellites. Use-case: A practical example is an FM radio station at 100.1 MHz in Toronto. The CTFA allocation of 88–108 MHz to Broadcasting ensures that only broadcasting transmitters (and not other types of transmitters) operate in that spectrum, minimizing interference. The station’s license is predicated on the fact that 100.1 MHz is within a band allocated for broadcasting. Similarly, a TV station on channel 20 (506 MHz) is operating in a band allocated to Broadcasting, making it a protected primary service there. If someone wanted to introduce, say, a mobile service on 506 MHz, they could not without a change to the CTFA (and hence a policy decision) because that band is reserved for broadcasting as long as CTFA lists it so.
• Satellite Communications: Canada’s vast size and northern latitude make satellites crucial for communication (broadcast, broadband, remote sensing). The CTFA includes many allocations for satellite services: Fixed-Satellite Service (FSS): Key FSS bands include C-band (around 3.4–4.2 GHz downlink, 5.85–6.725 GHz uplink), Ku-band (11.7–12.2 GHz downlink, 14 GHz uplink for FSS; 12.2–12.7 GHz downlink for BSS, 17.3–17.8 GHz uplink for BSS), and Ka-band (17.7–20.2 GHz downlink, 27.5–30.0 GHz uplink for FSS). The CTFA typically allocates these to Fixed-Satellite (space-to-Earth or Earth-to-space) along with other services. For instance, 11.7–12.2 GHz is allocated to FSS (space-to-Earth) in Canada (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition)), and footnotes 5.484A/B in ITU specify usage conditions (coordination with terrestrial services), while Canadian footnotes (e.g. C16I, C16J) might pertain to domestic BSS use in adjacent bands. FSS allocations enable services like satellite TV distribution to cable head-ends (C-band downlinks) and general VSAT communications (both C- and Ku-band). The Ka-band FSS allocations are what Telesat, ViaSat, and others use for satellite broadband (and future LEO constellations like Telesat Lightspeed). Mobile-Satellite Service (MSS): Notable MSS bands include L-band (e.g. 1525–1559 MHz downlink / 1626.5–1660.5 MHz uplink for MSS, used by Inmarsat, Iridium) and S-band (around 2 GHz, though in Canada 2000–2020/2180–2200 MHz was planned for MSS but has seen limited deployment). The CTFA shows these allocations, often shared with terrestrial services. For instance, 1525–1559 MHz is allocated to the Mobile-Satellite (Earth-to-space) and is also allocated to Fixed and Mobile in some regions; Canadian footnotes may restrict terrestrial use to protect MSS. This allowed satellite phone services to operate in Canada under licenses, using the frequencies allocated to MSS. Earth Exploration-Satellite and Space Research: The CTFA also contains allocations for passive sensing (e.g. bands for meteorological satellites, remote sensing like 1.400–1.427 GHz which is reserved for passive sensing globally) and active sensing (radar satellites). These are usually secondary or have footnote protections since they need interference-free spectrum. For example, 8025–8400 MHz is allocated to Earth Exploration-Satellite (EESS) downlinks (used by RADARSAT, etc.). Use-case: Consider satellite broadband to a remote community. A provider like Xplornet or Starlink uses Ka-band frequencies. The CTFA’s Ka-band FSS allocations (around 19 GHz down, 29 GHz up) give these services primary status, meaning they can operate earth stations and expect protection from interference by terrestrial systems (except where sharing is mandated). There are footnotes (e.g. C16D: giving Fixed service priority in parts of 18 GHz over FSS (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition)) which indicate in some sub-bands, fixed microwave might have priority, requiring coordination. But largely, the CTFA enables high-throughput satellites by allocating the needed spectrum. Another example: Direct-to-Home (DTH) TV via satellite – this uses 12.2–12.7 GHz downlink (BSS). CTFA’s allocation to Broadcasting-Satellite Service in that band, and the associated plan from ITU (Region 2 BSS Plan), allows Canada to operate satellites (like Nimiq) for DTH television. Without that allocation, those satellites would not have recognized use of that spectrum. LEO constellations (more on these in Part 6) also rely on FSS/MSS allocations. The CTFA has to accommodate non-geostationary orbits. International footnotes now distinguish when a band can be used by non-GSO systems. Canada recently, through WRC-19, enabled use of Q/V bands (40/50 GHz) for next-gen satellites; CTFA 2022 includes those.
• Wi-Fi and Unlicensed Devices (ISM applications): The explosion of unlicensed wireless devices – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cordless phones, etc. – is built on bands that are allocated in a way that allows shared use. 2.4 GHz ISM Band (2400–2483.5 MHz): CTFA allocates this band to the Mobile and Fixed services (and Radiolocation in parts, globally). Crucially, footnote 5.150 applies, designating it for ISM use. In Canada, standard power Wi-Fi is permitted under Industry Canada RSS standards as licence-exempt devices. The CTFA’s mobile/fixed allocation was essential (it means Wi-Fi, as a form of mobile or fixed communication, is within an allocated service). However, because it’s also an ISM band, any licensed user would have to tolerate interference. In practice, Canada does not license any primary services in 2.4 GHz aside from allowing unlicensed use. Thus, thanks to the CTFA alignment with ISM designation, Canadians enjoy public use of Wi-Fi channels 1–11 without needing a license, provided devices meet technical rules. 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands: There are several sub-bands: 5150–5250, 5250–5350, 5470–5725, 5725–5850 MHz, and now 5925–7125 MHz (6 GHz band) under consideration. CTFA allocates 5 GHz largely to Mobile, Fixed, and Radiolocation, with footnotes (e.g. 5.447, 5.450A) that allow RLAN (Radio Local Area Network) use under certain conditions. 5725–5850 MHz in particular is another ISM band (5.8 GHz) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ), so Wi-Fi and microwave ovens share it. The CTFA’s footnote 5.150 again compels acceptance of interference in 5725–5850 MHz from ISM devices. This band is used in Canada for Wi-Fi (channel 149 and up) and for licence-exempt fixed outdoor devices (WISPs). The newer 6 GHz band (5925–7125 MHz) was historically allocated to Fixed Service (microwave links) and Fixed-Satellite (uplinks) on a secondary basis. Following WRC-19 and domestic consultations, Canada decided to allow licence-exempt Wi-Fi 6E in 5925–6425 MHz. A recent ISED decision (SMSE-012-22) authorized RLAN devices in 5850–5895 MHz and considered 5925–7125 MHz for Wi-Fi (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES). In CTFA terms, that likely introduces a Mobile allocation or footnote for license-exempt use in those ranges. This demonstrates CTFA’s role: only if the allocation is suitable (e.g. Mobile service or a footnote for licence-exempt) can such use happen. Bluetooth and others also use 2.4 GHz. Additionally, 902–928 MHz is a minor ISM band in Region 2 (for things like baby monitors, some IoT devices). CTFA allocates 902–928 MHz to Fixed and Mobile (and Amateur at 902–928 on secondary) and footnote 5.150 lists it as ISM. This allows a host of low-power devices (from older cordless phones to modern IoT sensors) to operate freely, which they do under RSS-Gen and RSS-210 rules.

