Executive summary

We are working to improve access to high-speed internet across the province with a goal of 100% connectivity by the end of 2025.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Infrastructure Ontario developed the Building Broadband Faster Act guideline, in partnership with stakeholders and partner ministries, to expedite the delivery of designated high-speed internet projects. This guideline will help stakeholders develop and deliver high-speed internet projects faster by streamlining processes and removing barriers that may result in additional costs and delays.

In summary, the guideline:

  • sets out new and best-practice processes and timelines when internet service providers (ISPs) work with local distribution companies (LDCs) and other parties to deploy internet fibre through third-party hydro pole attachments and accessing rights-of-way (ROW) to deploy fibre underground
  • introduces a new information and data gathering platform — the Broadband One Window (BOW), an electronic system to support timely approvals, permitting and locate decisions related to high-speed internet projects
  • establishes the role of a new Technical Assistance Team (TAT) that would provide support, informal advice and assistance to municipalities, internet service providers and LDCs on the implementation of the guideline and implementation of provincial high-speed internet projects

This guideline is meant to be used by stakeholders involved in provincially funded high-speed internet projects, which may include:

  • local distribution companies (LDC)
  • internet service providers (ISP)
  • telecommunications service providers (TSPs)
  • Ontario One Call and their respective members
  • Municipalities

It will also be of interest to parties such as:

  • other ministries, such as the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services and Ministry of Transportation
  • Indigenous communities
  • government partners, such as the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) and Ontario Energy Board (OEB)

Disclaimer

If you require this information in an alternative format, please contact broadband@ontario.ca. We will:

  • acknowledge your request within three business days
  • provide you with the content within 15 business days