Municipal leaders know the importance of connectivity for their communities’ economic, cultural and social development. As with any other vital infrastructure network, municipalities play a central role in managing the appropriate deployment of telecommunications equipment within their jurisdiction.

Municipalities must balance their desire to facilitate their citizens’ and businesses’ access to the latest and fastest services with their legal and technical obligations to all the other users of right-of-way corridors. Municipalities must also be vigilant that costs—direct and indirect—are not downloaded onto the local taxpayer.

Finding solutions for these challenges will become even more complex as the rollout of 5G technology accelerates. Sharing information and developing sector-wide best practices is key to striking the right balance.


Featured news & resources

See featured resources, news, events and training related to Telecommunications.
Resources
Webinar recording: Cyber risks and municipalities—What leaders need to know

Presented in collaboration with the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA).

Resources
Telecommunications: CRTC affirms municipal role in 5G deployment

FCM secured a victory on behalf of municipalities, when the CRTC affirmed FCM’s arguments about the municipal role in 5G deployment and managing municipal rights of way. These are some of the most significant policy pronouncements by the CRTC on the role of municipalities in ensuring connectivity for Canadians.

News
FCM welcomes launch of Universal Broadband Fund

FCM welcomes the federal government’s launch today of the Universal Broadband Fund—a critical step in the delivery of better broadband access to communities across the country

Resources
Barriers to deploying broadband-capable networks in underserved areas in Canada

FCM urges the CRTC to consider the range of possible approaches to addressing barriers to investment in high-quality fixed and wireless access networks in rural areas, small towns, and remote communities.

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Preparing for 5G deployment in your community

This guide is designed to help municipalities deal with the practical, policy and logistical implications of 5G technology in local communities.

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Telecommunications and rights-of-way handbook

This handbook is designed to support municipalities working with private telecommunications carriers to address the complex challenges of managing rights-of-way while keeping residents safe and taxpayers protected.

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Related focus areas
Explore the topics we’re working on related to Telecommunications.

Broadband

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Broadband Internet access is essential in the modern age, yet too many rural Canadians live without it. We’re helping to bring reliable high-speed Internet to every community across Canada.

Rural, northern and remote

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Rural, northern and remote communities are integral to Canada’s economy and quality of life. With our advocacy and support, their local governments are building a brighter future.
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