Stay out of the woods or risk a $180 fine: Enforcement officers

The Nova Scotia government is warning people to stay out of the woods if they want to avoid a fine.

Natural Resources Minister Lloyd Hines announced a woods travel ban on Monday in an effort to prevent any further fires from occurring.

All travel and activities in the woods are restricted. This includes biking, hiking, camping, fishing, and the use of off-highway vehicles.

READ MORE: ‘Lots to do’: Kejimkujik campers forge on despite ban and restrictions

Enforcement officers are on the ground looking for anyone who may be in violation of the ban. If caught, you could be issued a summary offence ticket for $180.

“It depends on the feeling of the officer as to whether or not the person knew that there was a travel ban,” said enforcement officer Jim Harris.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "It depends on the feeling of the officer as to whether or not the person knew that there was a travel ban," said enforcement officer Jim Harris.

“I would think in a lot of cases most people are aware, I mean it’s been publicized so well.”

Harris says warnings and tickets are being issued on a case-by-case basis.

“Unfortunately there are some people that are just going to go and do what they want to do. In other words, no travel ban is going to deter them and if an officer comes across someone like that they’re libel to get a fine.”

READ MORE: Seven Mile Lake wildfire still growing despite ‘significant progress’

Harris says people need to be aware of closures in their area.

“That proclamation is there for a reason,” he said. “We’re asking the public to respect that and understand they shouldn’t go against that.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "That proclamation is there for a reason," he said. "We're asking the public to respect that and understand they shouldn't go against that."

Officers will continue to take appropriate enforcement action to ensure compliance with the ban.

A list of federal and municipal closures, along with provincial closures is available online.

They say the public are encouraged to call 1-800-565-2224 toll free, 24-7 to report natural resource violations.