The City of St. John’s is committed to helping residents protect their homes and families from radon, a naturally occurring gas that can pose serious health risks.

In November 2024, the City participated in Health Canada’s Take Action on Radon Program. About 345 radon test kits were distributed, and 278 homes completed testing over the winter. Results show that roughly 10% of tested homes exceeded Health Canada’s radon guideline of 200 Bq/m³—an important reminder that the only way to know your home’s radon level is to test.

The City of St. John’s is once again offering free radon test kits to St. John’s residents. There are approximately 250 radon test kits available, 50 per ward. To request a kit, residents must register online. Registration will open on Wednesday, November 26 at 4 p.m. on a first-come, first-serve basis.

To check which ward you live in, use our Ward Look Up. ID with proof of residency will be required.

Once registered, participants will be notified when kits are ready for pickup in December at the following ward locations:

• Ward 1: Paul Reynolds Community Centre: 35 Carrick Drive (daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
• Ward 2: City Hall (Access Centre): 10 New Gower Street (Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Ward 3: H.G.R. Mews Community Centre: 60 Blackler Avenue (daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
• Ward 4: Kenmount Terrace Community Centre: 85 Messenger Drive (Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
• Ward 5: Southlands Community Centre: 40 Teakwood Drive (Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

Registered participants will also receive an invitation to a free radon information session via Zoom. The session will cover the health effects of radon, why testing matters, and Health Canada’s recommendations.

What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that enters homes through contact with the ground. When radon builds up to elevated levels, exposure can increase the risk of developing lung cancer. The only way to determine radon levels is through testing.