The Government of BC is increasing fines for those who commit offences that harm wildlife and fish, including illegal hunting and angling.
Fines under the Wildlife Act and its regulations have not been substantially updated in over two decades. Effective June 18, 2024, the new penalties for violation tickets range from $345 to $1,495, a significant increase from the current range of $115 to $575. Approximately 200 violation ticket fines are increased.
The highest new acceptable amount, $1,495, will apply to people hunting wildlife defined as big game during a closed hunting season, the unlawful possession of big game or the illegal possession of threatened or endangered species, and other serious offences under the Wildlife Act and its regulations.
Other offences include unlawful trapping, hunting and angling; hunting without a licence; operating a motor vehicle in an area where motor vehicles are prohibited; damage to wildlife habitat; and illegal trafficking of wildlife.
The Province said the increase is supported by stakeholders throughout the natural resource sector, including hunters, anglers, conservationists, guide outfitters, trappers and others, as well as many First Nations partners that welcome harsher penalties for people who demonstrate a lack of respect for fish, wildlife and their habitats.
Penalties for Wildlife Act violations include warnings, violation tickets, court prosecution and community justice forums. The Province’s conservation officers will continue to recommend court appearances and formal charges of severe offences where issuing a violation ticket is not appropriate. Penalties higher than a violation ticket fine will continue to be sought in those circumstances.
Over 1,000 tickets for various Wildlife Act offences were issued in 2023, resulting in more than $200,000 in fines.
