The Decibel Why do so many Canadian roads not have cell service?
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Dec 2, 2025 Irene Galea and Jill Mahoney, telecom experts from The Globe and Mail, dive into the issue of cellular dead zones across Canada's highways. They reveal that 13% of major roads lack coverage, highlighting geographic disparities, especially in BC and Newfoundland. The conversation explores why telecom builds have stalled, the economics of rural projects, and the challenges of relying on carrier estimates. They also discuss potential solutions, including direct-to-satellite options, and share how residents adapt to these connectivity gaps in their daily lives.
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Daily Commute With No Service
- Jen Grundy drives 45 minutes each way on Highway 72 and has no cell service for most of that trip.
- She cannot call for help after a flat, accident or wildlife strike and must hope another driver passes by.
Coverage Exists At Home But Not On Roads
- Canada has near-universal home/work coverage but large gaps on roads, with 13% of major road distance uncovered.
- That 13% equals nearly 15,000 kilometres and likely understates the true problem.
Coastal Provinces And Highways Hurt Most
- Dead zones are worst in British Columbia and Newfoundland and Labrador, with BC lacking service on 32% of major roads.
- National highways also suffer, with 21% of national highway distance not covered.