Hamilton bylaw officers now have the legal power to break up large groups
- Michael Kras
- 02 Apr 2020
With tight restrictions in place for many of Hamilton’s public spaces and services in order to discourage locals congregating during the COVID-19 pandemic, city bylaw officers now have the legal authority to break up groups of more than five people.
Though messages are loud and clear about the risks of coming together in large groups during this global health crisis, many individuals continue not to take the orders seriously, meeting up with groups of friends in public spaces or going over to each other’s homes to socialize.
Now, violating those orders could also come at a price, as Hamilton’s bylaw authorities and police can hit offending locals with a $750 fine, with repeat offenders facing the potential of jail time and a larger fine of up to $100,000.
Gathering in a group? Hamilton police and bylaw officers will fine you $750 | CBC News https://t.co/mYXeh7ThGX #HamOnt #Coronavirusontario #coronavirus
— CBC Hamilton (@CBCHamilton) March 31, 2020
Just this past weekend, the Ontario government announced even tighter restrictions on group sizes during COVID-19, banning gatherings of more than five people for the foreseeable future. This order replaced one that prohibited gatherings of more than 50 people.
If Hamiltonians want to report a sighting of a potential illegal large gathering, they can contact city bylaw during regular operating hours (8 am to 7 pm, Monday to Saturday) by calling 905-546-2489.
After-hours or Sunday reports can be made through the Hamilton Police non-emergency phone line at 905-546-4925.
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