In Ontario, the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) regulates vehicle littering. Understanding these regulations can help prevent fines and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Key Points of the Highway Traffic Act on Littering

Prohibited Actions:

• Section 180 of the HTA prohibits throwing, depositing, or causing any litter to be deposited on highways. This includes glass, nails, tacks, and other refuse (Ontario Highway Traffic Act).

Fines and Penalties:

• General Littering: Fines for littering from a vehicle can reach up to $750.
• Cigarette Disposal: Throwing a cigarette from a vehicle can incur fines of up to $1,000 due to the heightened fire risk​ (Ontario Highway Traffic Act).

Consequences of Littering:

• Fire Hazards: Discarded cigarettes can ignite dry vegetation, causing wildfires.
• Health Risks: Litter can attract rodents and bacteria, creating public health hazards.
• Environmental Impact: Littering degrades public spaces and endangers wildlife, with many animals dying annually from ingesting litter​ (Ontario Highway Traffic Act).

Legal Provisions:

• Littering is a prosecutable offence. Offenders can choose early resolution meetings with a prosecutor or request a trial to contest the ticket ​​ (Ontario Highway Traffic Act).

Conclusion

Adhering to littering regulations under the Highway Traffic Act is essential for maintaining Ontario's clean and safe environment. Avoiding littering not only prevents substantial fines but also helps protect public health and wildlife. Always dispose of waste properly to support a healthier community.