Policing Services

Policing Standards

Under the Police Services Act (the Act), the Policing Standards Section of the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services develops regulations and guidelines designed to:

• ensure adequate and effective police service across Ontario;
• support the implementation of professional police practices; and
• address a broad range of issues to assist police in protecting public safety and preventing crime.

The Policing Standards Manual (2000) and accompanying guidelines are used by the ministry to help meet administrative requirements set out in section 3(2) of the Act. The guidelines:

• state the ministry’s position in relation to policy matters;
• provide information and advice respecting the management and operation of police services;
• provide recommendations for local policies, procedures and programs;
• promote co-ordination in the delivery of police services;
• promote the delivery of community-oriented police services; and
• promote professional police practices, standards and training.

Policing agencies and municipalities use the guidelines as primary tools to assist with their understanding and implementation of the Police Services Act and its regulations, including the Regulation on the Adequacy and Effectiveness of Police Services.

The Policing Standards Section also conducts research and provides guidance on such policing issues as use of force, pursuits, hate/bias-motivated crime, offenses involving firearms and bail procedures in cases involving violent crime.