What is a redemption period in a Canadian tax sale?

A redemption period is the time during which the original property owner can pay all outstanding tax arrears, interest, penalties, and costs to prevent or cancel a tax sale. In most Canadian provinces, this period occurs before the sale. In Alberta, a 1-year post-sale redemption period applies.

Can the previous owner get the property back after a tax sale in Ontario?

In Ontario, there is no post-sale redemption period. The one-year redemption period runs from the registration of the tax arrears certificate. If the owner does not pay within that year, the property proceeds to sale and the buyer receives clear title once the tax deed is registered.

Does Alberta have a redemption period after a tax sale?

Yes. Alberta is unique among Canadian provinces in allowing a 1-year post-sale redemption period under the Municipal Government Act. During this year, the previous owner can repurchase the property by paying the sale price plus interest. This risk must be factored into Alberta tax sale investment decisions.

When can the owner redeem in Nova Scotia?

In Nova Scotia, the property owner can redeem (pay all arrears and cancel the tax sale) at any point up to the day of the public tender or auction. There is no post-sale redemption right once the property is sold.

Redemption Periods in Canadian Tax Sales: Province-by-Province Guide

table_chart Redemption Period by Province

Canadian Tax Sale Redemption Periods by Province — 2026. Source: Provincial legislation.
Province	Période d'examen	When?	Legislation
Ontario	1 year (pre-sale)	Before sale	Municipal Act, 2001 — s.373
Nouvelle-Écosse	Until day of sale	Before sale	Municipal Government Act — s.150
Nouveau-Brunswick	Until closing date of tender	Before sale	Local Governance Act — s.138
Alberta ⚠️	1 year (post-sale)	⚠ After sale	Municipal Government Act RSA 2000 — s.419
Colombie-Britannique	None (post-sale)	Pre-sale only	Local Government Act — s.262
Saskatchewan	Until judicial confirmation	Before sale	Cities Act / Municipalities Act
Manitoba	1 year (pre-sale notice period)	Before sale	Municipal Act — s.364
Québec	Varies (judicial process)	Court-supervised	Act Respecting Municipal Taxation

* This table summarizes general rules. Consult the official provincial legislation and a licensed real estate lawyer for current rules applicable to your specific situation.

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Alberta: The Post-Sale Redemption Risk

Alberta's Municipal Government Act grants the previous owner a 1-year post-sale right to redeem the property. If they redeem, they pay you back the sale price plus interest — but you will have held an unrealized property for a year. All Alberta tax sale bids must account for this risk. Ensure your purchase price and financing structure can withstand a redemption scenario.

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