Use-case: A simple home Wi-Fi network at 2.437 GHz (Wi-Fi channel 6) operates because the CTFA has allocated 2400–2483.5 MHz to communication services and recognizes ISM uses (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). The wireless router doesn’t have a spectrum license; it leverages the fact that this band is globally unlicensed. If CTFA instead had given exclusive use of 2.4 GHz to, say, military radar, we wouldn’t have Wi-Fi there. Similarly, the new Wi-Fi 6E devices in the 6 GHz band will operate because ISED updated allocations/policies to permit it – which will be reflected via footnotes in the CTFA (e.g. possibly adopting ITU footnote 5.351A in 5925–6425 MHz for RLAN, as FCC/Canada have done). These examples highlight how CTFA decisions directly impact consumer technologies.

• Public Safety and Special Systems: Some frequency use-cases are niche but vital: Public Safety Land Mobile: Bands like 138–144 MHz, 148–174 MHz, 406–430 MHz, 764–776/794–806 MHz are allocated to mobile and used by police, fire, EMS radios. The CTFA allocation to Mobile in those bands (with footnotes often indicating they are designated for public safety) makes it possible to dedicate channels for emergency services. For instance, footnote C13 in CTFA designates 2.3 GHz WCS bands, and other footnotes designate certain bands for public safety interoperability. Aviation and Marine: The CTFA’s allocations for aeronautical radionavigation (e.g. 108–118 MHz for VOR/ILS, 328–335 MHz for ILS glide path, 960–1215 MHz for DME, etc.) and aeronautical mobile (aircraft comms) (e.g. 118–137 MHz for ATC communications) enable all aviation communications. Similarly, maritime mobile service allocations (e.g. around 156 MHz for VHF marine channels, 406 MHz for EPIRBs, 9 GHz for radar) are clearly reflected in CTFA. These are specialized use-cases, but they show the breadth of CTFA in covering everything from consumer gadgets to life-saving communication. The existence of these allocations in CTFA ensures Canada adheres to international safety systems (like the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System frequencies, etc.). Amateur Radio: The Amateur service has allocations across the spectrum (MF, HF, VHF, UHF, microwave). CTFA lists Amateur, often secondary (except HF bands where it can be primary in segments). For example, 7.0–7.3 MHz is allocated Amateur in Region 2 (7.0–7.2 primary, 7.2–7.3 secondary globally; CTFA footnotes align with that). VHF 144–148 MHz is amateur primary. These allocations allow the vibrant amateur radio community in Canada to operate on globally agreed bands. Footnote C11, for instance, allowed amateur use on a secondary basis in 219–220 MHz and gave conditions in 220–222 MHz (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ).

