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Guide
Ontario prohibits driving with a speed-measuring warning device in or on a vehicle. The rule applies whether the detector is switched on or off.
Section 79 of the Highway Traffic Act defines a speed-measuring warning device to include equipment intended to warn a driver about speed-measuring equipment. It bars driving a vehicle that is equipped with, carries or contains one.
The rule regulates carrying the device in a vehicle, not only whether it is actively detecting a signal. The statute also gives police power to search a vehicle on reasonable grounds and seize a device.
Leave the detector out of the vehicle before entering Ontario; do not rely on powering it off or putting it away. Check the current provincial statute if your circumstances are unusual.
Radar detectors are permitted for personal vehicles only in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan; Saskatchewan prohibits them in commercial vehicles. Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador and the territories prohibit detectors.
A detector cannot authorize speeding or guarantee an alert before enforcement. Follow posted limits and drive to conditions wherever you travel.
Common questions
Yes. Ontario prohibits driving on a highway in a vehicle equipped with, carrying or containing a speed-measuring warning device.
No. The rule covers having it in or on the vehicle; it does not exempt a switched-off detector.
Section 79 permits a search and seizure on reasonable grounds. A device involved in a conviction is forfeited to the Crown.
Only in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan prohibits them in commercial vehicles.
Keep exploring
Uniden’s range spans directional dual-antenna models and GPS-equipped options. Match features to your needs and confirm detector use is permitted on your route.
Escort’s lineup ranges from straightforward portable units to connected directional detectors and a dash-cam combination. Match features to your drive and verify legality before purchase.
Cobra’s RAD range varies from straightforward detection to connected alerts and GPS-based features. Compare the exact model and verify local legality.
A radar detector alerts you to certain active radar signals; it does not guarantee advance warning or make speeding safe. Start by checking local law, then compare portability, filtering and GPS features.