Yukon finalized the Devolution Transfer Agreement with the Government of Canada in October 2001. According to the Yukon Act that came into effect On April 1, 2003, the Government of Yukon has direct control over public lands and mineral resources.

Northwest Territories and Nunavut Mining Regulation

In the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, the Government of Canada, through Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC), is responsible for the administration of Crown lands—including mineral properties. AANDC monitors and inspects these properties to ensure compliance with legislation. It issues and administers mining titles pursuant to the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Mining Regulations under the Territorial Lands Act.

Since the release of the discussion paper “Proposed Amendments to the Northwest Territories Mining Royalty Regime in the Canada Mining Regulations” in August 1996, a number of federal departments and the Government of the Northwest Territories have been reviewing it. AANDC is still working with the Department of Justice today. The amendments are intended to simplify, clarify and modernize the Regulations rather than change the fundamental principles. For more information, contact the AANDC Public Enquiries Contact Centre.