Help and support

Welcome to the Knowledge Articles Page!

As you explore the platform, you may have program-related or technical questions. Please refer to the featured topics listed below for answers. If you have any general inquiries about the Regulatory Services Platform (RSP), please contact the Regulatory Innovation and Management Systems team at msr-rsm@ec.gc.ca.

IT/Technical Support

Software Bugs

I encountered an error or exception. How do I report it?
Article ID: KA-00017
If you encounter an error message or an unexpected issue while using the platform, it’s important to document the problem so that it can be resolved quickly. Take a screenshot of the error message and write down the actions you were performing when the issue occurred. Then, report the issue to the support team with this information. Including as much detail as possible helps the technical team diagnose and fix the problem faster.
There’s a broken link on the platform. How do I report it?
Article ID: KA-00018
Broken links can prevent you from accessing important parts of the platform. To report a broken link, provide the URL of the page where the link is located and describe what the link should be directing you to. You can also include any error messages you encountered when clicking the link. This information will help the team fix the issue as quickly as possible.

Performance Issues

The platform is running slow. What can I do?
Article ID: KA-00019
Slow performance can sometimes be caused by an overloaded browser or system resources. Start by clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, then close any unnecessary browser tabs or applications running in the background. Make sure your internet connection is stable. Additionally, updating your browser to the latest version can help improve performance.

Connection Issues

How do I resolve a connection error?
Article ID: KA-00021
Connection errors can often be resolved by checking your internet connection. Restart your router, try connecting from a different network, or reboot your device. If the connection issue persists despite a strong internet connection, try switching browsers or clearing your browser cache.
What should I do if the platform is offline?
Article ID: KA-00020
If the platform is offline or inaccessible, it could be due to scheduled maintenance or an unexpected outage. Try refreshing the page or checking if there are any service updates or announcements on the platform’s website.

Workstation Issues

How do I resolve issues related to third-party software like Adobe?
Article ID: KA-00023
If you encounter issues using third-party software like Adobe Acrobat for viewing or managing documents on the platform, first ensure that you have the latest version of the software installed. Also, check that the software is properly configured to handle the file types used on the platform. If issues persist, you may want to try reinstalling the software or contacting Adobe support for further troubleshooting.
Which browsers are supported by the platform?
Article ID: KA-00022
The platform is optimized for the latest versions of browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. It's important to keep your browser up to date to ensure compatibility with the platform’s features. If you experience issues, try switching to one of these supported browsers or updating your current browser to its latest version.

Sign in and GCKey Issues

What is Sign-In Partner?
Article ID: KA-00016

This is a secure way for you to sign into your online account using information you already have.

 

Sign in with your online Canadian banking information if you have an existing account with one of our partners.

What is GCKey?
Article ID: KA-00015

A GCKey lets you securely access the Government of Canada’s online services.
It includes a username and password that you choose. You also must create security questions. This keeps your data secure and lets you recover your account.

How to register for GCKey two-factor authentication
Article ID: KA-01271

Once you sign in to your account, we’ll prompt you to register for two-factor authentication. Here’s how it works.

 

Step 1: Sign in or create an account using GCKey
When you use GCKey to sign in to an account or to create a new one, we’ll prompt you to register a device or provide your email address for two-factor authentication.

Step 2: Choose a two-factor authentication method
There are 3 methods you can choose from.

 

Use your smartphone or tablet (recommended)
You need an authenticator application to use your smartphone or tablet. You can download a free authenticator application for this.

 

After you choose to register your smartphone or tablet:
    1. Using the authenticator application on your smartphone or tablet, scan the QR code or enter the secret key to generate a 6-digit passcode.
    2. On the registration page, enter the 6-digit passcode from your authenticator application.
    3. Select “Continue” to confirm your two-factor authentication method.

 

No personal information is shared between the third-party application and the Government of Canada.

