Posted 10/13/26
HAMILTON, ON – Hamilton City Council has approved a pilot program for a new Adequate Temperature Bylaw in Downtown Hamilton [Ward 2 only], a first-of-its-kind initiative in Ontario designed to help protect renters from unsafe indoor temperatures during periods of extreme heat.
The Adequate Temperature Bylaw is set to be piloted from June 1, 2027 to September 15, 2028.
What renters and landlords can expect
- The pilot is scheduled to begin June 1, 2027, allowing time for education and outreach before implementation.
- Landlords will be required to keep at least one habitable space in a rental unit at or below 26°C between May 15 and September 15 each year.
- The City will provide information and guidance to renters and landlords ahead of the pilot launch.
- An exemption process will be available where compliance is not feasible due to building or infrastructure limitations.
