Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has finalized amendments to the Products Containing Mercury Regulations. The amendments are now in effect, and the lamp-related phase-out dates will roll out between 2026 and 2029. Product Care shared an initial notice with lighting members last year when the amendments were first published.
Here’s a clear look at what’s changing and what lighting members may want to think about as they plan ahead.
Why these amendments were updated
These federal changes are part of a broader effort to reduce mercury releases, meet Canada’s international commitments, and phase out lamp types that now have widely available mercury-free alternatives, such as LED.
If you’re interested in how lighting technology has evolved over time, we’ve also shared a history of light bulbs in Canada that follows the transition from early lamp types to more efficient modern technologies.
Assorted used lamps and CFLs collected for recycling.
What’s being phased out
Starting January 1, 2026, several common mercury-containing lamps used for general lighting will start moving out of the market, with additional restrictions coming in later years. These include:
- Screw-base and pin-base compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs)
- Straight and non-linear fluorescent lamps
- High-pressure sodium vapour lamps
- Metal halide lamps
The transition continues over the following years. High-intensity discharge lamps enter their selling prohibition on December 31, 2028, and both high-pressure sodium vapour and metal halide lamps move out of the market starting January 1, 2029.
What isn’t affected
Some specialized lamps remain permitted because they are used in medical, dental, treatment systems, and horticultural applicationswhere replacement options are limited. These products continue to follow ECCC’s requirements. For a full list of exemptions, please refer to the federal Regulations.
Assorted used lamps and CFLs collected for recycling.
What lighting members may want to plan for
As these timelines begin to take effect, it may be helpful to:
- Review your current product offerings with the phase-out dates in mind
- Speak with suppliers about long-term availability and replacement strategies
- Identify customer groups still using mercury-containing fixtures and prepare communications
- Consider how increased demand for mercury-free lighting options may shape your ordering or inventory
Where to find full regulatory details
For full definitions, timelines, and exemption details, visit:
- Products Containing Mercury Regulations (SOR/2014-254)
- Canada Gazette amendments
- ECCC overview and infographic
Product Care does not administer mercury compliance but we share updates like this to help members plan ahead. We’ll continue sharing relevant updates as more guidance becomes available.