Below is a summary table highlighting a few key services and their example frequency allocations in Canada (as per CTFA):

Table: Examples of frequency ranges and their CTFA allocations enabling various services in Canada. (Footnote numbers and detailed conditions are omitted for brevity; see CTFA for full details.)

These examples demonstrate how the CTFA’s abstract allocations translate into real-world systems. Each service we use – be it watching TV, making a phone call, using Wi-Fi, listening to the radio, or using GPS/satellite links – is possible because, at a high level, those frequencies were allocated to the appropriate services in the CTFA (and internationally). When technology evolves, new allocations or changes are needed; that leads us to Part 6, where we discuss how the CTFA is adapting to emerging technologies like 5G, IoT, LEO satellites, and cognitive radio.

Part 6: CTFA and Emerging Technologies – Adapting to 5G, IoT, LEO Satellites, and Cognitive Radio

The radio spectrum landscape is continually evolving with new technologies and applications. The CTFA must be a living document, flexible enough to accommodate innovations such as 5G wireless, the Internet of Things (IoT), low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, and dynamic spectrum access (cognitive radio). In this part, we explore how ISED, through the CTFA and related policies, supports and adapts to these emerging technologies.

• 5G and Beyond: The rollout of 5th Generation (5G) mobile networks has been a major driver of recent spectrum allocation changes worldwide. 5G demands spectrum across low, mid, and high bands for coverage and capacity. Canada’s CTFA has evolved to meet these needs: Low Bands (Sub-1 GHz): 5G deployment in low bands (like 600 MHz and 700 MHz) extends coverage. As discussed, Canada repurposed the 600 MHz band for mobile broadband following WRC-15. This meant updating the CTFA to add a Mobile allocation there and to remove Broadcasting as primary. Through consultations (e.g. SMSE-005-17 for WRC-15 changes (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES)), ISED did so, enabling carriers to acquire 600 MHz licenses for 5G. Additionally, the 700 MHz band (already allocated to mobile earlier) continues to be used for LTE and 5G. These changes illustrate CTFA’s responsiveness to mobile broadband needs. Mid Bands (1–6 GHz): These are critical for 5G capacity. The flagship mid-band for 5G in Canada is 3500 MHz. ISED’s decision to make 3450–3650 MHz available for flexible use (fixed/5G) required CTFA confirmation that Mobile is a primary service there (which it is) and that any constraints (like coexistence with radar) are footnoted. In 2021, ISED auctioned 3500 MHz spectrum for 5G after years of policy work. The CTFA had gradually been adapted: earlier it listed Fixed (for WISPs) and Radiolocation; by 2022, Mobile appears as co-primary, reflecting the new use. Another mid-band is 3800 MHz (3650–4000 MHz): after the U.S. moved to auction 3700–3980 MHz for 5G, Canada followed suit with plans to auction 3650–3980 MHz. ISED consulted on this (e.g. Gazette Notice SLPB-002-20) and decided to shift satellite C-band services upward and allow mobile in 3650–3980. The CTFA will incorporate these decisions by adding Mobile allocation and appropriate footnotes (likely referencing satellite use protection above 4000 MHz). We see a direct CTFA adaptation to 5G: footnotes might indicate that 3650–3700 MHz becomes primary Mobile (before WRC-23 changes). High Bands (mmWave): 5G also opened bands in the mmWave range. Canada proactively sought input on 28 GHz, 37–40 GHz, and 64–71 GHz in 2017 (Consultation on Releasing Millimetre Wave Spectrum to Support 5G) (Consultation SLPB-001-17). The CTFA at that time had 27.5–28.35 GHz allocated to Fixed-Satellite (Earth-to-space) and Fixed; 37–40 GHz for Fixed and Mobile (per ITU Region 2), and 64–71 GHz mainly for unlicensed use (as an extension of 57–64 GHz ISM). By 2018–2019, ISED decided to allow 28 GHz flexible use in Canada (despite no ITU mobile allocation there, aligning with U.S. to support 5G). So, Canada added a Mobile allocation at 27.5–28.35 GHz via a footnote (making it an exception to international table). WRC-19 later identified 24.25–27.5 GHz for IMT – Canada already aligned with that. For 37–40 GHz, CTFA already had Mobile as primary (ITU did as well), so enabling 5G was straightforward. For 64–71 GHz, Canada allowed license-exempt use (WiGig), which was supported by an existing ISM designation at 61–61.5 GHz and other footnotes. Looking forward, WRC-23 considered 10 GHz, 14 GHz, etc., for 5G, which may trickle into CTFA in future. Network Slicing / Specialized 5G uses: The flexibility of 5G will bring new applications (like ultra-reliable low-latency communication for autonomous vehicles, etc.). If these require new spectrum allocations (e.g. V2X communications in 5.9 GHz band, as in ITS systems from 5850–5925 MHz), ISED updates the CTFA accordingly. Indeed, in 2022 ISED decided to allocate 5850–5895 MHz for unlicensed RLAN and 5895–5925 MHz for Intelligent Transportation Systems (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES). The CTFA will reflect ITS use (likely under Mobile service with a footnote for dedicated short-range communications). This shows adaptation to emerging 5G-adjacent tech (vehicle communications).

