Operational Statements (OS)

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), under the Environmental Process Modernization Plan (EPMP), developed a series of Operational Statements to streamline our regulatory review of low risk activities.

The Operational Statements used by the Habitat Management Program provide proponents with up-front guidance on how to carry out a specific activity and how to design projects that present a low risk to fish habitats.

Operational statements outline measures and conditions for avoiding the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction (HADD) to fish habitat and thus be in compliance with the Fisheries Act. Proponents are not required to submit their proposal for review by DFO. However, you are asked to complete the Operational Statement Notification Form (PDF), and send it to the local DFO office in your area.

• Newfoundland and Labrador Operational Statements
• Operational Statement Notification Form (PDF)

For more information on Operational Statements and how and when to use them, see the Frequently Asked Questions on the National Site.