The city of St. John’s now has the power to issue one-hundred-dollar tickets for offences involving pets.

But only if the initial warning and education doesn’t work.

Until now, the city had to go through the tangly process of laying charges through the courts, which suspended civil and traffic matters five months ago.

Inspectors with Humane Services will be able to issue the tickets for minor violations of the Animal Control Bylaw, which include being off-leash, damage to property, excessive noise or barking, as well as picking up after your pet.

At-Large Councillor Nikita Ryall reiterated that the city will initially be patient with violators.

“I’ve had a couple of emails from residents as to how this will be rolled out and I just wanted to let the public know that you will first receive a warning along with education before a ticket is issued,” she said. “I know some people had some concerns about that, so I just wanted to clarify that for the residents.”

The first ticket will be for $100, but fines can reach a maximum of $5,000 for repeat offenders.