Federal Bill C-23: Historic Places Of Canada Act 2025

Outcomes

This act formally implements the UNESCO Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.
This act amends the composition of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada to include the appointment of representatives for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples.
This act imposes the obligation to
- Ensure the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada are taken into account before any action is carried out in certain designated heritage places (under federal ministers or Crown corporations) that may result in a physical change.
- Consult with Parks Canada Agency before any such action is carried out to ensure any impact on heritage value is duly considered.

This act enshrines the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada and the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage in Canada.
This act incorporates Indigenous knowledge and community knowledge into the protection and conservation of Canadian heritage through the integration of indigenous history into heritage designations and representation on the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.
This act sets a standard for transparency on indigenous representation in decision-making, the heritage designation process, and consultation on changes that could affect heritage value of a designated place.

An expected increase in demand for jobs specializing in heritage conservation, indigenous knowledge and community knowledge.
An anticipated need for compliance monitoring from businesses near/within designated heritage places.
The Minister of Environment has expanded powers regarding search, seizure, sale and restrictions of historic objects/areas.
Advancement of recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.