Ontario Brings 8 Major Law Changes as 2026 Begins

Ontario will step into 2026 with a wide range of new laws and rules that will affect daily life across the province. These changes will shape how people work, hire, pay taxes, rent homes, stay safe, and manage household costs. The updates will begin on January 1, 2026, with some changes rolling out later in the year.

The provincial government aims to remove barriers, improve safety, and modernize systems that affect residents and businesses. Many of the rules will touch almost every household in Ontario, while others will mainly affect people in larger cities.

Faster Labour Movement Across Canada

Ontario will allow skilled workers from other provinces to start jobs much faster. Professionals such as doctors, engineers, electricians, and architects will be able to work in Ontario within 10 business days once regulators confirm their credentials. These workers can practise for up to six months while completing local registration.

This move will help employers fill shortages faster. Hospitals and clinics will likely feel the biggest impact, as the province works to expand health-care access.

New Income Tax Brackets for 2026

Ontario will adjust its provincial income tax brackets for 2026 to reflect annual indexing. Tax rates will stay the same, but income thresholds will rise slightly. Higher earners will still face a two-tier surtax, which increases the final tax bill once provincial tax crosses set limits.

Lower-income households will continue to benefit from tax reduction amounts that can lower or even erase provincial income tax.

Job Postings Must Show Pay Ranges

New pay transparency rules will change how employers recruit staff. Companies with 25 or more employees must include salary ranges in public job postings. The range cannot span more than $50,000, except for very high-paying roles.

Employers must also say if they use artificial intelligence to screen applicants. After interviews, employers must inform candidates of the outcome within 45 days. These rules aim to make hiring clearer and fairer for job seekers.

Stronger Fire Safety and CO Alarm Rules

New fire safety rules will expand carbon monoxide alarm requirements in homes, apartments, and condominiums. Homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages will need alarms near sleeping areas and on every floor.

Landlords must install and maintain alarms and test them yearly. Tenants must report problems when alarms fail.

Public Service Staff Return to Offices

Ontario’s public service employees will return to working five days a week in the office starting January 5, 2026. The province says the move will align public service work with wider workplace standards.

Toronto Sees Housing and Fee Changes

In Toronto, landlords of older apartment buildings without air conditioning will need to offer at least one cooled indoor space during summer months, starting June 2026.

Toronto households will also pay higher water and waste fees beginning January 2026, adding to annual living costs.

A New Chapter for Daily Life

Together, these changes show a clear shift toward mobility, transparency, and safety. While some costs will rise, the province expects smoother hiring, stronger protections, and better services in the years ahead.