Effective April 1, 2023: the Departments of Lands and Environment and Natural Resources have merged into one.

Apply to do research

What research needs to be licensed?

All research in the Northwest Territories (NWT) must be licensed. This includes work in the physical, social and biological sciences, as well as in traditional knowledge and health. This applies to all researchers, including government agencies. 

Research licensing in the NWT involves authorities at the local, territorial and federal level.

The general objective of the research regulatory processes is to avoid harm to the natural, social and cultural environments of the NWT.

Information about your work is shared with northern residents through the licensing process.

How is the licensing process different in the NWT?

In the NWT, community consultation is included in most regulatory processes. This is different than in most other Canadian jurisdictions.

Many of these processes also include provisions to make sure local communities are well informed of upcoming research projects, and that the knowledge resulting from the studies returns to the local level.

What licences and/or permits do I need?

As a very basic guide to assist in determining what licences and/or permits you need, please consider the following:

How long does it take to get a licence?

Submit your licensing and related application(s) at least three months prior to the planned start date of fieldwork.