Using in Canada a published work whose copyright owner remains unlocatable: document the search and request a licence
Using in Canada a published work whose copyright owner remains unlocatable: document the search and request a licence
An owner who refuses, does not reply or is hard to reach is not necessarily unlocatable. Do not use the work before licensing.
Confirm the scope
Confirm the work remains protected, was published and will be used in Canada and identify each right and possible owner separately.
Prepare the information
Conduct a reasonable diligent search with collectives, publishers, registers, archives, estates and other appropriate sources.
Complete the process
Describe the work, project, rights, copies, term and territory and upload organized proof of every search with the form.
Keep follow-up records
Await the decision, pay any set royalty and follow the licence’s term, territory, credit, distribution and other conditions.
Licence for an unlocatable copyright owner — Copyright Board