Canadian Heraldic Authority
Rideau Hall, seat of the Authority
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| Abbreviation | CHA |
|---|---|
| Motto |
Honorantur patriam honorantes Latin: Let us honour those who honour our country |
| Formation | June 4, 1988 |
| Purpose | Administration of Canadian heraldic honours |
| Headquarters | Rideau Hall, Ottawa |
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Region served
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Canada |
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Official language
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English, French |
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Chief Herald
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Claire Boudreau |
| Website | Canadian Heraldic Authority |
The Canadian Heraldic Authority (CHA; French: L'Autorité héraldique du Canada) is part of the Canadian honours system under the Canadian monarch, whose authority is exercised by the Governor General of Canada. The authority is responsible for the creation and granting of new coats of arms (armorial bearings), flags, and badges for Canadian citizens, government agencies, municipal, civic and other corporate bodies. The authority also registers existing armorial bearings granted by other recognized heraldic authorities, approves military badges, flags, and other insignia of the Canadian Forces, and provides information on heraldic practices.
The CHA is the Canadian counterpart of the College of Arms in London, Court of the Lord Lyon in Scotland, and the Office of the Chief Herald of Ireland in the Republic of Ireland and is well known for its innovative designs, many incorporating First Nations symbolism.
Prior to the creation of the Canadian Heraldic Authority, Canadians wishing to obtain a legally granted coat of arms had to apply to one of the two heraldic offices in the United Kingdom: either the College of Arms in London or the Court of the Lord Lyon in Edinburgh. This process was quite lengthy—and costly. In addition, the heralds of the College of Arms and the Court of the Lord Lyon could sometimes be unfamiliar with Canadian history and symbols. In time, many Canadians with an interest in heraldry began calling for an office which would offer armorial bearings designed by and for Canadians.
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