World Heritage Sites
Join the Network
Listing a unique cultural or natural site helps ensure its protection and conservation. Canada's 18 World Heritage Sites include historical locations and both national and provincial parks.
To be considered for inclusion on the World Heritage List, your project must demonstrate the universal value of the site and establish an action plan for its protection, preservation and promotion. Parks Canada acts as Canada's liaison with the World Heritage Committee.
Geological Formation at Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
Photo: Brad Tucker / Government of Alberta
How to become a World Heritage Site
- Parks Canada compiles an inventory of sites with the potential to meet the criteria and makes these suggestions public via the "Tentative List."
- Parks Canada oversees the preparation of the nomination file for each site.
- The nomination is reviewed by the World Heritage Committee advisory bodies, which then make recommendations.
- The World Heritage Committee makes its decision.