Fines For Violations Of Forest Rules Rise

Getting caught taking that three-wheeled motorcycle through the wrong meadow or shooting off fireworks in Smokey’s back yard is going to cost more in Idaho.

The state’s federal court district just released a new list of fines for minor infractions in national forests in Idaho. In most cases, it means breaking the law is going to cost more.

Being careless with fire, leaving a campfire unattended and using or possessing fireworks will draw a fine of between $100 and $200. It also can mean a mandatory appearance before a federal magistrate.

Breaking off-road vehicle regulations and violating road closures will fetch penalties between $50 and $200. Illegal timber cutting and violations in wilderness areas can result in a fine of up to $500.

People who are found guilty also can be hit for the cost of putting out fires, fixing damage done by an off-road vehicle or other damage they inflict.

The maximum penalty for any Forest Service misdemeanor is a $5,000 fine and a six-month prison term.

There are proposals to change the fines in Eastern Washington - part of a different federal court district - but nothing has been finalized, said Bill McConnell, who is in charge of law enforcement on the Colville and Okanogan national forests.

, DataTimes