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ARTICLE · 16 OCTOBER 2026

Ten Times The Fine: Québec Introduces Increased Penalties For Environmental Non-Compliance

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Québec has introduced minimum fines ten times higher than previous penalties for environmental violations in high-risk industries including manufacturing, mining, and energy sectors. The amendments to the Environment Quality Act target specific contraventions such as unauthorized discharges, operating without proper authorization, and non-compliance with ministerial conditions.

CanadaEnvironment
Sharon G.K. Singh
Sharon G.K. Singh
Talia Gordner
Talia Gordner
Brienne Gloeckler
Brienne Gloeckler
Alison McGarry
Alison McGarry
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On August 13, 2026, Québec introduced substantially increased minimum fines for specific contraventions of the Environment Quality Act (the “EQA”). These increased fines only apply to certain prescribed industries, including several in the manufacturing sector. As a result, proponents in industries impacted by these amendments face substantially increased financial exposure.

This bulletin provides an overview of the increased fines and impacted industries subject to these amendments and concludes with key takeaways for businesses.

Increased Minimum Fines

In 2025, Québec passed Bill 81 which amended various provisions of the EQA.1 These amendments allowed for minimum fines ten times higher than the otherwise applicable minimum fine for any person, other than a natural person, who commits certain prescribed offences in the course of carrying out a regulated activity.2 The prescribed offences subject to the increased fines include, among others, the release of contaminants into the

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The foregoing provides only an overview and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are cautioned against making any decisions based on this material alone. Rather, specific legal advice should be obtained.

© McMillan LLP 2025

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