Window Tint Violations in Ontario

The general obstruction rule

Section 73 of the Highway Traffic Act prohibits placing any non-transparent material or object on a windshield or window in a way that obstructs the driver’s view of the road, and a parallel provision covers colour coatings and tint sprays that do the same thing. Rather than setting a single darkness percentage for every window, Ontario generally applies two functional tests: the tint can’t obstruct the driver’s outward view, and it can’t substantially obscure the vehicle’s interior from someone looking in from outside. Because both tests involve some judgment, enforcement has a degree of officer discretion built in.

Front windows face a stricter standard

The windows immediately to the driver’s left and right are subject to an additional, more specific light-transmission standard separate from the general obstruction rule — commonly described as requiring at least 70% visible light transmission. Rear windows are generally treated much less strictly, reflecting that reduced visibility there has less direct effect on the driver’s own view of the road ahead.

Windshield tint and newer vehicles

For vehicles manufactured after January 1, 2017, aftermarket film is generally prohibited across the entire windshield, aside from a narrow tinted visor strip permitted at the very top, generally limited to about 75mm (3 inches) from the top edge. This specifically targets windshield tint rather than the side or rear windows, which are addressed by the rules described above.

Buying a used vehicle with existing tint

The rule applies to the vehicle on the road, not to who installed the tint or when. A driver who buys a used vehicle that already has non-compliant tint installed can still be ticketed for it, since the offence is about what’s on the vehicle at the time it’s driven, not who added it.

Reported penalties

Reported figures commonly describe a base set fine starting around $85, though actual tickets issued during targeted enforcement can be higher, and a court can impose a different amount than the set fine. Because figures vary by source and can change, the amount printed on your own ticket is the reliable number for your specific case. Some enforcement efforts have also given drivers a short window to correct non-compliant tint and provide proof, which can result in a ticket being reconsidered — though this depends on the specific police service and isn’t guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources