Fumigation Requirements
ISPM 15 & Fumigation Requirements for Canada
Wood packaging rules for Canada: ISPM 15 is required, accepted treatments, exemptions, and penalties for non-compliance.
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- North America
- ISPM 15 required
- Yes
- Marking required
- Yes
- Effective date
- 2005-02-16
Canada requires ISPM 15 treatment of wood packaging material, such as pallets and crates. Accepted treatment methods: Heat Treatment (HT), Methyl Bromide (MB) - being phased out.
Penalties for non-compliance: Treatment at port of entry, re-export, or destruction. Administrative monetary penalties up to CAD $25,000 for individuals, $50,000 for corporations.
Exemptions
- Processed wood products
- Wood packaging under 6mm thickness
- Certain personal effects
Additional requirements
- CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) enforcement
- D-98-08 directive compliance
- USMCA provisions for US/Mexico trade
Common issues
- Seasonal enforcement variations
- Cross-border trucking compliance
- Bilingual documentation requirements
Tips
- Familiarize with D-98-08 directive
- Use CFIA-approved treatment providers
- Consider bilingual (English/French) documentation
- Verify USMCA provisions for US shipments
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Frequently asked questions
What is the D-98-08 directive?
D-98-08 is CFIA's directive on solid wood packaging material imports, implementing ISPM 15 requirements in Canada. It details marking, treatment, and compliance requirements.
Is methyl bromide treatment still accepted in Canada?
While technically still accepted, methyl bromide is being phased out due to Montreal Protocol commitments. Heat treatment is strongly preferred and more commonly accepted.
Are there different requirements for Quebec vs other provinces?
Federal ISPM 15 requirements are consistent across Canada, but Quebec may require French-language documentation for provincial regulatory purposes.