Ontario Window Tint Laws Overview: What You Need to Know
Have you ever wondered about the laws surrounding window tinting in Ontario? Understanding the rules and regulations can be confusing, especially with so many different types of tint available.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the laws governing window tinting in Ontario, including what is allowed and what is not. Windshield – No Tint, 30% VLT Strip
Let’s begin with the windshield.
According to the Ontario Highway Safety Act, no part of the windshield can be obstructed or obscured. This means that any aftermarket tinting on the windshield is illegal.
However, a strip of tint may be applied at the top of the windshield as long as it does not extend farther than 10 cm from the top of the windshield or below the AS1 line, and the strip has a maximum visible light transmission (VLT) of 30%. Front Side Windows – No Tint, 30% VLT
The Ontario Highway Safety Act also states that front side windows must have a minimum of 70% VLT.
This means that no aftermarket tinting is allowed on these windows. However, some vehicles come with factory-installed tint, commonly known as OEM tinting.
In this case, the tinting must still allow at least 70% VLT at all times. It is important to note that police officers have the discretion to pull over and ticket drivers whose window tinting they believe obstructs their view.
Back Side Windows – Any Tint Darkness Allowed
On the other hand, any tint darkness is allowed on back side windows and rear windows. This means that drivers can choose to have their windows tinted to any darkness level, as long as they are not on the front side windows or the windshield.
Legality of Front Window Tinting
As mentioned earlier, Ontario law states that front side windows must have at least 70% VLT, which means no aftermarket tinting is allowed. However, some drivers choose to tint their front windows anyways, despite the risk of being fined by the police.
It is important to note the potential consequences of this decision. Ontario Highway Safety Act – Obscures Vision, Police Officer Discretion
The Ontario Highway Safety Act states that all drivers must have an unobstructed view of the road.
Police officers can pull over and ticket drivers who they believe have window tinting that obscures their vision. The amount of the fine will vary, but it could be up to $110 for a first offence.
Windshield – No Aftermarket Tinting, 70% VLT
As mentioned earlier, no aftermarket tinting is allowed on the windshield. However, some drivers may try to apply an illegal tint, hoping to take advantage of the fact that it is harder to see inside their car from the outside if the windshield is tinted.
Police officers can pull over and ticket drivers who have a windshield tint that obstructs their vision. The maximum fine for this offence is $110.
Front Side Windows – 70% VLT, OEM Tinting, At Own Risk
As mentioned earlier, front side windows must have at least 70% VLT. However, some vehicles come with factory-installed tint, commonly known as OEM tinting.
It is important to note that while this tinting may be legal, drivers are still responsible for ensuring that they have an unobstructed view of the road. If a driver chooses to tint their front windows further than the legal limit, they do so at their own risk.
In Conclusion
Understanding the laws surrounding window tinting in Ontario is critical to avoid being ticketed by the police. While any tint darkness is allowed on back side windows and rear windows, no aftermarket tinting is allowed on the windshield or front side windows, apart from a 30% VLT strip on the windshield.
Drivers who choose to tint their front windows beyond the legal limit do so at their own risk, and they might be ticketed by the police if they obstruct their view of the road. By following these guidelines, we can ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Back Window Tinting Regulations: All You Need to Know
Many drivers choose to have their back windows tinted for various reasons, such as privacy or to reduce the amount of heat and glare that enter the vehicle. However, it is important to understand the laws that govern tinting on the back window.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the regulations surrounding back window tinting in Ontario.
External Rear View Mirrors – Left and Right Mirrors Required
According to the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, all vehicles must have at least one external rear view mirror that shows a view of the road behind. If the rear window is tinted, then two external rear view mirrors are required- one on the left and another on the right- that show the view of the road behind and to both sides.
This is important for safety, as drivers need to have a clear view of the road around them to avoid accidents.
Ontario Traffic Law – Tinted Rear Window Requirement
Ontario traffic laws allow drivers to tint their back windows, but they must meet certain guidelines. Aftermarket window tinting cannot exceed 5% VLT, allowing 95% of outside light to pass through the window.
This is known as limo tint or blackout tint because it makes the window appear very dark from the outside. However, it is important to note that limo tint is not recommended for safety reasons, as it can make it harder to see out of the vehicle and increase the risk of an accident.
Reflective Tint – Not Allowed
Another tinting related aspect that drivers need to be aware of is reflective tint. This type of tint reflects incoming light, making it harder to see inside the vehicle.
Ontario law prohibits the use of any tinting material that is reflective. This is because reflective window tints can interfere with the vision of other drivers and make it difficult for them to see.
