Ottawa Safe Trade Locations: Where to Buy & Sell Online Safely
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Ottawa has 4 official Safe Trade locations at police stations: Huntmar (597 Terry Fox Dr, Kanata), Greenbank (4561 Greenbank Rd, Nepean), St. Laurent (1655 Montreal Rd, Gloucester), and Elgin St HQ (474 Elgin St, Downtown). All offer 24/7 surveillance and are free to use for Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, and online transactions.
With personal robberies up 21% in Ottawa and 30 incidents linked directly to online marketplace transactions in 2025, knowing where to safely meet buyers and sellers has never been more important. Ottawa Police Service has established these designated Safe Trade locations across the city, offering surveillance, lighting, and peace of mind for residents conducting online transactions. This guide covers every official location, essential safety tips, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa Police operate four Safe Trade locations at police stations where you can safely complete online marketplace transactions. All locations feature 24/7 video surveillance and good lighting. Personal robberies linked to online sales jumped 21% in 2025—use these free, monitored spaces.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Locations | 4 designated Safe Trade zones |
| 🎥 Surveillance | 24/7 video monitoring |
| 💰 Cost | Free to use |
| ⏰ Availability | 24 hours daily |
| 🚔 Response | Near police presence |
Official Ottawa Police Safe Trade Locations
Image: Ottawa Police Safe Trade locations provide surveillance and lighting for safe online transactions.
Ottawa Police Service has designated four locations specifically for conducting online marketplace transactions. These areas feature visible cameras, adequate lighting, and proximity to police presence.
1. Huntmar Police Station
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Address | 597 Terry Fox Drive, Kanata |
| 🚗 Parking | Visitor parking available |
| 📞 Non-Emergency | 613-236-1222 |
Best For: Kanata, Stittsville, and west-end residents
2. Greenbank Police Station
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Address | 4561 Greenbank Road, Nepean |
| 🚗 Parking | Visitor lot on-site |
| 📞 Non-Emergency | 613-236-1222 |
Best For: Barrhaven, Nepean, and south-end residents
3. St. Laurent Police Station
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Address | 1655 Montreal Road, Gloucester |
| 🚗 Parking | Large visitor lot |
| 📞 Non-Emergency | 613-236-1222 |
Best For: Orleans, Gloucester, and east-end residents
4. Ottawa Police Headquarters
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Address | 474 Elgin Street (parking lot behind building) |
| 🚗 Parking | Designated Safe Trade spots |
| 📞 Non-Emergency | 613-236-1222 |
Best For: Centretown, downtown, and central Ottawa residents
Why Use Safe Trade Locations?
Image: Safe Trade locations reduce the risk of robbery, fraud, and confrontation during online sales.
The Statistics Are Alarming
Ottawa Police reported a significant increase in personal robberies during 2025:
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total personal robberies 2025 | 153 incidents |
| Increase from 2022 | 21% higher |
| Online marketplace related | 30 incidents |
| Peak season | November-January (holiday shopping) |
What Criminals Target
- Electronics (phones, gaming consoles, laptops)
- Designer items and luxury goods
- High-value resale items
- Cash from buyers
- Vehicles (test drive theft)
Benefits of Safe Trade Zones
Surveillance: 24/7 video recording deters criminals and provides evidence if needed.
Lighting: Well-lit areas eliminate dark corners where ambushes occur.
Witnesses: Police stations have regular foot traffic and officer presence.
Quick Response: If something goes wrong, help is immediate.
Documentation: Transactions recorded on camera provide proof of exchange.
How to Use Safe Trade Locations
Image: Following proper procedures maximizes your safety when meeting strangers for transactions.
Before the Meeting
- Communicate through the platform - Keep all messages in Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji
- Research the buyer/seller - Check profiles, ratings, and account age
- Agree on price in advance - Avoid “negotiating” in person
- Set a daytime meeting - Even with lighting, daylight is safer
- Tell someone your plans - Share location and expected return time
During the Meeting
- Arrive first - Scope the location before they arrive
- Bring a friend - Never meet alone for high-value items
- Stay in your car - Until you see the other person arrive
- Inspect items thoroughly - Before handing over cash
- Accept exact payment - Avoid “I only have a larger bill” scams
- Trust your instincts - Leave if something feels wrong
After the Meeting
- Complete transaction fully on-site - Don’t agree to “finish later”
- Don’t give out personal information - No home address, workplace, etc.
- Report suspicious behavior - Call police non-emergency line
Red Flags to Watch For
Image: Learning to recognize scam warning signs protects you from becoming a victim.
