Short answer: it depends on how you wear it
Owning and wearing camouflage clothing in a military pattern is not the same as wearing a uniform. The main concern in Canada is not the pattern itself. It is whether the clothing is worn in a way that could suggest you are a serving member of the Canadian Armed Forces, or that you are using a uniform to deceive someone.
This article is general information, not legal advice. The rules can change, and they can depend on the facts of a particular case. For a specific situation, check the current official text and speak to a lawyer.
What CADPAT is
CADPAT, short for Canadian Disruptive Pattern, is the camouflage pattern used by the Canadian Armed Forces. It was introduced in the early 2000s and has several versions for different environments. Surplus and civilian versions are sold in Canada and elsewhere, so the pattern is familiar to many people who have no military connection.
Being able to buy a pattern is not the same as being allowed to wear it in every setting. The question of wear depends on context, on insignia and on intent.
Rules that can apply
Several kinds of rule can apply to a civilian who wears military clothing:
- Impersonation: wearing a military uniform or insignia so that you appear to be a serving member can be an offence in some circumstances. This is the rule most often raised in questions like this one.
- Insignia and badges: military badges, rank insignia and unit titles carry their own restrictions. Wearing them can raise problems even when the clothing is otherwise permitted.
- Military regulations: the Canadian Armed Forces have their own rules about who may wear military clothing, and these can apply to items issued or sold from military sources.
- Context: the setting matters. Costume, film work, events and public places can each raise different questions.
Forum answers often state the rule as a simple yes or no. Be cautious about any answer that does not give a source.
Owning and wearing CADPAT-pattern clothing
For outdoor use, hunting and general wear, many people choose CADPAT-pattern clothing because it is widely available. Keep the wearing practical and clear:
- do not add rank, unit titles or military badges
- avoid wearing it in a way that could suggest you are serving or on duty
- check the rules before wearing it for an event, a performance or a photo shoot
- be prepared to explain your clothing if it is questioned
If you are unsure, choose clothing without military insignia, or use a different pattern.
Where to check the current rules
The most reliable sources are:
- the current federal legislation, including the Criminal Code of Canada
- the Canadian Armed Forces’ own published rules on uniforms and insignia
- a lawyer, for any situation where the answer matters, such as a job, an event, a legal dispute or a charge
Rules and interpretations can change, so check the date of any source you read. A forum answer from years ago may not reflect the current position.
Related reading
For the broader collecting context, see the British and Commonwealth militaria collecting guide. For another camouflage pattern and its history, see Denison smock identification.