Question

9. Joshua wishes to operate a corner store out of the basement of his Richmond home. However, he is not sure if this would be against the law nor is he sure of who would be responsible for laws governing this situation. When Joshua questions his lawyer, she makes the following correct response.

   1. The matter would be governed by a zoning bylaw created by municipal authorities who derive their power from the federal government.

   2. The matter is governed by the law dealing with equitable rights which puts fairness above all else.

   3. Joshua must deal with municipal authorities, a third level of government which derives its powers from the provincial government.

   4. Joshua should go ahead with his plans as ignorance of the law is a valid defence to any legal action.

Answer 1

In this scenario, Joshua wishes to operate a corner store out a basement of his Richmond home. This matter would be handled and governed by a zoning bylaw created by municipal authorities who derive their power from federal government. Also, this is matter which would be governed by the law dealing with equitable rights that puts fairness above all else. It would be legal to open such a store if Joshua obtain a license from the government and opens the store in accordance with opening and closing hours as per the rules.