 

Use your desktop or laptop
You need an authenticator application to use your desktop or laptop. You can download a free authenticator application for this.

 

After you choose to register your desktop or laptop:
    1. Using the authenticator application on your desktop or laptop, enter the secret key in the application.
    2. On the registration page, enter the 6-digit passcode from your authenticator application.
    3. Select “Continue” to confirm your two-factor authentication method.

 

No personal information is shared between the third-party application and the Government of Canada.

 

Use an email address
To use your email for two-factor authentication:
    1. Enter your email address where we ask you for it and select “Continue.” We’ll send a one-time 6-digit passcode to this email.
    2. Enter the one-time passcode where we ask you for it on the registration page.
    3. Select “Continue” to confirm your two-factor authentication method.

 

Step 3: Save your recovery codes
After you confirm your two-factor authentication method, we’ll show you 5 recovery codes. You can use these codes if you lose or damage your device, or if you delete or reinstall your authenticator app. Save them somewhere safe and accessible.

 

Once you confirm that you have safely stored your recovery codes, your registration is complete.


Each time you sign in to your account, we’ll prompt you to enter an authenticator code from the authenticator application or your email.

How to sign in using GCKey
Article ID: KA-01272

Sign in the same way every time you use a Government of Canada online account. If you have used GCKey to sign in before, ensure you sign in with the same GCKey username and password you used to register for that online account.

 

To sign in with GCKey:
    1. On the sign-in page for the account you want to use, select the GCKey button (Sign in with GCKey)
        ○ List of accounts
    2. On the Welcome to GCKey page, enter the username and password you created when you first signed up for your GCKey
    3. Select the Sign In button
    4. You may be asked to select Continue to proceed to two-factor authentication.
        ○ Two-factor authentication is a security measure that helps protect your personal information. It requires you to confirm your identity each time you use a GCKey. This helps prevent unauthorized access to your online accounts and services.
    5. On the Two-factor authentication page choose one of the authentication methods and follow the on-screen instructions.

What do I do if I lost my GCKey username or password?
Article ID: KA-01273

If you lost your GCKey password, you can create a new one.
    • Go to the sign-in page for GCKey.
    • Create a new password after you answer the password recovery questions you previously set up while registering for a GCKey.
If you lost your GCKey username, you can recover it.
    • Go to the sign-in page for GCKey.
    • Click on “Forgot your username?”
    • Enter the email associated with your account.
        ○ Your username will be sent to that email.
If you lost your email, you have to create a new GCKey. If you create a new GCKey, you can access an application by linking the application to your new account.

Errors and issues when you sign in
Article ID: KA-01274

You can use the same GCKey username and password on different computers, phones and tablets.
If you’re getting error messages:
    • Use the most recent version of a supported web browser like
        ○ Safari
        ○ Chrome
        ○ Firefox
        ○ Microsoft Edge
        If you're using Internet Explorer, update your browser to Microsoft Edge.


    • Don't use a favourite link or bookmark to pages inside the account. You must sign in to see them.
    • Use your browser's default settings. GCKey needs JavaScript and cookies enabled.
    • Update your browser if you see one of these messages when you try to sign in:
        ○ Page Can’t Be Displayed
        ○ Cannot Establish a Secure Connection
        ○ Page Not Available
    You can usually find the option to update your browser in your browser menu's settings or preferences

Other technical issues:
    • Too many attempts
       You may get a failure message if you make too many unsuccessful attempts to sign in during the same session. Close your browser window or tab and try again.
    • Experiencing technical difficulties
       The site could be down for a number of reasons, including for system maintenance. We apologize for the inconvenience. Try again later.
    • Session expired
       For security, your session will be closed if it's inactive for a certain number of minutes. Sign in again.

Get help with two-factor authentication
Article ID: KA-01275

For help with two-factor authentication only, call the GCKey Service Desk.


