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Operating farm equipment in the Canadian territories

Operating farm equipment in the Canadian territories
May 05, 2026
By Diego Flammini
Assistant Editor, North American Content, Farms.com

Licenses aren’t required on private property

Farms.com’s final look at insurance and licensing requirements for ag equipment takes readers up to the Canadian north with the three territories.

 

Yukon

Northwest Territories

Nunavut

Is a license required?

Not on private land.

 

A Class 5 license is typically needed for operation on public roads.

Not on private land.

 

A Class 5 license is typically needed for operation on public roads.

Not on private land, but a Class 5 license is typically needed for operation on public roads.

Is insurance mandatory?

Not mandatory but highly recommended to protect assets and secure financing from lenders like Farm Credit Canada.

 

This guideline is like those in other jurisdictions like Ontario and Alberta.

Not required legally but like in Nova Scotia insurance is recommended to protect against liability and damages.

 

In addition, proof of insurance can be a prerequisite for financing from lenders like CanaWealth Capital Corp.

Not mandated by law but like other places in Canada is highly recommended to protect oneself and assets.

 

Additionally, Farm Credit Canada and most major banks require proof of insurance to secure financing.

Trusted insurance providers

Insurance providers like Co-operators can help farmers come up with individualized plans appropriate for their farms.

 

In addition, Yukon has an insurance registry to check if a company or professional is licensed.

BFL CANADA and other insurance providers can help NWT farmers develop comprehensive plans that are unique to the farm’s needs.

Nation North and HUB International can support farmers with targeted insurance needs.

Additional notes

Law states no one under 16 can operate farm equipment on a public road.

A permit may be required from the Department of Infrastructure if the equipment is especially wide.

 

 


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