The Check Mark
Learn more about our updated Clearance Services Check Mark.
Advertising Preclearance
Ad Standards has been providing advertising preclearance for the Canadian industry for over 30 years, beginning with the review of broadcast advertising to children in 1972. As additional categories of broadcast advertising were identified for review, Ad Standards expanded its preclearance service at the request of both industry and government. Today, Ad Standards Clearance Services is Canada’s leading not-for-profit preclearance body delivering a fee-based, objective and independent advertising copy review and advisory service for industry. Preclearance services are available in six categories:
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Children’s Advertising
- Cosmetics
- Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- Responsible Advertising of Foods & Beverages to Children (new!)
- Health Products
Advertising submitted for review under the Code for the Responsible Advertising of Food & Beverage to Children can only be submitted on our new portal.
For all other categories:
Please note that we have adjusted the rates for some of our preclearance categories, effective February 5, 2024. View the new rates
Email clearance@adstandards.ca with any questions.
Ad Standards Clearance Services analysts provide expertise across all six areas providing advertisers with the confidence that their advertising messages comply with applicable sectoral legislation, regulations, codes and guidelines.
At the request of industry, Ad Standards has developed a logo that may be affixed to advertising materials that have been reviewed by and received approval from Ad Standards Clearance Services. The logo may be used in all forms of media provided that the advertisement was reviewed and approved by Ad Standards in its final, as-produced form. This helps build consumer confidence by communicating that your advertising is compliant with all pertinent regulations in Canada. Contact clearance@adstandards.ca to learn more.
Through a proactive education and outreach program, Ad Standards Clearance is dedicated to keeping the industry informed of regulatory and legislative trends through workshops, custom consultations and seminars for advertisers, agencies and other members. View upcoming events.