The Alberta Energy Regulator has suspended a wide array of environmental monitoring requirements for companies in the oilsands.
The suspensions have been granted over public health concerns raised by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision, released earlier this week, affects the operations of Imperial Oil, Suncor, Syncrude and Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.
They no longer must test ground and surface water, look for leaking gases, or monitor wildlife and birds.
Air-quality programs have been sharply curtailed, along with many other conditions of the companies' licences.
Some programs are to resume by the end of September, but most have no restart date.
Alberta Energy Regulator spokesman Shawn Roth says companies must continue to collect most of the information as previously required.
He says in an email the suspensions are likely to remain in place as long as there are other COVID-related orders under the Public Health Act.

FNNND challenges Mayo Dam spillway project over treaty and fish passage concerns
First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun youth benefit as mining firms fund mayo school sports
BC man convicted of manslaughter
Hamilton Boulevard trail cleared as winter pilot project wraps up
Yukon RCMP roll out new navy-blue uniform shirts
Yukon releases final flood maps for Dawson, Klondike Valley, Upper Liard
Inquest into the death of Manui Roux to be held in Whitehorse
Yukon municipalities to receive record $30 million in funding
Yukon expands winter electricity relief for residents
Ross River Dena Council says 'no' to proposed mining on its traditional territory
LSCFN stands firm: 'No mining in the Breadbasket'
Yukon Government accepts responsibility for abuse at Jack Hulland Elementary
Whistle Bend road connector project gets $8.7M boost from federal government
Yukon Government signs deal with Alliance Health for primary care clinic
Man Missing in Whitehorse: Reuben van Klaveren Sought by RCMP
Yukon Government passes health authority act amendment amidst first nations concerns
Selkirk First Nation announces election results
Carcross/Tagish First Nation cuts community safety services amid funding shortfall
Yukon First Nations Outraged Over Clean Energy Act Repeal