Operations Authorization (ISR)

Purpose of the Operations Authorization

The purpose of the Operations Authorization (OA) is to ensure that the Proponent has the necessary plans and competencies in place to carry out the work or activity that has been proposed. The OA is intended to promote the safety of workers and the public, the protection of the natural environment, and the conservation of oil and gas resources.

Overview of the Operations Authorization

The authority to issue an OA is provided by section 6 of the (NWT) Oil and Gas Drilling and Production Regulations (OGDPR). OAs are issued for exploratory, drilling and production activities; however, the authorization is more detailed for production activities.

Process Milestones

The Operations Authorization process consists of three milestones. A “milestone” is a major step in a process that involves a key action taken or decision made. Each milestone, in practice, consists of one or more “steps” which describe the mechanics of how the authorization is processed. 

Milestone 1 - Application submitted

Milestone 1 consists of the following step:

  • Step 1 – Application for  Operations Authorization is submitted by Proponent to the National Energy Board (NEB)

Milestone 2 - Authorization determination

Milestone 2 consists of the following 2 steps:

  • Step 2 – NEB considers the application and conducts a technical review
  • Step 3 – The Proponent responds to information requests (if necessary)

Milestone 3 - Authorization issued

Milestone 3 consists of the following 3 steps:

  • Step 4 – NEB determines whether application is approved; ITI Minister approves OA under OGOA
  • Step 5 – (if not approved) Proponent may revise and resubmit application
  • Step 6 – (if approved) Letter of Authorization (with terms and conditions) is issued by NEB

In addition, this milestone is influenced by one external activity (which occur immediately prior to Step 4):

  • If the Operations Authorization is for exploration activities, confirmation that a Benefits Plan has been approved, or the requirement waived, is required.
Mis à jour: 29 mai 2026