GUELPH, ON [June 9, 2026] – The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) welcomes the Ontario Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold key provisions of the Security from Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act, providing important clarity and certainty for Ontario’s farming community.
OFA appreciates the Government of Ontario’s commitment to working alongside farm organizations and industry partners to address longstanding concerns related to farm trespass, biosecurity and on-farm safety. The Security from Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act was introduced in response to these concerns, and the Court’s decision reinforces the importance of protecting Ontario farms, livestock, employees and the broader food production system.
Ontario farmers are committed to transparency, accountability and the responsible care of animals. The health, welfare, safety and comfort of livestock and poultry remain a top priority across Ontario’s farming sector, reflecting farmers’ dedication to responsible animal stewardship and the production of safe, high-quality food.
Farms are not only places of business. They are also family homes, workplaces and essential contributors to Ontario’s agri-food sector. Unauthorized access to farm property can create significant risks to animal health and welfare, food safety, biosecurity, employee safety and the integrity of the food supply chain. Protecting farms from these risks helps safeguard the animals in our care, supports strong biosecurity practices and maintains consumer confidence in Ontario’s food system.
OFA respects the rights of individuals to engage in lawful public discussion and debate regarding agriculture and food production. However, those rights must be balanced with the necessary respect for private property, farm safety and the measures farmers take every day to protect their animals, employees, families and operations.
The Court’s ruling reaffirms the importance of respecting private property rights while maintaining strong standards for animal welfare and food safety. It provides greater certainty for Ontario farmers and recognizes the legitimate need to protect farms and food production facilities from unauthorized access that may jeopardize biosecurity, animal welfare or public safety.
OFA remains committed to working with governments, industry partners and the public to uphold high standards of animal care, strengthen biosecurity practices and maintain public trust in Ontario agriculture.
The Ontario Federation of Agriculture represents 38,000 farm families across the province and serves as the leading advocate for Ontario’s farmers and rural communities.
For more information, contact:
Tyler Brooks
Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Ontario Federation of Agriculture
519-821-8883
[email protected]