TOWNSHIP OF ESQUIMALT STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: June 22, 2026 Report No. SI-26-014
TO: Council
FROM: Judy Kitts, Director, Strategic Initiatives
SUBJECT: Bylaw Offence Notice, Penalty Updates
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
That Council:
1. Direct staff to proceed with modernizing Esquimalt's BON penalty structure in accordance with a high deterrence, safety forward approach, option 1; and
2. Give first, second, and third readings to the Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2014, No. 2839, Amendment Bylaw, 2026, No. 3191.
Body
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The purpose of this report is to inform Council that the Township of Esquimalt's Bylaw Offence Notice (BON) penalties have largely not been updated since the system was adopted in 2014, more than a decade ago. As a result, current penalties no longer reflect enforcement needs, community expectations, accessibility requirements, or regional norms.
This report outlines the need for a comprehensive update and presents options for modernizing the Township's BON penalty framework. Staff recommend Option 1, a high deterrence, safety-forward approach that aligns with regional practices and supports improved compliance outcomes.
The Township's approach to bylaw enforcement is grounded in achieving voluntary compliance rather than penalization. Respecting neighbours and preserving quality of life are key aspects of community living, and enforcement efforts focus on education, awareness, and behaviour change. The proposed updates are intended to support compliance, improve payment rates, and encourage responsible behaviour, rather than rely solely on punitive measures.
BACKGROUND:
Esquimalt transitioned from the Municipal Ticket Information (MTI) system to the Bylaw Offence Notice (BON) adjudication system in 2014, when Council adopted the Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, 2014, No.?2839. This transition gave Esquimalt full authority to set local administrative penalties (as opposed to court-based MTI fines) for a wide...
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