What is the maximum amount allowed for fees charged by a principal authority according to the enforcement regulations?

The concept of fees charged by a principal authority being limited to not exceeding anticipated reasonable costs is grounded in the principle of cost recovery. This ensures that the fees are fair and justifiable, reflecting only the actual costs incurred in the provision of services without making a profit.

This approach is designed to maintain transparency and accountability in the fee-setting process, allowing the public to understand that they are only paying for the necessary expenses associated with the services provided. By adhering to this guideline, the principal authority aligns with regulatory frameworks that seek to establish reasonable fee structures while ensuring that services are adequately funded.

The other options do not reflect the permissible constraints on fees. For instance, involving a third-party auditor may provide transparency but does not set a specific limit on fees; it could lead to variability that does not ensure costs remain reasonable. Similarly, aligning fees with those of neighboring jurisdictions does not account for the unique circumstances and costs associated with providing services in a specific area. Lastly, requiring provincial assembly approval for fees could lead to unnecessary bureaucracy and inefficiency, making it difficult for principal authorities to respond swiftly to changing costs and service demands.