Integrated Safety and Security Group questions and answers

On this page

• Safety and security measures
• Secure zones and access control
• Accreditation
• Designated demonstration zones

Safety and security measures

What will be the security implications of holding the G7 at this location?

Planning is ongoing and the security implications are still being assessed at this time; however, we can assure you that the G7 Integrated Safety and Security Group (ISSG), led by the RCMP and in partnership with the other safety and security partners are working diligently to help ensure a safe and secure G7 Summit for everyone.

Maintaining public order and safety for both the summit participants, media and residents of the area will be the key mandate of the ISSG partners. A number of other important operational goals have already been established, including:

• Protecting heads of state, their families and G7 delegates; the public, including protesters; police officers, emergency personnel, additional personnel working in support to the G7, the environment and property;
• Supporting the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly in accordance with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (the Charter);
• Strengthening partnerships with residents, community organizations, businesses, various government agencies and other police services;
• Minimizing the environmental impact of police security operations on the surrounding communities and the environment.

What is the biggest concern for the RCMP as you plan for this Summit?

The RCMP's primary concern is ensuring the safety and security of all participants, residents, and the public. Our planning focuses on mitigating potential risks while maintaining a balanced approach to security and community impact.

What are you doing differently for this Summit vs the one held here in 2002?

Security planning evolves with each Summit to address new challenges, technologies, and global contexts. While we build on lessons learned from previous events, including the 2002 Kananaskis Summit, our current plans incorporate updated threat assessments, advanced technology, and modernized operational strategies to ensure safety and security.

How much will these security measures cost?

For security reasons, we cannot disclose costs ahead of the event. Furthermore, costs will not be finalized until after the Summit.

What are the bright lights coming from Cochrane Hill?

A Canadian Armed Forces ground-based radar has been temporarily positioned near Cochrane Hill as part of Integrated Safety and Security Group G7 Summit security measures. The bright lights are necessary for maintaining security around the site, ensuring the area is well-lit to prevent unauthorized access and to allow security personnel to monitor the surroundings effectively. These lights will remain on continuously to provide consistent security coverage. The North American Aerospace Defence Command uses a network of satellites, ground-based radar, airborne radar, and fighter aircraft to support their mission of aerospace warning and aerospace control. The site around the radar is fenced to restrict unauthorized access and ensure a safe and secure environment for the public.

Secure zones and access control

Are Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) residents able to circulate in and out of the zone freely to do daily errands outside of Kananaskis? Is there an ideal time to go through the Vehicle Screening Area/Checkpoint where the waiting time will be reduced?

Traffic circulation through the CAZ is currently difficult to determine. However, we can say that leading up to the Summit from June 10 – 15, there will be many service providers bringing in supplies for the Summit; therefore, there will be increased traffic entering the zone during this time.

Will there be police check points on Highway 742?

Yes. You can expect an increase in police presence along Highway 742.

How will traffic congestion be managed?

A coordinated traffic management plan is being developed in collaboration with local and provincial partners. It includes designated routes for deliveries, emergency access planning, and real-time traffic monitoring to reduce delays.

Is the No-Fly Zone the same as the Controlled Access Zone (CAZ)?

No, the No-Fly Zone extends beyond the CAZ during the Summit dates. The No-Fly Zone will be approximately 30-nautical miles from Kananaskis Village. For more information: Controlled access zone and air restrictions.

What if my business is outside the Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) but our business still suffers financial losses due to a lack of clientele. Will we be compensated?

If you, your business or your organization are financially impacted by the G7 Summit, you may be eligible for funding through the International Multilateral Events Program established by Global Affairs Canada. For more information: Information for residents and business owners.

Why is the Highwood Pass/Highway 40 closed between June 1 and June 20?

The temporary closure is part of the security preparations for the 2025 G7 Leaders' Summit. It allows for the safe placement and operation of a Canadian Armed Forces radar unit in the area, which is a standard measure when Canada hosts international events of this scale. The reason this area was chosen was because it was one of the best locations to place this particular radar to maximize the radar picture of the region in support of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) mission of aerospace warning and control.

Which portion of Highway 40 is affected?

A 54 kilometers segment of Highway 40 from the north gate of the Highwood Pass to the south gate will remain closed from June 1 to June 20. Specifically, the closure will extend from the junction of Highway 40 (Kananaskis Trail) with Highway 742 (Smith-Dorian Trail) south to the junction of Highway 541 and Highway 940 ("Highwood House junction").

Is the closure of the Highwood Pass (north and south gates) applicable to all traffic?

