Although MURS frequencies are well-defined and license-free in the United States, their use in Canada is subject to restrictions.
Below is a detailed table of the MURS frequency list, along with notes on their status and restrictions under Canadian regulations.
MURS Frequencies and Canadian Restrictions
| Frequency (MHz) | Status in Canada | Typical Use in Canada | Notes on Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 151.820 MHz | Restricted | Licensed for industrial and business use | This frequency is allocated for licensed commercial services and is not available for unlicensed use. |
| 151.880 MHz | Restricted | Licensed for industrial and business use | Usage requires a license in Canada due to its allocation for business communication systems. |
| 151.940 MHz | Restricted | Licensed for industrial and business use | Interference with licensed users may occur if used without authorization. |
| 154.570 MHz | Partially Restricted | General Radio Service (GRS) or business use | Often licensed for specific industries like retail and logistics. Unlicensed use is not permitted. |
| 154.600 MHz | Partially Restricted | General Radio Service (GRS) or business use | Shared with licensed services; requires compliance with ISED regulations for authorized operation. |
Key Notes on MURS Frequencies in Canada
Industrial and Business Allocations:
- The first three MURS frequencies (151.820 MHz, 151.880 MHz, and 151.940 MHz) are allocated to industrial and commercial users in Canada. Using these frequencies without proper licensing is not allowed and may result in interference or fines.
General Radio Service (GRS) Overlap:
- The last two frequencies (154.570 MHz and 154.600 MHz) are part of the General Radio Service (GRS) in Canada. These channels are often used by businesses but are licensed and not available for unregulated, license-free use.
Power and Equipment Restrictions:
- Even if you own a MURS radio, its power and antenna configurations may not meet Canadian standards. Radios must comply with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) requirements for certified equipment.
Alternatives for MURS Users in Canada
If you are seeking similar capabilities to MURS radios but need a legal, license-free solution, consider these options:
- FRS Radios: Fully legal and license-free, FRS radios operate on UHF frequencies and provide short-range communication for personal and business use. What’s the difference between FRS and MURS?
- Licensed GMRS Radios: GMRS radios offer greater range and power but require a license to operate in Canada.
- CB Radios: These are license-free in Canada and operate on HF frequencies, making them a good option for longer-range vehicle-to-vehicle communication.
Summary
MURS radios are a practical tool in the U.S., but their use in Canada is heavily restricted due to different spectrum allocations. The frequencies are assigned to licensed commercial and industrial users, making unlicensed operation illegal.
We recommend checking with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) for guidance on radio use, and consider alternative radio options that comply with Canadian regulations.
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