ISED also publishes multi-year Spectrum Outlook documents (e.g. 2018–2022 (Understanding Spectrum Management in Canada – HillNotes), and more recently 2023–2027) that identify bands for development. These roadmaps influence CTFA changes. For instance, the 2018–2022 Outlook flagged 3500 MHz and 3800 MHz as key for 5G (Understanding Spectrum Management in Canada – HillNotes), which indeed became reality through CTFA updates and auctions. The 2023–2027 Outlook includes plans for even newer bands. Thus, CTFA is the execution layer for these plans.

• Internet of Things (IoT): IoT is a broad term for connecting sensors, devices, and machines wirelessly. IoT devices have diverse spectrum needs: Licensed IoT (Narrowband IoT, LTE-M): Many IoT deployments ride on cellular networks (using small slices of LTE/5G spectrum for NB-IoT or Cat-M). The CTFA doesn’t need separate entries for these – they are covered under the mobile service allocations already in place (e.g. a carrier using 700 MHz for NB-IoT is simply operating under the Mobile allocation). Thus, CTFA’s provision for extensive mobile service spectrum inherently supports IoT growth on carrier networks. Unlicensed IoT (LPWAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth): Some IoT use unlicensed bands (2.4 GHz for Bluetooth Low Energy, 915 MHz for LoRa and other LPWAN). The CTFA’s maintenance of ISM bands (915 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz) and recent expansion of 900 MHz license-exempt rules (allowing technologies like LoRaWAN) accommodate these IoT systems. For example, 902–928 MHz is allocated to mobile and fixed and is heavily used by IoT sensors in agriculture and smart cities. The CTFA has not needed special new allocations for this, but it’s important that it continues to allow shared use. ISED occasionally updates technical rules (RSS-210) for these bands to improve IoT usage, but if a new spectrum band was needed for unlicensed IoT, a CTFA change would occur. 5G Massive IoT: 5G introduces the concept of massive Machine-Type Communication (mMTC). Spectrum-wise, this again is under the mobile allocations. However, one emerging area is telemetry bands – for example, CTFA footnote C12 designates 2360–2400 MHz for aeronautical mobile telemetry (AMT) with government priority (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ), which is a specific machine-type use (flight testing). This shows CTFA can carve out sub-bands for specialized IoT-like uses via footnotes. Similarly, if IoT for smart grids needed a band, ISED could allocate or designate via footnote. Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Sensors: UWB devices (for short range radar, positioning etc.) operate across wide swaths of spectrum at low power. ISED allows UWB under technical rules, which rely on not causing harmful interference to allocated services. CTFA doesn’t explicitly mention UWB (since it’s under the noise floor), but the ability to permit it is part of ISED’s flexible approach to new tech without needing formal allocation (provided incumbent allocations are protected).

In essence, IoT hasn’t required drastic CTFA changes beyond maintaining a mix of licensed mobile bands and unlicensed bands. The existing framework is quite supportive of IoT. That said, as IoT scales, ISED remains vigilant to ensure critical IoT (e.g. smart infrastructure) has spectrum (maybe via dedicated slices like 700 MHz narrowband, or future 450 MHz band possibilities).

• Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite Internet and NewSpace: The recent surge of LEO satellite constellations (Starlink, OneWeb, Telesat Lightspeed) for broadband and Earth observation is pushing spectrum needs in higher bands and in novel sharing scenarios: Spectrum for LEO Broadband: LEO systems often use Ka-band and V-band. Ka-band FSS (17.8–18.6 GHz, 18.8–20.2 GHz down; 27.5–29.1 GHz, 29.5–30 GHz up) is allocated internationally to FSS and used by both GEO and LEO. CTFA includes those allocations. To accommodate LEO specifically, ITU footnotes now differentiate between GSO and non-GSO in certain bands and impose rules to prevent interference. Canada, through CTFA, adopts these footnotes. For example, footnote 5.484A/B/C in 11–12 GHz range set power limits for non-GSO. Footnote 5.516A in 37.5–39.5 GHz allows non-GSO FSS. As new V-band (37.5–42.5 GHz down, 47.2–50.2 GHz up) systems are planned, WRC-19 and WRC-23 have provided allocations. In Dec 2022, ISED released a decision on frequencies above 95 GHz as well (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES), anticipating future communications possibly including beyond V-band. CTFA 2022 likely includes new allocations above 100 GHz for things like inter-satellite links, which support LEO constellations. Earth Stations in Motion (ESIMs): As part of LEO internet, user terminals on vehicles (aircraft, ships, vehicles) require regulatory allowances. ISED, aligning with ITU, has added footnotes to allow ESIM operation in certain FSS bands (e.g. allowing airliner antennas to use Ka-band downlinks). These are detailed technical footnotes but critical for new services. The CTFA carries those conditions so that, for example, a shipborne earth station using 29.5 GHz won’t violate the allocation rules. Integration with 5G (NTN – Non-Terrestrial Networks): 5G standards now include satellite components. WRC-23 looked at allowing satellite use of some 5G bands (e.g. 2 GHz). Canada will have to consider any such changes. If a mobile band gets co-allocated to MSS for NTN, CTFA will reflect that via an additional allocation footnote. LEO Spectrum Sharing: A challenge is sharing with terrestrial services. For instance, Starlink uses Ku-band uplink (14 GHz) which is heavily used by fixed links and radars in some countries; in Canada that’s mostly OK since 14 GHz is primary FSS. But for others like 37–40 GHz, Canada had both Mobile and FSS allocations – how to ensure 5G and LEO satellites co-exist? ISED may use footnotes to partition use (perhaps giving priority to one service in a sub-band, or requiring coordination). Footnote C16D in CTFA (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ), for example, gives Fixed service priority over FSS in portions of Ka-band, implying that even LEO satellites must coordinate around fixed links there. LEO systems must adapt to these national footnote constraints. Earth Observation and Space Science: New constellations of sensing satellites (e.g. for climate monitoring) may need protected spectrum (like 1.4 GHz passive, etc.). CTFA typically already has those from earlier ITU allocations, but as technology advances (smaller, cheaper satellites), pressure on certain bands increases. ISED participates in ITU to secure spectrum for these uses and reflects it in CTFA updates.

Overall, the CTFA has proven capable of accommodating “NewSpace” developments by implementing WRC outcomes and leveraging footnotes for flexibility. One can see CTFA as a canvas where now not just terrestrial vs satellite, but also GSO vs NGSO, and different orbital regimes are managed – a complexity that has grown with LEO megaconstellations.

