A significant development for franchisors has just been announced: The Cabinet of the Government of Saskatchewan has set June 30, 2026, as the coming into force date of The Franchise Disclosure Act, SS 2024, c 13, as well as approved related amendments to its Regulations by Order in Council. As of the effective date, franchisors will be required to comply with the new statutory disclosure regime – a notable change, as Saskatchewan previously had no legislation governing franchise disclosure obligations.

What This Means in Practice

Commencing June 30, 2026, franchisors who offer franchises in Saskatchewan will be required to provide prospective franchisees with a franchise disclosure document that sets out specified information about the franchisor, the franchise system, and the forms of agreement to be signed. The Regulations that prescribe the detailed content and mechanics for that disclosure have been approved and published.

The disclosure package is intended to ensure prospective franchisees receive key facts (franchisor financial statements, details of ongoing fees and operating costs, litigation history, lists of current/former franchisees, territorial/proximity policies, among other prescribed content) with sufficient time to consider those facts prior to signing. The Regulations mirror the disclosure framework used in other Canadian provinces while adding Saskatchewan-specific requirements.

Practical Steps for Franchisors

• Review existing franchise disclosure documents and franchise agreements for gaps against the new Saskatchewan legislation and regulations;
• Prepare or update certified financial statements, risk warnings and lists of current/former franchisees;
• Implement processes to deliver the disclosure document within the timing rules set out in the Act and Regulations; and
• Consider appointing an attorney for service in Saskatchewan if your registered corporate office is outside Saskatchewan.

If you operate a franchise or offer franchises to investors who may be located in Saskatchewan, now is the time to plan. Our firm can provide comprehensive legal services in franchise law, assist with the preparation of franchise disclosure documents, advise on compliance gaps specific to Saskatchewan, and help implement compliant delivery and record-keeping procedures ahead of the proclamation date of June 30, 2026.

Contact our authors to discuss further.

About the Authors

David J. Ukrainetz is a partner practicing in the McKercher LLP Saskatoon office, practicing in the areas of franchise law, corporate/commercial litigation, insolvency law, and business advice.

Alexandra G. Laidlaw is a lawyer in the McKercher LLP Saskatoon office, practicing as a solicitor and focusing in the areas of estate planning and administration, mergers and acquisitions, and real estate.

About McKercher LLP:

For nearly 100 years, McKercher LLP has grown deep roots across Saskatchewan, serving the community from offices in Saskatoon and Regina. Now, as one of the province’s largest and most established full-service law firms, we proudly carry on this legacy – following a client-first philosophy as we provide legal services and real solutions for the people who rely on us.

This post is for information purposes only and should not be taken as legal opinions on any specific facts or circumstances. Counsel should be consulted concerning your own situation and any specific legal questions you may have.