How much would you pay for a hug? If you're giving one inside a metro station and you didn't get STM approval it'll cost you $101.
Tommy Boucher, 29, said he was looking to help put a smile on some faces by offering free hugs at the Jean-Talon metro last Tuesday.
He was wearing a T-shirt advertising the service, which he has done off and on for over one year.
But, he said last week was unlike any other night he's experienced.
According to Boucher he was approached by two STM officers asking him if he had a permit.
"Surprised, I asked which permit?" he wrote on his blog.
The officers then reportedly pulled out a by-law handbook and proceeded to write Boucher a ticket.
"He ended up giving me the fine for the Rule 17, Subsection II of the Section VIII of law R-036" Boucher said.
Rule 17, under Subsection II - Solicitation or commercial activities states "In a metro station, after obtaining the authorisation of the Société, it is permitted to offer for sale or lease services or merchandise, or to exhibit or distribute such services or merchandise, subject to the other restrictions in the present By-law."
He said the fine goes too far and plans on contesting it.
"I know these guys have the mission to keep the peace in the subway… but when they give a ticket to those who actually are in peace, where is the world going?"
The STM could not be reached for comment.