• Cognitive Radio and Dynamic Spectrum Access: Cognitive radio refers to radio systems that can automatically find and use available spectrum. This concept is being applied in frameworks like TV White Space (TVWS) and the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) in the US 3.5 GHz band, as well as prospective use-it-or-share-it policies. How does CTFA incorporate such innovation? TV White Space: In Canada, the TV bands (broadcasting 54–698 MHz) have unused channels in many areas. White space devices can operate on those unused frequencies opportunistically. ISED enabled TVWS by certifying database systems (e.g., approving a TVWS database administrator in 2021 (RED Technologies wins ISED approval as TV White Space database administrator in Canada)) and setting rules (RSS-222). From a CTFA perspective, the band is still allocated to Broadcasting. The allowance of secondary use by cognitive devices did not require an allocation change because these devices are unlicensed and must not interfere with broadcasters (which fits within the primary broadcasting allocation). In CTFA, there is a Canadian footnote (C24A was introduced around 600 MHz repacking (CANADA: ISED Releases New Changes for Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – Entirety – Making compliance simple)) that likely urges interference avoidance with radio astronomy and cross-border coordination. But cognitive access itself is handled via regulation rather than allocation. This demonstrates that CTFA doesn’t always need to list cognitive uses; instead, ISED layers dynamic access rules on top of existing allocations (provided they don’t violate the primary service protections). Dynamic Access in Other Bands: The concept of dynamic spectrum access is also emerging for bands like 3.5 GHz (in the US CBRS, incumbents and small cells share). In Canada’s 3500 MHz context, ISED did not adopt the CBRS three-tier model – instead, they cleared part of the band for exclusive licensing and are maintaining radar incumbents separately (with footnote C15 giving them priority in parts) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). However, ISED is considering dynamic sharing in bands like 6 GHz for Wi-Fi Standard Power with an Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system (a database that tells routers which frequencies to use to avoid standard microwave links). That is a cognitive approach. The CTFA was updated by adding an allocation to the Mobile service in the 6 GHz band (which was already there for 5925–6425 MHz globally as secondary) and by a footnote or policy allowing RLAN use under AFC. The recent decision SMSE-012-22 on 6 GHz indicates ISED’s approach to dynamic sharing (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) (RED Technologies wins ISED approval as TV White Space database administrator in Canada). Again, CTFA’s role is to ensure the underlying allocation (e.g. Mobile service for RLAN) is in place – which it is internationally – and to state any special conditions via Canadian footnote. For instance, a possible footnote might say “In 5925–6425 MHz, use of the Mobile service is limited to licence-exempt RLAN devices under specified technical conditions,” effectively encoding the new sharing scheme. Future Cognitive Concepts: If in the future Canada were to implement a use-it-or-share-it model broadly (allowing third parties to use licensed spectrum when the licensee isn’t utilizing it), CTFA might not need changes since the allocation is the same (still mobile, etc.) – it would be more a licensing policy change. However, CTFA could include enabling footnotes if needed, or at least would not prohibit such use. The Spectrum Policy Framework’s emphasis on efficient use and market forces (HE8679_.C2_S64_2007_c.2_Spectrum_policy_framework_for_Canada) (HE8679_.C2_S64_2007_c.2_Spectrum_policy_framework_for_Canada) suggests Canada is open to innovative sharing to maximize spectrum use.
• ISED Consultations and Innovation Plans: To keep CTFA current with tech, ISED frequently releases consultation papers and engages stakeholders (industry, academia, public). Some relevant to emerging tech include: SMSE-006-22 (2022) for WRC-19 updates: which inherently covered 5G bands and others (SMSE-006-22 – Proposed Revisions to the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – RABC-CCCR). SLPB-001-17 (2017) for mmWave 5G: soliciting input on freeing 28 GHz, 37–40 GHz, etc., for 5G (Consultation on Releasing Millimetre Wave Spectrum to Support 5G). Consultation on Licence-Exempt Use in the 6 GHz Band (2021): leading to RLAN adoption. Spectrum Outlooks: which are not consultations per se but forward-looking roadmaps developed with public comments (the 2023–2027 Outlook was released by Minister Champagne in mid-2023 outlining which bands to prioritize (Canada Releases Spectrum Outlook for 2023-2027)). IoT-specific consultations: In 2014, ISED released DGSO-001-14 “Decision on Machine-to-Machine spectrum” which concluded existing networks suffice for IoT; thus no CTFA change was needed then, but it shows ISED analyzed it. LEO satellite consultations: For example, SMSE-009-17 sought comments on satellite licensing including new NGSO systems. Also, ISED has to implement WRC decisions like ESIMs (done via consultation in 2018). Cognitive and Dynamic Spectrum: ISED has updated the white space rules multiple times (DBS-01 database spec updates (ISED White Space Database Specification, DBS-01, issue 3 …)) and consulted on potential license-exempt access in other bands like the 900 MHz (which was opened for RFIDs). Above 95 GHz: As noted, ISED consulted on frequencies above 95 GHz (SMSE-005-22) and decided to allocate bands above 100 GHz for future use (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES). This is clearly anticipating advanced technologies (6G’s terahertz communications, high-resolution radars, etc.). The CTFA 2022 edition added allocations from 95 GHz up to 275 GHz in line with WRC-19 decisions (the ITU extended global allocations up to 275 GHz, although most of 275–400 GHz remains unallocated except for passive services per ITU Resolutions). By including those, CTFA is ready for experimental and future systems in sub-THz frequencies – an example of being ahead of the curve.

In summary, the CTFA, guided by ISED’s consultations and policy planning, has demonstrated adaptability to emerging technologies. Whether it’s carving out new mobile bands for 5G, allowing dynamic shared access for Wi-Fi and IoT, or integrating entirely new classes of satellite services, the CTFA is regularly revised to accommodate innovation. This ensures Canada’s regulatory environment is conducive to deploying the latest wireless systems.

Crucially, these changes are made in a deliberate, consultative manner to balance interests – which leads to our final part: how exactly ISED consults and updates the CTFA over time.

Part 7: Consultation and Updating Processes for the CTFA

The Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations is not static; it is periodically updated to respond to international decisions and domestic requirements. This final part examines how ISED updates the CTFA, including the consultation process with stakeholders, and references recent updates, public notices, and the role of industry advisory groups.

