Ottawa Conversion Therapy Ban & Reporting Rules

Civil Rights and Equity Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Ontario

In Ottawa, Ontario, youth and families seeking clarity on conversion therapy prohibitions and how to report suspected cases should know which authorities to contact and what legal frameworks apply. This guide explains where municipal responsibility ends and where federal or provincial enforcement begins, outlines practical reporting steps, and summarizes enforcement and appeal pathways for Ottawa residents.

What the prohibition covers

Policies and criminal provisions described by higher levels of government address practices intended to change or suppress a persons sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Municipal powers in Ottawa focus on reporting, community supports and referrals to police or provincial agencies when conduct may be criminal or discriminatory.

If a youth is in immediate danger, call Ottawa Police or 911.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement responsibilities vary by the nature of the conduct. Criminal conduct is investigated and prosecuted by police and federal prosecutors; discriminatory practices may be reviewed by provincial human rights bodies. Municipal enforcement in Ottawa focuses on receiving reports and referring matters to the appropriate provincial or federal agency.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page[1].
  • Criminal penalties (where applicable): see federal criminal provisions for offences and maximum penalties; details not specified on the cited page[1].
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders, court injunctions, or other judicial remedies may apply depending on the authority handling the matter; municipal pages do not set these penalties.
  • Enforcer / contact for suspected criminal matters: Ottawa Police Service (non-emergency contact listed below)[2].
  • Appeal/review routes: criminal prosecutions can be appealed through court processes; administrative or human rights decisions follow statutory appeal routes—specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

No municipal application form is required to report suspected conversion therapy in Ottawa; reports concerning potential criminal conduct should be made to police and discrimination complaints to provincial human rights bodies. Specific forms are not published on a single Ottawa municipal page as of February 2026.

Reporting & Immediate Actions

If you suspect a youth is being subjected to conversion therapy, preserve evidence (communications, names, dates, locations), ensure the youths immediate safety, and report to police if you believe a crime has occurred. For non-criminal complaints (for example, discriminatory conduct in a service setting), consider contacting provincial human rights authorities or seeking legal advice.

Keep copies of messages, dates, and the names of those involved when you report an incident.

How the City of Ottawa helps

The Citys role is primarily to receive community concerns, provide referrals to support services and coordinate with provincial or federal authorities when required. For immediate criminal concerns contact Ottawa Police; for discrimination concerns consult provincial human rights resources.

FAQ

Does Ottawa have its own municipal bylaw banning conversion therapy?
As of February 2026 the City does not publish a standalone municipal bylaw that creates separate criminal penalties for conversion therapy; federal criminal prohibitions and provincial human rights protections are the primary legal mechanisms.
How do I report suspected conversion therapy for a youth in Ottawa?
Collect evidence, contact Ottawa Police for criminal matters, or submit a provincial human rights complaint for discriminatory treatment; provincial regulatory bodies may also receive referrals.
Are there supports for youth who experienced conversion therapy?
Yes. Community and provincial health and counselling services provide support; the City can assist with referrals to local support organizations and crisis services.

How-To

  1. Ensure immediate safety: if at risk call 911 or Ottawa Police emergency services.
  2. Gather evidence: copy messages, record dates, locations and names of witnesses.
  3. Report to Ottawa Police for potential criminal conduct; provide your evidence and request a file number.
  4. For discrimination complaints, contact the Ontario Human Rights Commission or file through provincial complaint processes.
  5. Seek support: contact local LGBTQ2S+ support organizations and provincial mental health services for counselling and advocacy.

Key Takeaways

  • Conversion therapy is addressed primarily by federal criminal law and provincial human rights protections.
  • Report suspected criminal activity to Ottawa Police and preserve evidence.
  • The City of Ottawa provides referrals and community supports but does not publish a municipal criminal bylaw on conversion therapy as of February 2026.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Government of Canada - Criminal Code (consolidated)
  2. [2] Ottawa Police Service - Contact

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