Operating in Canada: ISED Rules

In Canada, LoRa mesh networking in the 902-928 MHz band operates under Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) regulations, primarily RSS-210 and RSS-GEN.

Key Canadian Rules

• License-exempt operation - The 902-928 MHz band is license-exempt under RSS-210 for spread spectrum devices meeting power limits
• Maximum conducted power: 1 watt (30 dBm) - Same as US FCC Part 15
• Maximum EIRP - Effectively equivalent to FCC Part 15 limits; consult RSS-210 Annex for specific values by frequency sub-band
• Hardware certification - Devices must be certified under ISED (previously IC) marking. Most hardware certified for the US (FCC) market also carries ISED certification.

Canadian ISM Band Availability

The 902-928 MHz band is available across Canada for license-exempt operation, making it directly compatible with US equipment and networks. Canadian and US mesh operators using 915 MHz hardware can interoperate seamlessly near the border.

Interference Considerations

Canada shares the 902-928 MHz ISM band with various Part 15 equivalent users. The non-interference and no-protection rules apply equivalently: you must not cause harmful interference, and you have no protection from interference by other users.

Quebec/French Language Considerations

For publicly visible software or documentation, Canada's Official Languages Act may apply to some organizations. For individual hobbyist operation, no language requirements affect technical operation of mesh networks.

ARES Canada

Amateur Radio Emergency Service Canada (ARESC) operates under Industry Canada spectrum licenses for amateur radio frequencies. When MeshCore or Meshtastic is used on ISM frequencies (902-928 MHz), ARES Canada volunteers operate under the same license-exempt rules as all other Part 15 equivalent operators - no additional authorization is required.