• Periodic Reviews and Public Consultations: As noted in the CTFA Foreword, revisions are made from time to time, especially following World Radiocommunication Conferences or when needed for Canadian service requirements (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)). ISED typically follows a transparent process: Discussion Paper/Consultation (Gazette Notice): ISED releases a consultation document outlining proposed changes to the CTFA. This is announced in the Canada Gazette (Part I) as a SMSE (Spectrum Management and Telecommunications) Notice. For example, prior to the 2018 edition update, ISED issued SMSE-005-17 “Proposed Revisions to the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2017 edition)” (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) on August 2017, seeking input on incorporating WRC-15 outcomes and other changes. Similarly, in January 2022, SMSE-006-22 was released proposing changes for the 2022 Edition (post-WRC-19) (SMSE-006-22 – Proposed Revisions to the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – RABC-CCCR). Comment Period: Stakeholders – including telecommunications companies, broadcasters, satellite operators, equipment manufacturers, industry associations (like the Radio Advisory Board of Canada, RABC), public safety agencies, and members of the public – are invited to submit comments by a deadline. The consultation document typically enumerates each proposed change (often band by band footnote changes) and asks specific questions. Reply Comments: Sometimes a further reply round is allowed where stakeholders can respond to each other’s initial comments. Analysis and Decision: ISED’s spectrum engineers and policy-makers analyze the input. They often receive recommendations from RABC, which consolidates industry and user perspectives. For instance, in the 2017 CTFA consultation, ISED received nine submissions from four organizations (CANADA: ISED Releases New Changes for Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – Entirety – Making compliance simple) (some likely from RABC’s working groups, satellite industry, radio amateurs, etc.). ISED then makes decisions on each proposal – accepting, modifying, or occasionally deferring them. Publication of the Decision (Gazette Notice): The outcome is published as a decision document, again announced in the Gazette. For example, SMSE-007-18 — “Decision on Proposed Revisions to the CTFA” was published in April 2018 (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES), which formally adopted the changes and released the new 2018 CTFA edition (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES). Likewise, SMSE-017-22 in December 2022 announced the Decision on Revisions to the CTFA 2022 Edition (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) and made the updated table available (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES). Release of Updated CTFA: ISED posts the new edition (PDF or web update) on its Spectrum Management website. The effective date is usually upon publication. For instance, the 2018 Edition came into force upon publication in April 2018 (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES). The 2022 Edition was posted in early 2023 after the decision.
• Industry and Public Involvement: The consultation process ensures that changes aren’t made in isolation. The Radio Advisory Board of Canada (RABC) plays a key role – it is a collective of industry players (telecom companies, broadcasters, equipment makers) and radio user groups (amateur radio, public safety, etc.) that provides expert advice. RABC often forms working groups to respond to ISED consultations. In the 2022 CTFA update, RABC prepared a response by March 2022 to SMSE-006-22 (SMSE-006-22 – Proposed Revisions to the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – RABC-CCCR). These responses often contain technical rationales, support or opposition to proposals, and suggestions (like adding, deleting or rewording footnotes). ISED considers these carefully, as seen in the example changes from the 2018 update: ISED modified a proposed footnote C24A for 470–698 MHz in response to RABC to better align with international wording (CANADA: ISED Releases New Changes for Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – Entirety – Making compliance simple), and adjusted footnote C49 at 40 GHz after industry feedback (CANADA: ISED Releases New Changes for Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – Entirety – Making compliance simple). This demonstrates a dialogue: industry flags concerns (e.g. satellite industry objecting to a government-exclusive designation in 39.5–40.5 GHz) and ISED can adjust the allocation footnote to address it (CANADA: ISED Releases New Changes for Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – Entirety – Making compliance simple).
• Policy Statements and Decisions: Some CTFA changes stem from broader policy decisions or consultations that aren’t solely about the table but have spectrum implications. For example, when ISED decided to make the 600 MHz band available for mobile, that followed a consultation on repurposing TV spectrum and an auction framework. The CTFA modification (adding mobile allocation 614–698 MHz) was one outcome, but the impetus was a policy decision (SMSE-002-15 consultation and subsequent decisions in Gazette). These decisions are often published as SLPB (Spectrum Licensing Policy Branch) or DGSO/DGTP (older designations) series, focusing on usage and licensing. Once a decision is made (e.g. to allocate a band to mobile service), the CTFA is amended accordingly in the next round if not already done.
• Canadian Footnote Management: A glance at CTFA’s Canadian footnotes shows a notation like CXYZ (CAN-YY) where YY might indicate the year introduced or modified. For instance, C7 (CAN-12) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ) suggests it was introduced in 2012. As technology evolves, some footnotes may be deleted or replaced, and new ones added with incremental numbering. The “Canadian Footnotes” section of CTFA lists all active ones. When an update happens, the Gazette decision will often list which footnotes are newly added, modified, or suppressed. For example, the 2018 update introduced footnote C24A and retired some obsolete ones. By tracking those, one can see how CTFA accomodates change: new footnotes for new allocations (e.g. a footnote allowing amateur use in 5 MHz band was added after WRC-15 gave Region 2 a small allocation around 5351 kHz; indeed C21 was adjusted to reflect new 5 MHz channels (CANADA: ISED Releases New Changes for Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – Entirety – Making compliance simple)).
• Recent Updates: To recap recent CTFA update timelines:

