Cranes, Lifting Devices, and Vertical Obstacles
The safe operation of aircraft is the highest priority at YYB North Bay Jack Garland Airport, including passenger, charter, cargo, medical, and military flights.
To support safe aircraft movements, the airport monitors and manages potential vertical obstacles in the surrounding area. These may include cranes, lifting devices, buildings, temporary structures, and natural growth such as trees. Objects that extend into protected airspace can affect aircraft during take-off, landing, and other flight operations.
Requirements related to obstacle height and location are established under federal airport zoning regulations pursuant to the Aeronautics Act, which are designed to protect airspace and ensure safe aviation operations. The airport is required under these regulations to maintain protected airspace surfaces free of obstructions.
Under these regulations, no person shall erect or construct any building, structure, object, or addition that exceeds the protected airspace surfaces established for the airport, commonly referred to as the Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS), including the approach, outer, and transitional surfaces.
Operation of Cranes & Lifting Devices
Any use of a crane or lifting device near the airport — including construction, renovation, drilling, site preparation, or maintenance activities — must be reviewed and approved in advance by airport management.
The airport reviews applications to assess:
- Operating height and whether it penetrates the Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS)
- Location and proximity to the airport (closer operations typically have lower allowable heights)
- Physical characteristics, including colour and lighting, to ensure visibility to aircraft
- Date and time of operation, ensuring the device can be safely identified and avoided
Following review, the airport will either:
- approve the application, or
- request additional information.
Approved applications are shared with NAV CANADA, which then advises aircraft operators of the device’s location, height, and operating details.
Application Requirements:
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Vertical Obstacles – Trees & Natural Growth
Natural growth, including trees and vegetation, may also penetrate the Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) and require mitigation.
Where natural growth exceeds permitted elevations, the Minister may direct the property owner or occupier to remove or reduce the obstruction, in accordance with North Bay Airport Zoning Regulations, C.R.C., c. 99.
For guidance related to trees or vegetation near the airport, please contact:
📞 Airport Administration: 705-474-3026
Other Obstacles
If you are unsure whether a structure, object, or activity may affect airport airspace or aircraft operations, contact the airport before proceeding.
For guidance, please contact:
📞 Airport Administration: 705-474-3026
Additional guidance may also be provided by Transport Canada.
