British Columbia Adopts Permanent Daylight Saving Time, With Exceptions for Some Regions

British Columbia is set to end the practice of changing clocks twice a year, permanently adopting Daylight Saving Time (DST) starting March 9, 2026. However, certain regions, particularly in the East Kootenay and Golden areas, will continue to observe seasonal time changes in alignment with Alberta.

Permanent DST for Most of B.C.

Premier David Eby announced on March 2, 2026, that the province will remain on summer time year-round, effectively abolishing the biannual clock changes. The new time zone will be seven hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-7) and will be known as Pacific Time.

East Kootenay and Golden Regions Remain Aligned with Alberta

The East Kootenay region, including communities like Kimberley and Creston, and the Golden region, will continue to switch between Mountain Standard Time (UTC-7) in the winter and Mountain Daylight Time (UTC-6) in the summer, mirroring Alberta’s timekeeping practices. This decision ensures these communities remain synchronized with their Albertan neighbors.

Local Government Autonomy

The provincial government has affirmed that local governments retain the authority to determine their own time zones. This means other regional districts and city councils can choose to align with a different time zone if they desire.

Creston’s Unique Timekeeping Tradition

The town of Creston, located in the Kootenay Valley, already operates on a unique timekeeping system, remaining on Mountain Standard Time year-round. This means its clocks align with Vancouver’s during spring and summer and with Calgary’s during fall and winter. This tradition will continue under the new provincial rules.

The Debate Over Daylight Saving Time

The move to permanent DST in B.C. Reflects a broader debate about the effects of changing clocks. While proponents argue for increased daylight hours in the evening, concerns have been raised about the potential negative impacts on health and safety. Studies have linked DST to increased rates of heart attacks, strokes, and workplace injuries.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) advocates for permanent Standard Time, citing evidence of public health and safety risks associated with DST transitions.