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Canada
Regulation
In Force
Decision on Revisions to the Band Plan for 2500-2690 MHz (SPB-006-26)
Affects:
Certification Process
Spectrum Management
5G
LTE
Executive Summary
ISED has decided to transition the 2500–2690 MHz band to a unified unpaired TDD configuration to improve cross-border coordination and spectral efficiency. The decision introduces a new band plan of 38 unpaired 5 MHz blocks and lifts existing deployment requirements while establishing a NINP status for new equipment.
Last Updated
28-SEP-26
This document, titled Decision on Revisions to the Band Plan for 2500–2690 MHz (SPB-006-26), sets out Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada’s (ISED) decision to move the 2500–2690 MHz band to a fully unpaired configuration. The change is intended to improve spectrum efficiency and make cross-border coordination easier.
Scope
The decision covers the full 2500–2690 MHz frequency range. ISED plans to replace the existing mix of paired FDD and unpaired TDD spectrum with a single unpaired TDD band plan. The document also outlines how the new band plan will operate during the transition period and what this means for current licence holders.
Key Technical Requirements
- New Band Plan: The 2500–2690 MHz band will be divided into 38 unpaired blocks of 5 MHz. These blocks can be combined where wider bandwidths are required.
- Coexistence and NINP Status: Until ISED confirms the formal transition dates, both the existing band plan and the new unpaired band plan will remain valid. Any equipment deployed under the new plan must operate on a no-interference, no-protection (NINP) basis in relation to systems operating under the existing band plan.
- Regulatory Updates: ISED plans to revise the relevant technical standards, including RSS-199, which covers Broadband Radio Service equipment operating in the 2500–2690 MHz band, and SRSP-517, which sets out the technical requirements for BRS systems in this band.
- Deployment Requirements: Existing deployment requirements attached to current licences will be removed. However, licence holders will still be expected to show that the 2500 MHz spectrum is being put to use. The detailed requirements and deadlines will be set out in a future consultation.
- Transition Timeline: ISED has recognised stakeholder concerns about starting the transition in 2028. The detailed transition dates will be considered in a future consultation, but ISED has indicated that the transition will not begin before 2033.
Attached Documents & Source Files
Decision on Revisions to the Band Plan for 2500-2690 MHz
Author / Agency: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)
Published:
2026-09-01
Language:
English
Key Regulatory Timeline & Dates
Sep 01, 2026
Date Published
Document dated September 2026
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