Legal Limits for Possession of Game Animals Pursuant to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act | DefendCharges.ca
Helpful?
Yes No Share to Facebook

Legal Limits for Possession of Game Animals Pursuant to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act



Last Updated: June 12 2026

Question: What are the penalties in Ontario for possessing more than the legal limit of game animals under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act?

Answer: Under Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997, exceeding the legal possession limit for game animals in Ontario can lead to charges with outcomes such as significant fines, potential jail, hunting licence suspensions or bans, and forfeiture of unlawfully possessed wildlife, with penalties depending on the species, location, and facts of the allegation.  DefendCharges.ca is a Paralegal service helping people across Ontario respond quickly, challenge the evidence, and pursue the best available resolution, so call (647) 559-3377 to get started.

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act of Ontario (FWCA) sets out the legal limits for possession of game animals in the province. Under this Act, it is illegal to possess more than the legal limit of game animals. This offence can result in serious consequences for those convicted. The FWCA sets out the legal limits for possession of game animals in Ontario. These limits vary depending on the species and the region in which the animals are being hunted. For example, the legal limit for deer may be different in the north compared to the south. It is important to be aware of the limits in your area before hunting or possessing game animals. The consequences for possessing more than the legal limit of game animals can be severe. Those convicted of this offence may face fines, jail time, and the loss of hunting privileges. In addition, the court may impose a hunting ban on the offender for a period of time, or even revoke their hunting licence permanently. In some cases, the court may also 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. 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.

Summary Comment

It is important to be aware of the legal limits for possession of game animals in your area. If you are found to be in possession of more than the legal limit, you may face serious consequences. It is also important to be aware of the other offences related to the possession of game animals, as these can also result in serious penalties.

Get a FREE ¼ HOUR CONSULTATION

At
Our Desk Now!
Need Help? Let's Get Started Today

NOTE: Do not send confidential information through the web form.  Use the web form only for your introduction.   Learn Why?
4

NOTE: A significant number of inquiries related to “lawyers near me” or “top lawyer in” frequently indicate a demand for prompt and competent legal support rather than a particular job title.  In Ontario, registered paralegals operate under the authority of the same Law Society that governs lawyers and are permitted to represent clients in specific litigation issues.  Skills in advocacy, legal analysis, and procedure are essential to this function.  DefendCharges.ca provides legal counsel within its licensed framework, focusing on strategic positioning, evidence preparation, and compelling advocacy aimed at securing efficient and positive outcomes for clients.

AR, BN, CA+|EN, DT, ES, FA, FR, GU, HE, HI
IT, KO, PA, PT, RU, TA, TL, UK, UR, VI, ZH
Send a Message to: DefendCharges.ca

NOTE: Do not send confidential details about your case.  Using this website does not establish a legal-representative/client relationship.  Use the website for your introduction with DefendCharges.ca. 
Privacy Policy & Cookies | Terms of Use Your IP Address is: 216.73.216.202
DefendCharges.ca

2225 Markham Road, Suite 303
Toronto, Ontario,
M1B 0E6

P: (647) 559-3377
E: info@defendcharges.ca

Book an Appointment

Business Hours:

09:00AM - 05:00PM
09:00AM - 05:00PM
09:00AM - 05:00PM
09:00AM - 05:00PM
09:00AM - 05:00PM
Monday:
Tuesday:
Wednesday:
Thursday:
Friday:

By appointment only.  Call for details.
Messages may be left anytime.








Assistive Controls:  |   |  A A A