Behind on Your Hydro or Gas Bill? The Winter Disconnection Ban

The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) sets rules that electricity utilities, such as your local hydro company, and natural gas utilities must follow.

The winter ban

Licensed electricity utilities and rate-regulated natural gas utilities can't disconnect homes for non-payment between November 15 and April 30. The debt doesn't go away, and late payment charges can still apply, so keep in touch with your utility.

If you live in a building with a unit sub-meter provider, the winter ban may not apply. Check your provider's policy.

Scam warning

If someone claiming to be from your utility threatens to cut off your power during the winter ban, hang up and call the number on your bill.

Before disconnection

Outside the winter ban, utilities must follow rules before disconnecting, including giving written notice.

Payment plans

You can ask your utility for an arrears payment agreement to pay what you owe over time.

Help with your bills

• Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP): an ongoing monthly credit for eligible lower-income households.
• Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP): emergency help with overdue bills, if you qualify.

Security deposits

Utilities may ask some customers for a security deposit, but the rules limit when and how much.

Tenants

If your landlord is supposed to supply electricity or heat under your lease and doesn't, that may be a vital services issue. Contact your municipality and the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Complaints

If you can't resolve a problem with your utility, you can complain to the Ontario Energy Board.

Sources

• Ontario Energy Board: winter disconnection ban
• Ontario Energy Board: help with your bill
• Ontario Electricity Support Program

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General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: A snowy neighbourhood street in Toronto · Papers marked paid and due beside a calculator.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.