Architects intending to provide architectural services in Nunavut or Yukon should be aware of the following:
- Nunavut and Yukon currently do not have an Architects Act or similar legislation, and
- NWTAA does not have jurisdiction outside of the Northwest Territories.
It is generally interpreted that a person must be registered/licensed as an authorized practitioner in a jurisdiction within Canada in order to provide architectural services in Nunavut and Yukon. There is no specific requirement for a person to be registered with NWTAA in this regard.
Practicing in Yukon
Questions related to the practice of architecture in Yukon Territory should be forwarded to the Yukon Government's Department of Highways and Public Works.
Examples of relevant legislation include the following:
- Yukon's Building Standards Regulations (Building Standards Act) notes that an inspector may require that "work be carried out under the supervision of an architect or professional engineer lawfully authorized to practice in the Yukon." [s.5(1)]
- Yukon's Engineering Profession Act lists an exemption from its Scope of Practice for "a person engaged in the practice of architecture who is registered as an architect under the Act of any province." [s.2(4)(e)]
Practicing in Nunavut
Questions related to the practice of architecture in Nunavut should be forwarded to the Nunavut Government's Department of Community and Government Services.
Examples of relevant legislation include the following:
- Nunavut's Building Code Act defines an architect as "a person who is authorized to practise as an architect in a province or territory." [s.1(1)]
- Nunavut's Condominium Act similarly defines an architect as "a person who is authorized to practise as an architect in a province." [s.6(1)]
- Nunavut's Engineers and Geoscientists Act lists an exemption for "a person practising as an architect, if his or her practice is confined to architecture." [s.3(5)(a)]
DISCLAIMER: This summary does not constitute legal advice or a formal review of legislation in Yukon and Nunavut. It is strongly recommended that persons intending to provide architectural services in Yukon or Nunavut first contact the respective government authority for clarification on the requirements in that territory.
