MNR is seeking feedback on proposed policy and regulatory changes to modernize hunting and fishing licensing products and processes and improve client services. This includes proposed changes for moose & bear outfitters. To support the new licensing system the following changes are being proposed:
1) Licensing Modernization
- Introducing a new fish and wildlife mobile application for clients to access their hunting and fishing licence products.
- Enabling the digital submission of hunter accreditation through the licensing system.
- Allowing falconers to purchase their apprentice and general falconry licences through the fish and wildlife licensing system.
2) Game Tag Modernization
- Introducing a new digital game tag as an alternative option to the current paper game tag. Hunters will continue to have the option to choose a paper tag.
3) Black Bear Operator and Moose Tourist Outfitter Modernization
- Proposing to develop an ‘outfitter portal’ in the new licensing system that moose tourist outfitters and licensed black bear operators could access to improve service.
- The outfitter portal would allow outfitters and operators to digitally manage their own assigned quota of tags or validation certificates, renew and pay annual licence associated fees (bear only), issue tags or validation certificates to their clients, manage client records and submit hunter reports completed by the hunter online through their account in the outfitter portal.
- The outfitter portal would create efficiencies for outfitters/operators and their clients, reduce reliance on paper-based processes and the need to visit/connect with MNR offices for routine transactions, and is responsive to increasing interest from some outfitters and operators in digital options for products and processes.
- The outfitter portal will make most aspects of moose and bear tourism industry administration digital. This would include:
- Moose tourist outfitters issuing digital registered guest forms (required by guests of moose tourist outfitters) through the portal that clients can print or download to their mobile device.
- Black bear operators issuing digital black bear validation certificates through the portal to non-resident clients, who can print or download to their mobile device.
- MNR issuing the licence to provide bear hunting services to bear operators through the portal.
- The ministry would work with outfitters/operators to provide training and provide time for them to become familiar with the system prior to its use being required. During this transition period, outfitters and operators will still be able to use the current paper-based approach.
Operators are encourages to submit comments on the proposal by clicking the button below. If you have any concerns, please share them with NOTO staff so that we may echo your concerns in our submission.
The comment period is open until June 27, 2025.