• 2014 Edition (if any) – likely a minor update after WRC-12.
• 2018 Edition – major update incorporating WRC-15 changes (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)). Key changes: mobile allocations at 600 MHz, new amateur bands, Footnotes for satellite, etc.
• 2022 Edition – incorporates WRC-19 changes (SMSE-006-22 – Proposed Revisions to the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – RABC-CCCR): e.g., 26 GHz IMT, Wi-Fi 6E footnote groundwork, NGSO rules, etc. This was consulted in early 2022 and finalized by end of 2022 (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES).
• Future (2025?) – After WRC-23, we anticipate another round. In fact, Canada was actively involved in WRC-23 and will need to implement its results (which include new spectrum for aeronautical broadband, new secondary allocations for space, and possibly 6 GHz for IMT in Region 1 – less impact on Canada, but some science bands changes may affect Canadian footnotes). We can expect a consultation maybe in 2024 or 2025 to update the CTFA (2025 Edition perhaps) with WRC-23 outcomes. Stakeholders will again have their say.

• Public Notices and SMSE Documents: Each change is on public record. The Canada Gazette Part I is the formal mechanism to announce proposals and decisions so that there is an official trail. For instance, the Gazette notice reference we cited (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) clearly indicates under Radiocommunication Act the issuance of a decision and where to find the documents. Interested parties can obtain these from the Spectrum Management website (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES). This transparency is crucial for academic and technical experts who track spectrum policy – they can see in the decision document ISED’s reasoning for each change, often with references to commenters. For example, the decision document for SMSE-005-17 (2018 update) likely says why certain amateur radio requests were or were not accepted (e.g., adding a 60 m band channel was accepted with power limits, etc.).
• Stakeholder Examples:

• The amateur radio community often participates to seek small allocation tweaks (as seen in 2017 consultation where they requested changes in the 5 MHz band and got some granted (CANADA: ISED Releases New Changes for Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations – Entirety – Making compliance simple)).
• The satellite industry looks at footnotes affecting FSS and MSS to ensure they are not too restrictive.
• The mobile industry ensures new mobile bands are supported and legacy footnotes that might hinder deployment (like overly restrictive conditions) are modernized.
• Public safety agencies might weigh in if an allocation could interfere or if they need an allocation (e.g., a footnote for priority use).
• Broadcasters typically ensure any changes to broadcasting bands protect incumbents or allow advances (like digital radio).

• Ensuring Smooth Transitions: When CTFA changes an allocation that affects incumbent users, ISED manages transitions via separate processes (licenses, spectrum auctions, or transition plans). The CTFA itself might include a footnote during a transition period, e.g., saying “the band X–Y MHz will become allocated to [new service] after [date], and until then [old service] operates under conditions…”. Some ITU footnotes do that internationally (with dates). Canada might adopt them or add its own. For instance, for the 600 MHz band, there was a transition where broadcasters moved out by 2020 and mobile could start after – ISED handled this in licensing, but CTFA reflected new allocation with maybe a note referencing transition.
• Frequency Coordination and Notification: After updating CTFA, Canada notifies the ITU of its national allocations (ITU keeps track of countries’ tables in a database, though not all publish like Canada does). Also, when Canada makes allocations that differ from the ITU (e.g. allowing mobile in 28 GHz which is not an ITU mobile band in Region 2), it typically files a notice of difference (No. 5.3 of RR) with the ITU, which is allowed as long as it doesn’t cause international interference. The consultation process ensures such differences are deliberate and safe.

In conclusion, the CTFA’s evolution is a carefully managed process combining international harmonization and domestic consultation. Through Gazette notices (SMSE series) and engagement with experts and industry via RABC and public comments, ISED ensures that updates to the CTFA are well-informed and consensus-driven where possible. This governance process is crucial to maintain the CTFA as a respected, authoritative reference that balances the needs of all spectrum users in Canada.

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References: The information in this series was drawn from official ISED documents and the ITU Radio Regulations. Key references include the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 and 2022 editions) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2022)) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ), ISED Canada Gazette notices on CTFA updates (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 16: GOVERNMENT NOTICES) (Canada Gazette, Part 1, Volume 157, Number 1: GOVERNMENT NOTICES), the Radiocommunication Act (Radiocommunication Act), and ITU Radio Regulations footnotes as reflected in the CTFA (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ) (Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2018 Edition) ). These and other cited sources throughout the text provide detailed verification for the regulatory and technical information discussed.