Ottawa

Ottawa
Country	Canada
Province	Ontario
Adopted	January 1, 2000
Proportions	1:2

The flag of Ottawa is a bicolor of blue and teal separated by a stylized "O".

Symbolism

The stylized O is meant to represent both a maple leaf (symbolizing Canada) and the Peace Tower and Centre Block of the parliament buildings (symbolizing Ottawa). The design is meant to be simple, but look festive, and to create a feeling of vibrant motion when flying.

The design uses the blue and teal colors chosen to represent the new City of Ottawa. The blue is symbolic of rivers and waterways that are part of the Ottawa region, such as the Ottawa River. The large teal areas speak to the large green space and quality of life in the area, as well as the forests, trees, and parkland within the city.

Former flag

The former flag of Ottawa was a vertical tricolor of purple, red, and blue. It was adopted by the city in 1901. The flag was not popular, however, with few liking its appearance. It also violated rules of heraldry by placing color next to color. In 1987, in an attempt to change it up, the city's coat of arms was added in the center.

Ottawa
(1902-1987)

Ottawa
(1987-2000)

Symbolism

Purple represented the monarchy, red represented the Liberals, and blue represented the Conservatives.