Highwood Pass/Highway 40 South will be closed to all vehicle traffic. Cyclists and pedestrians will still be able to access the Highwood Pass via the south. Cyclists will not be able to access Highwood Pass from the north. There will be increased security presence on the road and signage indicating the locations of closure points. Cyclists will be turned around at the top of Highwood Pass just north of the Ptarmigan Cirque Parking Lot and be required to head back south.

Isn't this road usually closed in the winter? Why is this year different?

Yes. This portion of Highway 40 is routinely closed during the winter and spring months and typically reopens on June 15. In 2025, it was scheduled to reopen earlier (on June 1) but will now remain closed slightly longer due to safety and security requirements related to the Summit.

What should I do if I have a campsite reservation affected by this closure?

For questions regarding campground access and any refunds, please contact Alberta Parks. Additional information is available at 2025 G7 Leaders' Summit in Kananaskis.

With the increased traffic being rerouted to Highway 742, I am concerned about additional traffic on a route that is already overused and at times, dangerously busy. What is the ISSG doing to mitigate the risk of excessive traffic on this highway?

We understand the concern about the increased traffic on Highway 742 and we will proactively try to mitigate this risk if at all possible. We have secured digital signage communicating the CAZ in advance, and we will work with our all our partners to communicate that it is best to avoid Highway 742 and Highway 40 during the time that the CAZ is in effect.

If Beaver Pond is closed June 6-20, can guests access that location?

The restrictions are in effect during the CAZ dates, so from June 10 – 18.

Why is the road near the Banff Centre being closed in mid-June?

From June 13 to 17, a section of St. Julien Road near the Banff Centre will be closed to vehicle traffic to support security operations for the G7 Summit. This is a temporary measure to help ensure the safety of Summit participants, residents, and visitors.

Will I still be able to hike Tunnel Mountain during the closure?

Yes. The Tunnel Mountain trail will remain open to hikers. However, the trailhead parking lot will be closed to vehicles during this time. Cyclists and pedestrians can still access the trail.

Can I still drive on Tunnel Mountain Drive?

Yes. Tunnel Mountain Drive will remain open.

How will I know if more closures are coming?

Any new or updated information about closures will be posted on our Controlled access zone and air restrictions page. Please check back regularly for the latest updates as we approach the Summit.

Will the CAZ affect access to the trails?

Yes, some trailheads will be closed, while others will remain open, but only up to the CAZ boundary. You can find the map and the trails and trailheads affected on the following page: Controlled access zone and air restrictions.

During the Summit, is there any frequency jamming that may occur that would disrupt the radios being used within the area?

Businesses who have specific questions about security impacts at their location are asked to contact the ISSG at 1-833-369-8833 or by email at g7_community-communaute@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Where will parking restrictions be in place in the Kananaskis Corridor, and when do they take effect?

Parking restrictions will apply to Highway 40 from the Junction of Highway 1 to the north winter closure gate at the Junction of the Kananaskis Lakes Trail. These restrictions will be in effect from 12:01 am on June 14 until 11:59 pm on June 18, 2025.

Why are these parking restrictions necessary?

The restrictions are in place to ensure the safety of internationally protected persons and summit participants, as well as to allow for the safe movement of police vehicles operating along the corridor.

Can people pull over in case of an emergency?

Yes, in emergency situations, motorists may need to pull over temporarily. Police will exercise discretion in enforcing the restrictions and will provide assistance when necessary.

Under what authority can the ISSG tow vehicles?

The ISSG is working in coordination with Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors. Parking restrictions are authorized under Section 43 of the Alberta Traffic Safety Act.

What happens if my vehicle is towed from Highway 40 and how do I get it back?

The ISSG will not issue monetary fines, however, any motorized vehicles parked in the restricted area may be subject to removal and then secured in a location where they can be safely returned to the owner at the cost of impound fees.

Police officers will make attempts to identify and contact the registered owner of a vehicle to advise that it is being towed.

Accreditation

Do you require accreditation to access Highway 742?

No accreditation is required to access Highway 742 as it is not in the Controlled Access Zone (CAZ).

Do suppliers and sub-contractors within the Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) require accreditation?

Yes, any suppliers or sub-contractors will be identified and asked to complete the accreditation process. We understand this may be difficult, so the Summit Management Office will work closely with our business partners within CAZ to ensure your suppliers and sub-contractors are identified and able to access your business.

Are there different levels of accreditation?

Yes. More information on accreditation will be provided on the Summit Management Office website.

What if I just need to drive through the CAZ to shorten my commute to my home or business?

