The Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) has deployed its Vehicle Emissions Enforcement Unit to target trucks and shops that bypass emissions rules, and a crackdown is well underway.

Between April 1 2019 and Dec. 31 2019, a total of 2,532 vehicles and operators were assessed for compliance. The unit conducted 12 fleet inspections, of which nine failed.

The agency also inspected 155 heavy-duty vehicles with an out-of-province licence plate, of which 90 failed.

Non-compliant vehicle owners can receive a ticket for $420 and receive an order to repair the vehicle. They can also have their plates taken away and their vehicle ordered towed to a repair facility.

The Ontario Trucking Association (OTA) commended the enforcement activity and has produced a tip sheet to educate operators and other members of the supply chain on the importance of compliance with emissions rules.

MECP has set up a reporting line people can call to report smoking vehicles or those who have bypassed emissions control requirements. It is 888-758-2999.