Legal Definitions - civil infraction

Definition: A civil infraction is an act or omission that is prohibited by law and punishable, but not considered a crime. It is usually a violation of a rule or local ordinance and is not punishable by incarceration.

Examples:

• Speeding tickets
• Parking violations
• Littering
• Building code violations

The examples illustrate the definition of civil infractions because they are all actions that are prohibited by law and punishable, but not considered crimes. They are usually minor offenses that do not result in jail time, but may result in fines or other penalties.