Public Domain

[Updated: 13 Jun 2023]

When a work is no longer protected by copyright, it becomes part of the public domain. Once a work is in the public domain, none of the limitations or restrictions of copyright apply to the work. Works in the public domain can be used freely.

In Canada, generally the term of copyright lasts for "the life of the author, the remainder of the calendar year in which the author dies, and a period of 70 years following the end of that calendar year" (Copyright Act, s. 6). Note that this term was increased from life plus 50 years effective 30 December 2022, without retroactive effect. Upon the expiry of the term of copyright, the work enters the public domain.

Canadian Copyright Term and Public Domain Flowchart

Opening Up Copyright Instructional Module:  Public Domain

UBC Resources on Public Domain