After the “spring forward” time change on March 8, most of British Columbia (BC) will remain on UTC−7 year-round, eliminating the next scheduled “fall back” change on November 1. The change does not apply to some eastern parts of the province that currently observe Mountain Standard Time (MST).
BC clock change in detailPush to End Clock Changes
Several Canadian provinces—including British Columbia, Ontario, and Alberta—have introduced legislation or expressed support for ending seasonal clock changes in recent years.
BC introduced a legislative amendment in 2019 to stay on permanent DST.
On March 2, 2026, BC announced it will stay on permanent DST. After the clock change on March 8, 2026, much of the province will remain on UTC−7 year-round, with no return to standard time in November.
This decision isn‘t just about clocks. It’s about making life easier for families, reducing disruptions for businesses and supporting a stable, thriving economy. I am hopeful that our American neighbours will soon join us in ending disruptive time changes.
BC Premier David Eby
news.gov.bc.ca
New Time Zone
Although often described as permanent Daylight Saving Time, the change would legally establish a new “Pacific Time” zone set at UTC−7. This is the same offset currently used by BC during DST.
“We have heard the overwhelming majority of people in B.C. who want to end the back-and-forth of seasonal time changes,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General.
“This shift offers more stability, supports public well-being and reduces twice-yearly, unnecessary disruptions to the routines of parents, shift workers, small businesses, pet owners and so many more. I look forward to all of us enjoying an extra hour of sunlight after work and school for many winters to come.”
The Province of British Columbia also states that “Recent actions from the US have shifted how BC approaches decisions that merit alignment, including on time zones. Making this change now reflects the current preferences and needs of British Columbians, and helps ensure the province is well-positioned to thrive, even when circumstances across the border evolve.”
DST in Canada
Most people living in Canada will set their clocks forward one hour from 02:00 (2 am) to 03:00 (3 am) local time on March 8, 2026.
Standard time, also known as winter time, will resume on Sunday, November 1, 2026, for provinces and terrirores following DST.
Canada clock change in detailMost of the United States will also begin DST on the same date.
History of DST
Germany and Austria were among the first countries to adopt DST nationally in 1916, but a Canadian city did it earlier: On July 1, 1908, Port Arthur, Ontario—today part of Thunder Bay—set clocks forward one hour, marking the world’s first DST period.
Frequently Asked DST Questions
What is DST?
Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of setting the clocks forward during part of the year to make better use of natural daylight. Changing the clocks does not create extra daylight, but it shifts civil time in relation to solar time. In other words, sunrise and sunset happen an hour later, on the clock, when DST is in effect.
Is Summer Time the Same as DST?
Saying “summer time” instead of Daylight Saving Time (DST) is common in many countries, especially in the United Kingdom. The term winter time is sometimes used instead of standard time, which is the official name for the period without DST.
Is DST bad for your health?
Daylight Saving Time (DST) can mess with our body clock and trigger underlying health issues. This time change can cause disruptions to our body clock, otherwise known as the circadian rhythm.