It Is an Offence to Possess More Than the Legal Limit of Game Animals

Question: How can DefendCharges.ca help if I’m charged with possessing more game animals than Ontario’s legal limit?

Answer: Yes, in Ontario it can be illegal to possess more game animals than the legal limit, whether you hunted or fished them for food or sport, and the offence is governed under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997, SO 1997, c 41. Penalties can include significant fines, possible jail time, forfeiture of the animals, and possible suspension or loss of hunting or fishing privileges. A paralegal at DefendCharges.ca can review the specific species, season, region, and any possession, transportation, or storage issues, then help you understand the limit that applied, what evidence may be used against you, and what defences or next steps may be available in Ontario; call (647) 559-3377 for a free 15-minute consultation and get practical guidance for your case.

Is It Illegal to Possess More Game Animals Than the Legal Limit?

Yes, It Is Illegal to Possess More Game Animals Than Permitted Whether Hunted or Fished For Food or Sport.

Understanding the Offence of Possessing More Than the Legal Limit of Game Animals

In Ontario, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, SO 1997, c 41 (the "FWCA") regulates the hunting and fishing of game animals. Under this legislation, it is illegal to possess more game animals than the legal limit. This includes any animal that is hunted or fished for sport or food. The consequences for possessing more than the legal limit of game animals can be severe. A conviction for this offence can result in significant fines and even jail time. The legal limits are set by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (the "MNRF") and will vary depending on the species, season and the region in which the animals are being fished for or hunted. For example, the legal limit for deer may be different in the north compared to the south, and the legal limit for deer may be two per season, while the legal limit for ducks may be six per day. It is important to be aware of, and abide by, the legal limits for possessing game animals in when hunting or fishing in a paricular area.

Potential Penaties

Ignorance of the law is not an excuse and a conviction for possessing more than the legal limit of game animals can have serious consequences. The consequences of a conviction for possessing more than the legal limit of game animals can be severe. Depending on the severity of the offence, the penalties can include fines of up to $25,000, jail time of up to two years, and a temprary or permanent ban on hunting or fishing in the province. In addition, the court may order the forfeiture of any game animals that were illegally possessed. This means that the offender must surrender the animals to the government. In addition, the court may order the offender to pay restitution to the government for the value of the animals.

Related Offences

The FWCA also sets out other offences related to the possession of game animals. These offences include hunting without a licence, hunting in a closed season, and hunting in a prohibited area. These offences can also result in serious consequences for those convicted. It is also important to be aware of the regulations regarding the transportation and storage of game animals. It is illegal to transport game animals in a manner that is not in accordance with the FWCA. This includes transporting game animals in a vehicle that is not properly equipped or storing game animals in a manner that is not permitted.

Summary Comment

The FWCA is in place to ensure the conservation of game animals in Ontario. It is important for hunters and fisherman to be aware of, and abide by, the legal limits for possession of game animals applicable to thier hunting and gaming activities. The offence of posessing more than the legal limit of game animals is treated very seriously in Ontario, as individuals charged with this offence either ought to have known the legal limit or have intentially disregarded the legal limit. Individuals found to be in possession of more than the legal limit may face serious consequences. Those convicted of this offence may face fines, jail time, and the loss of hunting privileges. It is also important for hunters and fishermen to be aware of other offences related to the possession of game animals, which may result in equally serious penalties.