New Ontario Laws and Regulations Coming into Effect in 2025
Ontario is implementing several new laws and regulatory changes in 2025. These updates will impact childcare, healthcare, public safety, and more. Here’s a detailed overview.
Childcare Fee Caps and Facility Regulations
The Ontario government has capped daily childcare fees at $22 for families enrolled in the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care program. The funding model now shifts from revenue replacement to cost-based, ensuring adequate support for daycare operators.
Additionally, hot water temperature in childcare facilities and provincial schools will lower from 49°C to 43°C for enhanced safety.
Highway Traffic and Vehicle Inspection Changes
Drivers now need to report property damage from collisions to police only if damages exceed $5,000, up from the previous $2,000 limit.
Motor vehicle inspection stations must transition to the DriveON digital platform for safety and emissions checks by March 31, 2025, replacing the older paper-based system.
Long-Term Care Home Upgrades
All long-term care homes must have sprinkler systems installed. The compliance deadline for certain homes has been extended to July 1, 2026, with interim fire safety measures mandated.
Updates to Payday Loan Regulations
Borrowers will pay a maximum of $14 per $100 advanced under payday loan agreements. Fees for dishonored payments are capped at $20. These changes align with federal updates to the Criminal Code.
Public Health Unit Mergers
Ontario is consolidating nine health units into four to address staffing challenges and capacity issues. Newly merged agencies include:
- Brant County and Haldimand-Norfolk Health Units
- Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge, and Peterborough Health Units
- Hastings and Prince Edward Counties, Kingston, and Lanark Health Units
- Porcupine and Timiskaming Health Units
Cannabis Restrictions and Penalties
Growing or processing cannabis is now prohibited in childcare service areas. Violators will face fines of up to $1,000 for first offenses and $5,000 for subsequent violations.
Rights for Gig Workers
Gig workers on app-based platforms will earn Ontario’s minimum wage starting July 1, 2025. Employers must provide clear information about pay, tips, and work-related disputes under the Digital Platform Workers’ Rights Act.
Menstrual Product Access at Construction Sites
Construction sites employing 20 or more workers for projects lasting three months or longer must provide menstrual products onsite. Employers must also maintain sanitary washrooms and cleaning records.
New Ontario Building Code
Ontario’s updated Building Code takes effect in 2025, harmonizing with National Construction Codes and removing 1,730 technical variations. These updates aim to reduce regulatory burdens and promote housing development.
Other Key Changes
- Children’s Aid Societies: Must conduct monthly visits and create care plans for children in out-of-home placements.
- Post-Secondary Policies: Colleges and universities must implement mental health policies and address racism and hate on campuses.
- Architect Licensing: A new “Licensed Technologist” category is now available under the Architects Act.
- Master Electrician Renewals: Renewal applications no longer require recent photographs.
The changes introduced in 2025 reflect Ontario’s commitment to improving public safety, childcare access, worker rights, and infrastructure. Stay informed and ensure compliance with these updates.
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