Window Tint Laws in Ontario and Why They Matter?

Window tinting is one of the most common upgrades for drivers in Ontario. It improves privacy, reduces glare, protects against UV rays, and gives your vehicle a cleaner, more refined look. But before tinting your windows, it’s important to understand the laws — especially since Ontario’s tint regulations have changed multiple times over the years and are enforced differently depending on the situation.

At It’s aWrap™, we tint hundreds of vehicles every year across Mississauga, Oakville, Milton, and Burlington. Here’s a clear, updated, experience-based breakdown of Ontario’s tint laws, how they’re enforced today, and what you need to know to stay compliant.

Ontario Tint Laws: What You’re Allowed to Do

In Ontario, window tint rules fall under the Highway Traffic Act. Unlike some provinces that specify exact percentages for every window, Ontario focuses mainly on driver visibility and safety.

Here’s what the law currently states:

Front windshield

You cannot add aftermarket tint that reduces visibility. Only the manufacturer’s tint at the top (the AS-1 line) is allowed.

Front side windows

Your front windows must allow a minimum of 70% light transmission. Anything darker risks a ticket or an order to remove the tint.

Rear side windows and rear windshield

There are no specific darkness limits. These can be tinted as dark as you’d like — as long as your vehicle has functional dual side mirrors.

Reflective or mirrored tint

Strictly prohibited on all windows, including chrome or mirror-like films.

What We See in Real-World Enforcement

After installing thousands of tints, here’s what we regularly observe:

• Police focus primarily on front driver and passenger windows
• Vehicles with very dark fronts are more likely to be stopped
• Rear tints almost never lead to enforcement
• Windshield tint violations are treated seriously
• Trucks and SUVs sometimes receive slightly more leniency

We strongly recommend keeping front windows legal. It avoids unnecessary traffic stops and keeps your insurance valid if an accident investigation occurs.

Exceptions to Ontario Tint Laws

Medical exemptions

Drivers with medical conditions that require UV or light protection may apply for an exemption through the Ministry of Transportation. This allows darker-than-standard tint on front windows. You must carry the permit at all times.

Law enforcement and emergency vehicles

Police, EMS, and certain government vehicles may use darker films for operational and safety reasons. This exemption does not apply to personal vehicles.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violating Ontario’s tint laws can lead to several consequences:

• Tickets and fines (often $110–$500+)
• Orders to remove the tint
• Vehicle inspections
• Insurance complications after a collision
• Difficulty selling or transferring ownership if tint is illegal

Windshield tint violations tend to result in more severe penalties.

What We Recommend for Staying Compliant

After years of installing window tint across the GTA, here’s our professional advice:

• Keep the front windows at legal levels (light tint only)
• Avoid tinting the front windshield entirely
• Choose films with high heat rejection even at lighter shades (3M XR is excellent)
• Tint rear windows as desired
• Avoid reflective or mirrored films completely
• Apply for a medical exemption if required — do not rely on verbal explanations

Most customers choose 35%, 20%, or 15% for the rear windows while keeping front windows legal at around 70%+.

Why Proper Installation Matters

Even if your tint percentage is legal, poor installation can still cause issues. Improper film placement, bubbling, or using films darker than labelled can draw enforcement attention or fail inspections.

At It’s aWrap™, we use 3M Ceramic IR and other brand films that meet Canadian standards and provide clear documentation of film specs if needed.

Conclusion

Window tinting offers real benefits — heat reduction, UV protection, privacy, and improved appearance — but only if it’s done legally and correctly.

To stay compliant in Ontario:

• Front windows must allow at least 70% light
• Front windshields cannot be tinted beyond the factory top strip
• Rear windows can be any shade with dual side mirrors
• No reflective or mirrored films
• Medical exemptions require official documentation

If you want advice tailored to your vehicle, our team at It’s aWrap™ is here to help. We install premium 3M window tint for drivers across Mississauga, Oakville, Milton, and Burlington.

Call us at 647-894-8082 or email [email protected] to book your tint appointment or ask questions about legal limits.