Ontario
Weekly Rest and Sunday Closing
Am I entitled to a day of rest from work each week?
An employer shall give an employee a period free from the performance of work equal to, at least 24 consecutive hours in every work week; or at least 48 consecutive hours in every period of two consecutive work weeks.
Is my workplace allowed to open on Sunday?
Yes; retail establishments are permitted to open on Sundays, Easter Sunday and other holidays which fall on a Sunday remain retail business holidays.
Who determines if my workplace can be open on Sunday?
It is left to the discretion of the establishment.
Do I have to work on Sunday if requested to do so by my employer?
No, employees have the right to refuse work on Sundays.
Does my municipality (town, city, etc.) have the power to permit my workplace to open on Sunday?
Yes, with respect to other restrictions, however this discretionary power is limited to tourism areas. An appeal may be made against a tourist exemption with the Ontario Municipal board.
What legislation determines the day of rest and Sunday openings?
The Employment Standards Act and Retail Business Establishment Holidays Act provide the above regulations. The right to refuse Sunday work is provided in the Employment Standards Act.