Buyer Red Flags
| Warning Sign | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Won’t meet at Safe Trade location | Likely planning something |
| Wants your home address | Potential robbery setup |
| Offers more than asking price | Overpayment scam |
| Only available late at night | Dangerous conditions |
| Brings multiple people | Intimidation tactics |
| Wants to “test” electronics at their car | Theft opportunity |
Seller Red Flags
| Warning Sign | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Price too good to be true | Stolen goods or scam |
| Stock photos only | Item doesn’t exist |
| Refuses video call preview | Hiding true condition |
| Pressure to act fast | Doesn’t want you thinking |
| Vague about item details | Potential fraud |
| Changes meeting location last minute | Setup for ambush |
Special Safety Tips by Item Type
Electronics (Phones, Laptops, Gaming)
- Meet at Safe Trade location
- Test all functions before paying
- Check IMEI/serial against stolen databases
- Verify factory reset completed
- Bring charger if testing needed
Vehicles
- Never let buyer “test drive alone”
- Accompany all test drives
- Meet at Safe Trade location first
- Complete paperwork at MTO or police station
- Accept certified cheques or bank drafts only
High-Value Items ($500+)
- Always bring someone with you
- Consider inside police station lobby
- Use electronic payment if possible
- Document serial numbers beforehand
- Take photos of buyer/vehicle as backup
Furniture/Large Items
If Safe Trade isn’t practical for large items:
- Have multiple people present
- Keep valuables hidden
- Don’t let strangers inside alone
- Accept payment before moving item
- Meet in your driveway, not inside home
What If Something Goes Wrong?
During a Transaction
If you feel threatened:
- Leave immediately - your safety comes first
- Get to your car and lock doors
- Call 911 if in immediate danger
- Do not chase or confront
If robbed:
- Do not resist - property is replaceable
- Observe details (appearance, vehicle, direction)
- Call 911 immediately
- Stay on scene for police
After a Bad Transaction
Report to police:
- Non-emergency: 613-236-1222
- Emergency: 911
- Online: ottawapolice.ca
Report to the platform:
- Facebook Marketplace: Report seller/buyer profile
- Kijiji: Use “Report Ad” function
- Document everything with screenshots
Alternatives to In-Person Meetings
Image: Digital payment options can reduce the need for cash transactions.
Shipping Options
For lower-risk transactions, consider:
- Facebook Marketplace shipping
- Kijiji shipping (select sellers)
- PayPal Goods & Services (buyer protection)
Electronic Payments
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash:
- Interac e-Transfer (immediate, traceable)
- PayPal (dispute resolution available)
- Bank draft for vehicles
Caution: Avoid payment apps without buyer protection (Venmo, Cash App, crypto) for stranger transactions.
FAQ
Q: Where are the Safe Trade locations in Ottawa?
Ottawa Police operates four official Safe Trade locations: Huntmar Station (597 Terry Fox Drive), Greenbank Station (4561 Greenbank Road), St. Laurent Station (1655 Montreal Road), and Police Headquarters (474 Elgin Street parking lot). All feature 24/7 surveillance.
Q: Are Safe Trade locations available 24 hours?
Yes, all four Ottawa Police Safe Trade locations are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, meeting during daylight hours is recommended for additional safety.
Q: Do I need to inform police before using a Safe Trade location?
No, you don’t need to notify police. Simply meet at the designated areas in station parking lots. The locations are designed for public use without registration or appointment.
Q: What if the other person won’t meet at a Safe Trade location?
This is a major red flag. Legitimate buyers and sellers have no reason to avoid monitored locations. Cancel the transaction and look for another buyer or seller. Your safety is worth more than any item.
Q: Can I complete a vehicle sale at a Safe Trade location?
Yes, Safe Trade locations are excellent for the initial meeting and payment exchange for vehicle sales. You can then visit ServiceOntario together to complete the ownership transfer officially.
Q: Are there cameras recording at Safe Trade locations?
Yes, all designated Safe Trade zones feature 24/7 video surveillance. This footage can be used as evidence if any issues arise during your transaction.
Q: What should I do if I’m robbed during an online sale?
Do not resist the robber. Prioritize your safety, then call 911 immediately. Try to remember details about the suspect’s appearance and any vehicle. Report to police and the selling platform.
Q: Is it safe to give out my phone number to buyers?
Consider using a Google Voice number or similar service instead of your personal phone. This protects your privacy and allows you to block unwanted contacts after the transaction.
Q: How much cash should I bring to a transaction?
Bring only the agreed-upon amount—no more. Avoid showing a wallet full of cash. For high-value items, consider e-Transfer or meeting at a bank to complete the payment.
Q: What items are most targeted in marketplace robberies?
Electronics (smartphones, gaming consoles, laptops) are most commonly targeted, followed by designer goods, high-value collectibles, and cash from buyers. Extra caution is warranted for items over $200.
Final Thoughts
The 21% increase in personal robberies linked to online marketplaces is a stark reminder that convenience comes with risk. Ottawa’s four Safe Trade locations offer a simple, free solution that dramatically reduces your chances of becoming a victim.
Whether you’re selling an old phone or buying used furniture, taking five extra minutes to meet at a police station parking lot could prevent a life-changing encounter. Share this guide with friends and family who use Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji—the more people know about Safe Trade locations, the safer our community becomes.
Sources: Ottawa Police Service, City of Ottawa
Related Articles:
- Car Break-Ins Prevention in Ottawa - Protect your vehicle
- Emergency Preparedness Ottawa - Stay safe in emergencies
- Ottawa Local News - Stay informed