Canada and the United States:
1-855-438-1102
 

Text telephone (TTY/TDD):
1-855-438-1103


Outside Canada and the United States:
1-800-2318-6290
Customer service representatives are available to assist you by phone year-round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


These representatives can only help you with technical issues related to two-factor authentication. They don’t have access to your account or application information.

Program Support

Volatile Organic Compounds

VOC Phase 2 Regulations - Questions & Answers
Article ID: KA-01018

Refer to the following document for questions and answers related to the VOC Phase 2 Regulations:

VOC Phase 2 Regulations - Technical Questions & Answers.pdf

VOC Phase 2 Regulations - List of Alternative Test Methods
Article ID: KA-01024

Please refer to the following document for the list of alternative test methods under the VOC Phase 2 Regulations:

VOC Phase 2 Regulations List of Alternative Test Methods – Règlement sur les COV phase 2 Liste des méthodes d'essai de rechange.pdf

VOC Phase 2 Regulations - Instructions Annual Update (Registration)
Article ID: KA-01254

Refer to the following document for questions and answers related to the VOC Phase 2 Regulations:

Instructions - Annual Update (Registration) - Mise-à-jour annuelle (enregistrement) - 2026-03-26.pdf

VOC Phase 2 Regulations - Instructions Fenceline Monitoring Report
Article ID: KA-01255

Refer to the following document for questions and answers related to the VOC Phase 2 Regulations:

Instructions - Fenceline Monitoring Report - Rapport (surveillance du périmètre) - 2026-03-13.pdf

Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations

General information on the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations
Article ID: KA-01027

For information on the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances, 2025, please consult the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2025: overview webpage.


Information relating to exempted laboratory uses and instructions on how to submit a laboratory and research use report can be found on the Information for laboratories using certain toxic substances webpage.


Information relating to permits for the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances, 2025 is available on the Information for permit applications or renewal for the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2025 webpage.

Landfill Methane Regulations

Presentation on the Methane Generation Assessment Report
Article ID: KA-01251

Please refer to the following presentation on the Methane Generation Assessment Report. The presentation provides an overview of when an assessment is required to be submitted; how to calculate methane generation using the ECCC Landfill Methane Modelling Tool; and how to submit the Methane Generation Assessment Report in RSP.

Webinar presentation - Methane Generation Assesment Report.pdf

Technical guidance document on estimating, measuring and monitoring landfill methane
Article ID: KA-01026

Please refer to the following technical reference on estimating, measuring and monitoring landfill methane generation and emissions. This document includes information on modelling and monitoring requirements prescribed in the Regulations.

Technical guidance document landfill methane 2025.pdf

ECCC landfill methane modelling tool and guidance slides
Article ID: KA-01034

Please refer to the following excel based ECCC Landfill Methane Modelling Tool to calculate landfill methane generation. A PDF map of wet and dry climate zones across Canada is also provided to help users identify the appropriate climate zone input into the Modelling Tool. Guidance on the use of the ECCC Landfill Methane Modelling Tool is available here.

ECCC Landfill Methane Modelling Tool Version 1.3.xlsx

Climate zones climatiques

ECCC Landfill Methane Modelling Tool Version 1.3 – Guidance Slides.pdf

Migratory Game Bird Hunting (MGBH) Permit

Need help?
Article ID: KA-01270

For support with purchasing a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit, contact the MGBH Permitting Team:

1-855-869-8670
CWSPermit.PermisSCF@ec.gc.ca

User Support

User Manuals

Regulatory Services Platform User Manual - Accessing the Platform
Article ID: KA-01252

Step-by-step instructions on how to access the RSP, sign-in or create an account.

Regulatory Services Platform User Manual - Accessing the Platform.pdf

Regulatory Services Platform User Manual - Organization Setup and User Roles
Article ID: KA-01253

Joining, creating and managing an organization, adding a regulatory instrument and more.

Regulatory Services Platform User Manual - Organization Setup and User Roles.pdf