Legal Limits for Possession of Game Animals Pursuant to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act | DefendCharges.ca™
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Legal Limits for Possession of Game Animals Pursuant to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act



Last Updated: August 23 2026

Question: In Ontario, what are the legal limits for possessing game animals under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act and what happens if I exceed them?

Answer: In Ontario, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act sets legal possession limits for game animals, and exceeding those limits can lead to criminal-style charges, significant fines, possible jail time, and court-ordered loss or suspension of hunting privileges plus forfeiture of illegally possessed animals;   limits vary by species and region, so checking the current limit that applies where you were hunting or found the animals is crucial.   If you are facing an alleged exceed legal limit or illegal possession charge, DefendCharges.ca™ can help a paralegal review what the Crown must prove, assess evidence like tags and seizure details, and discuss practical next steps for your defence in Ontario Court of Justice.   Call (647) 559-3377 to request a FREE 1/4 hour consultation and get clarity fast.

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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.

Note: Please contact DefendCharges.ca™ by phone at: (647) 559-3377 to discuss any specific questions that you may have.

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.

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