The Northwest Territories (NWT) has officially ended seasonal time change.

The NWT’s new permanent time standard, known as Northwest Territories Time (UTC-06:00), will be observed year-round. On November 1, 2026, when clocks would normally be turned back by one hour, no time change will occur in the NWT. We now share a common time with both Alberta and Saskatchewan.

This change responds to public feedback gathered in 2022. More than 3,500 NWT residents participated in an online survey, and over 87 per cent supported ending the practice of changing clocks twice a year. Respondents most commonly expressed a preference for maintaining Mountain Daylight Time year-round, which is what this change accomplishes.

The authority to establish a permanent territorial time standard was created through amendments to the Interpretation Act in 2022. Following coordination with neighbouring jurisdictions and necessary regulatory and technical preparations, regulations establishing Northwest Territories Time came into force on August 21, 2026.

For most residents, the transition will be simple. Devices running the latest software version, including many smartphones, computers, and other connected devices, are expected to receive the time zone update once it is released by system providers. Some older devices and computers running Windows operating systems will require a manual update. The GNWT continues to work with partners to support a smooth transition ahead of the change.

To learn more about Northwest Territories Time, including a list of devices that will require a manual update, visit GNWT.ca/time.

Quote

“Ending seasonal time change gives residents what they’ve asked us for. Through various feedback and engagement opportunities, residents expressed support for eliminating the practice of changing clocks twice a year. This change provides greater consistency for people, families, organizations, and businesses across the territory.”

- R.J. Simpson, Premier of the Northwest Territories

Quick facts

• Seasonal time change will end on November 1, 2026.  After this point, the Northwest Territories will observe Northwest Territories Time (UTC-06:00) year-round.
• The NWT is making this change alongside Alberta so residents, businesses, and organizations can continue operating in the same time zone as our southern neighbour and key economic and health system partner.
• Public engagement conducted by the GNWT in 2022 showed strong support for ending seasonal time changes and a preference for maintaining Mountain Daylight Time.

Related links

• Northwest Territories Time
• Seasonal Time Change Public Engagement – What We Heard Report

For media requests, please contact:
Justice Communications
Department of Justice
Government of the Northwest Territories
Email: Justice_Communications@gov.nt.ca