On February 2, 2026, the Town of Whitby, Ontario, officially changed its rules to allow members of the public to record audio and video during council and committee meetings. This decision ensures that residents can now use their own devices to document local government discussions and their own presentations.
The policy change was prompted by a legal warning from the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms. The organization represented resident Jeanette Miller, who was previously stopped from recording her own input at a public meeting.
The legal group argued that the town’s ban on recording violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Specifically, they noted that preventing people from recording public meetings interfered with their right to freedom of expression.
Mayor Elizabeth Roy acknowledged the situation and confirmed the town would update its official meeting rules. By removing the ban, the council has aligned its local policies with constitutional standards that protect the rights of citizens.
This move is intended to make local government more open for everyone in the community. Residents now have a clear right to record any public council proceeding to keep an accurate record of how decisions are made in their town.
