Illegal hunting and fishing are just some of the offences that will carry steeper fines under B.C.’s newly updated Wildlife Act.
The Provincial Government has increased violation penalties to a range from $345 to $1,495.
“A majority of those final amounts have not been updated since the year 2000,” said Cam Schley, B.C.’s Chief Conservation Officer.
“With the importance of fish and wildlife to British Columbians and Indigenous Nations, it was time to increase those fines to better reflect the value of those animals.”
The old fine amounts ranged from $115 to $575.
The highest penalty of $1,495 will apply to those caught hunting big game animals during a closed season, unlawful possession of big game, or endangered or threatened species and other serious Wildlife Act offences.
“Increasing violation ticket fine amounts will help deter non-compliance and provide a disincentive for poaching,” said Schley.
“It also seems to better protect wildlife populations and it makes it clear that fish and wildlife are valued in our province.”
B.C. officials said other offences include unlawful trapping, hunting and angling; hunting without a licence; operating a motor vehicle where they are prohibited; damage to wildlife habitat; and illegal wildlife trafficking.
