Ontario Regulation 86/24, made under the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019, focuses on the regulation of special constable uniforms. Enacted on March 11, 202. The regulation sets specific standards for special constable uniforms, which must be distinct from the uniforms worn by police officers and First Nation Officers in Ontario.

One of the key requirements outlined in the regulation is that the uniforms worn by special constables must be readily distinguishable from those of police officers performing patrol duties. This distinction helps to prevent confusion among the public and law enforcement personnel. To achieve this, the regulation highlights three primary aspects. First, the uniform must be a colour that differs from police or First Nation Officer uniforms in the area where the special constable works, ensuring clear role identification. Second, special constables are required to wear pants or shorts with a light purple stripe running down the length of both legs, adding a distinctive visual element. Third, the phrase “Special Constable” or its French equivalent, such as “Constable spécial” or “CONSTABLE SPÉCIAL”, must be clearly visible on the uniform in specific areas: on the shoulder flashes and prominently on any clothing worn on the upper body, including jackets. Additionally, the regulation requires that the same labeling appear clearly on the front and back of any body armour worn by special constables.

Certain special constables are exempt from these uniform requirements. Employees of the Niagara Parks Commission are not subject to these specifications, likely due to specific operational needs within the Niagara Parks system. Additionally, special constables employed by organizations that hire police officers under another jurisdiction’s laws are also exempt.

The regulation includes a phased approach for its implementation. This delayed implementation gives special constable employers time to comply with the new uniform regulations. The specific requirement for the light purple stripe on the uniform pants or shorts has an even longer implementation period. This rule will come into effect 18 months after the later of two dates: the enactment of section 2 of Schedule 4 of the Enhancing Access to Justice Act, 2024 or the filing date of the regulation. The extended timeline allows employers sufficient time to adjust their uniform policies accordingly.

In conclusion, Ontario Regulation 86/24 establishes a detailed and clear framework for the uniforms of special constables, ensuring they are distinct from police officers and First Nation Officers. This clarity helps reduce confusion and maintain distinct roles within law enforcement. With its phased implementation and specified exemptions, the regulation provides flexibility for special constable employers while ensuring consistency in uniform standards across Ontario.

Ontario (86/24) April 6, 2024