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Commissioning of Documents

Commissioner of Oaths Services:

If you need to swear, affirm, or declare that the contents of a document are true, you may request the Commissioner of Oaths' services.

Our Commissioners can witness your signature on eligible documents at Town Hall.

We strongly recommend you call the Office before visiting to ensure that one of the Commissioners is available.

Important Notes:

  • Commissioners do not provide legal advice or help you complete forms.

  • The Town of Goderich does not have a Notary Public on staff.
  • Services are provided at the Commissioner's discretion as outlined in the Town’s Fees and Charges By-Law. [link to commonly requested bylaws]
  • A Commissioner may refuse to sign a document if they are unsure about your identity or the document’s content.

How to Get a Document Commissioned:

Step 1: Check Your Document:

  • See the lists below to find out what we can and cannot commission.

  • If you’re unsure, call the Clerk’s Department at 519-524-8344.

Step 2: Book an Appointment:

  • If your document is eligible, please contact us to schedule an appointment.

Step 3: Preparing for Your Appointment:

  • Bring all original documents.
  • Bring two pieces of ID with your signature:
    • One must be government-issued and include your photo and signature.
    • One must show your current address.
  • All signers must be present with a valid ID.
  • Do not sign your document ahead of time – it must be signed in front of the Commissioner.

Documents We Can Commission:

  • Planning Applications
  • Domestic and Foreign Pension documents (Proof of Life)
  • Statutory Declaration of Apprenticeship Hours
  • Canadian Citizenship forms
  • Delayed Statement of Live Birth
  • Name Change document
  • Statutory Declaration of Lost Identification (must include police report number)
  • Sworn Statement for the Transfer of a Used Motor Vehicle in the Province of ON
  • Statutory Declaration for OSAP – Statement of Common Law Status/Supporting Children
  • Affidavit of Unregistered Vehicle
  • Immunization Health Form
  • Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (single signature) - Service Canada form
  • Application for Change of Sex Designation on a Birth Registration
  • Documents the Town will not commission

Documents We Do Not Commission

  • Wills, “Living Wills”, Codicils to Wills or Estate Settlement documents
  • Power of Attorney
  • Divorce or Separation documents
  • Custody documents
  • Documents related to debt
  • Financial Guarantees 
  • Real estate-related documents, statements, and the transfer of land
  • Court, Legal, or Civil issue-related documents
  • Age of Majority or BYID Card application
  • Documents that need to be notarized
  • Letters of Invitation to obtain a visa to visit Canada
  • Travel Affidavit – consent letter for children
  • Proof of Loss for Insurance documents
  • Any document that is to be executed by an individual acting in their capacity as a Power of Attorney
  • Documents that are in any language other than English will not be commissioned, as we cannot validate the information that is sworn. 

There will be no exception to this policy.