The Mansion House in downtown St. Catharines has been fined for overcrowding at the bar.
The operator of the bar pled guilty last week to Ontario Fire Code charges of exceeding the occupant load for the number of persons occupying a room or floor space in an assembly occupancy.
The establishment had more occupants in its main floor bar area and in its lounge area than the authorized capacity.
The court imposed a $7,500 fine against the operators as well as court costs and victim fine surcharges.
In August 2017 the Mansion House was fined $5000 for overcrowding on its patio.
Acting Fire Chief Jeff McCormick says it is dangerous for restaurants, bars and nightclubs to have more people than they can accommodate.
“The Ontario Fire Code outlines occupancy limits so that everyone can feel safe when inside an establishment,” said the acting fire chief. “Maintaining the proper occupant capacity ensures a quick evacuation through the available exits in the event of an emergency.”
The acting fire chief advises people to always be familiar with the exit locations in the event of an emergency and if they have any concern regarding the number of people at the bar they can call St. Catharines Fire and Emergency Services at 905.688.5601 ext. 4224.