Side Mirrors – Required If Rear Window is Tinted
When a driver chooses to tint the back window, it is important to have properly functioning side mirrors that show the view of the road behind and around the vehicle. This is because the tinted rear window can make it difficult to see other vehicles or objects that are close to the car, leading to potential accidents.
Medical Exemptions – None
While there are no medical exemptions for tinting regulations in Ontario, drivers with certain medical conditions can apply for an exemption to install specialized tinting on their vehicle that provides some level of protection from the sun. However, the medical exemption does not allow the use of tinting that exceeds the legal limit.
Certificate Requirements – None
Ontario does not require drivers to obtain a certificate or approval from an authorized dealer or government agency to apply aftermarket tint on their vehicle, as long as it meets the legal requirements mentioned earlier. However, it is essential to ensure that the tinting material used meets the standards set by the province to prevent legal complications.
Tint Sticker Requirements – None
Unlike in some other jurisdictions, Ontario does not require drivers to place any stickers indicating that they have tinted windows. However, it is a good practice to keep a record of any tinting on your vehicle and have adequate proof to show that it is in compliance with the law.
In conclusion, understanding the regulations surrounding back window tinting in Ontario is essential for all drivers to ensure their safety and compliance with the law. Adding tinting to a vehicle may provide drivers with privacy and some level of protection against the sun, but it is essential to meet the legal requirements and maintain proper visibility on the road.
With this knowledge, drivers can make informed decisions about the type of tinting they choose for their vehicles while staying within the law. Penalties for Unlawful Car Window Tint: Know the Consequences
While getting a car window tint might seem like a stylish and practical solution for many drivers, it is vital to keep in mind that any unlawful activities can lead to serious consequences, especially when it comes to window tinting.
So, what happens if a driver is caught with an unlawful car window tint? In this article, we will discuss the penalties that come with violating Ontario’s window tinting regulations.
Fine and Additional Fees – $85-$500 fine, Surcharge and Fees
The consequences of breaking the law regarding car window tinting in Ontario can lead to various penalties. If drivers are caught violating the law surrounding window tints, they are liable to receive a ticket, which would require them to pay a fine within a specified period.
The fine ranges from $85 to $500, depending on the severity of the violation. In addition to the fine, the driver must pay a victim surcharge and court fees, which can quickly build up.
The victim surcharge is an additional fee that goes into a fund to help fight crime and support victims, and the amount varies based on the fine imposed. The court fee, on the other hand, is a fee charged by the court to process the ticket and handle the case.
It is important to note that violators might be taken to court if they do not pay the fine within the required period. If the driver fails to show up for their court appointment, the court can issue a warrant for their arrest.
Repeat Offenses and Severe Penalties
If a driver is caught breaking the law regarding window tinting repeatedly, they might face harsher consequences. Repeat offenders might be subjected to higher fines, surcharges, and court fees.
In severe cases, repeat offenders might be required to appear in court and face possible imprisonment or other significant punitive measures. Subsequent offenses can lead to an automatic license suspension or a loss of demerit points.
The duration of the suspension depends on the specifics of the violation and the number of times the offense has been committed. Drivers who accumulate these demerit points might also face higher insurance premiums, making it more challenging for them to keep their car insured, which also heightens the penalty.
In some situations, if a driver does not comply with the orders given by the police officer, they might even face additional penalties. Non-compliance with the police officer’s orders can result in additional fines or other legal troubles.
How to Avoid Penalties
Avoiding the penalties that come with violating window tinting laws in Ontario is relatively easy. The best way to avoid any trouble is to follow the guidelines set forth by the local authorities governing car window tinting.
This means that drivers should not have any aftermarket tinting on the front side windows or windshield, apart from the 30% VLT strip at the top of the windshield.
For back windows, the tinting should not exceed 5% VLT.
It must be noted that drivers should have two functioning external mirrors to maintain visibility when the windows are tinted. By adhering to these guidelines, drivers can avoid getting tickets, fines, and other consequences.
In conclusion, while many drivers install car window tinting to enhance the appearance of their vehicle and to protect themselves from harmful sun rays, it is important to keep in mind the legal requirements surrounding the matter. Breaking these laws can lead to significant penalties and other legal troubles.
It is always better to be fully informed of the laws and guidelines governing window tinting to avoid getting into trouble with law enforcement agents. In conclusion, violating Ontario’s window tinting regulations can result in penalties, including fines ranging from $85 to $500, surcharges, and court fees.
Repeat offenders may face more severe consequences, including license suspension and higher insurance premiums. It is crucial to comply with the guidelines, which prohibit aftermarket tinting on the front side windows and windshield, except for a 30% VLT strip.
Back window tinting should not exceed 5% VLT, and functioning external mirrors are required for visibility. Understanding and adhering to these laws is essential to avoid legal troubles and ensure safety on the road.