New regs announced for cellphone towers

OTTAWA - The federal government is expanding the rules governing construction of new cellphone towers.

Industry Minister James Moore says wireless companies will now have to consult with communities before building new towers, no matter what the height.

But while consultation will be necessary, companies won't have to gain the approval of local residents before building a tower.

Cellphone companies will have to build their proposed towers within three years of the consultations.

Existing rules require consultations only if the towers are higher than 15 metres.

Companies are also required to piggyback on the towers of other cell providers first, if possible, before building new antennas.