Student injunction Q&A

The Ontario Superior Court of Justice has granted the City of Waterloo an Injunction Order for St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

So, What Does That Mean?

Question: What is an injunction?

Answer: The Injunction Order means that anyone attending, hosting, creating, sponsoring, or permitting a Nuisance Party or unsanctioned street gathering in the University District could be arrested, detained, and held in custody by the police and charged with disobeying a court order.

Question: When will it be in effect?

Answer: This order will be in effect from Friday, March 14, 2025 at midnight to Monday, March 17, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.

Question: How is this different from past years?

Answer: The injunction Order is an additional tool for law enforcement officers. With the Injunction Order in effect, police can arrest and detain people who violate the order. This will help law enforcement clear crowds.

Question: How will it be enforced?

Answer: The Order will be enforced by the Waterloo Regional Police Service.

Question: What are the charges, penalties, and remedial costs that people can be given?

Answer: If charged, an individual host, property owner, or attendee can face up to $25,000 for a first offense and $50,000 for any subsequent offense related to a nuisance party, including obstructing the free flow of traffic.

Question: What is considered a Nuisance Party or Unsanctioned Gathering?

Answer: A Nuisance Party or Unsanctioned Gathering is defined as one or more of the following activities:

• Public disorderly conduct.
• Public intoxication or public drunkenness.
• Damage to or destruction of public or private property.
• Bodily emission in a public place.
• Occupy a roof.
• Public disturbances, including public brawls or public fights, to name a few.

For more information on the Injunction, see the City of Waterloo's website.

For things you should know related to the Waterloo campus on March 15 to 17, see the Safety Tips page.