Thomas Mann and Bruce Mann of Cochrane, Ont., pleaded guilty to burning grass without a permit, contrary to the Forest Fires Prevention Act.
Both men received fines of $1,100.
The Ontario government says it is safeguarding the public by ensuring landowners adhere to the Forest Fires Prevention Act.
The court heard that on the evening of April 25 the Ministry of Natural Resources fire staff responded to a grass fire at a rural residence in Brower Township, east of Cochrane. Fire Ranger crews were able to contain and suppress the fire. Conservation officers investigated the cause of the fire and determined that both Thomas and Bruce Mann were responsible for starting it.
Justice of the Peace Estelle Bérubé heard the case remotely in the Ontario Court of Justice in Cochrane, on September 12.
To report a natural resource problem or provide information about an unsolved case, members of the public can call the ministry TIPS line toll free at 1-877-847-7667. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS. For more information about unsolved cases, please visit ontario.ca/mnrftips.
