The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has issued its second fine of the COVID-19 pandemic era.
John Norton, chief legal officer and general manager of community development, said the fine was recently levied against a non-essential retail shop in Tilbury. He didn't want to name the business to prevent singling it out.
Norton said the business was warned before about having its doors open contrary to restrictions put in place by the province during the crisis.
He said a public complaint came in and the enforcement officer issued the $880 fine.
Norton added the municipality is trying not to be "heavy-handed" and is taking more of an educational approach. He said most of the 781 inquiries coming to the tip line since it opened earlier this month have been questions to get clarification about whether businesses can stay open and what the rules of operation are.
Norton said most businesses are co-operating and complying and he hopes the restrictions are lifted soon.
"I'd rather have my officers out issuing building permits," he added.
The only other fine issued in Chatham-Kent for not following social distancing rules was handed out to a homeowner for having a large party.
Norton said 168 warnings have been issued over the past few weeks for non-compliance in Chatham-Kent.