The Government of Canada is committed to supporting commercial space launches in Canada. As such, Transport Canada is developing a temporary program to make sure that launches are in the public interest and done safely and responsibly. Based on the information and feedback we gather, we will develop a broader, long-term plan to support commercial space launches.
Transport Canada wants feedback on the Application Requirements for Obtaining Authorization to Launch Uncrewed Orbital and Suborbital Rockets in Canada.
Please send comments by March 31, 2026 to: tc.commercialspacelaunch-lancementspatialcommercial.tc@tc.gc.ca
On this page
- What is a “commercial space launch”?
- How are launch sites chosen?
- Are commercial space launches safe?
- Canada’s commercial space launch requirements
- Submit a launch application
What is a “commercial space launch”?
During a commercial space launch a private company sends cargo (like a satellite) into space using a privately-owned rocket.
How are launch sites chosen?
Launch sites in Canada, also known as spaceports, are privately owned and operated.
Transport Canada doesn’t license spaceports. However, we require that companies who want to launch a rocket make sure that the spaceport they use meets Transport Canada’s requirements. When a company applies for permission to launch, their application includes information on the launch site.
Are commercial space launches safe?
In order to launch in Canada, a company needs permission from the Minister of Transport.
Before the Minister makes a decision, Transport Canada will work with up to 15 other federal departments to review the company’s application. The provincial or territorial government where the launch site is located will be consulted.
Following this review, if the Minister believes that a commercial launch is in the public’s interest and is unlikely to affect aviation safety, they can give the company permission to launch. They will also include conditions that the operator will have to meet.
The Minister considers many factors when deciding whether a launch is safe and in the public interest, including:
- how close the site is to places where people live
- whether the launch complies with existing environmental laws
- whether the launch could create risks to Canada’s national security, and
- whether the launch could create risks to air and marine traffic
Canada’s commercial space launch requirements
Transport Canada has worked with other government departments and international partners to develop a series of requirements for anyone who wants to launch from Canada. Please consult the Application Requirements for Obtaining Authorization to Launch Uncrewed Orbital and Suborbital Rockets in Canada.
Submit a launch application
Getting permission to launch is a long process. If you’re interested in launching a rocket under the Interim Commercial Space Launch Program, please email tc.commercialspacelaunch-lancementspatialcommercial.tc@tc.gc.ca to start the pre-application process.
The process usually starts with a consultation meeting where Transport Canada will meet with you to discuss your preliminary launch plans and make sure you understand which approvals and assessments you will need. This meeting will also help make sure you submit a complete and thorough application.
After the meeting, you will need to complete and submit an application that shows how you comply with the commercial space launch requirements.