(The following is a release from Northumberland OPP)
The Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reminds residents and visitors that duck hunting in our region, including Wildlife Management Units (WMU) surrounding Brighton, is subject to provincial and federal regulations. Hunters are advised to comply with these rules to ensure safety and sustainability.
Key Regulations:
- Licensing: Hunters must possess a valid Outdoors Card, a Small Game License, and a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit.
- Seasonal Restrictions: Hunting seasons vary; please refer to the Ontario Hunting Regulations Summary for specific dates applicable to Brighton.
- Bag and Possession Limits: Hunters must adhere to established limits for ducks and other migratory birds. Please see: Hunting regulations summary for migratory birds: Ontario – Canada.ca
- Safety: Always ensure firearms are handled safely and used only in designated areas.
The Municipality of Brighton has By-Law 000-2021 – No Discharge Area For Firearms. This specifies that certain areas within the municipality are no discharge areas to ensure community safety within residential areas. Section 5 of the Municipal Act 2001, as amended, specifies that a Municipal Council shall exercise its powers by By-Law and whereas, the Council of the Municipality of Brighton feels it is in the interest of Public Safety to restrict the use of firearms and other weapons within certain areas of the municipality by creating a “No Discharge Area’. For more information, please visit: By-Law Enforcement – Municipality of Brighton.
Trespass to Property Act:
Hunters are reminded to respect private property rights as outlined in Ontarios Trespass to Property Act. Key points include:
- Permission Required: Entering private property for hunting without the owner’s explicit permission is prohibited.
- Signage: No hunting or no trespassing signs must be obeyed at all times.
- Penalties: Violating the act can result in fines of up to $10,000 and potential seizure of hunting equipment.
- Boundary Awareness: Hunters are responsible for knowing property boundaries to avoid unintentional trespassing.
Enforcement:
< p>Law enforcement officials are actively patrolling hunting areas to monitor compliance. Non-compliance with hunting regulations can result in significant fines, equipment confiscation, and other legal penalties. This includes but is not limited to hunting without appropriate permits, exceeding bag limits, or hunting outside designated seasons.
Reporting Violations:
Residents can report illegal hunting activities by contacting the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry TIPS line at 1-877-847-7667 or their local By-Law Officer.
You can also remain anonymous and submit information to Peterborough & Northumberland Crime Stoppers online or by calling 705-745-9000.
Additional Information:
Duck hunting contributes to the heritage and economy of our community. Responsible hunting practices are essential for maintaining ecological balance and preserving hunting opportunities for future generations.
We thank all hunters for their cooperation and commitment to following Ontario’s hunting laws. For more information, please visit: Hunting | ontario.ca
