Understanding the Impact of Bill 10 on Security Services in Ontario (and Across Canada)

Updated on - Info, Laws & Regulations

On June 5, 2025, Ontario passed Bill 10: Protect Ontario Through Safer Streets and Stronger Communities Act — legislation designed to combat the rising concerns around illegal drug activity in both public and private spaces.

While much of the focus is on property owners and event operators such as nightclubs, arenas, and entertainment venues, the ripple effects will be strongly felt by the private security industry.

Security guards and security companies operating in Ontario — and those working in similar high-risk environments across Canada — must prepare for higher expectations, higher standards, and higher scrutiny.

Looking to strengthen your drug detection and reporting skills? View our Ontario-accredited Security Guard Training programs.

What Bill 10 Changes

Specifically, Schedule 8 targets drug production and trafficking on commercial and residential properties. The law places direct criminal liability on landlords and property owners who knowingly allow illegal drug activities to occur.

Penalties include:

  • Up to $250,000 in fines for individuals
  • Up to $1,000,000 for corporations
  • Possible jail time

Importantly:
➡️ Security guards are not directly liable under Bill 10
But…
➡️ Their actions or inaction may influence whether a client ends up facing charges

This creates a significant shift in what clients expect from security personnel.

Why This Matters for Security Guards

Security is often a client’s primary evidence that “reasonable measures” were taken to prevent criminal activity. Under Bill 10, that now includes:

✔️ Proactively identifying signs of drug use or trafficking
✔️ Taking safe and decisive steps to stop illegal activity
✔️ Reporting quickly to management and law enforcement
✔️ Writing detailed and accurate documentation of all incidents

Even if guards aren’t fined or charged, poor performance could lead to catastrophic liability for their employer or clients.

And because Bill 10 does not clearly define “reasonable measures,” security companies must over-deliver, not guess.

Real-World Examples for Event & Venue Security

These scenarios demonstrate heightened expectations:

Music Festival — drug use observed

  • Intervene and direct individuals to stop or leave
  • Report immediately to management and police
  • Complete a detailed incident report (who, what, when, where, actions taken)

Learn safe intervention strategies in our Loss Prevention and Event Security courses.

Sporting Event — suspected drug trafficking

  • Maintain distance, observe safely, gather descriptions
  • Notify police right away
  • Document observations clearly and fully

Backstage — drug use by workers or performers

  • Promptly alert management and law enforcement
  • Collect and preserve evidence when appropriate
  • Document, document, document

Across Canada, any sites with high crowd density and alcohol/entertainment environments should anticipate similar client expectations.

What Security Companies Must Do Now

To remain compliant and competitive, companies should:

🔹 Update contracts — explicitly define drug-related responsibilities
🔹 Strengthen SOPs — especially around intervention thresholds & documentation
🔹 Implement specialized training — guard competencies must improve
🔹 Conduct regular operational risk audits
🔹 Build strong communication with police partners

Private security organizations outside Ontario would also be wise to monitor this legislation, as similar laws are likely to emerge nationally.

What Security Guards Can Do To Prepare

Security professionals working in event, entertainment, hospitality, or multi-residential settings should:

✅ Upgrade skills in drug recognition and situational awareness
✅ Improve communication and reporting accuracy
✅ Learn legal responsibilities and safe intervention practices
✅ Stay current — legislation and expectations continue to evolve

Guards must understand:
Your presence is now part of your client’s legal defense strategy.

Final Thoughts

Bill 10 sends a clear message:

➡️ Property owners must act to prevent illegal drug activities
➡️ Security professionals are on the front line of that responsibility

While the legislation applies to Ontario, the implications are far-reaching across Canada’s private security landscape. The industry will play an essential role in:

✔️ Reducing drug-related harm
✔️ Protecting client organizations from legal exposure
✔️ Creating safer communities for everyone

Adapting now ensures not just compliance — but leadership in a rapidly changing public safety environment.

Last Updated on Nov 4, 2025

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