An injunction is a court order requiring a party to do something (mandatory injunction) or refrain from doing something (prohibitory injunction). Courts grant injunctions when monetary damages wouldn't adequately remedy harm and when the applicant demonstrates their case has merit. Injunctions can be interlocutory (temporary, pending trial outcome) or permanent (following final judgment). In municipal contexts, injunctions might stop illegal construction, halt bylaw violations, prevent environmental damage, or compel specific actions. Municipalities can seek injunctions to enforce bylaws when fines prove insufficient, and citizens can seek injunctions against municipal actions they believe are unlawful. Courts consider the balance of convenience—whether granting or refusing the injunction causes more harm—and whether damages could compensate the injured party if injunction is refused. Violating an injunction constitutes contempt of court, carrying serious consequences including fines and imprisonment.