Gatineau Sees Surge in Complaints Over Non-Quebec Licence Plates
Gatineau, Quebec, recorded a sharp rise in complaints about vehicles with non-Quebec licence plates in 2025.
Residents contacted city services and police to report cars they believe should be registered locally.
Many complaints focused on people who moved to Quebec but kept plates from other provinces.
Officials say the issue affects fairness, taxes, and public services.
City Encourages Residents to Report
Earlier this year, Gatineau officials asked residents to report suspected cases through the city’s 311 service.
Under Quebec law, drivers must register their vehicles within 90 days of becoming residents.
As a result, Gatineau police received more than 2,400 complaints related to out-of-province plates.
Most reports came during the spring, when enforcement efforts increased.
Residents said they felt frustrated by what they saw as unequal treatment.
Many believed some drivers avoided Quebec registration to save money.
Tickets and Fines Issued
Police responded by increasing enforcement across the city.
In 2025, officers issued roughly 100 tickets linked to improper vehicle registration.
Each offence carried a fine of about $336.
Police said not every complaint led to a ticket.
In some cases, officers lacked enough information to act.
In others, drivers had valid reasons for keeping non-Quebec plates.
Authorities also noted that enforcement requires in-person checks.
They cannot issue tickets based only on phone complaints.
Why Licence Plates Matter
Quebec increased its vehicle registration fee at the start of 2025.
Part of the fee supports public transit and local infrastructure.
City officials say residents who delay registration avoid contributing to shared services.
This creates tension among taxpayers who follow the rules.
Some residents called for stronger enforcement.
Others asked for clearer public education on registration deadlines.
Looking Ahead
Gatineau officials say they will continue monitoring the issue.
Police plan to balance enforcement with public awareness efforts.
Authorities also encourage new residents to learn Quebec’s vehicle rules early.
They stress that proper registration helps support local services.
For now, the city says fairness remains the main goal.
Officials want all drivers to follow the same rules, regardless of where they moved from.
