Cannabis Producer Fined $50,000

Article by Monte Sonnenberg, Simcoe Reformer

Operators of a cannabis production facility east of Simcoe have been fined $40,000 for violating Norfolk’s zoning bylaw regarding odour, light and set-back requirements for residential areas.

In its decision, the court cited the fact that the facility operated 493 days after the initial bylaw charge without altering its practices as an aggravating factor. In addition to the $40,000 fine, the court levied a $10,000 victims’ surcharge.

“The county is pleased the court recognized that the defendant’s decision to continue operating for so long post-charge — while allowing a pungent smell to permeate their neighbours’ homes and bright lights and noisy equipment to disrupt their lives — was deserving of a significant penalty,” Norfolk solicitor Paula Boutis said Thursday in a news release.

“This fine sends a clear message to cannabis producers and processors that we expect them to respect our zoning bylaws and apply for all needed planning permissions, including site plan approval, prior to operating.”

Read the full article here.