The Provincial Offences Act (POA) is Ontario’s primary legislation governing the prosecution of non-
criminal offences under provincial statutes, regulations, and municipal by-laws. Unlike criminal offences
under the Criminal Code of Canada, provincial offences are quasi-criminal, typically involving regulatory
violations such as traffic infractions or liquor licensing violations. Administered largely by municipalities,
the Provincial Offences Act sets out procedures for ticketing, trials, sentencing, and appeals ensuring
fairness while balancing public safety and compliance.
Purpose and Objectives
- Enforce Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to provincial laws and municipal by-laws.
- Fair and Efficient Process: Provide clear procedures for issuing tickets, resolving disputes, and conducting trials.
- Public Protection: Addresses violations that impact community safety or welfare.
- Proportional Penalties: Impose consequences that reflect the offence’s severity, often through fines or other non-custodial measures.
Scope of the Provincial Offences Act
The Provincial Offences Act applies to offences including, but not limited to, the:
- Highway Traffic Act
- Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act
- Environmental Protection Act
- Occupational Health and Safety Act
- The Fire Protection and Prevention Act
- Trespass to Property Act
- Liquor Licence Act
- Tobacco Tax Act
If you require legal assistance in relation to the Provincial Offences Act, or any other act, please contact
us now for a confidential consultation.