How Should Canada Regulate Pipeline Safety?

Official title: Onshore Pipeline Regulations and Filing Manuals Review Project

Closed Regulations & Permits Environment & Climate Indigenous & Northern Natural Resources
The Canada Energy Regulator is rewriting the rules for how pipelines are built and operated across the country. These regulations cover safety, environmental protection, and how companies work with Indigenous communities. Phase 2 engagement wrapped up in March 2025 after receiving 125 submissions and 3,500 responses.

Why This Matters

Pipelines carry oil and gas across Canada, often through Indigenous territories and near communities. Stronger rules could mean better spill prevention and faster cleanups. Weaker rules might speed up projects but increase risks. If you live near a pipeline or care about energy development, these regulations shape what happens.

What Could Change

New pipeline regulations could require stricter safety inspections and faster emergency response times. Companies may face new requirements for consulting Indigenous communities before and during projects. The filing process for new pipeline applications could be streamlined or made more rigorous. Draft regulations will be shared in Phase 3 for further input.

Key Issues

  • How should pipeline safety and environmental protection standards be updated?
  • How can regulations better advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples?
  • What changes would make the regulatory process more transparent and predictable?
  • How can regulations encourage innovation while maintaining safety?

What Happened

Phase 2 engagement closed on March 31, 2025. The CER received 125 submissions and 3,500 responses to 13 topic papers. The regulator facilitated virtual information sessions, provided $2.6 million in grants to 50 Indigenous-led engagements, hosted in-person industry workshops in Calgary and Montreal, and conducted Heritage Resources Technical Workshops. The deadline was extended from December 2024 to March 2025 based on feedback. The project team will now draft regulatory proposals for Phase 3 engagement.

Key Documents