Ontario / 02/02/2026

Six New Ontario Laws and Rules Take Effect This February 2026

February 2026 arrives with several important updates across Ontario, even though the province is not introducing any major new laws during the month.

February 2026 does not bring sweeping new laws across Ontario, but it does introduce several important deadlines and rule changes that many people must note. From court filings to taxes and city finances, these updates shape how residents, businesses, and organizations handle everyday responsibilities this month.

New Court Rules Start February 1

Ontario updates its civil court procedures on February 1, 2026. These changes affect how people file motions and appeals in civil cases. The courts now require more precise use of approved forms, including a specific format for notices of motion.

Anyone who files documents using outdated forms risks rejection or delay. This change matters most to people involved in lawsuits, appeals, or ongoing court matters in the Ontario Superior Court. Legal offices and self-represented individuals must double-check forms before filing to avoid costly mistakes.

Child Services Rules Enter Planning Stage

The province plans updates to child services rules later in 2026, but February marks an early preparation period. Organizations that work in child welfare and licensed care settings often need months to adjust policies and training.

February gives these groups time to review the updated regulation text and plan changes well before the rules take effect in July.

Trucking Penalties Return for Tax Reporting

The Canada Revenue Agency resumes penalties for trucking businesses that fail to report certain service payments. Companies must report payments over $500 made to incorporated trucking service providers.

Businesses must include these payments on T4A slips and meet the filing deadline at the end of February. Since the deadline falls on a weekend, the agency will accept filings received by March 2. Trucking companies and payroll teams must review 2025 payments now to stay compliant.

Toronto’s Budget Nears Final Approval

The City of Toronto moves closer to final approval of its 2026 budget this month. The city council plans to review the budget at a special meeting on February 10.

The budget outlines spending plans, service levels, and potential fee changes that affect residents throughout the year. Many households will watch for decisions tied to transit, housing, and local services.

Tax Filing Opens Online

Online filing for 2025 personal tax returns begins in late February. The CRA opened its digital filing systems on February 23, allowing early filers to submit returns.

Tax experts advise caution. Many people may still wait for income slips, since employers can issue T4 forms up to early March. Filing too soon may lead to later corrections.

Stronger Security for CRA Accounts

Starting in February, the CRA requires users to set up a backup security option for online accounts. This added step helps prevent lockouts during tax season. Users should log in early and complete the setup before filing deadlines approach.

January Changes Now Fully Active

Several major Ontario changes took effect on January 1 and now move into full enforcement. These include expanded carbon monoxide alarm rules, new recycling responsibilities for producers, updated job posting requirements, and revised impaired driving penalties.

February turns these rules from written policy into daily reality.

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