Are there penalties for breaking a bylaw?

Yes. Municipal councils are permitted to create offences for people who break bylaws. The punishment for the offences can be up to $10,000 in fines or imprisonment for up to one year. Other penalties can also be imposed, such as fees and charges.

Typical bylaws concern such matters as smoking, parking, animal control, licensing and zoning. Larger municipalities will have more bylaws in place and the bylaws can often be viewed on the municipal website. If bylaws of a municipality are not available on a website, the City Clerks Office of the municipality will have full details of all current bylaws.

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WARNING: The contents of these FAQs are intended as general legal information only.
If you have a personal problem, please consult a lawyer.