The City of London says its bylaw enforcement officers issued two provincial offence notices on Wednesday in connection with a gathering two weeks ago on St. Patrick’s Day.
The city says two women, both 21, have each been issued a fine “for hosting an indoor gathering which exceeded the number permitted.”
The city adds that those who host parties or gatherings in violation of the Reopening Ontario Act can face a minimum fine of $10,000 if convicted.
According to the city, bylaw officers received information on St. Patrick’s Day about an indoor gathering at a Broughdale Avenue residence exceeding 10 people.
At that time, the region was under the orange-restrict level of the province’s COVID-19 response framework, which limited social gatherings to 10 people indoors and 25 outdoors.
“Gathering limits are in place for the well-being of our community, and we will not hesitate to take available enforcement actions when our community is put at risk,” chief bylaw officer Orest Katolyk said in a statement.
“The minimum fine, as set by the Province, clearly indicates the seriousness of the offence.”
Currently, London is in the red-control level of the provincial framework, which limits social gatherings where physical distancing can be maintained to five people indoors and 25 people outdoors.