OPP addresses summer trespassing spike in Muskoka

File photo of private property sign.

With summer about to get into full swing, police in Huntsville are reminding the public that trespassing isn’t just impolite, it’s illegal.

Ontario Provincial Police say they’ve received a growing number of calls involving people venturing onto private land without permission. Whether they’re sightseeing, hiking, or collecting wild plants, officers say it’s happening too often and it needs to stop.

Under Ontario’s Trespass to Property Act, entering or remaining on someone’s land without permissions is a provincial offence, including ignoring post signs, refusing to leave when asked, or engaging in activities like fishing, hunting or harvesting vegetation without the owner’s consent. Even lingering too long after being asked to leave can result in charges.

The law empowers landowners and occupiers, such as homeowners, cottage owners or farmers, to control who enters their property and what activities take place on it. Police say those found trespassing could face a fine up to $10,000.

Police stress the rules apply to locals and tourists, even if you’re not causing damage, the act of stepping onto private property without consent can be grounds for a fine.

“In Canada, a property owner can use reasonable force to remove a trespasser from their property. However, they must use no more force than is necessary and cannot use deadly force unless there is also a threat to human life or safety,” OPP stated.

OPP encourages visitors to do their part when visiting Muskoka this summer and respect private property and local laws.