A Cochrane man has been fined $3,200 for construction activities on public land without a work permit.

Alain L. Cheff pleaded guilty to unlawfully filling shore land and constructing a building and road on public land, as well as harvesting forest resources in a Crown forest without a licence.

Court heard that, in Hanna Township between August 15, 2011 and June 15, 2012, Cheff measured and marked what he thought was his private property without seeking corroboration from a certified land surveyor.

He then violated the Public Lands Act by filling shore land, making a road and constructing a building on public land without work permits. The site had also been cleared of trees before Cheff acquired a Forest Resource Licence to harvest timber from a Crown forest.

Justice of the Peace J. M. Blier heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Cochrane, on August 8th, 2013.

The Ministry of Natural Resources reminds the public that individuals must apply for and receive a work permit before starting construction work on public land.

To report a natural resource violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free anytime or contact your ministry office during regular business hours.

You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).