Toronto Mayoral Election 2026: Employee Rights and Voting Information

When Is the Next Election for Mayor of Toronto?

The next Toronto mayoral election will take place on Monday, October 26, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eligible residents across the city can cast their vote for Toronto’s next mayor.

Who Can Vote in the Toronto Mayoral Election?

You’re eligible to vote in the 2026 Toronto mayoral election if you meet all of the following:

• You are a Canadian citizen
• You are at least 18 years old
• You are a resident of Toronto, or you (or your spouse) own or rent property in the city
• You are not prohibited from voting under any law

If you meet these requirements, you’re legally entitled to participate in the Toronto mayoral race.

Time Off Work to Vote in Toronto

Under Ontario’s Municipal Elections Act, all employees have the right to three consecutive hours off work during voting hours to cast their ballot.

Examples:

• Scenario 1: You work from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Since you don’t have three consecutive hours free while polls are open (10 a.m. to 8 p.m.), your employer must give you paid time off — for example, letting you leave at 5 p.m. so you can vote between 5 and 8 p.m.
• Scenario 2: You work from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You already have three consecutive hours after work (4–8 p.m.) to vote. Your employer doesn’t have to provide any additional time off.

Your employer may decide when to grant this time, but it must be paid and ensure you have the required three hours.

Can My Employer Penalize Me for Voting?

No. Your employer can’t deduct pay, withhold pay, or penalize you in any way for taking time off to vote.

If you’re fired or punished for exercising this right, you could be owed full Ontario severance pay and possibly additional compensation for reprisal.

Our experienced Toronto employment lawyers can help you understand your options and ensure you receive what you’re legally owed.

• LEARN MORE: Employee rights on various election days in Canada

How to Request Time Off to Vote

To avoid confusion, it’s best to make your time-off request in writing.

This provides a clear record of your communication and your employer’s approval.

Key Takeaways for Employees in Toronto

• 🗳️ Election Date: Monday, October 26, 2026
• 🕙 Voting Hours: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• 👥 Eligibility: Canadian citizens aged 18+ who live in or own property in Toronto
• 🕒 Paid Time Off: Three consecutive hours to vote
• 🚫 No Penalties: Employers cannot deduct pay or punish employees for voting

Learn More About Your Rights

If your employer refuses to give you time off or penalizes you for voting, contact Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.

Our Toronto employment lawyers help non-unionized employees across Ontario understand and protect their workplace rights.

Call 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.