Accreditation is only granted to those who live or work within the CAZ. Reducing travel time is not considered a valid reason to receive accreditation.

What if we lose or misplace our accreditation?

If you lose your accreditation badge, contact the Summit Management Office immediately.They will cancel your lost accreditation badge and issue you a new one.

It is very important that you report a lost accreditation badge immediately!

Designated demonstration zones

What is a designated demonstration zone (DDZ)?

A DDZ is a designated public space where individuals and groups can gather to lawfully express their views through peaceful demonstration during the 2025 G7 Leaders' Summit. These zones support the right to freedom of expression while ensuring public safety and minimizing disruption.

Why are these zones being established?

Designated demonstration zones are a proactive and standard safety measure for large international events. They help ensure that demonstrations can take place in a safe and organized manner, with appropriate supports in place for participants, nearby communities, and first responders.

Where are the DDZs located?

There are three G7 designated demonstration zones (live streamed to the restricted area where the leaders will be):

• Fenlands Recreation Centre Parking Lot - 100 Norquay Road (Banff), June 16 and 17
• Enoch Park/Victoria East – 1102 Macleod Trail S.E. (Calgary), from June 13 to June 17
• Municipal Plaza – 800 Macleod Trail S.E. (Calgary), from June 13 to June 17

And one additional designated demonstration zone:

• Edward H. LaBorde Viewing Area – 15 Street and McKnight Blvd N.E. (Calgary), from June 13 to June 17

This airport site, along with any additional locations identified based on emerging needs, will not be broadcasted at the Summit site.

Where can I find public washrooms near the Banff Designated Demonstration Zone (DDZ)?

There are 4 public washrooms near the Banff DDZ:

• Banff Train Station - 327 Railway Avenue
• Central Park - Corner of Bear Street and Buffalo Street
• Wolf Street - Corner of Wolf Street and Banff Avenue
• Bow Avenue - Corner of Wolf Street and Bow Avenue

Please note: Washrooms at the Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre will be closed on June 16 and 17.

Can I park at the Recreation Centre in Banff?

There is no vehicle access to the Recreation Centre, so the best option is the Banff Train Station Public Parking lot.

Are protests only allowed in these zones?

Peaceful protests are permitted across Canada under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The DDZs are offered as spaces where demonstrations can take place safely, with infrastructure and safety measures in place. Other gatherings must comply with local laws and public safety requirements.

What safety measures will be in place in the DDZs?

Each zone will have signage, clear perimeters, and a visible presence of law enforcement focused on public safety and de-escalation. Emergency access will be maintained at all times.

Will access to nearby businesses or parks be impacted?

Minimal impact is expected. Locations were selected to balance accessibility for demonstrators with limited disruption to local activity. If concerns arise, the ISSG Community Relations team is available to help address them and can be reached via email at g7_community-communaute@rcmp-grc.gc.ca, or by phone at 1-833-369-8833.

Can people bring signs, megaphones, or musical instruments into the DDZs?

Participants must abide by pre-established laws and bylaws for that area, which may include seeking a permit for noise amplification devices.

What happens if a protest becomes unsafe or disruptive?

Law enforcement will assess the situation and respond as necessary to protect public safety. The goal is always to facilitate peaceful expression and prevent escalation.

Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns about the DDZs?

You can contact the Integrated Safety and Security Group's Community Relations team via email at g7_community-communaute@rcmp-grc.gc.ca, or by phone at 1-833-369-8833.

Do you have any history or evidence on the effectiveness of a Designated Demonstration Zone (DDZ)? Do demonstrators use them?

Establishing a DDZ during a major event is proven to be a best practice. Having said that, it is difficult to predict the activities of protestors so we must be nimble to react as required. We are prepared for all scenarios and are working closely with our partners to engage with known demonstrators to encourage them to promote peaceful and lawful demonstrations by utilizing the DDZ. In our experience, most protestors want to get their message across in a peaceful way.

How many demonstrators are you expecting?

The expected number of demonstrators has yet to be determined. The police remain committed to ensuring that the Charter guaranteed rights and freedoms are upheld, while ensuring that police officers carry out their sworn duties. Police will assist in creating safe places for lawful advocacy, protest and dissent. Any group wishing to express their views through peaceful demonstrations is encouraged to reach out to the local police of jurisdiction.

The ISSG has a Community Relations Group that works closely with the Summits Management Office and the community. The sole purpose of this group is to reach out to partners, businesses, communities, identified protest groups and any other parties that might have some concerns about our security planning in the months leading up the Summit to address their concerns and create and maintain open dialogue.