Solve a natural resource case

Overview

Every year, a number of natural resource violation cases go unsolved. They can be difficult to solve because they happen in remote areas where there are few eyewitnesses.

Our conservation officers make over 170,000 contacts with citizens in the field each year. We rely on tips from the public, physical evidence and community support to help solve these cases.

Common natural resource violations

Common natural resource violations include:

• poaching large and small game
• unlawful night hunting or shooting from a roadway
• fishing or hunting out-of-season
• the illegal sale of species at risk, wildlife or animal parts
• taking more fish or game than allowed
• dumping waste on Crown land
• illegally removing sand, gravel or wood from public lands
• having fires in restricted fire zones or without a permit
• illegal activities in provincial parks and protected areas

Learn how to avoid breaking the law by reviewing the Hunting Regulations, Fishing Regulations, Outdoor fire rules and permits summaries or by visiting the Illegal waste dumping page.

Report a natural resource violation or submit a tip

Protect our natural resources by helping us close these open cases. If you’ve witnessed a suspected violation or have information about individuals who may have been involved in illegal hunting, fishing, outdoor fires, poaching and dumping, please contact us.

Report any suspected illegal activity you’ve seen against Ontario’s fish and wildlife, species at risk, shore lands, forests, provincial parks and conservation reserves, petroleum, aggregate resources and public lands. Violations of our natural resources can lead to conviction and fines.

When you call the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) tips line at 1-877-847-7667, your call will be recorded and you may be asked to provide:

• the occurrence number, if you are reporting on one of the violations on the map
• your name and contact information
• details about the suspected activity
• vehicle information (e.g. licence plate number, make, model and colour)
• date and time of day
• location (road, lake, street address, landmarks)
• description of any people involved in the incident

Every call to the MNR TIPS line is reviewed by a conservation officer.

To remain anonymous call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

If your call requires action, the ministry will follow up.