Speed Limit Initiative
Regulation Number(s):
O. Reg. 619
Instrument Type:
Regulation - Minister
Bill or Act:
Highway Traffic Act
Summary of Proposal:
The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is seeking approval to increase the posted speed limit to 110 km/h on provincial highways with a current posted speed limit of 100 km/h, subject to public safety considerations.
MTO is proposing to commence implementation in Spring 2022, beginning with sections of provincial highways that have been carefully selected for their ability to safely accommodate an increased posted speed limit of 110 km/h. This includes 6 (six) sections in Southern Ontario and two (2) trial sections in Northern Ontario (see map).
This initial phase is planned to be followed by broader speed limit increase at appropriate sections of provincial highways in summer 2023 and beyond, after careful review and subject to public safety considerations.
The intent of this initiative is to align posted speeds on highways with the way motorists currently drive. MTO plans to continue monitoring all sections where an increased posted speed limit of 110 km/h is implemented, to better inform and support implementation of the broader speed limit increase in a safe manner.
Previously, in September 2019, the province launched a pilot that increased the posted speed limit from 100 km/h to 110 km/h on three sections of provincial highways:
• QEW from Hamilton to St. Catharines (32 km)
• Highway 402 from London to Sarnia (90 km)
• Highway 417 from Ottawa to the Ontario / Quebec Border (102 km)
For details on the ministry's proposed changes to Ontario Regulation 619: Speed Limits, please see the attached map.
MTO is soliciting public comment on this proposed regulation amendment. We invite you to submit comments on these proposed changes for MTO consideration.
Analysis of Regulatory Impact:
There are no compliance costs or administrative costs to any of the stakeholders (i.e. business, not for profit and broader public sector) as a result of the proposed regulatory amendment to HTA.
There are no costs to municipalities, including municipal police services, in learning and enforcing the proposed speed limit increases.
This item is not contentious, and it is expected that it will be viewed positively by most road users. In general, improvements to travel time on Ontario highways can have a positive impact to Ontario's economy.
Further Information:
Proposal Number:
22-MTO001
Posting Date:
March 29, 2022
Comments Due Date:
April 7, 2022
Contact Address:
Garden City Tower, 301 St. Paul Street, 2nd Floor, St. Catharines, Ontario, L2R 7R4